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Is Your Car Ready for Winter?

Posted on November 22, 2023

Winter in Canada doesn't pull any punches. It’s a season that brings with it intense cold, snow, and ice, ensuring that our roads become slick, slippery, and treacherous. If there's one machine you want in prime condition during this period, it's your vehicle. Steele Hyundai is here to give your car the winter armour it needs!

 

The Winter's Toll on Vehicles

Winter is demanding. The cold weather and harsh conditions mean your car is working overtime. It's not just about being able to start on a cold morning; it's about providing consistent, safe performance on winter roads. Following your vehicle's manufacturer-defined maintenance schedule is the foundational step. But when the temperature plummets, specific areas need extra attention.

 

Winter Inspection: Ensuring Optimal Performance

 

Battery

The heart of your car's electrical system. Ensure the motor runs smoothly, especially since cold weather demands more from your battery. Clean those battery posts, check the charging system, and replace batteries that show signs of weakness.

 

Lights

Visibility is crucial. Confirm all lights, including headlights, are functional. Given that newer vehicles might possess automatic headlight-aiming systems, get a professional to verify if they’re positioned right.

 

Brakes

The difference between safety and an accident often boils down to your brakes. Any inconsistency in performance – be it pulling, a different pedal feel, or odd sounds – necessitates an immediate check.

 

Exhaust System

Stay safe from the silent threat of carbon monoxide by ensuring there are no leaks in the exhaust system.

 

Heating and Cooling System

A system that’s pivotal for both your comfort and your engine's health. Inspect the radiator for leaks, ensure the thermostat functions, and validate the strength of the coolant/anti-freeze. Oh, and a functioning heater and defroster? Non-negotiable.

 

Windshield Wipers

Vision is paramount. Ensure your wipers are winter-ready and streak-free. Pair them with a winter washer fluid that can brave temperatures as low as -40°C. Pro-tip: Always keep an extra jug in your vehicle.

 

Tires

The unsung heroes of winter driving. Maintain the correct tire pressure and ensure your winter tires boast a tread depth of at least 4mm. Not on the winter tire bandwagon yet? Learn more about their significance here.

 

Wrap-Up: Your Car Deserves the Best

Don’t let winter catch you off-guard. A seasonal check-up, particularly from trained technicians, ensures you’re not overlooking any element that's crucial for winter driving. Drive into the cold with confidence, knowing that Steele Hyundai has equipped your vehicle for the challenges ahead.

Stay safe, warm, and remember: Winter might test us, but with the right preparations, we can always emerge victoriously. Prepare your car, brave the cold, and let every journey be a story of resilience and performance.