Published: January 4, 2018, 7:00 AM
Updated: November 23, 2021, 11:55 AM
Prepare for driving in extreme cold
A bit of snow and cold weather is one thing. Extreme cold, like much of Canada is experiencing now, is another. Being prepared can make the difference between discomfort and disaster.
By Richard Russell
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Brrrrr!
Your vehicle doesn't like really cold temperatures any more than you do. Extreme cold puts a strain on all its systems. Knowing what to expect and being prepared, might make the difference between spending a few unpleasant minutes and a dangerous period of exposure because you're stranded.
In no particular order, here are some things to consider.
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Winshield wipers
Ensure the wipers are turned off before attempting to start the engine. If in doubt, ensure that they are clear of the windshield. If they're frozen to the glass, they may blow a breaker or damage the motor. If they do pull free, it may damage the leading edge of the the blades. Using them to try to clear ice can cause similar damage. They are not designed for heavy lifting so don’t use them to move quantities of snow or Get in the habit of making sure the wipers are off before shutting the vehicle down. And it's not a bad idea to pull them clear of the windshield when you are stopping for a lengthy period.
You can shop for new windshield wipers and blades at Amazon.ca.
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The right tools
Use a good quality plastic scraper and a reasonable amount of pressure to avoid scratching the glass. A long handled brush with plenty of bristles, or something similar, and a rubber scraper on the reverse side can be quite effective. Keep the shovel or broom where they belong – away from the car.
Shop for snow and ice scrapers at Amazon.ca.
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Windshield Washer Fluid
Use fluid especially formulated for severe winter conditions, rated for -40C or below. Keep the reservoir topped up and a spare jug inside. Chances are you'll never run out at an opportune time to get more.
Always keep extra windshield washer fluid for long road trips. You can purchase some today at Amazon.ca.
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Winter gas
Fuel is conditioned by refineries dependent on the seasons. Winter fuel will help provide easier starts and less opportunity for the fuel lines to freeze, so if your vehicle has been parked since the weather was warmer, top it up with winter fuel. Try to keep the tank as full as possible during winter to reduce the chance of moisture forming in the tank and lines and freezing. Some suggest refilling when the tank is half full.
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Tire Pressure
It is important to maintain proper tires pressure at all times of the year to ensure the contact patch – the little piece of tread in touch with the road can do what it is designed to do. Tires lose about one PSI for every 5°C (9°F) drop in temperature. The tire that was OK at 30 psi at 10C will be at 24 psi or less at -20C – severely underinflated. Check pressures when the tires are cold. Inflate to the maximum pressure shown in the owner's manual or on the door frame as a guide in extreme cold conditions – not the pressure printed on the tire sidewall.
Amazon.ca stocks most tire gauge brands in Canada.
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Keep exhaust clear
If the tailpipe become blocked by snow or ice the exhaust gasses may find another way out – and into the passenger compartment with deadly results. While today;s engine exhaust is much cleaner that it used to be, it is still toxic in sufficient quantity. For that reason, never back into a snow bank. For the same reason never warm up a vehicle in an enclosed garage.
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Battery
Winter magnifies existing problems and places an added strain on some critical components – especially the battery, which can lose as much as half its power in extreme cold conditions. If your car hasn't been used for several weeks the battery may need a charge before starting. If it is more than three years old it may be time for a new one at the first sign of trouble.
Shop for a battery charger on Amazon.ca and have it shipped directly to you.
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Lights
Make sure they are all the lights are operating properly and are cleared of snow and ice so you are able both to see and be seen when visibility conditions are reduced.
Buying a light kit for your car or truck is a great investment if you drive a lot in poor visibility conditions.
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Heater/Defroster
Be wary of the recirculate position on your heater/defroster control. To help warm up the vehicle more quickly, it recirculates air from inside the vehicle rather than drawing air into the heater from outside. Extended use will result in more moisture and less oxygen in the air. If left on for an extended period of time, that lack of fresh air could make you drowsy. And, with each breath you take you expel more moisture into the interior of the vehicle to come into contact with the cold glass, causing it to fog or frost up.
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Starting
Before attempting to start the vehicle in extreme cold conditions turn off all sources of electrical load, such as lights, wipers, heater fan, rear defroster, heated seats, etc, to ensure maximum power to the starter motor.
No one enjoys sitting in a cold vehicle. Shop for a remote car starter at Amazon.ca and you'll be thankful during the winter months.
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Antifreeze
Make sure the coolant/antifreeze in the engine is suitable for extreme cold conditions. It should be suitable for at least -40C when delivered from the factory and after service by any reputable shop but if someone added water during the summer the resultant mixture could be diluted and the results incredibly expensive.
Shop for antifreeze online at Amazon.ca to get the best price.
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Locks
Locks can become frozen if moisture has been trapped in the mechanism. Don't use more moisture (i.e. - hot water) to thaw them out. Try heating the key with a cigarette lighter or carry a little container of lock de-icer with you – obviously not inside the locked vehicle!
Have your locks ever become frozen? A lock de-icer will ensure you're not stuck out in the cold.
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Cleaning off all the snow
CLEAN THE VEHICLE – Start at the roof, then the windows, then the mirrors and lights followed by the grille and trunk lid, ensuring it is all gone before it slides down blocking the windows or lights.
Always keep a snow and ice scraper in your vehicle during the winter months in Canada.
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Cell phone
Keep a fully charged cell phone with you and a charge cord in the vehicle so you can call for assistance if it becomes necessary.
Don't have a cell phone car charger? Purchase one at Amazon.ca to ensure your smartphone is always charged.
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