I just bought a 2003 EL, and am disappointed at the manual's generalization that ALL of Canada is the same condition: Severe. Sad, sad, sad... Yes, we all live in igloos too! ;-{)
I live in Victoria, less that 20 mi. from WA state. For US residents, it is recommended to follow the Normal Conditions, unless one or more of the listed severe conditions apply to your climate. I can honestly say that NONE of these conditions apply to my climate or driving habit.

So, here's the situation:
The guide says Canada = Severe Conditions, yet if I was 30 minutes to the east (over the US border), the Normal Conditions would apply.
Common sense tells me to use the maintenance schedule for my climate and driving conditions (Normal). The dealer tells me to use the Severe Schedule 'cause this is Canada. Unfortunately, the dealer is biased since the Severe Schedule means twice the business for him. I want to do what is best for my engine while not doing more than is really necessary.

Comments welcome.
-Mike