Seasonal Car Care Tips: Preparing Your Used Vehicle for Alberta Winters

Albertans know that seasonal car care helps preserve your vehicle during the colder seasons. If you’re new to this province, be warned: Winter will literally eat your vehicle. Without proper weather proofing, the combination of snow and ice and street salt corrodes even hardy metals.

Luckily, a little prevention goes a long way. An afternoon of elbow grease will help your ride hold its value through this yearly time of autobody troubles.

Switch to Winter Tires

Switching to winter tires is essential for Alberta's harsh winter conditions, which often include icy roads, heavy snow, and freezing temperatures. Winter tires are specifically designed to provide better traction and handling in these challenging conditions, helping to improve safety and performance. It's recommended to install winter tires once the temperature consistently drops below 7°C (45°F) to ensure optimal grip and control as winter weather sets in.

Rustproofing: Preparing the Exterior

Start with a thorough soapy wash. This is to clean your vehicle before its coating. Also, it’s a way to find pre-existing rust spots.

1.   Dealing with Discovered Rust

If you find rusty patches on your vehicle, you can sand them off to remove the corrosion. If you don't have the necessary equipment, you can purchase a rust dissolver to treat the affected areas. Once the dissolver has done its work, make sure to wipe off any remaining residue before applying the next two protective coatings.

2.   Apply a Protective Sealant

To prevent further rust buildup, apply a rust inhibitor to your vehicle. This product helps shield metal surfaces from moisture and contaminants, significantly reducing the likelihood of rust forming over time.

3.   Finish with a Ceramic Coating

Wax alone won't provide enough protection against the harsh blizzards of winter, but a ceramic coating, when used in combination with the rust inhibitor, offers robust protection. The ceramic layer creates a strong, water-resistant barrier that helps protect your vehicle from the elements.

All three of these products come in convenient spray-on applicators, making them easy to apply. Just be sure to avoid spraying these solutions on glass surfaces to prevent damage or streaking.

Undercarriage Protection

Protecting your vehicle’s undercarriage requires a higher level of attention and expertise. It’s a more involved process, and you may not have the right tools or time to handle it yourself. Applying an undercoating properly also demands some specialized knowledge, as certain parts of your vehicle’s underside should not be sprayed with the coating.

If you’re looking for a simpler solution, a good rinse with a hose can go a long way. Using plain water won’t harm your vehicle, and regularly cleaning the undercarriage helps prevent the buildup of dirt, salt, and other debris that could lead to corrosion.

For those who prefer professional help, contact your dealership to see if they have a local mechanic referal that can do a great job applying undercoating,  though it’s wise to get multiple estimates to ensure you're receiving a fair price.

If you’re feeling ambitious and want to tackle it yourself, check out this in-depth video from an expert that walks you through the steps to maximize the durability of your vehicle’s underside.

Additional Steps to Protect Your Vehicle

Here are some extra tips to help your ride survive the snow:

·        Put on New Wiper Blades

You can find larger wiper blades that are better for winter. Don’t forget to top-up your wiper fluid, preferably with the de-icing kind.

·        Check Your Battery

Cold temperatures can put a significant strain on your car's battery, especially during Alberta's harsh winters. To avoid getting stranded, it's essential to have your battery tested before the cold weather hits. A weak battery is more likely to fail in freezing temperatures, so check for signs of corrosion on the terminals or any difficulty starting your vehicle. If your battery is over three years old or shows signs of wear, consider replacing it. Additionally, keep jumper cables in your car in case of emergencies. Proper battery maintenance can help ensure your vehicle starts reliably throughout the winter season.

·        Provide Shelter for Your Vehicle

If you don’t have a garage, consider investing in a car cover. While not ideal for short-term parking, a cover can offer valuable protection during longer periods of parking, keeping your vehicle safer from the elements.

·        Put in All-Weather Floor Mats

Durable, washable floor mats for cold wet weather will protect your car’s flooring as well as provide extra comfort when you can’t keep the rain and snow out.

Find a Quality Used Vehicle at Kross Mitsubishi!

As winter approaches in Alberta, it's essential to take the necessary steps to prepare your vehicle for the harsh conditions. From switching to winter tires and checking your battery to rustproofing and undercarriage protection, seasonal car care can help extend the lifespan of your vehicle and keep it running smoothly. Be sure to protect your vehicle from rust, regularly clean the undercarriage, and provide shelter from the elements for added longevity.

If you're in the market for a quality used vehicle, look no further than Kross Mitsubishi in Edmonton. Our friendly and professional staff will help you find the perfect used car, carefully pre-screened to ensure it’s ready to withstand the toughest Alberta weather. Contact us  today to get started on finding your next reliable vehicle!