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Winter Car Maintenance Checklist

Blog Nov 13th, 2023

Winter Car Maintenance Checklist in Sudbury, ON

Winter is a challenging season for both drivers and their vehicles. The cold temperatures, snow, and ice can take a toll on your car if you're not properly prepared. To ensure your safety and the reliability of your vehicle during the winter months, it's essential to be proactive in ensuring that your vehicle is ready for the season ahead. Continue reading below as our team here at Auto Depot Sudbury has developed a winter car maintenance checklist so that you can get your vehicle winter ready. 

Read About Winter-Ready Vehicles at Auto Depot Sudbury:

1. Check your oil & fluids 

Cold weather can affect the viscosity of your engine oil and other fluids. If necessary, change your engine oil using the manufacturer-recommended oil for winter conditions. Top up your antifreeze and windshield washer fluid and make sure that they are suitable for freezing temperatures.

2. Inspect your brakes 

Your brakes should be in top condition all year round, but it's especially critical in winter when slippery roads require precise stopping power. Have your brakes inspected and replaced if necessary.

3. Check your wipers

Snow, sleet, and freezing rain can quickly degrade your wiper blades' effectiveness. Replace them with winter-ready blades designed to handle icy conditions.

4. Swap your tires 

Your tires are your car's only contact with the road, so they are crucial for safe winter driving. Ensure they have adequate tread depth, properly inflated, and consider switching to winter tires for enhanced traction on icy and snowy roads.

5. Test your battery 

Cold weather can strain your car's battery. Have it tested to ensure it can handle the lower temperatures. If it's weak, consider replacing it to avoid unexpected breakdowns.

6. Check your lights

Reduced daylight hours and winter weather can decrease visibility. Ensure all your lights, including headlights, taillights, and turn signals, are working correctly.

7. Inspect your climate control system

Ensure your heating and defrost systems are working efficiently, as staying warm and maintaining visibility are crucial during cold winter drives.

By following this winter car maintenance checklist, you'll be better prepared to handle the challenges that winter driving can bring. If you want the peace of mind of a professional inspection, feel free to stop by our Sudbury, ON service centre and we’ll be more than happy to assist you.

Auto Depot SudburyBlogWinter Car Maintenance Checklist