Winter Quick Tips

Take care of your windshield

Make sure your vehicle has antifreeze rated for the coldest weather. It's also a smart idea to replace your windshield wipers every year before winter begins or purchase winter rated windshield wipers.

 

More Tips

Fill up when it's cool and before holidays

Cooler temperatures in the early morning or late evening create less vapour. Also, getting a fill-up three days before a holiday will help you save on the per-litre price at the pump.

Lights On, Please!

In rainy or snowy weather, turn on your headlamps and tail lamps. Even if your visibility is good, other drivers will have a better view of your vehicle in their rearview mirrors.

Snow on the Roof

If you live in a snow belt, don't let snow pile up on top of your car or truck. Peaks of snow increase drag and decrease gas mileage. Also, don't let snow pile up in the bed of your pickup. It can cause an obstruction of your view and the view of other drivers.

Look for the symbol

If the tire is not marked with the "Mountain Snowflake Symbol", it is not an approved winter tire.

All-season vs. winter tires

Although all-season tires can be used in a moderate winter environment, winter tires provide the best cold weather performance below 7°C. This includes wet and dry in addition to snow/ice/slush surfaces where greater tread flexibility leads to better grip.

Getting Maximum Traction

For maximum traction in wet or snow conditions, replace tires before they reach minimum tread depth.

Loss of Pressure

Tires will lose pressure when the temperature gets colder. The general rule provided by tire manufacturers is 7kPa or 1psi drop for every 5 degree Celsius or Fahrenheit change, so measuring tire pressures year-round is vital.