Winter Ready in the Durham Region: Expert Advice for Your INFINITI

As temperatures drop and holiday travel ramps up, INFINITI is sharing expert guidance to help drivers prepare their vehicles for winter. From checking tires and fluids to leveraging advanced driver assist and visibility systems, these recommendations combine universal cold-weather best practices with the intelligent technologies and safety features engineered into every INFINITI – delivering quality, reliability and safety all season long.

INFINITI engineers evaluate vehicles through climate-controlled testing facilities, low-friction surfaces and high-altitude winter routes while also validating systems such as intelligent "Snow Mode," all-wheel-drive technology and advanced climate control components – all of which work together to help provide confidence-inspiring performance in even adverse cold weather conditions. Independent automotive assessments, including AAA battery-capacity data and tire-industry winter guidelines, reinforce the importance of proper preparation before temperatures fall.

Winter Preparedness: Navigating from Toronto to the Durham Region

As temperatures drop across the Greater Toronto Area and holiday travel ramps up, INFINITI is sharing expert guidance to help drivers prepare their vehicles for the season. Whether you’re commuting from Oshawa into Downtown Toronto or heading out for a weekend at Dagmar Ski Resort, these recommendations combine universal cold-weather best practices with the intelligent technologies engineered into every INFINITI.

Engineered for the Ontario Climate

INFINITI engineers evaluate vehicles through climate-controlled testing facilities and high-altitude winter routes while validating systems that are essential for the unique geography of the Durham Region:

• Intelligent "Snow Mode": Optimizes power delivery for slippery starts, crucial for the hilly terrain of the Oak Ridges Moraine in Whitby and North Oshawa.

• Advanced All-Wheel-Drive: Provides stability during sudden lake-effect snow squalls that frequently hit the Gardiner Expressway and the open stretches of Brock Road.

• Climate Control Components: Designed to keep your cabin warm whether you’re parked for holiday shopping at the Oshawa Centre or Pickering Town Centre, or stuck in a winter "crawl" on the Don Valley Parkway (DVP).

Field-Tested for Peace of Mind

Independent automotive assessments reinforce the importance of proper preparation before the first major snowfalls blanket areas like Ajax’s Pat Bayly Square or Whitby’s Port.

By combining high-tech safety features with routine maintenance—like checking battery health for those bitter mornings in Whitby Shores—drivers from Toronto to Oshawa can enjoy quality, reliability, and safety all season long.

Preparing Your Tires for the GTA and Durham Region Winter

From the stop-and-go traffic on the Don Valley Parkway (DVP) in Toronto to the windy, open stretches of Highway 407 passing through Pickering and Whitby, your tires are your most important safety feature this season. Cold weather causes tires to lose pressure—around one PSI for every 10-degree temperature drop—which can significantly reduce traction when you're navigating a slushy Kingston Road or merging onto the 401 near Ajax.

Before the first major lake-effect snow hits Durham Region, follow these essential steps:

1. Monitor Your Pressure Regularly

Don’t wait for a warning light while you're stuck in traffic near the Oshawa Centre or Pickering Town Centre. Check your tire pressure regularly to maintain handling and stopping power, especially as temperatures plummet across the Oak Ridges Moraine.

If you drive an INFINITI, the Tire Fill Assistant makes this simple:

• Place your vehicle in Park with the ignition ON.

• Begin adding air—no gauge is required.

• The Easy-Fill Tire Alert system will beep the horn and flash the hazard indicators three times once the correct pressure is reached. This is a lifesaver when you're trying to get back inside quickly on a freezing night in Whitby Shores.

2. The "Loose Change" Tread Test

Whether you are parked at Pat Bayly Square in Ajax or heading into Old Pickering Village for dinner, you can check your tread depth using common Canadian coins:

• The Quarter Test: Insert a quarter; if the tread reaches the moose’s nose, it’s time to start shopping for new tires.

