If you’re as late winterizing your truck as we are publishing this article, don’t worry—it’s never too late to prevent a costly breakdown, a frustrated driver, or an unsafe situation in the frigid cold. Mid-season winterization for heavy-duty trucks is crucial for ensuring they perform optimally throughout the colder months. With freezing temperatures, road salt, and harsh weather conditions increasing the risk of damage to critical systems, taking the time to winterize now can minimize breakdowns, reduce maintenance costs, and improve safety on the road. By winterizing properly, fleet owners and drivers can keep trucks running efficiently, avoiding costly repairs and downtime during the toughest months of the year.
Here is a top 10 checklist to help ensure your Peterbilt is winter-ready all season long.
1. Check Engine Oil and Lubricants
- Why: Cold weather thickens engine oil, which can make it harder for the engine to turn over and operate efficiently.
- Action: Ensure that your engine oil is at the correct viscosity for winter, and use a winter-grade oil if necessary. It’s also a good idea at this time to check and replace differential and transmission fluids if they are due for a change.