white

A VIN is a 17-character sequence that is used to identify a vehicle. Just like fingerprints, a VIN is unique to a car and can tell you all about its history; you can view past reports made by insurance agencies, law enforcement, and title companies. In essence, a VIN comprises a combination of numbers and alphabets that indicate basic information such as make, model, manufacturing details and vehicle history.
Fun fact: The alphabets Q (q), O (o), or I (i) will not be in a VIN to avoid confusion between the numbers zero and one.
<h2>Where is my VIN?</h2>
Your VIN will be on the driver’s side, either on the bottom-left of the dashboard, windshield, or door jamb that is just below the latch. You can also find it on vehicle documents like service records, insurance, and vehicle registration.

Every character on a VIN discloses a feature of the car.
The first three characters are called “World Manufacturing Identifier,” and provide the manufacturer's details.
The first character reveals what country the car was made in. Below is a quick guide on what countries the alphabets and numbers refer to:
<ul>
<li>A - H: made in Africa</li>
<li>L - N: made in Asia</li>
<li>S - Z: made in Europe</li>
<li>1 - 5: made in North America (Canadian VINs start with 2)</li>
<li>6 - 7: made in Oceania</li>
<li>8 - 9: made in South America</li>
</ul>
The second character tells you which specific manufacturer built the vehicle.
The third character indicates the vehicle type or vehicle category, such as truck, bus, etc. In some cases, manufacturers use this space to denote the exact division of the manufacturer that produced this car instead.
Characters four to nine are known as vehicle descriptors. Four to eight describe the car, such as body type, engine, series, restraint, and model; however, different manufacturers place these identifiers in different spots.
Fun fact: Only the country, make, check digit, year, plant, and serial number (numbers 1, 3, 9, 10, 11, and 12-17) do not change spaces regardless of the manufacturer.
The ninth character is called “check digit” and proves that the VIN you have been provided with is not fake. It is calculated using a complex mathematical formula that ensures the authenticity of a car.
Characters 10 to 17 are known as vehicle identifiers.
The 10th character refers to model year and is denoted by either a number or an alphabet. In the above image, “C” tells us that this vehicle is a 2012 model. Interestingly, the 17-digit VIN we see today was only standardized in 1981, so model years before 1981 had shorter VINs and won’t actually decode.
The 11th character tells you what plant this vehicle was assembled in. Every manufacturer has its own set of plant codes specific to them.
Characters 12 to 17 are the vehicle’s serial number and denotes the production line number. Every car receives a unique sequence number and is determined by each manufacturer.

Understanding a car’s VIN greatly helps you learn about its history, which is especially useful when you are buying a used car. It also helps in knowing what car parts you need to keep a car running at its best.
Comment below and let us know if any of this was new information to you or if you already knew all this!
Follow us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/heyautohq" target="_self">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/heyautohq/" target="_self">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/heyauto/" target="_self">LinkedIn</a>, and <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@heyauto?lang=en" target="_self">TiKTok</a> for everything you want to know about cars.
UNDER THE HOOD is a series of short fun articles that provides information about small, yet often overlooked, facts about your car.

There's a lot that a VIN can tell you about your car, find out what each character can reveal.

What is a VIN and why is it important?

Buying a used car is a smart and affordable way of driving your dream car or getting a second daily-driver car. In fact, the used car industry is thriving because of the significant markdown off MRSP due to car depreciation. This is why a well-cared-for used car can be a surprisingly affordable asset to add to your key chain.
However, unlike purchasing or leasing a new vehicle, used cars, especially those not well maintained, can have the potential of being a money pit and source of seemingly endless frustration. From cracked gaskets and faulty suspension systems to those flashing engine lights that cause frustration and expensive visits to the mechanic. Needless to say, a poorly chosen used car is a frightful experience.
The good news is, purchasing a used car in good condition does not boil down to pure luck. There are warning signs, if you know where to look, questions to ask the car dealership, and sounds to listen to, to differentiate a well looked-after car and a money sinkhole.
Here is a quick checklist of tips, things to pay attention to, and questions to ask before you purchase a used vehicle.

