Maintenance
How to prepare your car for an Ottawa winter
Use this winter car checklist to check tire tread and pressure, prepare for cold starts, test your defroster and pack an emergency kit.
Spark Auto
Check all four winter tires
Check tread depth before you swap wheels. Transport Canada recommends at least 4 mm of winter tread. Measure pressure when the tires are cold and use the pressure listed on your vehicle’s door label or in the owner’s manual.
Pay attention to slow starts
If the starter is already turning slowly on cool mornings, ask for a battery and starting-system check before the next cold snap.
Make sure you can see
Test the heater and defroster. Replace blades that leave streaks, switch to winter-rated washer fluid and check that all exterior lights work.
Pack for a delay
Keep a snow brush, scraper, small shovel, flashlight, warm layers and a first-aid kit in the car. Bring extra washer fluid and check the forecast before longer trips.