5 Warning Signs Your Car Isn’t Winter-Ready – And How to Fix Them
5 Warning Signs Your Car Isn’t Winter-Ready – And How to Fix Them
Posted on November 18, 2025
Winter in Kitchener-Waterloo brings more than just snowbanks and icy roads—it introduces a set of driving challenges that can take a real toll on your vehicle. Cold temperatures, road salt, and freeze-thaw cycles push every component of your car to work harder. Without proper preparation, these conditions can reduce performance, increase wear, and even lead to mid-winter breakdowns.
Understanding the early warning signs that your vehicle may not be winter-ready is essential for staying safe and avoiding unexpected repairs. Below, we outline five of the most common indicators that your car needs winter attention—and how you can address them before the deep freeze sets in.
1. Slow Starts and Battery Trouble
One of the first things many drivers notice as temperatures dip is a slow or hesitant engine start. Cold weather thickens engine oil, making the engine harder to turn over, and it also reduces a battery’s ability to deliver power. A healthy car battery operates at around 100% efficiency at 27°C—but that drops to roughly 60% at -18°C.
What to Look For:
- Sluggish engine crank
- Dim headlights when starting
- The need for frequent boosts or jump-starts
- A dashboard battery warning light
What to Do:
If your battery is more than 3–5 years old, it’s wise to have it tested before winter intensifies. A simple voltage and cold cranking amps (CCA) test can determine if it’s still holding enough charge. In colder regions like Waterloo Region, a strong battery is non-negotiable.
2. Uneven Tire Wear or Lack of Traction
Tires are your only point of contact with the road, and winter surfaces demand more grip than any other season. If your tires show uneven wear, shallow tread, or inconsistent pressure, your control on icy or slushy roads may be compromised.
What to Look For:
- Tread depth below 5/32" (4mm)
- Vibration or wobble at highway speeds
- Difficulty braking or slipping in light snow
- Tire pressure warning light
What to Do:
Visually inspect all four tires. Use a tread gauge or the “quarter test” to check depth. Also, be sure to measure and adjust air pressure regularly—tire pressure drops approximately 1 PSI for every 5°C decrease in temperature. Consider switching to winter tires, which remain flexible in sub-zero temperatures and provide improved traction and stopping power.
3. Poor Visibility from Wipers or Defrosters
Clear visibility is crucial in winter, especially during heavy snow, sleet, or freezing rain. If your wiper blades skip, streak, or make noise, they’re likely worn or hardened. Defrost systems that don’t clear the windshield effectively can also limit visibility and safety.
What to Look For:
- Streaks or missed spots during wiping
- Frozen or cracked wiper blades
- Foggy windows that don’t clear quickly
- Weak airflow from defrost vents
What to Do:
Replace wiper blades every 6 to 12 months, ideally before winter starts. Look for winter-specific blades that resist ice buildup. Also, confirm that your heater and defroster are functioning properly—slow heating could indicate a coolant issue, a failing thermostat, or restricted airflow. Don’t forget to refill washer fluid with a winter-rated solution (usually effective to -40°C).
4. Brake Performance Changes
Your brakes are the foundation of safe winter driving. When stopping distances are already increased by slippery roads, your brake system needs to be in top shape. If your vehicle takes longer to stop, pulls to one side, or makes unusual sounds when braking, it could signal worn components or a developing problem.
What to Look For:
- Squealing or grinding noises
- Soft or spongy pedal feel
- Vibration when braking
- Pulling to one side
What to Do:
Schedule a brake inspection, especially if you haven’t had one in the past 12 months. Technicians will check pad thickness, rotor condition, and brake fluid levels. Cold weather can exacerbate existing wear or make minor issues more noticeable, especially when moisture gets into brake lines or rust begins to develop.
5. Vehicle Pulling or Handling Feels Off
Changes in how your vehicle handles, steers, or tracks in a straight line can often be traced back to wheel alignment issues—especially after hitting a pothole or curb. Misalignment can lead to uneven tire wear and make winter driving more unpredictable.
What to Look For:
- Steering wheel is off-center
- Vehicle drifts left or right
- Uneven tire tread wear
- Decreased fuel efficiency
What to Do:
Get an alignment check to assess if your wheels are properly positioned. Proper alignment improves handling and helps your tires last longer—critical benefits when driving on winter roads that offer less traction to begin with.
Preparing Your Vehicle for a Safe Winter
The best way to handle winter is to prepare before the first major snowfall hits. In Kitchener-Waterloo, where winter can swing between freezing rain, deep snow, and sub-zero cold snaps, proactive maintenance is a necessity—not just a recommendation.
At Forbes Motors GM, our service team is equipped to help you get ahead of the season with expert inspections and manufacturer-approved maintenance for your Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, or Cadillac. Whether it’s ensuring your wheels are balanced and aligned or confirming your brakes and fluids are winter-ready, we’re here to help you drive confidently all season long.
Chill Out Package: One Visit. Winter-Ready.
To make things simple, we offer a comprehensive Chill Out Winter Installation Package designed specifically for drivers in Kitchener-Waterloo. It includes:
- Winter tire swap (on rims)
- Wheel balance
- One full season of secure tire storage
- Fluid top-up of all essential systems
- Wheel alignment check
- Multi-Point Vehicle Inspection (MPVI)
This package covers everything you need to get your GM vehicle set for winter—with no guesswork.
Ready to Winter-Proof Your Vehicle? Let Us Help.
Winter in Kitchener-Waterloo can be unpredictable, but your vehicle doesn’t have to be. If you’ve noticed any of the signs above—like slow starts, poor traction, or handling changes—it’s a good idea to address them before the roads get slick and the temperatures drop further.
At Forbes Motors GM, we’re here to make sure your vehicle is equipped for everything the season throws your way. Our team understands local driving conditions, and we offer the services and support you need to stay safe—from trusted tire swaps to detailed inspections.
One visit. Complete peace of mind. Book now to beat the winter rush.