1) Check the Carfax.
The Carfax gives you a record of the vehicle and informs you of any past accidents, maintenance, and service records. Always ask for a Carfax and any additional maintenance records on a vehicle. Take this time to find out how well the car was maintained and note any component that had to be serviced often. You want to rule out reoccurring fixes as they indicate reoccurring issues and premature wear and tear of that component. For some cars, these issues may not be costly, and simply depend on what needs constant servicing. Understanding a Carfax simply prepares you for upcoming maintenance and future repairs. This also will give you a general idea of the average cost of maintenance for the car over the course of a year.
2) What work did the dealership perform?
The answer to this question should reiterate what the Carfax has already stated. If the dealership performed similar work and found no additional issues apart from what the Carfax has stated, then chances of new issues being sprung on you are low. However, if there are new issues that the dealership worked on, that were not stated on the report, you need to ensure they weren’t major problem areas. This once again helps you factor in future finances for car maintenance. A well-looked after car will last longer than someone constantly slamming their breaks causing unnecessary wear and tear between traffic lights.
3) Inspect accident areas (if any)
An accident does not mean a car is unsafe to drive. However, if a car has been in an accident, pay close attention to what part was affected.
For instance, if the accident was anywhere where the engine was located, be extra cautious. This is because while the engine may be running great right now, the accident may become an expensive issue in the future. Ask the car salesperson if the engine was thoroughly looked at because a loose wiring, cracks in the engine, or some minute but expensive component, is not visible through a standard inspection.
Damage anywhere else on a car is usually not a major issue, assuming two things: Firstly, the repair was conducted by a certified mechanic and secondly there is no damage to the frame of the car. However, you can be assured that a car dealership cannot and will not sell you a faulty car that is unfit for the roads.
4) Measurements
Most houses have garages big enough for a car or two, but some are retrofitted with workbenches that minimize your parking space. There is nothing worse than falling in love with a car only to find that it does not fit in your garage.
5) Check under the hood
If you are savvy under the hood, don’t be afraid to pull the oil dipstick and look for dirty fluid and check the oil levels. Dark, sludgy deposits are a possible indicator of infrequent oil changes or contaminated oil and should be brought up with your salesperson. Moreover, when you pop the hood of the car pay attention to any overpowering odours which are typically signs of a leak. Speaking of leaks, take note of any drops or leaks while the car is turned on and parked, as that indicates a leaking hose or valve.
6) Test drive route
A typical test drive lasts about 20-30 minutes, but confirm the time limit with the salesperson as every car dealership has different rules about this. Be mindful to pick a path with various driving conditions and include a neighbourhood, the highway, merge lanes, and a parking lot. Ensure you test the breaks, acceleration, and deceleration of the car. Take your time instead of a short lap around the parking lot, after all this is your money and time.

7) Sitting in the car
The first things you should take a mental note of are: How easy was it to get in and out of the car, are the pedals a comfortable distance, do the controls and dashboard feel natural, and if the seat is comfortable.
Additionally, bring someone along for your test drive and have them sit at the back. As a driver, you may not feel the road and bumps but the farther behind you are in the car, the bumpier the ride is - this is especially important if you are test driving a vehicle with third-row seating.
8) Check the breaks before you begin
Before you pull out of the lot, ensure the breaks are responsive and take note of the break time. Dealerships will replace brake pads as it is a safety issue, but it is a good idea to see how sensitive or hard you need to be breaking in any unforeseen event. Furthermore, at some point during your test drive, pull into a parking lot and test a soft and hard stop. A soft stop is a rolling stop that any daily driver performs. A hard stop is when you suddenly brake to avoid a collision - was the break responsive? Do give your passenger fair warning you are going to test for a hard stop, or let them out of the vehicle before you do so.
9) Listen to the car’s noises
Does the car creak when you break? How was the cabin noise while driving on the highway? Is there a sharp metal-like ticking sound when you turn? Each noise in a car corresponds to a different part of the car which may be an issue. It is best to let the car salesperson know about those noises and have them confirm with their mechanic about what could be causing them.
10) Feel the gears
If your speed increases as you gradually step on the pedal that means your gears are smooth. If your foot is almost touching the floor, your gears are sticky and have trouble shifting. Most 2015 and newer vehicles will have a relatively smooth gear shift process, and if you notice any lurching or abnormally high revving RPMs before a gear shift this might be an indication of an upcoming transmission problem or required software update. The latter is a much easier fix.
11) Feel the suspension
When test driving, go out of your way to drive over speed bumps and potholes as they are a good gauge of your suspension. Notice how the car sounds and reacts to these obstacles. If the car squeaks when going over, it might be a possible strut or shock coil that needs replacing.
12) Parallel park
Some cars are built with thicker pillars for safety. However, that lowers your visibility and creates blind spots while driving. Attempting to parallel park is the easiest way to learn about poor car visibility.

