{"id":1577456,"date":"2019-11-08T11:02:25","date_gmt":"2019-11-08T16:02:25","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/divine.ca\/?p=1577456"},"modified":"2020-04-09T14:35:29","modified_gmt":"2020-04-09T18:35:29","slug":"our-top-tips-to-survive-the-winter-drive","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/divine.ca\/en\/our-top-tips-to-survive-the-winter-drive\/","title":{"rendered":"Our Top Tips to Survive the Winter Drive"},"content":{"rendered":"

Everyone dreads the cold and snow that the typical Canadian winter brings.\u00a0 It\u2019s even more challenging when you have to commute.\u00a0 White knuckle driving is the reality in bad weather.\u00a0 Roads can be icy and slushy and if you live in a snow belt, you may even get stuck or stranded.\u00a0 That is why it is important to be prepared.\u00a0 We put together some winter driving wisdom to make sure that you are ready.<\/p>\n

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Photo: Ross van der Wal<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Preventative Maintenance<\/strong><\/h4>\n

A tune-up is a must before the winter hits. A routine check may prevent a problem that could easily have been avoided. Make sure to have your brakes checked, fluids checked and ride control tests done. An oil check and a filter replacement are also crucial for your vehicle\u2019s health. Finally check out your tread depth to ensure your tires will perform safely on the road. Keep on top of your vehicle\u2019s maintenance schedule to make sure your vehicle is as safe as possible.<\/p>\n

Check Your Pressure<\/strong><\/h4>\n

It\u2019s often overlooked, but checking your tire air pressure is crucial for getting ready for the cold weather. \u00a0If your tires are not properly inflated, they may wear down more quickly. An overinflated tire can affect stability, as your tire needs a bit of give to handle any bumps in the uneven road. Proper tire pressure also helps maximize your fuel economy, which is already lower in the winter.<\/p>\n

Switch Over Your Tires<\/strong><\/h4>\n

It\u2019s easy to assume your all-season tires will be good year-round, but they just won\u2019t hold up when the cold weather hits. When the temperature starts hitting that 7 degrees Celsius mark for one week straight, that\u2019s your sign it\u2019s time to switch over to winter tires. A studdable winter tire such as Gislaved Nord*Frost 200 is a great option for handling the icy roads we\u2019ve come to expect in Canada. All-weather tires (with the three-peak mountain snowflake symbol) may also be an option if you do not want to invest in an extra set or worry about the hassle of a changeover every spring and fall. It\u2019s always best to check in with an expert to ensure your tires will work for you. OK Tire<\/a> offers a comprehensive financing program to help you get the tires that you need to get you safely through the winter.<\/p>\n

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Photo: Remi Jacquaint<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Switch To Winter Wiper Blades<\/strong><\/h4>\n

Most people are aware that changing their tires is important, but did you also know that it is important to switch to winter wiper blades?\u00a0 Regular wiper blades will do the job in the warmer months but they do not deal well with snow and ice. Switch over to winter wiper blades ahead of the snow so you\u2019ll see clearly in poor driving conditions. \u00a0\u00a0They are easy to install.\u00a0 Keep a pair stored in your trunk so that you have them handy in case there is an early winter storm.<\/p>\n

Pack An Emergency Kit<\/strong><\/h4>\n

It is important to be prepared in case you get stuck or stranded because of poor road conditions.\u00a0 Having an emergency kit will help keep you more comfortable and safer while you wait for help.\u00a0 Your kit should include:<\/p>\n