INSPECT YOUR TIRES
Tire inflation is always a primary concern, regardless of the weather. Underinflated tires suffer from excessive wear, especially on the sidewalls, and the added friction reduces fuel efficiency. Overinflated tires offer less grip on the road, and they run a higher risk of tread separation and damage from road debris and potholes. Tire pressure can vary greatly in the course of a day as temperatures rise and fall. So check it at mid-shift as well as the beginning of each day.
Depending on your climate, you might save money over time by investing in two sets of tires for your fleet vehicles, one for winter and one for summer months. Tires designed for specific weather offer superior grip and added safety for your employees that all-weather tires don't match.
REPLACE WORN BRAKES AND WATER PUMPS
Replace both of these vital parts before they wear out. Brake pads that are worn thin can become brittle in cold weather, cracking and reducing the car’s ability to respond to the driver. This could put the driver at significant risk of an accident.
Water pumps housed inside the timing belt housing are expensive to replace due to the labor involved. Having them replaced anytime the timing cover is removed is a cost-effective way to maintain them.
TOP OFF AND CHECK OIL AND FLUIDS
Many people don’t realize that engine coolant can lose its effectiveness as it ages. Your cooling system should be flushed, with fresh antifreeze added. Old or improperly mixed coolant can lead to cracked engine blocks.
While some mechanics recommend using a thinner (lighter weight) oil in cold weather, stick to the recommendations found in your owner’s manuals.
If you have diesel-powered equipment in your fleet, cold weather can cause serious issues if the equipment is not properly cared for. Diesel fuel begins to thicken at 32 degrees Fahrenheit, and it gels at 15 degrees. This can cause engine failures due to clogged filters and lines.
When the weather begins to cool, start using an anti-gelling agent before issues arise.
PROACTIVE BATTERY REPLACEMENT
Battery failure is the most common cause of winter breakdowns. Batteries depend on a chemical reaction to develop and hold a charge. Cold weather slows this reaction and leads to failures.
Other than to replacing batteries at the first sign of weakness, there isn’t much you can do to prevent these problems.
If a vehicle’s headlights dim at low RPMs or the engine is slow to turn over, the battery is probably due for a change.
Also, check your distributor caps and alternators as these can drain the battery prematurely.
INSPECT AND REPLACE BELTS, HOSES AND WIPER BLADES
Rubber becomes more rigid and subject to failure in cold weather. This means that a worn belt, cracked hose or aged wiper blade can fail at any time. Before the onset of cold weather, all hoses, belts and blades must be inspected. Any that appear suspect should be replaced. These parts are generally a minor expense when compared to the expense of repairing the damage their failures can cause.