The Ultimate Regina Winterization Checklist: Is Your Vehicle Ready for a -40°C Hibernation?


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September 12th, 2025


Another summer has drawn to a close in our beautiful Queen City. The days of cruising down Albert Street with the windows down are numbered, and the crisp autumn air is a not-so-subtle reminder of what’s to come. For those of us in Southern Regina, from the Cathedral neighbourhood to the communities along the West/South Service Road off Highway #1, we know that a Saskatchewan winter is no joke. That biting cold, the kind that settles deep into your bones and makes a mockery of anything less than a parka, is on its way. And while we’re stocking up on hot chocolate and digging out our warmest toques, it’s crucial that we don’t forget about our trusty four-wheeled companions. Is your car ready for a -40°C hibernation?

Here in the land of living skies, where we experience a warm summer humid continental climate with dramatic temperature swings, preparing your vehicle for the winter is not just a suggestion, it’s an absolute necessity. The average winter temperature may hover around -11°C, but we all know it can plummet to a frosty -40°C or colder. Before the first major snowfall turns our streets into a winter wonderland (and a potential driving nightmare), it’s time to get your vehicle into storage. Here’s the ultimate Regina winterization checklist to get you started:

The Pre-Hibernation Check-Up: A Head-to-Tail Inspection


Think of this as a spa day for your car before it braves the harshest season of the year.

Fluids are Your Friend:

  • Oil: Consider switching to a thinner, winter-grade synthetic oil that will flow more easily in cold temperatures.
  • Antifreeze: Ensure your coolant is a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and water to prevent your engine from freezing.
  • Washer Fluid: Top up with a winter-grade washer fluid that won’t freeze on your windshield. You’ll be using a lot of this to clear away road salt and grime.

Tires, Brakes, and Battery:


  • The Big ThreeWinter Tires: This is non-negotiable in Saskatchewan. All-season tires lose their elasticity and grip in our cold temperatures. Winter tires are a must for safe stopping and handling on icy roads.
  • Brakes: Have your brakes inspected to ensure they are in top condition. You don’t want any surprises when you need to make a sudden stop on a slippery street.
  • Battery: Cold weather is tough on batteries. If your battery is more than three years old, have it tested to make sure it has enough power to start your car on those frigid mornings.

Visibility is Key:


  • Wiper Blades: Replace your wiper blades with a new set of winter blades that are designed to handle snow and ice.
  • Lights: Check all your exterior and interior lights to make sure they are working properly. Shorter days and blowing snow mean you need to see and be seen.

Your Winter Survival Kit: Don’t Leave Home Without It


Even with a perfectly winterized car, the unexpected can happen. A well-stocked emergency kit can be a lifesaver if you find yourself stranded. Here’s what you should include:
  • Warmth: A warm blanket, extra hats, gloves, and winter boots.
  • Safety: A flashlight with extra batteries, a first-aid kit, jumper cables, and road flares or reflective triangles.
  • Tools: A small shovel, an ice scraper and snow brush, and a bag of sand or kitty litter for traction.
  • Sustenance: Non-perishable snacks and a bottle of water.

The Hibernation Option: When to Consider Vehicle Storage


For some, the best way to winterize a vehicle is to put it away for the season. If you have a classic car, a summer-only sports car, or an extra vehicle that you won’t be using, a self- storage unit is an excellent option. Local businesses like Garda Self Storage, located right on the West, South Service Road by Highway #1, offer a variety of vehicle storage options, including climate-controlled units that will protect your car from the extreme cold and humidity. Whether you have a car, boat, or RV, putting it into hibernation can be a smart move to protect your investment.

Embrace the Winter with Confidence


From the historic Wascana Centre to the trendy shops on 13th Avenue, Regina is a city that knows how to embrace all four seasons. By taking the time to properly winterize your vehicle, you can navigate our city’s streets with confidence, knowing that you and your car are ready for whatever Old Man Winter throws your way. Stay warm, drive safe, and enjoy everything our beautiful city has to offer this winter.

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