Getting your vehicle prepared for plunging temperatures, ice, and snow involves more than just finding your ice scraper. It requires a comprehensive check-up to ensure every critical component is ready to perform under pressure.
1. Winter Tires
This is the single most crucial step for safe winter driving. All-season tires are not snow tires. The rubber compound in all-season tires hardens in temperatures below 7°C, drastically reducing traction.
Winter tires are made with a specialized, flexible rubber compound and feature deep, aggressive treads (called sipes) designed to grip ice and channel away snow and slush. In many provinces, they are highly recommended or even mandatory for a reason—they can reduce your braking distance by up to 30% compared to all-seasons.
A new set of quality winter tires with installation can be a significant upfront cost, but it's an investment that pays for itself with a single avoided accident.
2. Battery Power
A car battery loses about 35% of its strength at 0°C and over 50% once the temperature drops to -18°C. An aging or weak battery that worked perfectly in the summer may not have the power to turn over a cold engine. There is nothing more frustrating than being stranded in a freezing parking lot with a dead battery.
A pre-winter battery test at a local garage is inexpensive and can tell you if your battery is ready to handle the cold. If it’s nearing the end of its life, replacing it now will save you a major headache later.
3. Wipers, Fluid, and Defrosters
Visibility is paramount when driving in a snowstorm. Your wiper blades take a beating from ice and road salt. If they are streaking or chattering, replace them with a sturdy set of winter blades that are designed to resist ice buildup.
Equally important is your washer fluid. Top up your reservoir with a winter-grade fluid rated for -40°C or lower to prevent it from freezing in the lines just when you need to clear your windshield of salty grime.
Also, test your front and rear defrosters to ensure they are working effectively.
4. Antifreeze and Oil
Antifreeze (or coolant) is vital for preventing your engine block from freezing and cracking—a catastrophic and expensive repair. Ensure your coolant is at the correct level and concentration, typically a 50/50 mix with water, to provide adequate protection.
It’s also a good time for an oil change. Consider using a thinner, multi-grade synthetic oil that flows better in cold temperatures, allowing it to lubricate your engine more effectively on startup.