• The Loonie Test: If the tread only reaches the tip of the loon’s beak, your grip is compromised.

• The Critical Limit: If the tread only reaches the letters "CANADA" (measuring just 1.6mm), replace them immediately before your next commute down the Don Valley Parkway.

3. Switch to Winter Tires

For those frequenting the hilly areas of North Oshawa or the often-icy bridges along Brock Road, dedicated winter tires are highly recommended. They provide superior grip compared to all-season tires when temperatures dip below 7°C. Always consult your owner's manual if you are considering tire chains for trips further north toward Dagmar or Uxbridge.

4. Fuel Up for the Season

If you aren't a high-mileage driver, ensure you have a full tank of winter-blend gasoline (available after Sept. 15). This blend has a higher vapor pressure to ensure your engine starts reliably on those bitter mornings in Liberty Village or near Whitby’s Port.

5. Leverage Intelligent Tech

INFINITI vehicles are designed for Ontario winters, pairing Snow Mode with advanced tire-pressure monitoring. This combination helps you maintain consistent traction and confidence, whether you're navigating a side street in South Ajax or the wide lanes of Taunton Road.

Winter Visibility: Clearing the Way from Toronto to the Durham Region

Winter visibility across the GTA and Durham is a major challenge, from the heavy salt spray on the Gardiner Expressway to the blowing snow off Lake Ontario that hits Ajax and Whitby Shores. To ensure you have a clear view of the road, your equipment needs to be ready for the unpredictable shifts in Ontario weather.

Upgrade Your Blades for the 401

Before you get caught in a sudden snow squall while commuting on the 401 through Pickering or Oshawa, inspect your wipers. Replace any blades that streak or show cracking. For those frequently driving between Downtown Toronto and North Oshawa, consider upgrading to winter wiper blades. These are engineered with a heavy-duty sleeve to prevent ice buildup, allowing them to push through the thick slush often found on Kingston Road and Taunton Road.

Don’t Get Caught Empty in Durham

The brine and salt used to treat the DVP and Highway 412 can coat a windshield in seconds, leaving you blinded by glare. Always use a winter-grade washer fluid rated for -40°C.

• Pro Tip: Keep an extra bottle in your trunk—it’s a necessity if you’re heading home toward Brooklin or South Ajax during a winter storm.

• INFINITI Advantage: Every INFINITI comes standard with smart fluid-level sensors, alerting you on your dashboard before you run out. This is critical when you’re mid-commute and the "road mist" is at its worst.

The INFINITI "Wiper Service Position" Hack

For owners who want to lift their wipers before a big snowfall at the Pickering GO Station or Whitby GO parking lots, your INFINITI has a convenient service mode. This prevents the blades from freezing to the glass and makes clearing the cowl much easier.

To activate:

1. Ensure the vehicle is in Park with the ignition ON (or within 60 seconds of turning it OFF).

2. Quickly lift the wiper lever twice within half a second.

3. The wipers will move to a vertical position, making the blades easy to access—a huge help for taller SUVs like the QX60 or QX80.

To deactivate: Simply lift the wiper lever to the "Mist" position once and release.

Winter Visibility: Navigating from Toronto through the Durham Region

Winter visibility in the GTA and Durham Region is a unique challenge—from the heavy salt spray on the Gardiner Expressway to the sudden whiteouts along Highway 401 near Ajax and Whitby. To ensure a clear view of the road, your equipment needs to be ready for the unpredictable lake-effect snow that often blankets Pickering and Oshawa.

Upgrade Your Blades for the Commute

Before you head out on a snowy morning toward Downtown Toronto or along Taunton Road, inspect your wipers. Replace any blades that streak or show cracking. For those frequently driving between North Oshawa and the city, consider upgrading to winter wiper blades. These are specifically built with a protective sleeve to prevent ice buildup, allowing them to push through the heavy slush often encountered near the Pickering Town Centre or the Whitby Port.

