Maintenance Tips for Winter Season
Winter poses unique challenges for commercial vehicle operators. Sub-zero temperatures, ice, and road salt can wreak havoc on your fleet if you're not prepared. Here's our comprehensive guide to winterising your HGVs.
Battery Health: Your First Priority
Cold weather is brutal on batteries. A battery that's marginal in autumn will fail in winter. Test all batteries before temperatures drop and replace any showing less than 12.4 volts at rest. Clean terminals thoroughly and apply dielectric grease to prevent corrosion. Consider upgrading to higher cold-cranking amp (CCA) batteries for vehicles operating in extreme conditions.
Coolant System Check
Despite the name, coolant is crucial in winter. Ensure your antifreeze concentration is correct for the lowest expected temperatures - typically a 50/50 mix protects to -37°C. Inspect all hoses for cracks, soft spots, or swelling. Replace worn hoses before they fail on a frozen motorway.
Diesel Fuel Management
Diesel fuel can gel in extreme cold, clogging filters and fuel lines. Switch to winter-grade diesel when available, or use approved anti-gel additives. Keep tanks at least half full to reduce condensation. Carry spare fuel filters - they're often the first casualty of cold weather.
Air System Maintenance
Moisture in air brake systems can freeze, causing brake failure. Drain air tanks daily in winter and check air dryer cartridges. Replace dessicant cartridges on schedule - they work harder in cold, humid conditions. Test all air lines for leaks; even small leaks become problems when compressors work overtime in cold weather.
Tyre Considerations
Winter tyres aren't just for cars. Many European countries require HGVs to fit winter-rated tyres on drive axles from October to March. Check tread depth - the legal minimum is 1.6mm, but aim for at least 4mm for adequate winter grip. Inspect sidewalls for cracking caused by summer heat; these weaken in cold conditions.
Lighting and Visibility
Short winter days mean more driving in darkness. Clean all lights thoroughly and replace any dim or flickering bulbs. Check that heated mirrors function correctly. Stock up on windscreen washer fluid rated for -20°C or lower - standard summer fluid will freeze on your screen.
Emergency Kit Essentials
Every vehicle should carry: a high-visibility jacket and torch, ice scraper and de-icer, jump leads or a booster pack, blankets and warm clothing, non-perishable snacks and water, a basic tool kit and spare fuses, and traction aids (sand, cat litter, or traction mats).
Pre-Trip Inspections
Extend your daily walkaround in winter. Check for ice buildup on lights, mirrors, and steps. Ensure wipers aren't frozen to the windscreen before starting them. Allow extra warm-up time for engines and hydraulic systems. Test brakes gently before leaving the yard.
Being prepared for winter isn't just about preventing breakdowns - it's about driver safety and keeping your commitments to customers. The investment in proper winter maintenance pays dividends in reduced downtime and repair costs. If you do find yourself stranded, remember that TBD247 connects you with qualified mobile mechanics across Europe, 24 hours a day.