13) Check the tech
-Pair your Bluetooth to see if it connects easily. Can you hear the caller easily and vice-versa?
-Check how clear or grainy the backup camera is (if there is one).
-Try out every button to ensure all features work from heated and cool seats to the moon-roof.
14) Bring your child seat (if applicable)
Bring your child seat to see how convenient it is to put it in place. Once it has been attached, notice how much room your child has and if you can easily access them.
Finally…If the used car you are test driving passes these basic checks then you are one step closer to buying your next car. However, it is okay to walk away if even one thing feels amiss. It is best to test drive other vehicles you have shortlisted and compare them with one another. Each test drive only builds your lens to discern and pick up on potential problems and finally find your slice of quality affordable luxury.
Comment below with some of your own tips or tell us which ones were completely new to you!
Follow us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/heyautohq" target="_self">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/heyautohq/" target="_self">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/heyauto/" target="_self">LinkedIn</a>, and <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@heyauto?lang=en" target="_self">TiKTok</a> for everything you want to know about cars.

Here are top 14 tips that every driver should know when test driving a used car.

Top 14 Tips on Test Driving a Used Car

Canadian shoppers have noticed a steady increase in new car prices. Read on to find why prices are increasing and how you can still find a good deal on cars.
Anyone in the market for a new vehicle in 2021, can expect to spend about $40,000 on average for that new ride. Even a quick search for “used cars for sale” brings up an unusually high price tag for a second-hand car.
Like everything as of late, this trend can be laid at the feet of the pandemic. Why? Well, firstly, within the last year, automobile factories have had to shut down due to Covid-19 outbreaks and lockdown measures.
Secondly, layered on top of that is the disruptions in global chain supplies, which delayed the import of computer chips. These chips are the brains in modern cars that allow technology-rich experiences from Bluetooth connectivity to adaptive headlights.
And lastly, throw in the inability for supliers to match that demand and you have a classic scenario of price increase.
According to CTV News Toronto, prices of new cars are up eight percent compared to last year, and car inventory across Canada is down 25 percent.
While these numbers may deter some car buyers, surprisingly, the majority of Canadians continue to purchase cars despite the higher price tag. In fact, according to J.D. Power Canada, a consumer insights company, people are not only reportedly buying newer vehicles, but also purchasing expensive trims to suit their lifestyles.
Larger vehicles like SUVs and trucks are most sought after for their towing capacity. This can be attributed to the fact that with summer around the corner, Canadians are looking to venture outdoors in their trailers and boats, or simply drive to nearby jaunts for a much-needed respite.
With a higher rate of savings as a result of working from home and minimal vacation travel expenditure, Canadians certainly have the will and means to buy that new car. Perhaps, it isn’t as surprising that Canadians are motivated car buyers amidst Covid-19.
So here’s how to find the best car deals near me:
Firstly, consider trading in your existing car. Since there has been a low supply of cars, dealerships are looking to stock their inventory and crowd their lots. This puts you in a better position to bargain for a fair price as you sell.
On the other hand, living in an automotive seller's market, car dealers are in the driver’s seat when you are buying a vehicle from them. This is why trading in your existing vehicle for a newer one can make your investment go further.
Secondly, ask the dealership about car financing options. Many dealerships are offering comprehensive and competitive financing options with attractive interest rates. For a ballpark figure, you can use the car finance calculator available on every vehicle listed on HeyAuto, to give you the power to plan and budget for your finances well before you speak to a dealership.
Lastly, ask car dealerships about tax credits and incentives that are available on certain car makes and models. For instance, the government of Canada offers point-of-sale incentives of up to $5,000 for purchasing or leasing an electronic vehicle. On top of federal incentives, certain provinces also provide additional incentives for such vehicles.
Furthermore, if you are open to purchasing a used car, have a peek at this informative article on <a href="https://heyauto.com/blog/tips-&-tricks/questions-to-ask-dealerships-when-you-call" target="_self">questions to ask dealerships</a> that can help you get a car in good condition. These questions will enable you to navigate the world of used cars and find the right one for you.
Eventually, whether you are looking to purchase a brand new or a used car, it never hurts to shop around from thousands of dealerships, weigh your options, and find your ideal ride. Happy <a href="https://heyauto.com/cars/" target="_self">car shopping</a>!

