October is Car Safety Month, the perfect time to get your car ready for the challenges of harsh winter weather. Winter is coming- I know, we’re wishing for summer already too! Canadian winters can be very harsh, so your safety is definitely in your hands. Now is the best time to prepare yourself for the snow, slush & black ice. While you must go to your mechanic for proper inspection and fixtures of your vehicle NOW, before the snow takes over Canada, there are a few things that you could DIY to ensure you’re ready for the winter.
Perfect Time To Winter-proof your car
October is the perfect time to get your car ready for the challenges that come with winter. It is recommended by Be Car Care Aware (the folks behind Car Safety Month ) that you ensure that all of the following are inspected by your mechanic when getting your seasonal tune-up:
- Your vehicle’s fluids, including engine oil, power steering, brake, and transmission fluids, as well as the windshield washer fluid and antifreeze/coolant
- The hoses and belts to make sure they are not cracked, brittle, frayed, or loose
- The battery to ensure connections are clean, tight and free of corrosion
- The brake system including the brake linings, rotors, and drums
- The exhaust system to look for leaks, damage, or broken components
- Your vehicle’s heating, ventilating and air conditioning system to not only ensure your comfort but also safety because if it isn’t working properly defrosting may be affected
- The steering and suspension system including shock absorbers, struts, as well as chassis components
- Your tires, including tire pressure, tread and wear
- Your windshield wipers and lighting (interior and exterior) to ensure you can see and will be seen when on the road
DIY Car Safety Month To-Dos
While there are certain things your mechanic can do for you, there are a couple of items that you’ll have to take on yourself to ensure you’re ready for the winter:
- Take out of hiding your winter car safety kit. With a few basic items handy in your car, you could find yourself getting back on the road quicker if you run into problems while out and about.
- Keep an eye on the weather and the date if you change your tires seasonally. Generally, it’s recommended that winter tires be installed when the temperatures dip to 7° Celsius, however for insurance purposes they should typically be on the car from November until April.
Remember, changing tire seasonally may get you a winter tire discount! So don’t forget to let your insurance broker know because they can save you up to 5 per cent on your car insurance premiums. Call your broker today at 1 (877) 452-5127
