How to Prepare for Winter Driving: Tips from the MyCar Team

Blog Dec 30th, 2024

As winter settles in, Canadian roads can become challenging to navigate. Snow, ice, and freezing temperatures demand extra precautions to ensure safe and smooth travel. At MyCar, we’re here to help you stay prepared with these practical tips for vehicle maintenance, tire selection, and winter driving techniques.

1. Vehicle Maintenance for Winter

Regular maintenance is crucial to keep your car performing well in harsh winter conditions. Here are some essential steps:

Check Your Battery: Cold temperatures can reduce your battery’s capacity. Ensure it’s fully charged and inspect for any corrosion on the terminals. If your battery is more than three years old, consider getting it tested.
Inspect Your Brakes: Properly functioning brakes are essential for icy roads. Schedule a brake inspection to ensure they’re in top condition.
Top Up Fluids: Refill essential fluids like windshield washer fluid with a winter-specific formula that won’t freeze. Check your engine oil and consider switching to a winter-grade oil if recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer.
Examine Wiper Blades: Replace worn wiper blades to ensure maximum visibility during snowstorms and sleet.
Check Your Heating System: Ensure your car’s heater and defroster are working correctly to keep you warm and your windows clear.

2. Choosing the Right Winter Tires

Winter tires are a must-have for safe driving during Canadian winters. Here’s why:

Better Traction: Winter tires are designed with specialized rubber compounds and tread patterns to provide superior grip on snow and ice.
Enhanced Braking: They reduce stopping distances on slippery surfaces, keeping you safer in sudden stops or emergencies.
All-Season vs. Winter Tires: While all-season tires might suffice in mild conditions, they can’t match the performance of winter tires in extreme cold and heavy snow.

At MyCar, we can help you choose the right set of winter tires for your vehicle and ensure they’re properly installed.

3. Winter Driving Techniques

Even with a well-maintained vehicle and winter tires, safe driving practices are essential. Follow these tips:

Drive Slowly: Reduce your speed to maintain better control and allow more time to react to road conditions.
Increase Following Distance: Keep a greater distance between you and the car ahead to account for longer stopping times on icy roads.
Avoid Sudden Movements: Accelerate, brake, and steer smoothly to prevent skidding or losing control.
Know How to Handle Skids: If your vehicle starts to skid, steer gently in the direction you want to go and avoid slamming the brakes.
Stay Alert: Keep an eye out for black ice, snowdrifts, and other potential hazards. Drive cautiously in low-visibility conditions.
Be Prepared: Carry an emergency kit in your car, including items like a flashlight, blankets, a snow scraper, and non-perishable snacks.

Visit MyCar for All Your Winter Driving Needs

Preparing for winter driving doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At MyCar, we’re here to help you every step of the way. From tire recommendations to vehicle maintenance checks, our team is dedicated to keeping you safe on the road this winter.