The weather comes at you fast when you live in Canada. Of course, not everyone experiences the same kind of winter conditions. As much as bad winter weather can cause havoc on the highways, the GTA is known for getting a lot less snowfall.
When you live in Ontario’s Snowbelt, which just so happens to include Barrie, snow squalls, freezing rain, and wicked winds can all catch you by surprise.
That’s why it’s so important that you pay attention to how well a car or truck can handle bad driving conditions and winter weather when you’re shopping for a used vehicle. Whether you’re going to the dealership or buying used cars in Barrie online, these are the top qualities you need to look out for to make sure your next vehicle is there for you when you need it most.
#1 Proper Winter Car Care
Make sure that the previous owner took proper care of the vehicle through winters past. Salt and snow can cause rust on the body. Frame rust may just be cosmetic, but it can also be indicative of much bigger and more expensive problems that threaten the integrity of your vehicle. Check for the usual signs of wear and tear, like tire treads, faulty components in the ignition system, the paint job, and others.
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#2 Check the Battery
Batteries struggle to get started in the cold, as anyone who’s tried to get their car started in -40 degree weather can attest.
A weak battery is a major liability in the winter, and it can lead to more of those frustrated mornings when you can’t even get your car started. When you pop open the hood, look for signs of corrosion or wetness in the battery casing. You can also get a battery test from CAA.
#3 Check the Brakes
You need to be able to trust your brakes when you’re driving down slippery wet roads. The first thing you can do to check for worn brakes is listen to the brake pads. If you notice a sound that doesn’t seem quite right, make sure you get the vehicle checked out further before you agree to buy it. You can also take the vehicle for a test drive to check for stopping distance and unbalanced stopping, which can be a sign of uneven wear.
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#4 Check the Vehicle HistoryReport
The vehicle history report is a document that spells out all of the repairs the vehicle has had and problems that it has come in for in the past. This will show you if there have been any major collisions or ongoing issues that keep coming up and that you can expect to deal with later.
#5 Check the Heating and Cooling System
When you’re under the hood, make sure you check the radiator hose and drive belts. If there are any cracks or leaks, it could be indicative that there are issues with heating and cooling. Also, be sure to check the radiator cap, water pump, and thermostat.
With this checklist, you can make sure you check all the basics before you buy a used vehicle. You need to make sure your next car or truck is dependable for the winter season.
