By Blair Qualey
Winter is coming, and in BC’s Interior and Northern regions, morning frost is already a regular occurrence and full-blown winter conditions are just around the corner. For drivers across British Columbia, preparing your vehicle for the challenges of winter is essential to ensure safety and reliability on the road. In areas where temperatures are dropping quickly, early maintenance is key to avoiding issues that could leave you stranded in cold, harsh conditions. A stitch in time saves nine, especially when it comes to being stuck on the side of the road in a snowstorm or safely driving your warm cozy vehicle from point A to point B without issue.
One of the most important steps in winter vehicle preparation is ensuring your tires are ready. In BC, winter tires are mandatory on many highways beginning October 1st, and with good reason. Winter tires are made from a different rubber compound that remains flexible in colder temperatures, providing better traction on snow and ice. While all-season tires may suffice during the milder months, they simply aren’t designed to handle freezing temperatures or icy roads. For those living in regions already experiencing frosty mornings, now is the time to switch to winter tires.
As the temperatures drop, another key component of your vehicle that needs attention is the battery. Cold weather can reduce a battery’s power output significantly, and a weak battery may leave you unable to start your car on those frosty mornings. It’s never a bad idea to have your battery tested, especially if it’s more than three years old. Many dealerships will offer this service as part of their winter maintenance packages. A strong battery is vital not just for starting your car, but also for keeping your heating system, lights, and other electronics running smoothly during the winter months.
Fluids play a crucial role in keeping your vehicle running smoothly, and they need special attention as winter approaches. Antifreeze, for example, helps regulate your engine’s temperature, preventing it from freezing in cold conditions. Make sure your antifreeze levels are topped up and properly mixed for winter. Windshield washer fluid is another often-overlooked necessity. In freezing conditions, standard washer fluid can freeze on your windshield, so switching to a winter formula is important for keeping your windshield clear. And even if it isn’t quite yet time for an oil change, consider switching to winter-grade oil, which flows better in cold temperatures and reduces strain on the car’s engine during startup.
Finally, it’s a good idea to keep an emergency kit in your vehicle throughout the winter. Even if you’re just driving to work or running errands, unexpected winter conditions can cause delays. Your emergency kit should include basics like a blanket, flashlight, gloves, and jumper cables, but if you’re in a more remote area or one that receives a lot of snow, adding items like a shovel, sand, or traction mats could be lifesaving if you find yourself stuck in snow or ice.
With frost already appearing in parts of BC, there’s no better time to start your winter vehicle maintenance than right now. A little preparation now will ensure you stay safe and comfortable as the season progresses.
Blair Qualey is President and CEO of the New Car Dealers Association of BC. You can email him at [email protected].
