Sunny with a Chance of Flurries – Be Road Ready!

At this time of year, you just never know what kind of weather we’re going to get! Is it going to be blisteringly hot, torrentially wet, or unbelievably cold? Fortunately, it’s easy to adjust our wardrobes for the weather, but our vehicles are a much harder item to acclimate. That’s why it’s best to start preparing for the snow before it starts to fall. Here are some of our tips to get your vehicle winter-ready as soon as possible:

1. Pull out those winter tires – Winter tires are designed to perform best in weather below 7°C, so as soon as temperatures start to take a dip, you can visit your local Tirecraft location to get your winter tires installed. If you’ve taken a look at your old winter tires and they have any cracks, abnormal bulges, or worn tread, let us know and we can get you a brand-new set of winter tires.
2. Get an oil change with synthetic oil – You should get an oil change once every 5,000km or based on your vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations. Getting an oil change in the fall is a good idea so that you can get synthetic oil put in your oil reservoir. When temperatures drop, synthetic grade oils do not thicken like conventional oil, allowing them to flow more freely, reducing engine wear and extending your engine’s life.
3. Switch to winter windshield wiper fluid – Windshield wiper fluid designed specifically for winter conditions typically contains more methyl alcohol than standard fluid. As a result, it has an extremely low freezing point and will not harden in your car’s reservoir or on your windshield when the air temperatures begin to drop. When comparing the various types of winter wiper fluid, you’ll notice that the lowest temperature at which the product can perform is usually listed on the bottle’s label. Examine the label carefully and select a product that is appropriate for the temperatures you are experiencing. Winter wiper fluid can even melt thin layers of ice in some cases. As a result, it can effectively prevent your car’s wipers from becoming stuck to the windshield.
4. Install winter windshield wipers – Winter wiper blades are specifically designed to withstand harsh weather and provide you with optimal performance. Their rubber will resist tearing in below 0°C and keep your windshield clear.
5. Get your battery checked – Extreme cold depletes battery voltage, making it more difficult to start your vehicle. In fact, at -18°C, battery output drops by about half. Bring your vehicle into your local Tirecraft, and we can check your battery’s voltage to verify that it will last through the winter.

Even if you’re dreading the cold, at least by following these tips, your car will be able to withstand anything winter throws at it. Remember that the experts at Tirecraft are here to help you with all your winter driving needs. We’re happy to answer any questions you might have and get your vehicle prepped for the long winter ahead.

Tirecraft – Real People Servicing Real Life.