CANADIAN Tire offers the following tips for drivers heading out on road trips this winter.
? Winter tires are a must. Winter tires can help keep you safe on the roads this winter. As temperatures drop below 7°C, all-season tires begin to lose grip. Winter tires, however, are made of rubber compounds that stay soft and pliable, even in cold temperatures. Their treads are designed to dig into ice and snow, giving you even more control over your vehicle.
? Get an oil change with synthetic oil. Synthetic oil provides better engine protection from "cold starts" than conventional motor oil. Always refer to your owner's manual to ensure you use the right grade of synthetic oil.
? Top up winter windshield washer fluid. Winter windshield washer fluid is formulated to prevent freezing on your windshield, and has strong detergents to clean away salt and sand effectively.
? Get your battery tested. The average life of a car battery in Canada is just under five years. If your battery is more than three years old, get it tested annually. If it's more than five years old, get it replaced.
? Inspect lights. Visibility is the most important part of driving. Your lighting system should be at peak performance for winter. Bulbs don't burn out instantly, they dim over time, so make sure to check if yours are operating at optimal performance levels, and always replace them in pairs. Think about whether a headlight restoration kit is the right option for you. It will help ensure your plastic headlights are clear.
? Monitor tire pressure. Your tire pressure changes when the tires are cold. For every 5.6°C (10°F), your tire pressure will change one psi (pounds per square inch) either up or down. A change up to five psi can affect a tire's performance, causing increased wear and fuel consumption. Check your owner's manual and make sure your tires are inflated to the recommended pressure.
? Use gas line antifreeze. When your gas tank is not always full, condensation can form and freeze, blocking the gas line. Gas line antifreeze helps prevent freezing and allows your engine to harmlessly burn off any condensation.
? Give your vehicle a winter-ready tune-up. Cold temperatures can affect your vehicle's performance. Check your spark plugs, brakes, steering, suspension, and exhaust to ensure your vehicle performs optimally in cold weather.
? Prepare an emergency winter roadside kit. Even the most winter-ready drivers should be prepared for the unexpected. Make sure to stock your car with the following safety and emergency gear: Ice scraper and snow brush Snow shovel
Reflective safety triangles/
Pylons
Flares/spotlight
Booster cables/booster pack
Traction aid
Extra windshield washer fluid
Emergency blanket and winter clothes
Emergency food
Candle, can and matches
First-aid kit
12-volt air compressor
Tire sealant
Source: Canadian Tire
