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Are you and your car ready for winter?
QUICK TAKEAWAYS
- Winter tires: Improve traction below 5°C. Many insurers offer up to 5% discounts.
- Weather checks: Avoid driving during severe storms when possible.
- Snow removal: Clear snow and ice from all parts of your car to prevent accidents and fines.
- Speed control: Drive slower and increase stopping distance on winter roads.
- Fuel level: Keep the tank above half full to prevent fuel line freezing.
This article has been updated from a previous version.
Winter is underway, and it seems it’s going to be a bitterly cold, snowy one. After all, this is Canada; therefore, it’s wise to prepare for unpredictable weather and road conditions.
Whether it’s booking a winter tune-up, clearing snow off your car, or keeping an emergency kit handy, taking these steps now can make all the difference when the temperature drops. Let’s dive into the essential tips to keep you and your car ready for the challenges of winter driving.
Why winter tires and a winter tune-up matter
Prepare your car for winter by scheduling a tune-up before the first major snowfall. If you haven’t done so yet, it’s never too late to confirm your vehicle is in top condition.
Equipping your car with winter tires is essential for safe driving in cold weather. These tires provide superior traction, thanks to deeper grooves and specialized rubber compounds that remain flexible in temperatures as low as -30°C. They’re vital for both city streets and rural roads.
Remember, always install four winter tires — using only two can compromise your safety. Experts recommend switching to winter tires when temperatures consistently drop to 5°C or lower.
Winter tires not only enhance safety but can also save you money. Many insurers offer discounts of up to 5% on auto insurance premiums for vehicles equipped with winter tires.
While winter tires are mandatory in Quebec, their use is growing nationwide. According to the Tire and Rubber Association of Canada’s 2024 Winter Tire Study, 78% of Canadian drivers now use winter tires, a significant increase from just 35% in 1998. This shift highlights the growing awareness of their safety benefits.
Read more: How to afford and care for winter tires?
How weather forecasts affect winter driving safety
Before hitting the road, always check the weather forecast and plan accordingly. If snow or freezing rain is expected, leave extra early to allow for slower driving conditions. Monitor traffic reports for accidents, delays, and road closures, and familiarize yourself with alternative routes in case your primary path becomes impassable.
Keep in mind that severe storms can escalate quickly, so if your trip isn’t essential, it’s safer to stay home and wait for better conditions.
Dress for the unexpected. Choose warm, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy, non-slip footwear in case you need to step out of your vehicle. However, avoid bulky items like oversized coats or heavy boots that could restrict your movement or interfere with your ability to drive safely.
Keep a small emergency kit in your car with essentials like gloves, a hat, a flashlight, and a blanket — these can be lifesavers if you get stranded.
Learn more: How to get your car ready for winter and avoid road emergencies
Why you must remove snow and ice from your vehicle
Driving with snow or ice on your car isn’t just inconsiderate — it’s dangerous. Snow blowing off your roof or hood can obstruct your own visibility or create hazards for other drivers.
Take the time to clear your entire vehicle, not just the windows. This includes the roof, hood, trunk, mirrors, and lights. Snow left on your car can harden into ice, making it even more dangerous and difficult to remove later.
In many regions, failing to clear snow and ice from your vehicle can result in fines or tickets. Beyond the legal risks, it’s a matter of safety and responsibility.
Snow or ice flying off your car at high speeds can cause accidents, damage other vehicles, or even injure pedestrians. Use a snow brush and ice scraper to thoroughly clean your car before driving, and consider investing in a windshield cover or snow shield to make the process easier.
How to drive safely on snowy and icy roads
Speed limits are designed for ideal conditions, clear skies, dry roads, and good visibility. In winter weather, these conditions rarely apply. When roads are icy, snow-covered, or visibility is reduced, adjust your speed to match the conditions, even if it means driving well below the posted limit.
Maintaining a safe following distance is equally critical. The standard two-second rule for dry roads should be doubled — or even tripled — on icy or snowy roads. This extra space gives you more time to react and stop safely if the vehicle ahead suddenly brakes.
