Winter conditions can pose a huge risk for anyone on the road, and truck drivers are no different. It is not only poor driving that can lead to serious accidents, but also the lack of proper truck maintenance. No need to worry though because we have compiled some maintenance tips to make your time out on those wintery roads safer.

Vehicle Maintenance Tips

• Maintain tire traction and the overall health of your tires.
• Look for uneven patterns on tires before the start of your drive and also occasionally when you are stopped.
• Pay attention and look for steam or melted snow coming off your trucks wheel hubs. This can be a sign of your wheel bearings becoming overheated.
• Make sure to check your battery and windshield wipers whenever your truck is stopped. Making sure your windows are clean provides maximum visibility.
• Check your antifreeze levels and put no freeze fluid into your washer reserve
• Use the white snow to check for fluid leaks after you have been parked for long periods of time.
• It is important to try and keep the vehicle running at highway speeds as opposed to idling. This allows you to reach the temperature threshold required for the regeneration and diesel engine fluid cycling process. 

Fuel Maintenance Tips

• When temperatures drop below 20℉, add a diesel fuel anti-gel additive to help protect your fuel.
• Ensure that you have put a quality winter blend into your fuel tank.
• Always make sure your fuel tank is at least half full or more. Having lower than half a tank can lead to line freeze-up or no-start conditions
• Try to choose your fueling stations wisely. Larger fuel stations move higher volumes of fuel which can help prevent gelling. 

Did you find our tips helpful? Don’t forget that NDI is your one-stop-shop for getting the job done. Just stop by our store today at 2084 North Dixie Highway, Lima, Ohio 45801 or call us at 419-222-8785 to make an appointment. And if an emergency does strike, our 24/7 Emergency Service line is always ready to help, 1-800-440-9523.