In severe weather, it's key that your vehicle be in good working order. Winter weather is hard on your vehicle. Keep your vehicle in top working condition by following its manufacturer-defined maintenance schedule. You can find more information in the owner's manual for your vehicle.
In addition to regular maintenance, you can bring your vehicle to a licensed facility for a winter inspection. Newer vehicles have systems that require a repair facility to check that they're working properly.
A check-up by a trained technician will help make sure no important items are missed. This inspection can include:
- Battery
- Making sure the motor is in good working order. Motors need a fully charged battery to start in cold weather
- Cleaning the battery posts and checking the charging system and belts
- Replacing weak batteries before they fail
- Lights
- Making sure that all lights work and that the headlights are adjusted properly
- Making sure that the headlights are in the proper position. Many new vehicles aim headlights automatically, so they need to be inspected by a professional to ensure they're in the right position
- Brakes
- Doing a thorough brake check to make sure they're in top working condition. Pulling, a change in pedal feel, or unusual squealing or grinding may mean that the brakes need repair
- Exhaust system
- Checking for leaks that could send deadly carbon monoxide into the vehicle
- Heating and cooling system
- Checking the radiator hoses and drive belts for cracks and leaks
- Making sure the radiator cap, water pump, and thermostat work properly
- Testing the strength and level of the coolant/anti-freeze, and making sure the heater and defroster work well
- Windshield wipers
- Making sure that wipers are in good condition and replace blades that streak
- Using wipers designed for winter
- Filling up on winter washer fluid in the -40°C temperature range and carry an extra jug in the vehicle
- Tires:
- Making sure the tires are at the correct pressure
- Making sure winter tires have at least 4mm tread depth for the safest winter driving. Learn more about using winter tires