Canadian shoppers have noticed a steady increase in new car prices. Read on to find why prices are increasing and how you can still find a good deal on cars.

Why are new cars so expensive in 2021?

<h2>1. Could this car get me tax credits?</h2>
While some electric and plug-in hybrids can earn you thousands of dollars in certain tax credits, you can also earn federal tax credits. It might be worth asking if this car qualifies.
<h2>2. Where has the vehicle come from?</h2>
Whether a direct trade-in to the dealership or buying at auction, knowing is important! Has the vehicle been in any accidents? Has the car had all of its pre-certification inspections done? Has the vehicle had any mechanical issues within the last few years?
<h2>3. How long can I test drive it for?</h2>
In order for you to know it’s a great fit, taking it on a lengthy drive can help identify and familiarize you with faults, features, driveability and more. Ask how long the dealership will allow you to test drive it for, as some offer extended test drives with agreements!
<h2>4. What financing options are available, and what is the cash value?</h2>
Whether looking to finance or buy outright, it’s important to know all of your options. Even though the financing options may be tempting, some dealerships may offer even better deals for paying cash.
When it comes to financing options, HeyAuto’s finance calculator in the vehicle snapshot card of each vehicle can help you plan potential payments.
<h2>5. What incentives are offered?</h2>
As incentives often are not advertised, it’s worth it to ask about what current incentives the dealerships offer, how long they are available and if they can be combined.
<h2>6. Can I review the full purchase agreement?</h2>
Before agreeing to the full amount, ask to review the breakdown of fees for any accessories or services included that you do not need.
<h2>7. Has the original paint been changed?</h2>
If the body paint on a vehicle has been changed from the original, it may mean the car could have been in a car accident. If the paint has been changed, be sure to ask the origin of the difference.
<h2>8. Can I see the maintenance history?</h2>
Checking how well the car has been taken care of is important. How often has it had regular maintenance, including oil changes, wheel alignments, tire changes, and more? These factors can make a huge difference in the lifetime of a vehicle.
<h2>9. What warranty is available?</h2>
What does the dealership cover, and for how long? While some cover damages, others have a wider selection of coverage depending on financing options.
<h2>10. Are Trade-Ins accepted?</h2>
If you have a car you are looking to trade-in, what are the dealership's policies around this?
It never hurts to ask! Give trusted dealerships a call right from the vehicle snapshot card to learn more about your favourite vehicles. <a href="https://heyauto.com/search" target="_self">Shop today</a>.

What questions should you be asking car dealerships before buying your next car?

Questions to ask dealerships when you call

Whether you’re doing some last-minute gift shopping, trying to take advantage of Boxing Day discounts, or just unwrapped a brand new console, you’re going to want to check out the best racing games 2020 has to offer. These titles have stunning gameplay, mind-blowing graphics, floor-shaking audio, and are guaranteed to get your heart pumping.

Forza Horizon 4 has to be the first on the list of best racing games for this holiday season. Sure, it was released in 2018, but it honestly still holds up. The graphics are ridiculously good, the soundtrack and audio effects will have you shopping for an even bigger sound system next, and the gameplay will keep you coming back for more. Between the car customization, challenges, and free-roam style map, you can’t go wrong with this pick. Bonus: Forza has kept updating it with <a href="https://www.pcgamer.com/forza-horizon-4-is-getting-a-free-stunt-racing-update-this-week/" target="_self">fresh content</a>!

Dirt 5 is the perfect racer for any rally fans out there. It makes the list of best racing games 2020 for its unique arcady feel and variety of maps across the world. Hop into cars like a souped-up <a href="https://heyauto.com/search/?make=Ford&model=Mustang" target="_self">Ford Mustang</a> or legendary <a href="https://heyauto.com/search/?make=Subaru&model=Impreza" target="_self">Subaru Impreza</a> and put your off-road skills to the test!

