Tire Change and Honda Maintenance: It's Time!
October 23 2023, Lallier Honda Pointe-aux-Trembles
With autumn just around the corner, we're already thinking about tire change and seasonal maintenance on our Honda vehicle. Here are a few useful reminders before the cold season sets in.
Get off on the right foot to face winter with peace of mind!
Changing Tires: An Obligation in Quebec!
First of all, during the winter season, winter tires must be installed on every vehicle registered in Quebec. This year, the deadline is December 1st. While we must respect this obligation, it's also important to check the condition of our winter tires. If you've taken this first step, you're already on the right track for what's to come.
Indeed, we are obliged to install our winter tires in Quebec. In fact, the Société de l'assurance automobile states:
"From December 1 to March 15 inclusive, all motorized road vehicles registered in Québec (other than heavy vehicles, tool vehicles and farm machinery) must be equipped with winter tires. This requirement also applies to rental passenger vehicles in Québec, as well as mopeds, motorized scooters and motorcycles."
Make an appointment now with Honda Service for winter tire installation and tire alignment. You'll save yourself a lot of trouble and a potential fine of up to $300.
Honda Car Maintenance
When it's time to change your tires, why not give your vehicle a tune-up before the winter season? You'll kill two birds with one stone!
For safe winter driving, your Honda dealership recommends a tune-up to review the following important points:
- Windshield wiper operation
- Heater and defroster operation
- Winter windshield washer fluid level
- Fluid check
- Antifreeze
- Engine oil change
- Checking tires and spare tire
- Electrical and ignition systems
- Belts, brakes, battery and alternator
- And much more
For example, in cold weather, your vehicle's battery is more involved in starting the engine. We therefore advise you to check your battery's energy level and use an automotive battery charger if necessary.
Therefore, if your sensor indicates a low level of energy in the battery and it doesn't seem to want to conserve its energy, a new battery may be required. Your Honda technician will be able to perform this operation and give you feedback on the quality of your battery.
As already mentioned, Honda Service suggests that you change the engine oil in your vehicle. In winter, we often recommend a thinner oil with a lower viscosity grade, accompanied by the letter W between the two sets of numbers. For example, a 10W40 oil with a viscosity of 10W at start-up (cold) will maintain a viscosity of 40 at operating temperature.
That being said, Honda-certified technicians will advise you whether or not you need to change oil type in winter, and what viscosity level you should maintain throughout all this period.
Other useful tips. Don't wait for the first snowfall to install your floor mats. They'll come in handy and protect your vehicle all season long. You'll find them at your local superstore or car dealership.
The addition of a good snow broom and scraper cannot be over-emphasized, especially after an ice storm. It would be wise to include booster cables and an emergency blanket in the rear trunk.
It's also a good idea to leave a pair of warm gloves in your vehicle, in case you have to wait in the cabin in the event of a breakdown, as well as an emergency kit.
In short, preparing your vehicle for winter isn't rocket science. All it takes is a little planning and you'll be better prepared for winter. To avoid unpleasant last-minute situations, it would be wise to plan a visit to your Honda dealership. That way, you can face the cold season in complete safety. After inspecting your vehicle, the certified technician can suggest that you change Honda parts to improve your vehicle's performance, if necessary.
Whether you have a Honda car or a Honda SUV, don't neglect your vehicle. Fall car maintenance will save you a lot of trouble this winter. Book an appointment today at Lallier Honda Pointe-Aux-Trembles, just off Highway 40, a few minutes from Boucherville and Terrebonne. A talented team awaits you!
