Canadian car maintenance tips

Maintaining a car in Canada isn’t as simple as following a basic checklist. It’s about adapting to some of the most extreme and varied conditions in the world. Each Canadian province brings its own challenges and rules, from extreme cold temperatures to salt-covered roads to mandatory winter tires.

That’s why regular car maintenance in Canada needs a tailored approach. It’s not just about keeping your vehicle running, but about preventing long-term damage from salt, rust, and cold starts, and ensuring you’re safe year-round. In this guide, we’ll walk you through nine essential car care tips designed for Canadian drivers.

1. Have your oil changed at least twice a year

Regular oil changes are one of the simplest and most important things you can do to keep your engine healthy. That's why we've made it our first tip in our list of Canadian car maintenance tips.

In cold weather, motor oil can thicken. When oil gets too thick, it doesn’t circulate properly, making it harder for the engine to start and increasing wear on internal parts. You can prevent this by switching to a lower-viscosity oil to help your engine run more smoothly in the cold. Refer to your vehicle's owner’s manual to find out what’s best for your vehicle.

CARFAX Canada recommends changing your oil every 8,000 to 12,000 kilometres, or roughly every six months. So, make this an essential part of both your summer and winter car maintenance checklists.

2. Check your fluid levels once a month

Engine oil isn't the only fluid that matters. Your vehicle relies on several others, including:

Coolant

Coolant is what keeps your engine from getting too hot or freezing up. If your coolant gets too low, you run the risk of overheating on a hot day or having parts freeze solid in one of Canada's cold snaps. For the winter, you’ll want to make sure your coolant is properly mixed and rated for low temperatures. If not, it could repeatedly freeze and expand, which could potentially crack the radiator or engine block.

Windshield washer fluid

Windshield washer fluid helps you clean your windshield of dirt, debris, or splattered bugs. In the winter, you'll want to use winter-rated windshield washer fluid to prevent the reservoir, hoses, or nozzles from freezing. Imagine a passing transport truck splashes muddy snow onto your windshield, and you go to use your windshield washer fluid, but nothing comes out, leaving you with giant muddy streaks in your vision.

Transmission fluid

Transmission fluid thickens in freezing temps, which can lead to rough or delayed shifting, something you definitely don’t want when merging onto a snowy TransCanada highway. Keeping it at the proper level and replacing it at your manufacturer’s recommended intervals will help your transmission stay smooth and responsive, even in Canada's -30°C winters.

Brake fluid

Brake fluid is another one to watch, especially in colder provinces where moisture in the system can become a real issue. Over time, brake fluid can absorb water, which lowers its boiling point and may lead to reduced braking performance, or even brake failure, in extreme cases.

Power steering fluid

Power steering fluid can also get sluggish in cold weather, making your steering wheel feel stiff or jerky, especially when first starting the car.

To avoid any trouble, make it a habit to check your fluid levels every month or so and top them up when low. If you're not sure how, ask a trusted mechanic to show you, or you can ask during your next oil change. Also, make sure to follow your vehicle's maintenance schedule for when it's time to replace them.

3. Check on your tires often

Tire maintenance in Canada is a bit of an art, thanks to all the seasonal changes we deal with. It’s not just about keeping them properly inflated though that’s just as important. Transport Canada recommends checking your tires at least once a month, including:

Tire pressure

It’s important to check your tire air pressure regularly, especially when the seasons change. According to Transport Canada, underinflated tires reduce tread life, and because they drag more on the road, your car also burns more fuel. It can also lead to a sudden blowout, leaving you on the side of the road with a flat tire. You can check your tire pressure using a tire pressure gauge.

Tread depth

You also need to keep an eye on your tread depth. You need a solid grip on wet, slushy, or snowy roads, which you won't get with worn-out treads. Use a tread gauge to test it. But if you don't have one, you can also use a toonie. Stick the toonie into the tread, and if the tread doesn’t touch the bear’s paws, it’s time for new tires.

Tire rotations

And don’t forget to have your tires rotated to make sure they wear evenly. It helps your tires last longer and gives you better traction year-round. Ideally, you should have them rotated every 8,000 to 12,000 kilometres, but always follow your car's maintenance schedule. You can ask your mechanic to rotate them during your regular oil changes.

Winter tires

Now, let's talk about winter tires. They're actually mandatory in Quebec and strongly recommended across the rest of the country for a reason. Winter tires are designed to stay flexible in freezing temperatures and grip icy roads far better than all-seasons, which stop working properly once temperatures dip below 7°C.

According to the Weather Network, even the warmest part of Canada during the winter (the south-easternmost edge of British Columbia) averages around 2°C, which means switching to winter tires should be a priority for everyone in Canada. In fact, according to GlobeNewswire, four out of five Canadian drivers say that using winter tires has saved them from an accident or loss of control. For recommendations on when to switch to winter tires in your province, contact BrokerLink.

