Santa Claus is coming to town…and he’s bringing some snow! Is your car winter ready?
It’s taken awhile but it is finally here…SNOW! Time to pack away the flip flops and bring out the heavy coat…you know the one, it makes you feel like a version of the Micheline man. As we prepare the boots and hats and mitts we need to add our cars to the list. As Canadians we are used to the harsh winters with weather that can turn severe in the blink of an eye, we also know just how dangerous the roads can get and the problems that winter weather can create for your car.
How do we stay safe? Let’s look through our list of top five winter car care tips;
1. Take your car in for a tune up
If you haven’t taken your car to see us at St. Amand Auto & Truck Repair, now is the time, we will be waiting with a smile and a cup of hot coffee! A tune up will keep your car running smoothly, it is also a good time to get all of your fluid levels checked, making sure everything is topped up.
2. Check your battery
Your battery has a tough job during the cold winter months. Your vehicle’s engine requires more power to start when temperatures are colder and those temperatures make it harder for your battery to provide power. Make sure your battery connections are clean and tight.
3. Check your tires
On slippery icy roads your tires are extremely important in giving you stability and control while you are driving, winter tires will ensure better traction. You also want to make sure your tires are in good shape and that the air pressures are correct for your vehicle. If you have not got your winter tires on yet, come on in for a visit at St. Amand Auto & Truck Repair to get your tires switched over.
4. Check your wipers and windshield washer fluid
One way to ensure safe winter driving is proper visibility. Winter brings snow, slush and frost which often cakes the windshield, reducing visibility. Ensure that your wipers are working properly; look for broken or bent parts, flexibility and that the wiper is connecting with the window properly. Keep washer fluid in your car through the winter months, and keep it topped up when taking long trips.
5. Check your roadside emergency kit
Make sure your emergency roadside kit is updated with some winter friendly clothing. It is a good idea to put some extra blankets and a hat and gloves in your trunk during the cold months. You could also carry around some sand (or kitty litter in a pinch), an ice scraper and some de-icing liquid.
In addition to making sure that your car is in tip top condition, take extra care to practice safe driving while out on the roads. Once your car is set for the cold months, all that’s left is to enjoy a hot cup of coffee to warm yourself up on those long winter drives.
Stay safe and warm!
The St. Amand Family
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