As Southern Alberta’s winters settle in, fleet operators can begin to experience how the cold brings its own challenges. Problems like frozen starts, thickened fuel, icy tires, and cabin systems under strain can plague vehicles across Alberta. At Peterbilt Southern Alberta, our service department is ready to support you through the season with factory-trained technicians, support, and parts you can trust. Below are some practical maintenance tips, tricks, and advice to help keep your trucks running reliably through those harsh months.
Cold Starts: Preparations That Make a Difference
One of the most common issues fleets can face when the winter comes is cold starts. Engines can very much struggle to turn over when oil is thick or batteries are weakened. To mitigate this, there are a couple of things you could try. Firstly, use engine block heaters or battery warmers to keep oil and battery at a usable temperature before ignition. Along with this, be sure to check battery health early in the season. This could show if there is any corrosion, weak charge, or aged cells that could worsen when cold. Finally, make sure that belts, hoses, and electrical connections are in good condition or replaced so that the cold will not stress weak components further.
These checks are part of the preventative maintenance services we offer to all makes and models.
Fuel System Care: Cold Weather Strategies
Fuel has a tendency to become closer to a gel or wax rather than liquid in low temperatures. Running inefficient or contaminated fuel in winter can lead to blocked filters and poor engine performance. To fight this, there are a few things you could do. For starters, use winterized diesel blends or proper additives rated for Alberta winter conditions. This can reduce the risk of the fuel becoming a bit thicker in the first place. Be sure as well to replace fuel filters before the cold arrives so that suddenly clogged filters won’t immediately become emergencies mid-winter. Finally, keep your tanks topped up to reduce condensation and risk of water freezing in lines easily.
At Peterbilt, we support diagnostics and repairs, including engine and fuel system issues. We can help you fix any of these problems if they occur.
Tires & Traction: Grip Matters
Tire performance and traction are critical things to try and manage in icy, snowy conditions. For optimal winter readiness, there are a few ideas you can try. First, check tire tread depth and inspect for uneven wear or damage. Are new tires needed? Be sure to monitor and adjust tire pressure daily, as cold temps lower PSI, so underinflated tires reduce traction and increase wear. Finally, when needed, you should use chains or traction devices only where legally necessary and safe, and ensure proper mounting.
Maintaining tires isn’t listed as a separate service, but it falls under the broader preventative care we perform to keep your fleet safe and roadworthy.
Heating & Cabin Comfort Systems
Drivers depend on heat for comfort and at times survival on long trips. Defrosting windows can be quite essential for safety on the road. Cold can reveal weak heater cores, blocked vents, or underperforming defrosters. To ensure your cabins stay warm and safe, you can start by testing the heating systems before winter sets in to verify that your heater core, blower motor, and venting are working as they should be. Make sure to clear cabin air filters and vents to maximize airflow and avoid frost build-up. Lastly, inspect windshield sealings and wipers. The cold can cause brittle rubber parts to fail and crack, leading to leaked heat or an inability to properly clear the windows of debris.
At Peterbilt Southern Alberta, we strive for excellence, and would be more than happy to help you fix any of these problems if you find them. We have a wide range of parts available in our inventory from many manufacturers. We can find what you need, and get you back on the road in no time.
Final Thoughts
Cold climates reveal flaws in neglected systems fast. By giving extra attention to cold starts, fuel system prep, tire performance, and your truck’s heating systems, you significantly reduce risk of downtime. And when issues do arise, Peterbilt Southern Alberta has your back with a robust service network, mobile support, and trustworthy parts to keep your fleet rolling through winter.
If your fleet is heading into winter without a solid maintenance plan, reach out to one of our branches now to schedule your preventative service or set up mobile support. Let’s make sure your trucks are fully winter ready.