A couple driving the winter roads of Alberta.

Winter Is Coming: How to Prep Your Car for Winter and Stay Safe on Edmonton Roads

0 By
Posted in Service

How to Prep Your Car for Winter in Alberta 

Winter in Edmonton brings snow, ice, and freezing temperatures. That means your vehicle needs extra care to handle the conditions. YEG Drives wants to help you prepare for winter driving near Edmonton with practical tips to keep your used car running smoothly. 

Schedule Service
View Our Inventory

Check Your Tires Before the Snow Falls 

One of the most important steps in used car winter prep is making sure your tires are ready. Snow and ice reduce traction, making winter tires a must. Unlike all-season options, snow tires stay flexible in freezing temperatures and improve grip on slippery roads. 

Check your tire tread depth before winter begins. A good rule is to have at least 3.5 mm of tread for safe winter driving. Also, keep your tires properly inflated, as cold weather can cause pressure to drop. If you’re unsure of how to prep your tires, schedule an appointment to get them checked out.

How to Winterize Your Car for Edmonton’s Coldest Months 

Edmonton’s winters can be harsh, so your vehicle needs protection. Follow these steps to get it ready: 

  • Test the battery – Cold weather weakens batteries. If yours is over three years old, get it tested before winter. 
  • Top off fluids – Use winter-grade windshield washer fluid and check antifreeze levels. Frozen wipers and engines are a bad mix. 
  • Keep your gas tank at least half full – This prevents fuel lines from freezing and keeps you prepared for delays. 
  • Check your heating system – A working heater keeps you warm and helps defrost your windshield faster. 

Better yet, have a professional give your car a thorough examination and recommend any maintenance, repairs, or services that it might need to help get through the cold season with confidence. YEG Drives has a service department that is second to none in the Edmonton area, so schedule service for your car today for that extra peace of mind. 

If you prepare your car for the winter, the chances of having to change a tire on a snowy road like these women go down drastically.

Pack an Emergency Kit for Winter Driving 

Even with preparation, winter can be unpredictable. A roadside emergency kit can make a big difference in bad weather. Essentials to include: 

  • Blanket and extra warm clothing 
  • Flashlight and extra batteries 
  • Jumper cables 
  • Ice scraper and snow brush 
  • Bag of sand or cat litter for traction 
  • Non-perishable snacks and bottled water 

Being prepared ensures you stay safe if you get stuck on the road. 

You Might Also Like: Get a Great Deal on a Used SUV

Schedule a Pre-Winter Inspection 

A professional inspection helps spot potential issues before winter hits. Visiting the best auto repair shop near Edmonton can save you from unexpected breakdowns. Mechanics check your brakes, battery, fluids, and heating system to keep your vehicle running smoothly. 

Stay Safe on Edmonton’s Icy Roads! 

Now that you know how to prep your car for winter, remember to drive cautiously. Keep extra space between vehicles, avoid sudden braking, and take turns slowly. Black ice can be hard to see, so always drive with extra care. 

If you need help with how to winterize your car, YEG Drives is here for you. From choosing snow tires to finding the right used car winter prep services, we’ll help you stay safe this season. 

Contact us for more information!