Why Prepare Your Car Early?
With the rigour of the cold season in Quebec, properly preparing your car for winter is an essential step that not only ensures your safety and that of your passengers, but also helps maintain your vehicle’s performance in the short and long term. Taking precautions in advance can help avoid many issues and troubles, while preventing unpleasant surprises and unnecessary expenses. Here are some professional tips.
Key points to remember:
- Preparing your car early helps avoid breakdowns and unnecessary expenses.
- Tires, battery, fluids, and visibility must be checked before December.
- Electric vehicles benefit from being preheated while plugged in and from improved thermal management.
7-Step Express Checklist
Here is a winter checklist for your car that covers key steps. This list is not exhaustive. For more detailed advice, feel free to contact us or have part of this preparation done at the same time as your tire change, for example.
Tires: Legal Dates & Advice
Properly preparing your car for winter clearly involves having good quality and legal winter tires to ensure short braking distances, even in icy and snowy conditions. Remember that winter-certified tires are required by law starting December 1st.
Starting Your Battery in Cold Weather
Car batteries are weakened in cold weather. In fact, battery capacity can be reduced by 20 to 40% during winter. It is therefore essential to check that it is in good condition before the cold season. Here are a few tips to maximize its performance:
- Before starting (or before turning off the engine), disable all non-essential accessories (heating, headlamps, heated seats, etc.).
- Use a smart battery charger or an engine block heater.
- Avoid using remote start on extremely cold days.
Fluids (windshield washer, antifreeze)
With extreme cold reaching -40°, using proper antifreeze is essential and should be replaced regularly. All other fluids (engine oil, power steering fluid, etc.) should also be checked and refilled or replaced as needed.
A windshield washer fluid designed for cold weather and capable of withstanding very low temperatures is also crucial.
Visibility: Snow Removal and Windshield Wipers
For your car and safe winter driving, one of the most important tips is to use winter-specific windshield wipers. These models are built to handle harsh conditions and ensure improved visibility.
Also remember to keep a snow brush in your vehicle by the end of October and ensure that your defroster is working properly.
Body Protection (Anti-Rust, Washes)
Rust protection is highly recommended to protect your car’s body from winter hazards, including salt, calcium, sudden temperature changes, and more. If your car spends the winter outdoors, you may also consider waterless washing products.
Emergency Kit & Accessories
Another essential winter preparation for your and your family’s safety is to always have an emergency kit and accessories in your car. Here is an example of what it might include:
- Jumper cables
- Flashlight
- Blanket
- Shovel
- Sand / ice melt
- Gloves, hats, scarves, etc.
- Traction board
- Etc.
Quick Mechanical Inspection
Before the cold season, consider a quick mechanical inspection, perhaps at the same time as your tire change. During winter, do not hesitate to contact your mechanic as soon as you notice that a system is not performing optimally.
What If I Have an Electric or Hybrid Car?
For non-plug-in hybrid vehicles, the advice above is very similar, including pre-winter maintenance. For 100% electric vehicles, one of the greatest advantages is the absence of harmful emissions, meaning your car can be preheated to the perfect temperature while still plugged in, without harming the environment.
This also helps preserve battery charge, as it only needs to maintain cabin warmth once unplugged. You can also learn about the impact of cold on electric vehicle range to optimize your winter travel.
FAQ – Winter Driving
When should I have my winter tires installed?
Late October or early November is the best time to install your winter tires.
Do temperature changes affect tire pressure? Yes, fluctuations in temperature can affect tire pressure, so it is recommended to check it regularly.
Do I need special accessories for winter driving?
An emergency kit is essential for your safety, along with a suitable windshield washer brush and winter windshield wipers. For added comfort, consider a remote start system.
Maintenance at home or at the dealership?
Entrusting your luxury vehicle to professionals is the best way to ensure optimal performance and long-term durability.
How can I clear moisture from my windows?
Use the defogger or direct fans toward your windows. Regular maintenance of filters and seals is also essential.
Conclusion
For further details on how to properly prepare your car for winter or ensure reliable cold-weather starting, do not hesitate to contact us or discover the benefits of certified Audi vehicles for added peace of mind. Our technicians are ready to help and advise you for an enjoyable winter in your luxury car.
