From Transport Canada
In severe weather, it’s key that your vehicle be in good working order because winter weather is hard on your vehicle.
Keep your vehicle in top working condition by following its manufacturer-defined maintenance schedule. You can find more information in the owner’s manual for your vehicle.
In addition to regular maintenance, you can bring your vehicle to a licensed facility for a winter inspection. Newer vehicles have systems that require a repair facility to check that they’re working properly.
A check-up by a trained technician will help make sure no important items are missed. This inspection can include:
Battery
• Making sure the motor is in good working order. Motors need a fully charged battery to start in cold weather
• Cleaning the battery posts and checking the charging system and belts
• Replacing weak batteries before they fail
Lights
• Making sure that all lights work and that the headlights are adjusted properly
• Making sure that the headlights are in the proper position. Many new vehicles aim headlights automatically, so they need to be inspected by a professional to ensure they’re in the right position
Brakes
• Doing a thorough brake check to make sure they’re in top working condition. Pulling, a change in pedal feel, or unusual squealing or grinding may mean that the brakes need repair
Exhaust system
• Checking for leaks that could send deadly carbon monoxide into the vehicle
Heating and cooling system
• Checking the radiator hoses and drive belts for cracks and leaks
• Making sure the radiator cap, water pump, and thermostat work properly
• Testing the strength and level of the coolant/anti-freeze, and making sure the heater and defroster work well
Windshield wipers
• Making sure that wipers are in good condition and replace blades that streak
• Using wipers designed for winter
• Filling up on winter washer fluid in the -40°C temperature range and carry an extra jug in the vehicle
Tires
• Making sure the tires are at the correct pressure
• Making sure winter tires have at least four-millimetre tread depth for the safest winter driving.
