As the days get shorter and temperatures start to plummet, knowing that you can rely on your pickup to start each morning is paramount. There are many things you can start doing now to get ready for those frosty nights and frozen mornings. Here are four tips for how to prepare your truck for winter.
Check the Battery
One of the first things to malfunction on a vehicle every winter is the battery, and pickup trucks are no exception. Take your battery to get tested before the weather starts to turn. Make sure the battery still has a good charge. Those wishing to be especially prepared might keep a backup battery around.
Keep Tires Inflated
Maintaining a grip on the icy roads is crucial to staying safe this winter. Always make sure your tires are inflated to the proper PSI. You should also be sure to have your tires rotated when getting your oil changed. This will ensure they wear down at roughly equal intervals. If you do suspect that there is damage to one of your tires, pull off the road when safe and perform an inspection. Being safe is the most important thing during winter.
Keeping Cool Under the Hood
Another way to prepare your truck for winter is to check the vehicle’s fluid levels. Even in the dead of winter, engines still rely on coolant to keep turning. You should be sure to stock up on antifreeze for the same reason. You should also switch to a winter oil if your truck requires it. Even if it doesn’t, getting your oil changed at the beginning of winter can help get you through the cold season.
Tips for Diesels
There are a few extra steps to prepare diesel trucks for winter that can keep them moving all season long. If your vehicle requires it, you should add an anti-gelling agent to your fuel line. Diesel can start to gel at 32 degrees, which can become a big problem as winter wears on. You should check your engine to be sure everything is in good repair. Make sure you know how to recognize the symptoms of distress for your transmission, especially as it pertains to the input shaft bearing, as this can ruin your transmission at the worst possible time of the year.
