Why is Winterization is Important?
Why is Winterization is Important?
Posted on April 7, 2020
Have you ever had your vehicle fail due to the winters’ icy grip? If so, you’ll know that it’s not a fun situation to be put in. So, what should you do? Many people have found success by taking the time to schedule an appointment to get their vehicle winterized. But, there are a few things you should know before making that appointment to ensure your vehicle is fully ready for the long winter ahead. This post will tell you what you need to know to make you have covered all the points needed for a successful vehicle winterization.
When looking for a good winterization package, the best way to ensure you end up with a quality servicing is to ensure these points are covered.
Fluid Top-Ups
Antifreeze
To put it simply, Antifreeze is an additive that lowers the freezing point of a water-based liquid, which preventing lines from freezing. An antifreeze mixture is used to achieve a lower freezing-point for cold environments and also achieves higher boiling-point (“anti-boil”) to allow higher coolant temperature.
Winter Washer Fluid
Another winter driving necessity that is sometimes overlooked is windshield washer fluid. This is a staple in colder regions. Make sure your fluid is always topped up AND we suggest you keep a spare container in your truck for when you need it. We suggest a winter antifreeze (rated for -45C or lower) with a detergent in it for extra cleaning power on tough road dirt and grime (read: road sanding and salting) from windshield.
Heater/Heating System
This should be self-explanatory—Make sure your vehicle’s heating system works; the windshield defroster (front and rear), vents, seats and mirrors(if applicable) all should be checked to ensure proper operation. If it doesn’t, you’ll have trouble staying warm on your commutes.
Winter Oil Change
You’re probably thinking, “What is ‘Winter Oil’ and why do I need it?” Let’s explain it’s importance.
Have you ever wondered what the difference is between 10w-40, 5w-40, and 40wt motor oil? Motor oil viscosity is expressed as a number. Motor oils that are thicker have a higher viscosity number. Thinner motor oils have a lower number. Seasonal temperatures are important factors to consider when choosing the right motor oil. Cold winter temperatures and summer heat affect the rate at which motor oil flows. The measure of this flow is the viscosity rating you see displayed on containers of motor oil.
Switching to a 5W-30 oil during the winter months is a great choice for our winter season where the thermometer dips and stays below -25C for months. Engine damage may occur if motor oil is too thick due to cold temperatures and is unable to flow in-between engine parts – especially during cold weather startups.
Don’t forget that stop–and–start driving during winter months is considered severe duty in most manufacturer maintenance schedules. Changing the oil (and filter) per this schedule can save expensive engine repairs and extend the life of your vehicle.
Block Heater
In Manitoba, plugging in your vehicle at night is just a part of the end-of-day routine in the winter. Why? Winter can be hard on your vehicle, and a block heater keeps your engine warm to protect several parts and components, and to make it easier for your vehicle to start, as well as:
- It reduces the stress on your engine/starter/battery and more.
- Allows the cabin to warm up quicker.
While many drivers plug their vehicles in every night in the winter, you only need to use your block heater once the temperature reaches – 15 C(…in MB it’s nightly).
Did you know that a block heater is not standard equipment on vehicles sold in different parts of Canada? (ie: Most east coast vehicles do not come with block heaters.)
Battery/Charging System
Work is over, your vehicle has been sitting in the frigid cold all day and there’s a chance you could be digging for change to catch the bus home. Here’s what you need to know to help avoid that situation.
Extreme temperatures are battery killers
A batteries energy is created from a chemical reaction, heat will typically accelerate the chemical activity but higher temperatures also speed up internal corrosion within the cells and reduce the life of the battery.
Just as heat speeds up chemical reactions, cold temperatures slow them down. That’s why a battery can become sluggish in winter, even though its state of charge may remain unchanged. At colder temperatures, the battery’s ability to provide sufficient power to start and run a vehicle is diminished. That’s why automotive batteries are rated in CCA (Cold-Cranking Amperage). This is the amount of current a battery can deliver for 30 seconds at -18 C without dropping to a specified cutoff voltage. Obviously the higher the CCA, the better the battery will perform in adverse conditions.
Whether it’s daily commutes in and around the city or longer trips into rural areas, we have you covered. Book a Winterization appointment with us today!