Every year, the return of cold, snow and ice reminds us how essential it is to prepare your car for winter. Beyond comfort, it’s first and foremost about safety: traction, visibility, engine performance… all these aspects are challenged at the first snowfall.
Fortunately, there are simple, effective gestures — and often underestimated — to get through the cold season without unpleasant surprises. In this article, we offer you a complete checklist, accompanied by practical advice and concrete solutions offered by VitroPlus so you can keep your vehicle in perfect condition until spring.
1. Checking and maintaining your winter tires
The importance of the right tires
Winter tires are not a luxury: they are essential safety equipment. Unlike all‑season tires, they are designed to remain flexible in cold weather, provide better grip on snow and evacuate water more efficiently in freezing rain.
Note: in Quebec, winter tyres are mandatory from December 1 to March 15, and must bear the snowflake‑in‑mountain symbol.
Installation and storage with VitroPlus
At VitroPlus, you can book an appointment for:
- Rapid installation of your winter tyres
- Professional balancing for optimal comfort
- Secure storage of your summer tyres, in ideal conditions
It’s simple, effective, and saves you from handling heavy tyres or finding a spot in your garage.
2. Protecting the bodywork and vulnerable parts
Rust‑proofing
Winter means salt, humidity and slush — the sworn enemies of the bodywork. Even brand‑new vehicles are not immune to corrosion, especially at the wings, chassis and sills.
Rust‑proofing allows you to prevent the appearance of rust, extend your car’s lifespan and maintain its resale value. It’s a smart investment that can be done any time of year, but best before the first snow.
At VitroPlus, we use effective products that penetrate deeply while respecting your vehicle’s materials.
Paint‑protection film
To complete the protection of your car, consider having a transparent paint‑protection film installed. It protects the paint against:
- Gravel chips
- Ice or abrasive sand projections
- Scratches caused by the snow brush
Discreet yet resistant, this film is applied on vulnerable zones (bumpers, lower doors, bonnet) and saves you many costly repairs.
3. Checking visibility
Windows, wipers and defrosters
Visibility is paramount in winter. Before the cold season, take the time to:
- Inspect your windows: a minor crack can worsen quickly with frost. VitroPlus repairs or replaces your windshield depending on the extent of the damage.
- Change your wipers if their performance is lacking. Winter‑specific models are more robust and better suited to snow.
- Fill the washer fluid with an anti‑freeze product to avoid freezing at the first cold snap.
A good rear‑window defroster and clean headlights are also indispensable to maintain good road visibility.
4. Checking essential mechanical elements
Cold puts all your vehicle’s mechanical systems to the test. Here’s what should be checked before winter:
- Battery: negative temperatures reduce its capacity. If it’s over 3 years old, a test is recommended.
- Braking system: discs, pads, fluid… everything must be in perfect condition.
- Coolant: should contain sufficient antifreeze mix.
- Lights: headlights, rear lights, turn signals — everything must work.
- Engine oil: oil suited to winter will help with cold starts.
A quick visit to your garage or a VitroPlus centre will give you a rapid, reassuring check.
5. Equipment to keep in the vehicle
It’s not enough for your car to be ready: you also need to be equipped for the unexpected. Here are the essentials to keep within reach all winter:
- Snow brush and ice scraper
- Jumper cables
- First‑aid kit
- Warm blanket or emergency blanket
- Flashlight (with batteries)
- Gloves, spare hat
- Portable phone charger
- Sand, cat litter or rubber mat to help if you get stuck
These small items can make a big difference if you’re caught in a storm or if your car refuses to start.
6. Tips for maintaining your car all winter
Don’t neglect maintenance even in the cold season
Once your car is well‑prepared, you still need to keep caring for it throughout winter. Here are some good practices:
- Wash the underbody regularly to remove salt and slush.
- Avoid leaving the car parked for long periods without starting, especially in deep cold.
- Ventilate the interior regularly to avoid humidity build‑up and fogged windows.
- Use rubber mats that are easy to clean, which protect the floor from water and dirt.
Continuous maintenance helps avoid small troubles that become big problems.
Conclusion
Preparing your car for winter is not just a matter of comfort: it’s a responsibility — for your safety, that of your passengers, and that of other road users.
Between tyres, rust‑proofing, windows, visibility and emergency equipment, every detail matters. The good news is that VitroPlus is here to support you at every step. Whether it’s:
- Installing or storing your winter tyres
- A rust‑proofing treatment
- Repairing or replacing your windshield
- Or fitting a paint‑protection film
Our experts welcome you in our centres across Quebec with a fast, professional and friendly service.
Book an appointment now to have your vehicle inspected before winter really sets in. Drive with confidence even when the mercury drops.