The Need for Speed franchise needs no introduction, and the remastered version of 2010’s Hot Pursuit just reinforces that. Need for Speed took one of the best racing games out there, tuned up the graphics, and set it free to be one of the best 2020 racing games. There isn’t any car customization, but you won’t need it with <a href="https://www.ea.com/en-gb/games/need-for-speed/need-for-speed-hot-pursuit-remastered/news/nfs-hp-remastered-car-list" target="_self">models like these</a> in the roster.

F1 2020 is a different caliber of racing game. You aren’t just racing through levels and upgrading your cars to have the best stats, you’re actually building an F1 team, managing money, and upgrading departments to reach top performance. Playing F1 2020 takes some thought and engagement, taking the entire gaming experience above and beyond your run-of-the-mill car game. Keep an eye out for this one on your Black Friday shopping spree!

WRC 9 makes the list of best 2020 racing games for its attention to detail and dedication to creating the most realistic experience possible. WRC 9 comes packed with stages all around the globe, a heap of iconic vehicles, the option to create your own championship, AND completely redesigned engine sounds to make you feel like you’re sitting right in the driver’s seat. Pick up this title and let your rally dreams come true!
There you have it, the best racing games for the 2020 holiday season! These high-octane titles will have on on the edge of your seat, weaving around corners, and living out your 200+ km/h daydreams.

Start your engines!

Best racing games 2020 for this holiday season

Sharp winds jabbing your cheeks, eyelashes freezing together when you blink, and toes that belong in an ice cube tray. It isn’t fun, now, imagine how your car feels? Canadian winters are tough on cars, but there are a few tricks you can do to ease the strain. HeyAuto spoke to the expert <a href="https://www.instagram.com/connorsdetail/" target="_self">@</a><a href="https://www.instagram.com/connorsdetail/" target="_self">connorsdetail</a> about what drivers can do to take care of their beloved vehicles as temperatures plummet and salt hits the roads. Follow along for Connor’s top recommendations:

It’s easier to start from a clean slate. Connor suggests giving your vehicle a deep clean in the fall to make winter cleaning that much easier. For the exterior, wheel cleaner, degreaser, and car soap with water will leave your ride looking squeaky clean. It’s best to start by vacuuming your interior and then using an interior cleaner designed for the material in your car (leather cleaner + conditioner, vinyl cleaner, etc.). Use carpet cleaner spray to scrub out any stains and you’re good to go!

Those warmer days aren’t just a nice break from the cold, they’re also primetime to head to the car wash. Your vehicle is destined to get dirty again shortly after, but removing the caked on salt and grime will help to keep the body in good shape.

According to Connor, it’s imperative that you dry your car after washing it in the winter. This helps to avoid door jams and the freezing of handles, locks or windows. The only thing worse than sitting in your car and waiting for it to warm up in -20 is being stuck outside of it!

Connor suggests routinely cleaning the interior of your vehicle to avoid the build up of salt stains. Do a quick once-over of your carpets routinely to keep the salt at bay and avoid a much more labour intensive clean in the spring.

Stop any damage before it's done by keeping rubber floor mats in your vehicle at all times. Make sure your floor mats are the right size and shape for your car for the best coverage, and be sure to clean out the built up dirt and residue regularly.
Have any detailing tips of your own? Let us know in the comments!

Getting Your Car Through The Winter: Advice From A Detailing Pro

Getting your car through the winter

Different vehicle body types have their own strengths and weaknesses, knowing what you are after will drastically speed up your car buying journey! Read up on each body type to figure out what is best for your needs:

You can think of a sedan has having three distinct sections: the engine, the passengers, and the trunk. They have four doors and a traditional style trunk. Sedans come in a range of sizes, from smaller cars like <a href="https://heyauto.com/search/?make=Kia&model=Rio" target="_self">Kia Rio</a> to larger models like the <a href="https://heyauto.com/search/?make=Dodge&model=Charger" target="_self">Dodge Charger</a>.