4. Check your visibility

In Canada, visibility is everything, especially when you find yourself out driving on a dark, rural road. You can do the following:

Testing your car lights

According to the SGI, approximately 21 collisions occur in Saskatchewan due to defective lights. That’s why it’s important to regularly test all your vehicle’s lights, including your:

• Headlights

• Brake lights

• Running lights

• Fog lights

• Turn signals

• Reverse lights

According to J.D. Power, you should be testing your car's lights at least once a month. Snow, slush, and road grime can quickly cover lenses, so make sure to keep them clean as well. If a bulb is dim or burnt out, replace it right away. Not only does having working lights help ensure you arrive at your destination safely, but it'll save you from getting pulled over, as it's illegal to drive in Canada with a burnt-out headlight or taillight.

Checking your wiper blades

While you’re at it, don’t overlook your wiper blades. Canadian winters are tough on them as the ice, snow, and freezing rain can quickly wear them down. If your wipers leave streaks, skip spots, or squeak across the windshield, it’s time for a new set.

Toyota Canada recommends replacing your blades at least twice a year (or sooner if they’re showing signs of wear). Doing so will help keep your view clear through everything from Newfoundland and Labrador's heavy snowfalls to British Columbia's spring downpours.

5. Change your air and fuel filters once a year

Here in Canada, where we get everything from dusty prairie roads to gritty city air and swirling autumn leaves, it's important to replace your air filters regularly. Here's what you need to know:

Engine air filter

Your engine's air filter blocks out dirt, dust, leaves, and other debris before they can reach your engine. When that filter gets clogged, your engine has to work harder, which means reduced performance and fuel efficiency.

To keep things running properly, it’s a good idea to change your engine air filter every 20,000 kilometres, or more often if you drive in dusty, rural, or high-traffic areas. According to Natural Resources Canada, the average Canadian drives roughly 15,000 kilometres each year, which means you should ideally be changing your filter around once a year.

Fuel filter

The same goes for your fuel filter, which keeps grit and contaminants out of your fuel system. If it gets blocked, your engine may hesitate, lose power, or burn more gas than necessary. NAPA Canada suggests changing your fuel filter about once a year or every 16,000 kilometres to keep things running at their best. That said, your owner's manual is always the best place to check for your vehicle’s maintenance schedule.

Cabin air filter

The cabin air filter keeps the air inside your vehicle clean by filtering out dust, pollen, exhaust fumes, and other pollutants. A dirty filter means reduced airflow through your heating and A/C, and it can lead to musty smells or poor air quality inside the car.

Toyota Canada recommends changing your cabin air filter once a year or every 16,000 kilometres, depending on your specific vehicle and driving conditions. So, if you spend a lot of time driving in heavy traffic or gridlock, like the kind you often see in Toronto, or if you live in a part of Canada with particularly high pollen levels, like British Columbia, you may need to change it sooner.

6. Inspect your brakes twice a year

Your brakes are one of the most important safety features on your vehicle, especially when you're driving through snow, ice, or slush in a Canadian winter. Slippery roads mean longer stopping distances, so your braking system needs to be in top shape.

Keep an eye on your brake pads. If they’re getting thin, your stopping power takes a hit, and that’s the last thing you want on icy roads. If you hear any strange sounds, like grinding, squealing, or squeaking, it could be a sign your brakes need attention. While Driving says brake pads can last anywhere between 25,000 and 150,000 kilometres, they should be inspected at least twice a year.

It's also important to mention that moisture can sneak into the brake system over time, which can reduce braking performance or even cause parts to corrode. While this is a concern anywhere in Canada, it's especially likely in areas with higher humidity, like coastal British Columbia, and frequent freeze-thaw cycles, like Southern Ontario and Southern Quebec.

7. Test your battery before winter hits

Car batteries can quit on you any time of year, but it's certainly more common during the winter. According to Canada Drives, once the temperature drops to around 0°C, your battery can lose about 35% of its power. By -17°C, you're looking at a 60% loss. Depending on where you live in Canada, those are temperatures you'll regularly see for several months.

That's why it's a good idea to get your battery tested before winter hits, as a weak battery will struggle in the cold. Also, make sure to keep the battery terminals clean and free from corrosion, which can affect the battery’s performance. And if your battery is over three years old, it might be time to replace it.

Pro tip: Aim to take your car out on a 10 (or more) kilometre drive a few times a week during the winter to give your alternator enough time to recharge the battery.

8. Protect against salt-related corrosion

Road salt helps keep us safe in winter, but it’s brutal on your car. It can speed up rust, eat away at your undercarriage, body panels, and shorten the life of important components like the wheel wells, fuel tank, brake lines, and fuel lines.

For those who drive regularly on salt-covered winter roads, particularly in Southwestern Ontario, a.k.a. The Rust Belt, rust prevention is essential. So make sure to get regular undercarriage washes, especially after snowstorms, and consider applying rustproofing treatments or protective coatings before the first snowfall.

9. Follow your regular car maintenance schedule

One final tip is to follow your regular maintenance schedule. It’s there for a reason. Your car's owner's manual will clearly state when to get routine things done, like oil changes, tire rotations, and fluid checks. But it will also cover when your vehicle should have its less frequent check-ups, such as spark plugs, brake pads, and fuel filter replacements. Remember, these recommendations are not just to keep your car running, but also to catch problems early before they turn into expensive repairs.

