WINTER CAR CARE — Toronto, Etobicoke & GTA
Winter Car Preparation Checklist
Batteries, tires, heaters and wipers cause most winter breakdowns. Check them in the fall with this list, or let us check them for you.
321 Rexdale Blvd #4, Etobicoke, ON M9W 1R8
Mon–Fri 8am–5pm · (416) 742-4521
⚡ Servicing your car at an independent shop does not void your vehicle warranty — protected under Canadian consumer protection law.
By the Radman Auto Repair team, independent auto repair in Etobicoke since 1999 · Updated October 2026
A GTA winter is hard on batteries, tires, wipers, heaters and anything that rusts. Most winter breakdowns are predictable and preventable with a short check in the fall. Here is the checklist we use, and what to do about each item.
Quick answer: test the battery, fit winter tires, check coolant protection and the heater, replace wipers and fill with −40 °C washer fluid, and pack an emergency kit.
Winter Car Checklist
Battery load-test it; cold cuts cranking power. See battery test.
Winter tires install before the first snow; check tread and pressures. See winter tire changeover.
Tire pressure pressure drops in the cold; check monthly. See TPMS light.
Coolant test the freeze protection and look for leaks. See coolant flush.
Heater & defrost make sure you have full heat and a clear windshield. See no heat in car.
Wipers & washer fluid new blades and −40 °C fluid. See wiper blades.
Brakes check pads and calipers before salt season. See brakes.
Lights all bulbs working and lenses clear.
Cabin air filter a clean filter helps the defroster clear the glass. See cabin air filter.
Winter Emergency Kit
- Snow brush, ice scraper and a small shovel
- Booster cables or a charged jump pack
- Warm blanket, gloves and a hat
- Flashlight with spare batteries
- Phone charger
- Sand or kitty litter for traction
- Extra washer fluid
- Water and non-perishable snacks
Driving Habits That Help
- Keep the fuel tank at least half full to prevent fuel-line freezing and to have heat if stuck.
- Clear all snow from the roof, lights and windows before driving.
- Rinse the underside of the car on mild days to wash off road salt. See rust damage on cars.
- Leave more distance and brake gently; even winter tires need more room on ice.
Get It Checked
Not sure where your car stands? A multi-point inspection covers the battery, tires, brakes, fluids, belts, hoses and lights in one visit. EV owners: see Tesla 12V battery for the 12V battery, which cold weather also weakens.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I get my car ready for winter?
October to mid-November, before the first snow and before the rush for winter tire appointments. Batteries and tires are the two things most likely to leave you stranded.
Are winter tires required in Ontario?
No, but they make a large difference to stopping and cornering on snow and ice, and Ontario insurers must offer a discount if you use them.
How do I know if my battery will survive the winter?
A load test tells you. A battery that starts the car fine in October can fail on the first −15 °C morning, because cold cuts its cranking power.
What washer fluid should I use?
A winter fluid rated to at least −40 °C. Summer fluid freezes in the lines and on the windshield.
Should I warm up my car before driving?
A minute or two is enough for most modern cars; gentle driving warms the engine faster. Clear all the snow and ice first.
Ready for Winter Since 1999
Radman Auto Repair has prepared GTA cars for winter for more than 25 years: batteries, tires, heat and brakes checked in one visit.
This Service Includes
✓ Battery load test
✓ Tire & pressure check
✓ Coolant & heater check
✓ Wipers, lights & brakes