10 winter driving tips for Ontario roads

Ontario winters are hard on drivers and on cars. Here are ten things we tell every customer before the first snowfall.

1. Put on winter tires early

All-season tires start losing grip once temperatures fall below about 7 °C. Winter tires use a softer rubber and a deeper tread that stay grippy in the cold. Look for the three-peak mountain snowflake symbol. Ontario insurers are required to offer a discount for winter tires, so ask yours about it.

2. Check your battery

Cold weather drains batteries fast. If yours is more than four or five years old, have it tested before it leaves you stranded in a parking lot.

3. Use winter washer fluid

Summer fluid can freeze in the lines. Top up with fluid rated to −40 °C and keep a spare jug in the trunk.

4. Replace worn wiper blades

Streaky blades are dangerous when slush is flying off the transport truck in front of you. Winter blades resist ice build-up.

5. Keep at least half a tank of gas

It stops moisture from freezing in the fuel lines. It also means you can keep the heat running if you’re stuck.

6. Clear all the snow off the car

Clear the roof, the hood, the lights and every window, not just a peephole in the windshield. Snow sliding off your roof can blind you or the driver behind you.

7. Double your following distance

Stopping distances on snow and ice can be several times longer than on dry pavement. Leave plenty of space, and brake and steer smoothly.

8. Watch for black ice

Bridges, overpasses and shaded spots freeze first. If the road looks wet but the temperature is around freezing, assume it’s ice.

9. Pack an emergency kit

Ice scraper and snow brush
Small shovel and a bag of sand or kitty litter
Booster cables
Blanket, warm hat and gloves
Flashlight, phone charger and some snacks

10. Check road conditions before you go

Check Ontario 511 for closures and road conditions. If the weather’s bad and the trip can wait, stay home.

Need a vehicle with all-wheel drive for winter? Browse our inventory.