Canadian Car Care Essentials

July 27, 2016

 

Canada is synonymous with crazy weather. As Canadians we’ve built a reputation for being able to tough out the worst snow storms, droughts and rainy spells. We need cars that can withstand drastic seasonal changes and tires that are designed to protect us despite the road conditions.

 

Good Canadian car care starts with regular maintenance. Performing seasonal maintenance is an important part of protecting your car and helping it endure our harsh climate. Add the following seasonal car maintenance checklist to your to-do list at the start of each season to protect your car and extend its life.

 

Every season

 

Fall, winter, spring and summer – at the start of every season you should:

 

– Change your oil and oil filter

– At each oil change have your brake linings, rotors and drums inspected

 

Check and top up your fluid levels including:

 

– Engine oil

– Power steering fluid

– Brake fluid

– Transmission fluid

– Windshield washer fluid

– Antifreeze (fall/winter)

– Coolant

– Check and replace your wiper blades if needed

 

Spring

 

Spring is the time to give your car some loving care after a harsh winter.

 

– Give the interior and exterior a deep clean

– Check your lubrication

– Check your battery/charging system

– Fix cracks in your windshield

– Check interior and exterior lighting

– Check your belts and hoses for cold weather damage

– Check your filters

– Check your tires and if you’ve got winters on have them changed with your summer or all season tires

 

Summer

 

Make sure your car is road-ready before you go on your summer vacation or next road trip.

 

– Check your tire pressure

– Check your belts and hoses

– Service your air conditioner at least every 3 years

– Inspect your air filter and replace if needed

 

Fall

 

It’s back to school and back to cold weather. Fall is a good time to:

 

– Check your hoses and belts

– Check your battery/charging system

– Annually check your brakes, brake pads and rotors

– Inspect your exhaust system for leaks and damage

– Schedule an engine tune-up

– Check your heating system and ensure your car’s defrost is working

– Inspect your steering and suspension systems annually

– Check your car’s alignment

– Check your interior and exterior lighting

– Check your tires and if you’ve got summer or all seasons have them change with your winter tires

 

Winter

 

Get ready for snow storms and icy roads!

 

– Consider changing the weight of your oil during winter so your car is better equipped to handle the cold temperatures

– Check your tire pressure once a month throughout winter

– Keep your gas tank at least half full to prevent the gas line from freezing and ensure you’re ready for a snow or ice storm

– Check your battery/charging system.

– Check your brakes throughout winter

– Test your exhaust system for leaks

– Check your interior and exterior lights

– Try to avoid using cruise control in winter

 

Top up and freshen up your emergency kit, which should include:

 

– A shovel

– A snow/ice brush

– Jumper cables

– Extra windshield washer fluid

– Warm clothes and a blanket in case you get stranded.

– Bottled water

– Non-perishable snack food

– Emergency flares

 

With these simple Canadian car care tips you’ll find that the regular maintenance you put into each season will help your car perform well no matter the weather outside.