7 winter conveniences to look for in a used vehicle

Shopping for a used car this winter? Hopefully you've read our articles and tips on this very subject.

In the same vein, here's a list of amenities and features you should consider when comparing the different models that catch your eye.

1. Good winter tires

It's true that Quebec law requires passenger vehicles to be equipped with winter tires during the cold season, but as you know, not all tires are created equal. Inspect the tires on the used model you're interested in to make sure you're driving on quality rubber that's not too worn. Also, beware of so-called "all-weather" tires, even if they bear the mountain and snowflake pictogram. Otherwise, a tire change should be included with your purchase.

2. Heated conveniences

For a more comfortable driving experience, look for a vehicle with heated seats and a heated steering wheel. These reduce the use of the heating system and therefore save fuel. If you have children, especially fussy teenagers, heated rear seats will make family outings more enjoyable for everyone.

Also consider vehicles with heated windshields and door mirrors, or even heated windshield wipers, for faster visibility in very cold weather.

3. Winter wipers

Speaking of wipers, at the very least, check their condition to make sure they're not too worn. Ideally, of course, they should be heavy-duty, winterized wipers that are better able to clear heavy or sticky snow. Does the pre-owned vehicle you're interested in already have them?

4. An engine block heater

Low temperatures can harm the 12-volt battery and hamper starting, which is why it's a good idea to have a block heater. It also warms up the cabin much more efficiently, for greater comfort. And that's not all: as CAA-Quebec reminds us, a vehicle connected to a block heater can consume up to 15% less fuel, since its components are already warmed up on start-up. The proportion increases if the vehicle is driven less than 20 km.

5. Protective mats and liners

One thing that's handy in winter is to have floor mats and rubber liners to protect the carpet from snow, calcium and dirt, both in the passenger compartment and in the trunk. This is a plus if the pre-owned vehicle you're interested in already has them.

6. All-wheel drive

As mentioned above, good winter tires are a clear advantage, especially when braking. That said, for greater safety and peace of mind during acceleration and cornering, an all-wheel drive vehicle is invaluable. Many drivers try it out and don't want to go back to two-wheel drive. But not all systems are created equal. Some are purely reactive, while others operate continuously. Some go further, varying torque distribution not only between front and rear, but also on each side, to ensure optimum driveability. Check it out.

7. Adapted driving modes

Some vehicles, such as SUVs and vans designed to cope with all kinds of conditions, offer a range of driving modes that can be selected at the touch of a button or knob. Some of these modes can be specially designed to adapt the vehicle's systems to deep snow or slippery roads, for example. Definitely worth considering.