10 Long-Distance Winter Driving Tips

Winter is here and with it the holiday season, which means visiting family in the far-away hometown or just going away somewhere you can let your hair down and see and experience new things. (We may be biased, but we recommend coming to Hamilton or Cambridge, ON for a quick visit.) Moreover, if you’ve decided to drive there, then you have a whole other set of problems, especially considering the Canadian winter and all it brings. Very low temperatures, a lot of snow and ice on the road and on vehicles and strong, freezing wind – these are just some of the things to look forward to in winter. We have previously given you a list of tips on safe driving in winter, but they have mostly pertained to city driving conditions. Here is how you can apply all or some of them on long-distance driving.Note: You can bring your car anytime to our auto service shop in Hamilton to prepare it for the winter trip. Our professional and trustworthy licensed mechanics can help.1) Check the weatherBefore going on a long-distance trip or driving in isolated areas, keep an eye on weather reports. Delay all non-emergency trips if you see that bad weather is expected, but if you really must drive just then, inform someone of your destination, the route you plan on taking and the estimated time of arrival.2) Prepare your car for winter weatherAlways have your vehicle in excellent operating condition – have it inspected by a licensed and trustworthy mechanic shop and have all the possible issues on the vehicle taken care of in due time.3) Top off the fuelNever go on a long-distance trip without at least half-full fuel tank – ideally a full one.4) Keep an emergency kitHave a go-to emergency bag of supplies and tools in your car in case something happens and you need to call for help or make a quick fix of something on your car – emergency phone numbers, blankets, gloves, hats, food, water and any needed medication in your vehicle.5) Weather the snow storm inside the carIf you become snow-bound, stay with your vehicle because it will provide you with temporary shelter and make it easier for rescuers to locate you. Don’t try to walk in a severe storm since it’s easy to lose sight of your vehicle in blowing snow and get lost and unreachable.6) Preserve your strengthDon’t over exert yourself if you try to push or dig your vehicle out of the snow – you never know how much time it will take for the rescuers to find you.7) Prepare for a distress callTie a brightly colored cloth to the antenna or place it at the top of a rolled up window to signal distress. Also, keep the dome light on if possible at night. It only uses a small amount of electricity and will make it easier for rescuers to find you.8) Keep the exhaust pipe unblockedMake sure the exhaust pipe on your vehicle isn’t clogged with snow, ice or mud. Always have in mind that a blocked exhaust could cause deadly carbon monoxide gas to leak into the passenger compartment with the engine running.9) Keep warmAlways keep spare warm clothing in your car, to have something to change into or just put on over what you already have on if necessary. Other than that, you can use whatever is available to insulate your body from the cold – blankets, floor mats, newspapers or paper maps.10) Don’t keep the engine runningIf possible run the engine and heater just long enough to remove the chill – you need to conserve fuel for as long as possible.CRS Automotive can help you with getting your car ready for driving in winter weather, so don’t hesitate! Come to our repair shops in Hamilton today!We are located only 5 min driving North of St. Peter’s Hospital – Hamilton Health Sciences and 6 min driving North of Gage Park.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I check in the weather before a long-distance winter drive?

Monitor local and route-specific forecasts for snow, ice, wind, and temperature drops. Postpone non-essential trips during severe weather; if travel is necessary, share your route and estimated arrival time with someone and plan alternate routes.

How should I prepare my vehicle for a long winter trip?

Have a professional inspection to verify brakes, tires, battery, lights, heating, cooling and exhaust systems, and fluid levels. Ensure tires are appropriate for winter conditions and that wipers and defrosters work properly.

What emergency items should I carry in the car for winter travel?

Pack an emergency kit with a charged phone or charger, roadside contact numbers, warm blankets or clothing, nonperishable snacks, water, a flashlight, basic tools, a shovel, and traction aids. Also include any essential medications.

What should I do if I become stranded in a snowstorm?

Stay with your vehicle for shelter and visibility to rescuers. Run the engine and heater sparingly to conserve fuel, keep the exhaust pipe clear of snow, and signal for help with a brightly colored cloth or dome light. Avoid walking in severe whiteout conditions.

How can CRS Automotive help me prepare for winter driving?

CRS Automotive offers winter-focused vehicle inspections and maintenance for cars, light- and medium-duty trucks, including electric and hybrid vehicles. They can check and service tires, battery and charging systems, heating and defrosters, fluid levels, brakes, and other items to improve winter reliability.