Winter is coming, and with it comes freezing temperatures and tough driving conditions. For drivers and fleet managers, now’s the time to winterize your vehicles to minimize downtime and maintain reliable performance on the road.
Here are the key steps to prepare your truck for the season ahead, featuring quality parts from Road Choice to keep you moving safely all season.
Check and Maintain Your Battery
Cold weather reduces battery efficiency, making it harder to start your truck. Inspect the battery for wear, corrosion, and make sure it’ll hold a strong charge. If it’s over three years old, consider a high-performance replacement from Road Choice for dependable starts even in harsh winter temperatures.
Ensure Proper Coolant Levels
Coolant is essential in winter to prevent engine freezing. Check your coolant level and top off with a winter-grade coolant suited for lower temperatures. Road Choice’s premium coolants are engineered to provide efficient heat transfer and corrosion protection, ensuring your engine runs smoothly all season long.
Inspect and Replace Brakes
Winter roads demand responsive, reliable brakes. Check brake pads, rotors, drums, and fluid levels, and replace worn components with quality Road Choice brake parts. Well-maintained brakes ensure safety and improve performance on icy and snowy roads.
Examine Hoses and Belts
Cold can make hoses and belts brittle, increasing the risk of cracks or leaks. Check these parts for wear or fraying and replace any compromised pieces with durable Road Choice options, where applicable, to prevent unexpected breakdowns.
Upgrade Wiper Blades for Winter Weather
Clear visibility is critical for safe driving. Inspect your wiper blades and consider upgrading to winter-ready blades designed to handle snow, ice, and slush.
Road Choice wiper blades provide the visibility you need to stay safe on the road in adverse weather.
Add Moose Guards for Extra Impact Protection
Road Choice’s new Moose Guards Program can help safeguard your truck against seasonal impacts of all kinds. Custom-fitted for your vehicle, these bumpers are made from reinforced steel to protect your headlights and engine––and avoid debilitating damage.
More Tips for Winter-Ready Driving
- Switch to Winter-Grade Tires: Cold-weather tires improve traction and control on icy roads.
- Stock Up on Essentials: An emergency kit with blankets, a flashlight, a first-aid kit, and snacks is a smart addition to your truck.
- Monitor Tire Pressure: Cold weather reduces tire pressure, so check regularly.
- Lubricate Moving Parts: Hinges, latches, and other moving parts can freeze, so keep them lubricated.
- Keep Your Fuel Tank Full: Avoid fuel line freeze-up by keeping the tank at least half full.
We’ll Help Keep Your Truck Winter-Ready
Winterizing your truck is essential for safe, efficient driving during the cold months. From coolant checks to installing a Moose Guard, each step helps you stay safe, productive, and ready for whatever winter throws your way. Follow this winter checklist, use high-quality parts from Road Choice, and get ready to tackle the season with confidence!
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Road Choice offers a comprehensive selection of high-quality batteries, fluids, wipers, brake components and replacement parts for year-round driving. For more information or to schedule a service appointment, call the experts at your nearest Road Choice retailer. You can also order fan clutches online, anytime through PartsASIST™ delivered directly to your doorstep or available at parts pick up.