Get Your Vehicle Ready for Winter
From living in Canada, you know that winter comes not with a whisper, but with a shout. One day it will be sunny and relatively warm and the next day a snowstorm will be on our doorstep. Winter can be an unpredictable time of year, so it’s important to get prepared early. Today we’re going to help by looking at a few things you can do to get your vehicle ready for winter. Follow these simple tips and you’ll be prepared for whatever winter throws your way.
Change Your Oil
It is a good idea to change your oil before the cold weather hits. You might even want to switch to a thinner oil to keep it from freezing. Your owners manual or the service experts at Go Toyota on the Trail will be able to help you get the right oil for your vehicle.
Check Antifreeze to Water Ratio
To prevent your coolant from freezing, the mixture should be equal parts antifreeze and water. If antifreeze freezes it can cause damage to your engine, so it’s better to make sure it’s the right ratio before it’s too late.
Check Belts and Hoses
If your belts or hoses look excessively worn, it’s best to get them replaced. The cold makes them more likely to snap, which can cause serious problems.
Check Wiper Blades and Washer Fluid
Wiper blades are very important when it’s snowing or sleeting, so if yours are worn, it’s best to get them replaced. You should also make sure you have plenty of washer fluid in your vehicle so you can always have the best visibility possible.
Check Tire Pressure
Tire pressure tends to drop when the temperature does, so it’s important to be sure your tires are always properly inflated. This helps your tire stay in contact with the road in winter weather conditions.
Pack an Emergency Kit
It’s always a good idea to have an emergency kit in your vehicle, but there are a few extra things you should have for the winter months incase you find yourself stranded. These things include snacks, blankets, an ice scraper, jumper cables, roadside flares, a shovel, a cellphone charger and a portable air compressor, just to name a few.
Get Winter Tires
It is a good idea to switch your vehicle’s tires to winter tires. They are made with softer rubber and they remain flexible for better grip on snowy icy roads. They have unique tread patterns that are placed to maximize traction.
Check Your Battery
When it’s freezing outside, Batteries tend to be slower to generate power and require more current to get your engine going. It is important to check it to make sure it is charged and free of corrosion.
These are just a few tips to get your vehicle ready for winter. The best part is most of these items can be taken care of right at Go Toyota on the Trail. Make an service appointment today and we can give your vehicle a thorough inspection and make sure it is ready for the cold months ahead. We even have a tire centre that can hook you up with winter tires as well as a tire storage facility to give you a place to store your other tires. Go Toyota on the Trail makes it easy to get your vehicle ready for winter.