Winter DIYer Starter Pack

General vehicle maintenance is key to the DIYer’s routine. This means you need to have the right tools and products on hand to keep things running smoothly. This is particularly true in winter because harsh weather takes a toll on vehicle health.

A quality motor treatment, for example, can be used to clear away carbon buildup and manage moisture, varnish, and residue deposits during the winter months.

Use an electronic cleaner on spark plugs, circuit breakers, relay switches, and much more to prevent contact failure or malfunction. Look for an electronic cleaner that’s safe to use on plastic to avoid damage to surrounding parts. As a bonus, you can use this type of cleaner on any of your other electronics, such as computer power supply units, thermostats, or power sockets.

You probably already have a jack, but did you know that a scissor jack can come in handy during emergency repairs on the road? They’re also great for tire changes, oil switches, and quick checkups. If you’re really new to automotive DIY, though, and don’t have a jack, prioritize picking the right jack for your needs.

Since you’re just starting out in the world of DIY auto repair, chances are you don’t have your garage decked out with proper lighting yet. And with winter in full swing, we’re guessing you don’t want that garage door open to let in natural light, below-freezing temperatures, and the accompanying freezing precipitation.

(Well, depending on where you live in Canada, you may actually be letting in the late-afternoon and evening moonlight.)

To brighten up a low-lit area, consider adding a cordless lamp you can hang right above your workspace. That way, you can avoid the hassle of corded lights and save yourself the expense of installing lights all over your garage. Then, for getting up close, a set of work lights in various sizes can help you light up exactly what you need to focus on.

Your hands are often your most important tool in guiding your work. Keep them warm and steady by setting up a portable heater nearby.

As a DIYer, you’re not afraid to get your hands dirty when it comes to keeping your vehicle clean. After fixing up the exterior and what’s under the hood, don’t forget to give your car’s interior some love too. This is especially important since all those winter shoes bring snow, mud, and salt in from outside!

You can fill handheld spray bottles with whatever product you need to take care of every nook and cranny in your vehicle. Simply buy your favourite cleaning solution(s) in bulk and refill a spray bottle for convenient application.

Your car deserves the best care. For delicate areas, look for cleaning wipes designed for automotive surfaces.

For your windshield and windows, a dependable glass cleaner is a must. It’ll wipe away debris and prevent glare so you have a clearer view the next time you’re behind the wheel.