We all know how quickly the weather can change in Southern Alberta. One day you're enjoying a warm fall afternoon, and the next you're scraping frost from the windshield, wondering where you put your gloves.
Before winter settles in, a little preparation can go a long way toward keeping your vehicle reliable, comfortable and ready for whatever the season brings.
Here are five things worth checking before the temperature drops.
Give Your Battery Some Attention
Cold weather can be hard on your vehicle's battery, and the last place you want to discover it's struggling is in a dark, frozen parking lot.
If your battery is getting older or you've noticed your vehicle taking longer to start, consider having it tested before winter. It's also a good time to check the terminals for corrosion and make sure connections are secure.
Check Your Wipers and Washer Fluid
Good visibility is essential when you're dealing with snow, slush and winter grime.
Check your wiper blades. If they're streaking, skipping, or leaving sections of the windshield untouched, replace them before winter. And don't forget the washer fluid. Switch to a winter-rated formula designed for freezing temperatures and keep the reservoir topped up.
Check Your Fluids
Your vehicle relies on several fluids to operate properly, and winter isn't the time to discover something is low.
Coolant is particularly important because it helps protect the engine in extreme temperatures. Also check your engine oil, brake fluid, and other fluids according to your vehicle manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule.
Not sure what your vehicle needs? Your owner's manual is always a good place to start, or give us a call, and our in-house Parts & Service experts can assist.
Don't Forget Your Tires
We talked about winter tires in last month's Road Ahead, but they're worth another quick mention.
Beyond having the right tires for the season, check their condition and tire pressure regularly. Pressure can decrease as temperatures fall, so that first serious cold snap is a good reminder to take another look.
And yes, winter will arrive whether we're emotionally prepared for it or not.
Build a Winter Emergency Kit
Even a well-maintained vehicle can encounter an unexpected delay or breakdown.
Consider keeping a few winter essentials in your vehicle, including:
- a warm blanket,
- gloves and toque,
- a flashlight,
- a phone charging cable or power bank,
- a small shovel,
- an ice scraper,
- jumper cables or a portable booster,
- some non-perishable snacks and water.
If you regularly travel outside the city, you may want to add extra warm clothing and other supplies appropriate for longer waits in cold weather.
A Little Preparation Goes a Long Way
Getting your vehicle winter-ready doesn't have to be complicated. A few preventative checks now can help you head into the colder months with greater confidence, and potentially catch small maintenance issues before they become inconvenient ones.
If you're unsure whether your vehicle is ready, the Murray Chevrolet Cadillac Medicine Hat Service and Parts teams can help you check the essentials and prepare for the season ahead. Because when Alberta winter decides it's time, it rarely sends a calendar invite.