Don’t Get Caught Empty on the 412

The thick, grey road mist kicked up by traffic on Highway 412 or the DVP can coat a windshield in seconds. Always use a winter-grade washer fluid rated for -40°C to ensure it won’t freeze.

• Pro Tip: Keep an extra bottle in your trunk—it’s a lifesaver if you’re heading home toward South Ajax or Brooklin during a winter storm.

• INFINITI Advantage: Every INFINITI comes standard with smart fluid-level sensors, alerting you on your dashboard before you run out, preventing "blind" moments during severe weather on the 407 ETR.

The INFINITI "Wiper Service Position" Hack

For owners who want to lift their wipers before a big snowfall while parked at the Whitby GO Station or Oshawa GO parking lots, your INFINITI has a convenient service mode. This prevents the blades from freezing to the glass and makes clearing snow much easier for DIY maintenance.

To activate:

1. Ensure the vehicle is in Park with the ignition ON (or within 60 seconds of turning it OFF).

2. Quickly lift the wiper lever twice within half a second.

3. The wipers will move to a vertical position, making the blades easy to access—especially helpful for larger SUVs like the QX60.

To deactivate: Simply lift the wiper lever to the "Mist" position once and release.

Keeping Your Battery Charged: From Downtown Toronto to the Durham Region

Cold weather puts a significant load on your vehicle’s battery—specifically its Cold Cranking Amps (CCA)—which is the power needed to turn over your engine on those bitter January mornings. As your battery ages, its ability to hold a charge drops, making it more likely to struggle when parked outside at the Oshawa Centre or in a driveway in Pickering’s Amberlea neighbourhood.

To avoid "no-start" issues during a GTA deep freeze, follow these expert tips:

1. Inspect Your Terminals

Road salt from the Gardiner Expressway and humidity from Lake Ontario can lead to terminal corrosion. Check your battery for any white, powdery buildup. If you find some, you can clean it using a simple mixture of baking soda and water to ensure a strong electrical connection. This small step ensures your INFINITI starts reliably, whether you're leaving a late-night event at Scotiabank Arena or heading out for an early morning commute from Ajax.

2. Watch Your Trip Distance

Winter battery performance is often impacted by your driving habits across the Durham Region:

• Short Trips: Frequent short hops—like a quick drive from Old Pickering Village to the Pickering Town Centre or from Whitby Shores to the Iroquois Park Sports Centre—may not give your alternator enough time to fully recharge the battery.

• Longer Commutes: If your car has been sitting or only used for local errands, take your INFINITI for a longer drive. A cruise down the 401, a trip across the 407 ETR, or a steady drive along Taunton Road provides the necessary time for the system to provide a deep charge.

3. Field-Tested for Ontario Winters

You can drive with confidence knowing that INFINITI vehicles are specifically designed for cold starting in sub-zero climates. Our engineers have rigorously tested these systems in the field throughout Canada to ensure that even when the wind whistles through Downtown Whitby or across the Oshawa waterfront, your vehicle is engineered to perform.

Protecting Your Interior: Managing the Slush from Toronto to Oshawa

Winter in the GTA and Durham Region means tracking more than just snow into your vehicle; it means bringing in a mix of mud, water, and heavy road salt. Whether you are stepping in from a slushy parking lot at the Oshawa Centre, walking through the brine-soaked streets of Toronto’s Financial District, or returning to your car at the Pickering GO Station, that debris can quickly damage your luxurious carpeting and make your floors dangerously slippery.

Shield Your Floors from the Elements

Before the first major storm hits Ajax or Whitby Shores, consider swapping your carpeted mats for all-season rubber floor mats. They are essential for:

• The Durham Commute: Catching the melting snow from your boots after a day at Pat Bayly Square or the Whitby Port.
• City Driving: Containing the grey "street slush" encountered while running errands along Danforth Avenue or near the Distillery District.
• Easy Cleanup: Protecting your floorboards from the corrosive salt used heavily on the DVP, Highway 401, and Highway 412.

