Seasonal Maintenance Guide: Preparing Your Truck for Winter and Summer Roads
When you’re running heavy-duty trucks year-round, the seasons aren’t just a backdrop — they’re a challenge. Freezing winters bring icy roads, dead batteries, and frozen fuel lines, while blazing summers push engines, tires, and cooling systems to their limits.
At Sounders Truck Repair, we’ve seen it all. The good news? With the right seasonal maintenance strategy, you can keep your truck on the road, protect your CSA score, and avoid costly breakdowns. Here’s a complete guide to preparing your truck for both winter and summer roads.
Winter Maintenance: Surviving the Freeze
Cold weather doesn’t forgive poor maintenance. One small issue can leave you stranded in sub-zero temperatures.
1. Battery & Electrical Systems
Low temperatures drain battery capacity quickly. A weak battery that survives summer may fail instantly in winter.
Test battery voltage and load capacity.
Inspect connections for corrosion.
Carry jumper cables or a portable booster.
According to the CVSA, battery and electrical failures are among the top roadside service calls in winter.
2. Fuel System & Anti-Gel Additives
Diesel fuel thickens in the cold, clogging filters and starving the engine.
Use winter-blend diesel when available.
Add anti-gel treatment before filling the tank.
Drain water separators regularly.
3. Tires & Traction
Cold weather reduces tire pressure and hardens rubber, lowering grip.
Check PSI daily; colder air means lower pressure.
Inspect tread depth and replace worn tires.
Carry tire chains where required by law. (FMCSA chain regulations)
4. Visibility & Wipers
Snow, ice, and slush can make visibility a safety hazard.
Replace wiper blades before winter.
Use winter-grade washer fluid (rated for -20°F).
Keep an ice scraper and extra fluid on hand.
5. Emergency Kit
When conditions turn bad, being prepared can save your life.
Include: blanket, gloves, flashlight, traction salt, non-perishable food, and a first-aid kit.
Summer Maintenance: Beating the Heat
Hot weather stresses engines, cooling systems, and tires. Long hauls in peak heat can turn minor issues into major breakdowns.
1. Cooling System
An overheated engine is one of the most common summer breakdowns.
Flush and replace coolant per manufacturer guidelines.
Inspect radiator, belts, and hoses for leaks or cracks.
Keep extra coolant on board.
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) emphasizes cooling system inspections during roadside checks because overheating can lead to breakdowns and accidents.
2. Tire Health
Heat and heavy loads means blowout risk.
Check PSI daily (tires expand in heat, so don’t overinflate).
Inspect for cracks, bulges, or uneven wear.
Rotate tires regularly.
3. Air Conditioning & Cab Comfort
Driver fatigue skyrockets in extreme heat.
Test A/C performance before summer starts.
Replace cabin air filters for better airflow.
Keep hydration packs or water bottles in the cab.
4. Brake System
Brakes work harder in hot weather, especially on long descents.
Inspect brake pads, drums, and rotors for wear.
Check air brake system for leaks.
Ensure slack adjusters are correctly set.
Year-Round Tips for Seasonal Success
Schedule preventive maintenance before the season changes.
Document inspections — not just for your records, but to protect your CSA score.
Listen to your truck: strange noises, smells, or vibrations are early warning signs.
Pro tip: The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) runs annual roadside inspection blitzes focusing on brakes, tires, and seasonal safety. Staying ahead of those checks keeps you rolling.
Final Word: Don’t Let Seasons Control Your Truck
Every mile counts in trucking. Breakdowns don’t just cost money — they cost time, loads, and your reputation. By preparing your truck for winter freezes and summer heatwaves, you keep yourself, your cargo, and everyone on the road safer.
At Sounders Truck Repair, we specialize in preventive and emergency maintenance to keep your trucks season-ready. Whether it’s a quick inspection, brake service, or full engine diagnostics, we’ve got you covered.
Need to prepare your truck for the next season? Schedule your appointment at Sounders Truck Repair here and keep your wheels turning, no matter the weather.