(File photo/northeastNOW Staff)

By Ben Tompkins

Winter Preparedness

Vehicle servicing shops seeing influx in winter caused issues

Nov 17, 2021 | 5:57 PM

With the heavy snow, iced-up surfaces and below-freezing temperatures, winter, and challenging driving conditions, is officially upon us.

Not only has winter weather affected road conditions, but it has also shone a light on issues that vehicles will now face in other facets.

Because of this, many people within the northeast region have turned towards vehicle servicing shops in the hopes of improving their vehicles and their use for the long winter ahead.

Vehicle winter preparedness has been a hot topic for Fountain Tire in Melfort, according to owner and manager Tyler Fahlman, as he told northeastnow that isn’t remotely uncommon to see this last-minute rush.

“We always see the last-minute shoppers here. They wait until the snow flies and then realize that they do need winter tires. This year, unfortunately, we’ve had issues with getting supply, there have been shortages this year happening much earlier than in the past. So far, thankfully, we haven’t had to turn anyone away yet.”

Made in Saskatchewan

Find My Plus One: The Canadian App for Getting Out and Living Your Best Life

Mar 09, 2026

Riderville

Ask Not for Whom the Ed Hervey Tampering Window Opens!

Feb 02, 2026

Seniors Scene

New Year - New Habits

Feb 02, 2026

And tires aren’t the only thing people have been looking for as Fahlman said car batteries and heaters have been an issue for many customers as well.

“This time of year, we’ve noticed the batteries starting to get weak. They are having trouble starting their cars or they’re not running quite as good, so we’ve tested and replaced a lot of those. We’ve also had some people come in, where the heater isn’t working at all or as well. Just some service that needs to be done and checked over before we get our first cold snap of 30 below.”

As far as being more winter prepared, Fahlman has some advice, so there isn’t this much of an influx and people caught in bad situations, such as a flat tire in a blizzard or getting stuck in the snow.

“Get your winter tires on a little earlier. Where we live, we can have snow anytime. As long as we’re below seven degrees Celsius, putting winter tires on isn’t going to cause any abnormal wear. Also, look at getting your batteries tested and have an emergency kit in your vehicle in case anything happens.”

As far as shipping issues are concerned, Fahlman said it had to do with the pandemic, along with the fact that tires may be stuck in transit beside someone’s Christmas presents.

For the emergency kit, Fahlman recommends a blanket, candle, flashlight, road markers and a fully charged cellphone in case you need to call someone for help.

–

Ben.Tompkins@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter @BenTompkins_8