Essential Cold Weather Care Tips for Semi-Trucks: Protecting Your Engine and Tires

As the cold months approach for many states in the U.S., semi-truck drivers know that winter weather can be brutal on both their rigs and their schedules. Whether you're navigating icy rural roads in the Midwest or braving snow-covered highways, proper maintenance during the colder months is important so you can keep your truck running efficiently and safely. At Thompson Truck & Trailer, we understand the demands winter places on trucks, especially their engines and tires, which are critical to keeping you on the road.

 

Here are some key cold-weather care tips to ensure your truck remains in top shape when temperatures plummet.

 

Protect Your Engine: Cold Weather Startups and Maintenance
It goes without saying, the engine is the heart of your truck, and freezing temperatures can strain it significantly. Here’s what you can do to maintain optimal engine performance during winter: 

• Use the Right Engine Oil - Cold weather causes oil to thicken, which makes it harder for your engine to start. Therefore, ensure you’re using oil that’s formulated for winter driving. Check your truck’s manual for the recommended oil viscosity for freezing temperatures, typically a lower viscosity like 5W-40 or synthetic oils, which flow better in cold weather.
• Block Heaters Are a Must - Using an engine block heater is one of the most effective ways to ensure your engine warms up properly in extreme cold. Plugging in a block heater before starting the engine allows the coolant to warm up, reducing startup wear and tear. This process helps prevent freezing of the coolant and reduces the time it takes for the engine to reach optimal operating temperature.
• Check Your Coolant - Ensure that your coolant is winterized by using a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and water. This prevents the engine from freezing and helps avoid costly damage to the engine block or cylinder head.
• Battery Care - Extreme cold weather reduces battery capacity, so make sure your battery is in good condition by checking battery terminals for corrosion and cleaning them if necessary. Consider getting your battery tested to ensure it can handle winter demands and replace it if it’s nearing the end of its life.

 

Cold Weather Tire Care: Maximize Grip and Longevity
Tires are your only point of contact with the road, making them crucial for winter traction and control. Proper tire maintenance can prevent skidding, blowouts, and unsafe driving conditions.

• Monitor Tire Pressure Regularly - Cold weather causes air to contract, which lowers tire pressure. Underinflated tires are more likely to wear unevenly and can reduce traction on icy roads. Check your tire pressure daily when temperatures drop, and ensure they’re inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended levels.
• Consider Winter or All-Weather Tires - Winter tires are designed to stay flexible in freezing temperatures, providing better traction on snow and ice. If you drive primarily in regions with heavy snow, investing in winter tires or all-weather tires can give you more control and safety on the road.
• Inspect Tire Tread Depth - Good tire tread is essential for gripping the road in winter conditions. Ensure that your tires have sufficient tread depth (at least 6/32” for winter driving) to provide better traction. Worn-out tires increase the risk of skidding on icy roads.
• Check for Cracks and Damage - Cold temperatures can cause tires to become brittle, leading to cracks in the rubber. Regularly inspect your tires for cracks or signs of wear, and replace any that look compromised before hitting the road.

 

Additional Tips for Winter Truck Care
In addition to engine and tire maintenance, there are a few other important cold-weather preparations for you to consider:

• Fuel Additives for Diesel Engines - Diesel fuel can gel in extreme cold, which could clog your fuel lines and leave you stranded. To prevent this, use a fuel additive to lower the freezing point of diesel. Make sure your fuel filter is clean and regularly check your fuel system for water contamination. 
  And for the really cold times, we've got the power service products to help! Fleetrite Starting Fluid provides a powerful boost for quick starts, while our Penetrating Catalyst loosens rust and corrosion for smooth operation. Stock up now through RepairLink.
• Check the HVAC System - Ensure your heating system is working correctly, as driving in freezing temperatures without heat is not only uncomfortable but can be dangerous. Your defrosters should also be in good working order to prevent windshield fogging or icing.
• Emergency Kit - Always have an emergency winter kit in your truck. This should include essentials like warm clothing, blankets, a first-aid kit, a flashlight, extra batteries, and non-perishable food. It’s also wise to carry sand or kitty litter for traction in case you get stuck.

 

In conclusion, it all comes down to keeping your truck winter-ready. Cold weather is tough on trucks, but by taking the time to properly care for your engine, tires, and other critical components, you can avoid costly breakdowns and stay safe on the road. At Ascendance Truck Centers, we offer full-service maintenance to keep your rig running smoothly no matter the season. Whether you need winter tires, engine checks, or routine maintenance, visit one of our 46 locations to make sure your truck is ready for the challenges of winter driving.

Stay safe, and keep trucking through winter with confidence!