Be weather-wise and winterize
STAY SAFE ON THE ROAD THIS WINTER

THE BEST DRIVER I’VE EVER SEEN IS MYBUDDY MARCO. REGARDLESS OF THE VEHICLE OR CIRCUMSTANCES HE IS ABLE TO CONTROL A CAR BETTER THAN MANY OF THE RALLY DRIVERS I’VE SEEN RIPPING THROUGH THE FORESTS OF QUEBEC.

The problem with Marco is that he never adapts his vehicles to the season. He once had a Chevy Impala shod with four different types and sizes of tires and his antifreeze looked like some kind of horrid Guinness and Nutella cocktail.
Despite how appetizing it may sound to some of you, that is not good, not good at all.

TRANSFORMING YOUR RIDE There are a number of steps you can take to turn your vehicle into a safer, more capable winter road machine.Some can easily be done in the comfort of your driveway or garage; some are best left to the experts.

For example, topping up your windshield reservoir with a -40 Celsius washer fluid and replacing your summer wipers with a set are simple at-home procedures that will greatly improve your visibility in a snowstorm.Mounting and balancing a set of winter wheels and tires, on the other hand, is something I wouldn’t try at home.

OTHER IMPORTANT STEPS INCLUDE:

1 Systems Check – Get your neighbourhood mechanic to give your vehicle a good once over.Some shops charge as little as $40 for this service that includes a check of your heating and defrosting system, battery for excess corrosion and wear, and an examination of belts and hoses for leaks and tears. If any of these systems fail you could find yourself on the roadside freezing your you-know-what off.

2 Oil Change – Cold temperatures thicken the viscosity of your engine oil. See your owner’s manual for recommended changes to your vehicle’s oil and lubrication specifications before winter hits full throttle. You might want to get an oil change at the same time you’re getting your systems checked.

3 Tires – It’s wise to get a full set of winter rims and tires.Despite their name, “all-seasons” may not be appropriate for all seasons in many parts of the country. Be sure the diameter of the entire wheel package matches that of your summer set. This will ensure that your speedometer remains consistent.
Cold temperatures affect tire pressure so check your pressure every four to five fill ups; this is of your tires.

4 Antifreeze – One of the most neglected fluids in any vehicle, antifreeze is the lifeblood of your cooling and heating system. A 50-50 mix of antifreeze and water inside your radiator is usually the norm but each vehicle may alter this mix slightly depending on the brand you use. You can check the status of the mixture yourself with an inexpensive antifreeze tester available at any automotive shop. If you need to change it get a certified technician to do it. You don’t want issues arising from an improperly filled radiator.

DEFENSIVE DRIVING
If you know you’re about to encounter treacherous driving conditions the most important thing to do is be mentally prepared. Maintain your composure, reduce speed and keep a safe distance from the vehicles around you.

OTHER SUGGESTIONS:
When changing lanes on a snow covered road it’s wise to “coast” as you are completing the manoeuvre. By not utilizing the gas pedal, you are decreasing the risk of losing control because the tires may slip when added power is applied to them.

If you start to skid, avoid the brake; decelerate by taking your foot off the gas; step on the clutch or shift to neutral, then look where you want your vehicle to go and steer in that direction.

Adjust your speed to the weather conditions.

Some people fi nd misplaced comfort in driving a large SUV or four-wheel drive. These vehicles may get better traction, but what people often forget is that SUVs will stop much more slowly than a compact car.

Place your vehicle in neutral when traveling down a steep, snow covered hill. By disengaging “drive” the tires will increase their grip capacity to slow the car down without being burdened by additional engine power.

Watch out for black ice, areas of the road that appear black and shiny, as they can cause your vehicle to suddenly lose traction.Slow down, keep your foot off the brake and be ready to shift to neutral or step on the clutch as your vehicle crosses these areas.

Be careful when approaching shaded areas, bridges and overpasses as these sections of road freeze much sooner in cold weather and stay frozen long after the sun has risen.

Winter weather can test the best of drivers and their vehicles. Anxiety, fear and tension are just a few of the emotions that can affect your ability to control an automobile.Some forethought and preparation can help you stay safe this season.