Introduction
Ontario winters are harsh — and your vehicle feels it first. From freezing temperatures to salted roads and heavy snowfall, the colder months can cause serious wear and tear if your car isn’t ready. At Mann Auto Collision Centre, we help drivers in Brampton and across the GTA get winter-ready with preventive maintenance that protects both performance and long-term value. This winter checklist will guide you through the most critical steps to prepare your car before the first snow hits.
Rust-Proofing: Your First Line of Defense Against Salt and Moisture
Road salt, slush, and moisture accumulate rapidly in winter, especially along the undercarriage, wheel wells, and panel joints. If left untreated, these areas become breeding grounds for rust, which can quietly corrode metal components and weaken your vehicle’s frame. Rust can even void your warranty or lower resale value. At Mann Auto, we offer professional rust-proofing and undercoating treatments that create a durable barrier, especially important if your car has been in a prior collision and is more susceptible to corrosion.
Check and Replace Fluids for Winter Conditions
Fluids like engine oil, antifreeze, transmission fluid, and windshield washer fluid behave differently in cold weather. Using the wrong type, or failing to top them up, can lead to serious issues like frozen radiators or reduced engine efficiency. Mann Auto technicians recommend switching to a winter-grade oil and ensuring your coolant-to-water ratio is optimal. We also use freeze-resistant washer fluids to maintain visibility during snowstorms or icy mornings. These small checks go a long way in preventing winter breakdowns.
Inspect Your Battery Before It Dies in the Cold
Batteries lose about 30–50% of their power in sub-zero temperatures. If your battery is older than three years or struggling to start on chilly mornings, it’s at high risk of failure during the peak of winter. Our battery diagnostic service includes voltage testing, cable inspection, and terminal cleaning to ensure strong cold-weather cranking. We’ll help you avoid the inconvenience and danger of being stranded in the middle of a snowy commute.
Install Winter Tires and Check Wheel Alignment
Winter tires are designed with a softer rubber compound and deeper tread patterns to provide better grip on ice and snow. Even if your car is equipped with all-season tires, switching to dedicated winter tires can reduce stopping distances by up to 25%. While installing tires, Mann Auto can also check your wheel alignment — an often-overlooked factor that can lead to uneven tire wear and poor handling in slippery conditions. Especially after a recent collision, misalignment may go unnoticed until it becomes a serious safety issue.
Evaluate Brakes and Suspension for Winter Readiness
Your vehicle’s braking and suspension systems must be in top shape to handle sudden stops, slippery roads, and extra stress caused by cold-weather driving. During your winter prep appointment, our technicians will inspect brake pads, rotors, and calipers for wear, and check suspension components like struts and shocks for leaks or damage. A responsive braking system can mean the difference between a safe stop and a costly accident on icy roads.
Upgrade Wipers, Lights, and Defrost Systems
Visibility is critical in winter driving — yet many drivers neglect wipers and lighting systems until it’s too late. Before the snow begins, replace your wiper blades with heavy-duty winter versions, and ensure your defroster and heater are functioning properly. Mann Auto checks your headlights, taillights, and fog lights for brightness and alignment, ensuring you stay seen and safe in snowstorms or early nightfall.
Why Choose Mann Auto Collision Centre for Winter Prep Services?
Mann Auto Collision Centre doesn’t just fix cars — we help you prevent damage before it starts. Our family-run team understands Ontario winters and offers trusted, full-service winterization solutions. From collision-aware rustproofing to expert tire installation and fluid maintenance, every inspection is handled by trained technicians who prioritize your safety and your vehicle’s long-term health. We go beyond routine service by checking for hidden post-collision vulnerabilities that many generic auto shops might miss.
Whether you’re commuting across Brampton or planning a holiday road trip, Mann Auto ensures your car is equipped to face the snow, salt, and sub-zero conditions ahead.
Schedule Your Winter Readiness Appointment Today
Don’t wait for the first snow to expose your car’s weaknesses. Book your Winter Prep Appointment with Mann Auto Collision Centre today. We’ll help you stay ahead of the season — and protect your vehicle all winter long.
Insurance providers we work with
