Debunking 7 Winter Driving Myths
Winter in Kitchener brings a flurry of driving myths that can confuse even the most experienced drivers. At Logel’s Auto Parts, we understand your need for clear, reliable advice. Let’s go over these common winter driving myths together to help ensure your family’s safety.
1. The Truth About Engine Warm-Up
Myth: You need to warm up your car for several minutes in cold weather.
Truth: Today’s engines are designed to operate efficiently without long warm-ups. Idling your car for too long in the winter is not just unnecessary, but it also wastes fuel and harms the environment. A brief warm-up of about 30 seconds is usually sufficient.
Save time and fuel with a short warm-up, knowing your car is ready to go.
2. Importance of Winter Car Washes
Myth: Washing your car in the winter is a waste of money.
Truth: Road salt and slush can damage your car’s exterior. Regular washing in the winter is vital to protect your vehicle’s paint and undercarriage from corrosive salt damage.
3. Driving Convertibles in Winter
Myth: Convertibles are not suitable for winter driving.
Truth: With proper winterization, including winter tires and ensuring your heating system is efficient, convertibles can be just as viable in winter as any other car.
Click here to see our tips for driving your convertible vehicle in the winter.
4. Road Conditions Post-Plowing and Salting
Myth: Once roads are plowed and salted, you can drive as usual.
Truth: Even plowed and salted roads can have black ice patches. It’s recommended to maintain cautious driving habits in winter conditions, including slowing down, avoiding sudden movements with steering and braking, and being aware of areas prone to black ice such as bridges and overpasses.
5. Clearing Your Windshield Properly
Myth: It’s okay to only clear a part of your windshield on the driver’s side.
Truth: Full visibility is essential for safe driving. Clear your entire windshield, as well as all windows, mirrors, and lights, before driving.
Bonus Tip: Make sure to also clear snow and ice from your headlights and taillights for proper visibility.
6. Using Hot Water to Clear Windows
Myth: Pouring hot water on your car windows will quickly melt ice.
Truth: This can cause your windshield to crack due to the rapid temperature change. Avoid costly damage by using an ice scraper, not hot water, on your windows.
7. The Necessity of Winter Tires
Myth: All-season tires are just as good as winter tires.
Truth: Winter tires are specifically designed for cold temperatures and icy conditions, offering significantly better traction than all-season tires.
Bonus Tip: Most insurance companies in Ontario will offer discounts for people who have winter tires installed on their vehicles, both new and used. Click here to see the benefits of winter tires.
Equip your car for the Ontario winter and drive with confidence. For peace of mind this snowy season, request a quote for winter tires and let us help you navigate winter roads safely.
