Winter Damage? Here’s How to Get Your Car Road-Ready for Spring!
Canada’s harsh winter conditions—icy roads, freezing temperatures, potholes, and road salt—can take a serious toll on your vehicle. Now that spring is here, it’s time to inspect your car for hidden damage caused by months of exposure to snow, ice, and extreme cold.
At Mann Auto Collision Centre, we help drivers in Brampton, Mississauga, and across the GTA get their vehicles back in top shape after winter. Below, we break down the most common post-winter car repairs and what you need to do to stay safe on the road.
Suspension & Wheel Alignment Issues
❄️ How Winter Affects Your Suspension
- Potholes & rough roads from freezing temperatures misalign your wheels.
- Shocks & struts wear out faster due to continuous impact.
- Uneven tire wear & vibrations make driving unstable.
🛠 Recommended Fixes
- Get a wheel alignment to restore balance and handling.
- Inspect & replace damaged shocks, struts, and control arms.
- Rotate tires & check for uneven wear.
💡 Tip: If your steering feels “off” or your car pulls to one side, don’t ignore it! These could be signs of a misaligned suspension.
Brake System Wear & Tear
❄️ Why Winter Damages Your Brakes
- Cold weather hardens brake pads, reducing performance.
- Salt & moisture cause corrosion on brake lines, rotors, and calipers.
- Frequent ABS activation on icy roads leads to premature wear.
🛠 Recommended Fixes
- Have your brake pads & rotors inspected for wear.
- Check for rust buildup and replace corroded brake parts.
- Test your ABS system for proper functionality.
🚨 Warning: If you hear squeaking, grinding, or feel a delay when braking, it’s time to get a brake inspection ASAP!
Battery & Electrical Issues
❄️ Why Your Car Battery Suffers in Winter
- Freezing temperatures drain battery power, making it harder to start your car.
- Short trips in cold weather don’t fully charge the battery.
- Corrosion builds up on battery terminals due to moisture and road salt.
🛠 Recommended Fixes
- Test your battery’s charge level—replace if it’s weak.
- Clean corroded battery terminals to restore power.
- Check for alternator or starter issues if your car struggles to start.
🔋 Pro Tip: If your battery is 3+ years old, consider replacing it before it dies unexpectedly.
Windshield & Wiper Damage
❄️ Common Winter Windshield Problems
- Tiny chips & cracks expand due to cold-to-hot temperature changes.
- Rock salt & road debris cause glass scratches.
- Frozen wiper blades leave streaks and damage the windshield.
🛠 Recommended Fixes
- Repair small windshield cracks before they get worse.
- Replace old wiper blades for a streak-free view.
- Use washer fluid designed for spring/summer to prevent streaking.
💨 Did You Know? A damaged windshield reduces structural integrity in a crash. Fix it before it’s too late!
Rust & Corrosion from Road Salt 🧂🚗
❄️ How Salt Damages Your Car
- Salt buildup causes rust on the frame, undercarriage, and brake lines.
- Chipped paint exposes metal, accelerating corrosion.
- Rust weakens key components, making repairs more expensive.
🛠 Recommended Fixes
- Get a spring undercarriage wash to remove lingering salt.
- Touch up paint scratches before rust sets in.
- Apply rust protection spray to vulnerable areas.
🛑 Prevention Tip: Washing your car every 2 weeks in winter helps prevent excessive rust buildup!
Tire Check & Replacement
❄️ How Winter Wears Out Your Tires
- Cold weather hardens rubber, reducing grip.
- Driving on snow & ice increases tread wear.
- Potholes & rough roads can cause hidden tire damage.
🛠 Recommended Fixes
- Switch from winter tires to all-season tires when the temperature is consistently above 7°C.
- Check for sidewall cracks, bulges, or uneven tread wear.
- Get a tire rotation to extend lifespan.
🛑 Don’t drive on winter tires in warm weather! It reduces fuel efficiency and wears out the tires faster.
Why Choose Mann Auto Collision Centre for Post-Winter Repairs?
At Mann Auto Collision Centre, we understand that harsh Canadian winters take a toll on your vehicle. As one of the leading auto repair and collision centers in Brampton, Mississauga, and the GTA, we provide comprehensive post-winter maintenance and repairs to keep your car running smoothly and safely.
What Sets Us Apart?
✔ Certified & Experienced Technicians – Our team of experts specializes in auto body repairs, dent removal, paint refinishing, wheel alignments, and mechanical fixes, ensuring your vehicle receives top-quality service.
✔ State-of-the-Art Equipment – We utilize advanced diagnostic tools, computerized frame straightening, and AI-powered damage assessment to deliver precise and efficient repairs.
✔ Affordable & Transparent Pricing – We offer competitive pricing with no hidden fees, providing cost-effective solutions without compromising quality.
✔ Hassle-Free Insurance Assistance – We work directly with major insurance providers to simplify the claims process, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience for our customers.
At Mann Auto Collision Centre, we are committed to exceptional workmanship, customer satisfaction, and long-term vehicle care. Trust us to restore your car’s performance, safety, and appearance after a long winter!
📞 Contact us today to schedule your post-winter vehicle inspection!
Insurance providers we work with