Keep in mind that stopping distances can increase significantly in winter conditions, especially on black ice or packed snow.
When braking, do so gently and gradually to avoid skidding. If your car is equipped with anti-lock brakes (ABS), apply steady pressure to the brake pedal and let the system do its job. For vehicles without ABS, pump the brakes gently to maintain control. Avoid sudden movements, such as sharp turns or abrupt braking, as these can cause your car to lose traction.
Lastly, be mindful of bridges, overpasses, and shaded areas, as these spots tend to freeze faster and stay icy longer than other parts of the road. Slowing down and increasing your stopping distance in these areas can make all the difference in staying safe.
Related: What to do if you hit an animal and need to file an insurance claim
What to keep in a winter driving emergency kit
Breaking down in harsh winter weather can leave you waiting for help, even with roadside assistance. Be prepared by keeping an emergency survival kit in a waterproof container in your car. Check it annually for expired or worn items. Key essentials include:
- First-aid kit: Include bandages, gauze, medical tape, and any personal medical necessities (e.g., an extra inhaler for asthma).
- Phone charger: Carry an external battery and charging cord, as phone batteries drain quickly in the cold.
- Non-perishable food and water: Pack energy bars, water, canned food, and a can opener.
- Warmth essentials: Thermal blankets, dry socks, gloves, and a change of clothes.
- Folding shovel and traction aid: Use a shovel to dig out of snowbanks and cat litter or sand for tire traction.
- Flashlight and fire supplies: Bring a flashlight (with extra batteries), waterproof matches, emergency candles, and a deep can to safely hold lit candles.
- Road flares and safety vest: Make yourself visible to other drivers by placing flares at a safe distance from your car.
- Heat packets: Keep hands and feet warm with self-heating packets.
- Washer fluid and antifreeze: Store extra jugs of winter washer fluid and antifreeze.
- Car essentials: Include a multi-tool, jump starter, cables, tow rope, ice scraper, whistle, paper towels, duct tape, fire extinguisher, spare tire, wheel wrench, and jack.
Why keeping your gas tank half full matters in winter
In winter, keeping your gas tank above half full isn’t just a good habit, it’s a safety measure. A fuller tank minimizes condensation, which can freeze and block your fuel line in sub-zero temperatures. It also makes sure you have enough fuel to keep the engine running and the cabin warm if you’re stranded.
Running low on gas in winter can leave you vulnerable, especially in remote areas or during extreme weather.
Additionally, a full tank gives you peace of mind, sparing you the stress of searching for a gas station when the low-fuel light starts flashing. Avoid unnecessary risks by refueling regularly and staying prepared for the unexpected.
Related: Is rustproofing your car worth the added cost?
Why most winter accidents happen on clear days
Most winter accidents don’t happen during storms, they occur on calm, clear days when drivers are more likely to relax their vigilance.
According to Transport Canada’s National Collision Database, this is when defensive driving is most important. Black ice, hidden patches of snow, and sudden changes in road conditions can catch even experienced drivers off guard.
Stay alert, maintain safe speeds, and always anticipate the actions of other drivers, regardless of the weather. Winter preparation not only protects you and your passengers but can also help you avoid costly accidents that could raise your insurance premiums.
Speaking of insurance, regularly comparing rates can save you money. Many drivers overpay simply because they don’t shop around. Take a few minutes to get real-time quotes and ensure you’re getting the best deal on your car insurance.
Read next: What to do if you are in a car accident
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Arshi Hossain, Associate editor
Arshi Hossain is the associate editor at Rates.ca. She has 4+ years of experience in delivering strategy-backed digital content through various mediums. Her expertise lies in breaking down complex information, meeting people where they are, and in the moments that matter.
Prior to joining Rates.ca, she worked in the editorial and digital content space at Wealthsimple, supported digital strategies, and UX writing for payment products and solutions at Bank of Montreal. She has also worked with startups to support editorial, content writing, communications, copywriting, and marketing needs.
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