Our Tips For Riding in Comfort During Winter
Shopping for a used car in the middle of winter can be financially advantageous for a number of reasons, but it also carries some risks.
You've just acquired a pre-owned vehicle? Congratulations. In order to make the most of it during the winter, allow us to provide you with these reminders and tips.
Keep the Engine Running, But Not Too Long!
Today's engines have become highly efficient and only need a few seconds of warm-up before they are ready to go. Leaving yours running at a standstill unnecessarily before getting in the car is not only not recommended, but also illegal in many municipalities.
As CAA-Quebec explains, in very cold weather, the vehicle generally takes 4 or 5 minutes to return to normal operating speed after starting. This is also when the heating will be optimal, so the sooner you start moving, the sooner the interior will warm up. This brings us to our second point...
Keeping Your Hands and Buttocks Warm
If your car has a heated steering wheel and heated seats, don't hesitate to use them to quickly get rid of the cold without using the heating system, which takes longer to produce enough heat for the entire cabin. With an electric car, it's also a way to use less battery power.
Don't have these features in your car? You can easily find heated seat covers in specialty stores or department stores.
A Plugged-In Vehicle
A block heater is without a doubt one of the best solutions for getting through the cold season in comfort. And it's worth the investment. A CAA-Quebec study has shown that this device allows the passenger compartment to warm up 40% faster than that of an unplugged vehicle, at an average temperature of -10 degrees Celsius. You can save up to 15% on fuel for a trip of 20 km or less.
In the case of an electric vehicle, you should leave it plugged in to prevent the battery from losing its charge in your absence and also program the heating a few minutes before departure - ideally using a mobile application in the comfort of your living room!
Well-Defrosted Windows
Of course, heating isn't everything. For your comfort and safety in winter, it is important to remove condensation from the windows. A good way to do this is to maintain a constant flow of air by reducing the heat level of the ventilation system. You can also open a window to let out excess moisture.
By the way, give your snowy boots a good shake before getting into your vehicle. It makes a difference!
The Soft Touch
Another tip for the cold season is to drive slowly and accelerate gradually. Avoid unnecessary engine use in the first five minutes and allow the interior to warm up more quickly than if the engine was idling at a standstill.
While driving, keep your distance from other vehicles so you have more time to react and don't have to brake suddenly. Not having to stress while driving, you can also call this comfort!