Reading — Test 38

Reading passage

Getting Your Vehicle Ready for Canadian Winters Every autumn, mechanics across Canada see the same rush: drivers waiting until the first snowfall to think about winter tires. By then, garages are booked solid for weeks. Transportation safety experts recommend switching to winter tires by mid-October in most provinces, since these tires are made from a softer rubber compound that stays flexible below seven degrees Celsius, giving much better grip on cold pavement, ice, and snow than all-season tires can offer. In Quebec, winter tires are actually required by law between December 1 and March 15, and drivers caught without them can face a fine. Beyond tires, a few simple checks can prevent a lot of trouble on the road. Battery power drops sharply in cold weather, so it is worth having a mechanic test the battery before the temperature falls below freezing. Wiper blades should be replaced if they leave streaks, and washer fluid should be rated for temperatures well below what your area typically reaches, since regular fluid can freeze in the reservoir and crack the lines. Drivers should also keep at least half a tank of gas during winter trips; besides avoiding the inconvenience of running out, a fuller tank reduces condensation inside the tank, which can lead to frozen fuel lines. Every vehicle should carry a basic winter emergency kit, including a blanket, flashlight, extra warm clothing, sand or kitty litter for traction if the car gets stuck, a small shovel, and non-perishable snacks. Drivers heading out on highways or rural roads should also check road conditions online before leaving, since conditions can shift quickly during a storm, and should tell someone their route and expected arrival time. Finally, before starting any winter drive, take a moment to fully clear snow and ice from the windshield, windows, mirrors, headlights, and roof. Snow left on the roof can slide down and block your view, or fly off onto the car behind you.

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