A coupe is a two-door car with a trunk like a sedan, as well as a solid roof. This includes cars like the legendary <a href="https://heyauto.com/search/?make=Ford&model=Mustang" target="_self">Ford Mustang</a>, which have similar trunk space to a sedan but substantially less room for passengers.

Hatchbacks are generally smaller cars with squared-off roofs and a hinging tailgate to gain access to the cargo area. The <a href="https://heyauto.com/search/?make=Volkswagen&model=Golf" target="_self">Volkswagen Golf</a> is among the most popular hatchbacks. You won’t have a ton of room for cargo in a hatchback, but they’re great cars for inner-city drivers that often find themselves in tight spaces.

A station wagon has two sections: one for the engine and one for passengers and cargo. The tailgate is generally hinged at thee top, similar to a hatchback, but the the roofline goes all the way to the end of the car, making more room for cargo. They are called station wagons because they were originally used to transfer people from country estates to the nearest train station. The <a href="https://heyauto.com/search/?make=Subaru&model=Outback" target="_self">Subaru Outback</a> is a great example of a quality station wagon.

Convertibles are all about fun, and in Canada, making the most of the fleeting hot weather. If you the roof comes off, at the push of a button or manually, it’s a convertible! Not the most practical for winter, but you’re sure to have a good time if you get yours hands on <a href="https://heyauto.com/search/?body=Convertible" target="_self">one of these</a>!

SUVs are built on the same chassis as trucks, meaning that the body is attached to the frame, rather than it all being a single piece of material. SUVs are larger, offer varying degrees of off-road capabilities, and sit higher. The <a href="https://heyauto.com/search/?make=Toyota&model=4Runner" target="_self">Toyota 4Runner</a> and <a href="https://heyauto.com/search/?make=Ford&model=Expedition" target="_self">Ford Expedition</a> are mid and full-size SUVs.

A crossover is a very similar to compact or sub-compact SUV, but has a unibody construction similar to a sedan, where the body is a single piece of material. Crossovers are generally lighter-duty than SUVs, but offer a nice compromise of size, space, and capability. Check out the <a href="https://heyauto.com/search/?make=Honda&model=CR-V" target="_self">Honda CR-V</a> for a fan favourite!

Minivans are a family favourite, perfect for loading up kids and their friends, while having enough space for all too. They’re low to the ground, making them easy to load into and can comfortably seat passengers in a third row. The<a href="https://heyauto.com/search/?make=Chrysler&model=Pacifica" target="_self"> Chrysler Pacifica</a> is a great option for anyone after a minivan.

Trucks are the go-to if you’re routinely hauling cargo or things you’d rather not load into the body of your vehicle. They offer the convenience of throwing whatever you need to haul in the back and carrying on with your day, but generally lack passenger comforts in the backseat. Trucks can be smaller like the <a href="https://heyauto.com/search/?make=GMC&model=Canyon" target="_self">GMC Canyon</a> or larger like a <a href="https://heyauto.com/search/?make=Ram" target="_self">RAM</a>.

Still not sure what’s best for you? Try searching with HeyAuto’s <a href="https://heyauto.com/search/" target="_self">Go Features</a> to find the right match!

Do you know all of the different vehicle bodies?

Vehicle bodies: all you need to know

That also means that Pumpkin Spice Latte (PSL) season is too, Eggnog latte season just isn’t the same. With that in mind, HeyAuto put together a list of our favourite spots to grab a PSL, so that you can focus on making the most of the fall colours!

Higher Ground is a local favourite for Calgarians. It’s right in the heart of Kensington, which is a great spot for a walk on a Fall day. Grab a PSL, enjoy the cozy ambience, and then head to the river and enjoy the colours of Autumn.

Monogram has locations in Altadore, Fifth Avenue Place, and Britania—so you have some scenery options! The Altadore and Britania options are especially nice for the Fall weather, they’re surrounded by colourful trees and a short walk from River Park. Round out the Fall vibes with an unreal PSL.

Euphoria’s PSL is the perfect blend of sweet and spicy and can be enjoyed in a relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere. There’s plenty of seating and parking here, so the whole experience will be stress free!

Good Earth is an institution in Calgary, founded back in 1991. It has a delicious PSL, plenty of locations, and a welcoming atmosphere for all. They also have some great food if you’re looking to have a snack!