In Canada, where your vehicle faces extreme weather, rough roads, and big temperature swings, sticking to that schedule is even more important. Whether it’s a timing belt replacement at 100,000 kilometres or a brake inspection before winter, these routine check-ins help your car stay reliable and safe through every season.

If you find yourself struggling to remember to bring your car in for its regular maintenance schedule, set up reminders on your phone or calendar.

Seasonal car maintenance in Canada

Between our frigid winters and hot summers, staying on top of seasonal car maintenance is especially important in Canada. While much of this was already covered earlier, he's an easier breakdown of what to do by season:

Winter

• Test your battery, and consider replacing it if it's more than 3 years old

• Use a block heater to help prevent cold starts

• Instal your winter tires once temperatures drop consistently below 7°C

• Pack or update your winter emergency kit for your car (snow brush, ice scraper, jumper cables, blanket, gloves, phone charger, and non-perishable snacks)

• Have your oil changed

• Top up fluid levels

Spring

• Wash off salt and grime, especially from the undercarriage, to prevent rust

• Inspect your all-season tires before swapping

• Have your brakes inspected for signs of corrosion

• Check your alignment and suspension after driving over winter potholes

• Replace your wiper blades

• Change your air filters

Summer

• Check and top up coolant levels to prevent overheating

• Make sure your air conditioning system is working properly

• Monitor your tire pressure as it tends to rise in warmer weather

• Have your oil changed

• Top up fluid levels

Fall

• Inspect your winter tires as you'll be swapping them soon

• Test your lights

• Replace your wiper blades

• Switch to winter-rated windshield washer fluid

• Apply rustproofing treatments or protective coatings before the first snowfall

What you can do vs. when to visit a professional mechanic

When it comes to taking care of your car, there’s a lot you can do yourself, but some tasks are best left to the professionals. Here’s a quick breakdown of what you can (probably) tackle in your own driveway, and when it’s time to book an appointment with a trusted mechanic. Before you go to the mechanic, try this:

DIY maintenance checks

These are simple, routine tasks most Canadian drivers can handle with basic tools and a little know-how:

• Checking and topping up fluids

• Inspecting and inflating tires to the proper pressure

• Replacing windshield wiper blades

• Testing all lights and replacing bulbs

• Swapping out cabin and engine air filters

• Cleaning off road salt and grime to prevent rust

When to visit the mechanic

These jobs often require specialized tools, training, or safety precautions:

• Brake system inspections and repairs

• Transmission service or fluid flushes

• Diagnosing engine lights or electronic issues

• Suspension and steering repairs

• Spark plug replacement (especially in hard-to-reach engines)

• Comprehensive seasonal inspections (e.g., pre-winter or pre-summer checks)

Learn more with BrokerLink

Do you still have questions about car maintenance in Canada? Whether you’re wondering how often to change your oil, how to prepare your vehicle for winter, or how much car maintenance costs, BrokerLink is here to help. Our expert advisors can guide you through the essentials of keeping your vehicle in top shape and even explain how the right car insurance can help protect you from unexpected repair costs.

You can reach us by phone, email, or in person at any one of our locations throughout Canada. No matter how you choose to get in touch, a BrokerLink insurance advisor will be happy to assist you. We also encourage you to take advantage of our free online quote tool that can provide you with a competitive quote in minutes.

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FAQs for car maintenance tips

What are important maintenance tips for a car?

Maintaining a car effectively involves several key practices: regularly checking and changing engine oil for engine health, keeping up with brake checks and fluid changes for safety, and maintaining proper tire pressure with periodic rotations for longevity and efficiency. It’s also important to monitor and top up other vital fluids like coolant and transmission fluid, replace air filters when necessary, and ensure the battery and belts are in good condition. Above all, following the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule is crucial for keeping your car in top shape.

What is the most basic maintenance for a car?

The most basic maintenance task is regularly checking and changing the engine oil. It’s essential for the health and longevity of your car’s engine.

What is the most frequent maintenance task for a car?

The most frequent maintenance task is checking and maintaining the correct tire pressure. This simple task should be done at least once a month if not more often, to ensure safety and fuel efficiency and prolong the life of the tires.

Does car insurance cover vehicle maintenance checks?

No, car insurance typically does not cover routine vehicle maintenance checks. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes, tire rotations, and other general upkeep tasks, are considered the car owner’s responsibility and are not covered under standard insurance policies.

How often should I change my car’s oil?

Generally, for most vehicles, changing the oil and oil filter every 5,000 kilometres if using conventional oil is recommended. However, if you’re using synthetic oil, which is often recommended for harsher climates and driving conditions, the interval can extend up to 12,000 kilometres or more. Always check your vehicle’s manual for the manufacturer’s specific recommendations, and consider adjusting the frequency based on extreme weather conditions and your driving habits.

Why is car maintenance important?

Car maintenance is important as it ensures your vehicle’s safety, reliability, and efficiency. It helps prevent breakdowns, extends the lifespan of your car, improves fuel efficiency, and can save you money on expensive repairs in the long run. Additionally, well-maintained cars are safer to drive, reducing the risk of accidents caused by equipment failure.

If you have any questions, contact one of our local branches.