Most Overlooked Winter Maintenance Tasks for Trucks
Winter is hard on trucks, and the last thing you need is a breakdown or a work vehicle out of service. From pickup trucks to semis, proper maintenance is key to dealing with a colder climate on the road. However, there are some essential tasks for upkeep that may be overlooked in the worst of weather conditions. Here is a list of reminders for drivers to help prevent costly disruptions this winter.
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Check the Cooling System
Even in very cold areas, an engine can self-destruct if its heat isn’t regulated by the cooling system. Use a hydrometer to test the coolant for its ability to handle cold temperatures. Check for leaks, including at the block heater if the truck has one, and flush the cooling system regularly as recommended by the maintenance schedule. If you remove and store the block heater cord in the summer, be sure to put it back as temperatures drop. If you use a winter front over the grille, remove it promptly when the weather warms up so the truck doesn’t overheat.
Check the Wipers and Washer Fluid
If the wipers show any sign of wear—if they’re starting to split or crack, if they’ve gone hard, or if they don’t completely clean the windshield—replace them. If you’re in an area that uses road salt, that salty spray kicked up by other vehicles can dry almost immediately on your windshield, and you won’t be able to see through it. Top up the washer fluid regularly, and carry an extra bottle with you. All-season fluid will work, but a winter-specific one will do a better job on ice and frost. Make sure there’s a snow brush and ice scraper in the truck, too.
Pay Attention to Air Brakes
Have the system checked on a regular basis; look for leaks, verifying that the low-pressure warning system works, and that the compressor quickly builds up enough pressure. Drain the air tanks daily in cold weather so the moisture inside doesn’t freeze.
Inspect the Tires Frequently
Winter or all-weather tires are the best choice, as they improve stopping distances on cold pavement and get you through snow or slush. Check them regularly for uneven wear, tread depth, and any cuts or debris in them. Check the pressure regularly, as low pressure can cause uneven wear and use more fuel. Do this even if the truck has a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), since this system only gives you a warning if the tire is 25% or more below. The tire can be within that no-warning-yet threshold, but still be low enough to potentially cause an issue. On a large truck, check the mud flaps to be sure they’re properly attached and in good condition to help reduce spray.
Inspect and Clean the Battery
It’s harder to start a cold engine, and that puts a load on the battery. Have it tested to be sure it’s in top condition. Keep the connections clean, as excessive corrosion can prevent the terminals from making contact with the terminal connectors.
Pay Special Attention to Diesel
Diesel fuel can gel in cold weather, which can prevent the truck from starting and potentially damage the fuel pump. If you can’t get winter diesel, use an anti-gel additive. Diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) will freeze, but the DEF tank heater will thaw it once the truck is running. Check to make sure the tank heater is working properly. Frozen DEF doesn’t present an engine starting issue, since it’s injected into the exhaust system, not into the fuel system. However, if the heater isn’t working, and the fluid stays frozen and doesn’t get into the exhaust, the selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system will figure you’re out of DEF and it can potentially trigger a “limp-in” situation.
Consider Rust Prevention
Road salt is very hard on vehicles, and can damage suspension and underbody components as well as sheet metal. If possible, start your rust prevention right from when the truck is new. Avoid gadgets like so-called electronic rust prevention devices, which are claimed to stop rust by putting a weak electrical current through the metal; they’re primarily a waste of money. You want a product that will get into the truck’s seams, and if possible, sprayed inside the doors and the pickup bed sides. If you’re buying a truck for harsh winters, have the product reapplied annually for the best protection.
Removing Snow and Ice
Many states have laws or warnings about clearing ice and snow from commercial vehicles, and for good reason: A chunk of ice falling off the top of a big truck can be a serious winter road hazard and can easily go through the windshield of a vehicle behind it. Fleet owners may want to consider an overhead snow scraper to clean the tops of box trucks and trailers as they leave the yard.
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Maintaining Emergency Kits
An emergency kit is no good if it doesn’t contain the items you need. Check the kits regularly to ensure they’re stocked. They should contain such items as flares, a blanket, gloves, non-perishable food, a flashlight, and other essentials.
Winter has its challenges, and proactive maintenance is the best way to deal with them. Take the time to do these tasks early and regularly to reduce risks and eliminate downtime this season.
Jil McIntosh
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