Maintaining That INFINITI Premium Feel

Keeping your interior clean isn't just about looks; it’s about preserving your investment. INFINITI interiors are engineered to handle the realities of an Ontario winter—from coffee spills during a slow crawl on the Gardiner Expressway to salt stains tracked in from Old Pickering Village.

Cleaning Tips for the Season:

• Routine Care: Use mild soap and water for quick cleanups after a weekend trip to Lakeview Park in Oshawa or Lynde Shores Conservation Area.
• Tougher Stains: For stubborn salt rings, a 50/50 mixture of warm water and white vinegar is a classic DIY fix, but for the best results, use vinyl and leather cleaner.
• Proactive Protection: Cleaning your surfaces promptly prevents salt from hardening and permanently damaging the material’s finish.

Enhancing Visibility and Safety: Navigating the GTA and Durham Region

From the dense traffic of Downtown Toronto to the open, wind-swept stretches of North Oshawa, maintaining 360-degree visibility is your best defense against winter hazards. Whether you are merging onto the 401 in Pickering during a lake-effect snow squall or navigating the busy intersections near Ajax’s Harwood Avenue, proper preparation ensures you stay safe and seen.

Visibility is Your Priority

In the Durham Region, we often face "flash freezes" and heavy slush. Before leaving your driveway in Whitby’s Brooklin community or pulling out of the parking garage at Toronto’s CF Eaton Centre, make sure to:

• Clear Your Lights: Ensure that both your LED headlights and tail lamps are completely free of ice and snow. This is vital for being visible to other drivers on high-speed routes like the Don Valley Parkway (DVP) or the 407 ETR.
• Complete De-Icing: Don't settle for a small "cleared patch" on your windshield. Fully de-ice all windows, side mirrors, and your rearview camera. You’ll need that full field of vision when navigating the curves of Kingston Road or parking near the Oshawa Waterfront.

How INFINITI Technology Supports Your Drive

Your INFINITI is engineered to tackle the specific challenges of an Ontario winter, providing maximum clarity and control:

• Heated Mirrors & LED Lamps: These features help cut through the gloom of a dark, snowy afternoon on Taunton Road or Bayview Avenue.
• Windshield Wiper Park: This available feature warms the base of the windshield to help prevent your blades from freezing to the glass while you're parked at the Whitby GO Station or Pickering Town Centre.
• Intelligent All-Wheel Drive: Provides the necessary grip and confidence when turning onto a slushy Brock Road.
• Predictive Forward Collision Warning: This advanced system can "see" two cars ahead, providing an extra layer of safety when sudden braking occurs in heavy traffic on the Gardiner Expressway.

What should be in my winter emergency travel kit?

Keeping a winter emergency kit in your vehicle can help keep you safe if you become stranded in cold weather.

Consider including:

• Jumper cables
• Ice scraper
• Flashlight with extra batteries
• Road flares
• Blanket
• Warm clothing
• Phone charger
• Bottled water and non-perishable snacks

Drive with Confidence This Winter: From the Lakeshore to the 407

From the busy intersections of Downtown Toronto to the growing suburban stretches of North Oshawa and Whitby, winter in the GTA and Durham Region demands a vehicle as prepared as its driver. By taking these simple proactive steps—checking your battery at your local retailer, maintaining your tires for the 401, and keeping your visibility clear for the DVP—you ensure your INFINITI continues to provide the luxury and safety you expect.

Whether you’re heading to an appointment at Lakeridge Health Ajax Pickering, doing some holiday shopping at the Oshawa Centre, or catching a show at the Princess of Wales Theatre, don’t let the elements slow you down. With your winter emergency kit packed and your INFINITI’s intelligent safety systems at the ready, you’re set to navigate every lake-effect snow squall on Brock Road and every icy commute on the Gardiner with total peace of mind.