With overnight temperatures in Chilliwack dipping to single digits, ice, snow and freezing rain won't be far behind. For drivers, that means ensuring your vehicle is ready to safely handle whatever Mother Nature sends our way.
In fact, from Oct. 1 to April 30 (or as marked), anyone heading on certain B.C. roads already needs to have winter tires – those with a three-peaked mountain and snowflake symbol, or marked with “M+S” on the sidewall – or carry chains. Why? Below 7°C, summer or all-season tires become harder, and have less traction on cold, slippery surfaces.
"Winter weather in the Fraser Valley is unpredictable – we can have driving rain one minute, then heavy snow the next. However, since many of us still need to get around despite the weather, it's important that your vehicle is equipped to handle that weather, keeping you and others safe," says Raylene Bussinger, from Murray Honda in Chilliwack.
Of course, it's not enough to have winter-approved tires on your vehicle; tires also need to be in good condition and have a tread depth of at least 3.5 millimetres or 5/32". Monitoring tire pressure, which decreases in cold weather, is also important for proper wear and fuel efficiency.
Beyond your tires, preparing your vehicle for winter includes checking the brakes, lights and heating system, topping up all fluids – especially your windshield washer fluid – and ensuring your windshield wipers are in good shape, so you can see clearly, no matter the weather!
And always check the requirements of routes before you head out, along with the anticipated weather and Drive BC cameras for current conditions.
To help Chilliwack drivers get ready for the weather we know is on its way, Murray Honda is offering early-bird savings of $50 for mounting and balance with the purchase of four tires. With a retail price of $149.88, the early-bird price is just $99.88 plus taxes and shop supplies.
If a new set of tires is needed to drive you through winter, here's a look at some of the options, highlighted by Shift Into Winter B.C.:
- Winter tires stay soft and flexible, providing the best traction on snow, ice and in cold weather. To extend the tire life, they should be switched out for summer or all-seasons when warmer weather arrives in the spring.
- All-weather tires with three-peaked mountain and snowflake symbol are designed for year-round use in areas with occasional snow. These are legal for routes with winter tire restrictions, but may not provide optimal traction and stopping in winter driving conditions.
- All-season tires marked with M+S are designed for warmer conditions, providing slightly better performance in wet, muddy, slushy conditions but they harden and lose grip at temperatures below 7°C. While they meet legal requirements on B.C. routes with winter tire restrictions, they don't offer the same performance as winter tires.
To help get your vehicle winter-ready, book your service appointment at Murray Honda today. Book online at murrayhonda.ca/book-a-service-appointment or call 604-792-2724.