There are five Rosso’s in Calgary, each in great locations to make the most of the Fall weather. But this isn’t for a PSL, we’ve featured Rosso for its Orchard Spice Latte (OSL), a unique blend of apple and pear syrup that takes the Fall vibes to the next level!
There are countless cozy cafes in Calgary with high-quality, delicious offerings. Think we missed one? Let us know in the comments below!

A fall guide to Calgary

Where to get the best PSL

Leaves are falling, PSLs are being brewed, and the winter clothes are getting moved out of storage. As we sit in suspense, waiting for that first snowflake to fall, it’s a good time to start thinking about getting your car ready for winter. Here’s HeyAuto’s list of everything you should have with you this winter:

We’ve already covered this in a prior blog post, but you should be considering how harsh your winter is and choosing appropriate tires. Living in Canada, chances are you’re going to need a set of all-weather (not all-season) or winter tires.

You know what’s even better than coffee to wake you up in the morning? Brushing snow off your frozen windshield . Throw one of these multi-tools into your backseat for all your snow-brushing and ice-scraping needs.

A snow shovel is a great thing to have in your winter kit. We hope you never to use it, but sometimes those snow snakes come out of nowhere and we find ourselves spinning tires in a foot of powder. Pro tip: look for small collapsible shovels to save on space.

We all know those winter roads can get slushy and messy, so it’s a great call to keep an extra bottle or two of washer fluid with you. You don’t want to be stuck trying to peer through a mud-caked windshield!

It’s always a good idea to keep some warm winter clothes stowed away in your car just incase. They’ll be nice to have if it happens to be a bit chillier out than you thought, and you’ll be happy to have them if you find yourself having to use that shovel you have packed.

Not only is it snowy and cold in the winter, it also gets dark earlier. It’s good practice to keep some high-visibility equipment with you incase you need to be seen!

Having some snacks tucked away is common practice for everyone, right? If not, make a point of packing away some granola bars and the like incase you get stuck in a pinch.
And there you have it, you’re ready for winter!
Thinking of picking up a fresh ride for winter? Check out thousands on option on <a href="https://heyauto.com/" target="_self">HeyAuto</a>!

Everything to have for when the snow hits

Prepping Your Car For Winter

The average Canadian spends 380 hours per year in their vehicle? That is the equivalent of 991 episodes of Friends—let that sink in. If you’re going to spend THAT much time in your car, you should be making sure that it’s as safe and comfortable as possible. Follow along for a list of the vehicle accessories that everyone should have!

An emergency kit is something you should always have and hope to never use, but you’ll be very happy that it's there if you find yourself in an unfavourable situation. There’s plenty on the market that are very affordable, so be sure to pick one up and stow it in your trunk for your peace of mind!

Another must-have that falls into the “better safe than sorry” category is a first aid kit. Once again, they are very accessible in stores and online, so you should absolutely have one (and know how to use it). Put it right next to your safety kit so you know exactly where everything is.

On a lighter note—if you’re going to be spending that much time in your car, it should definitely smell great. The CloudScent Pure Diffuser is an amazing choice because it doesn’t require any water, runs on a battery, and fits right in your cupholder!

If you have an older car, you’ll love being able to connect your phone to Bluetooth and play your very own road trip playlist. Most new cars will come with bluetooth connection nowadays, however, you’ll also benefit from an extra USB outlet to charge your gadgets while you drive!

Clean up those crumby post-road trip seats and keep your ride looking fresh. Simply plug the vacuum into the lighter port and make short work of the mess.

I think I can speak for everyone and say that finding things in a messy console sucks. Never fumble around for a pen or lip balm again, just pick up a backseat organizer and all of your belongings will be neatly stowed away.

This is for all the adventurers out there! Inflatable car beds fit nicely into the back seat for some well earned RnR. Perfect for those looking to cut back on hotel expenses or take a nap break during a long drive.
There you have it! Load these into your car and you’ll have the safest, most comfortable ride out there. Remember, with all the time we spend in our vehicles, we should make sure they suit every single one of our needs.
<h2>Thinking of hopping into the driver seat of a new car? Check out <a href="https://heyauto.com/?body=Car&priceLt=45000" target="_self">these</a> awesome cars!</h2>