If you want to keep trucks on the road and your bottom line in check, then proactive maintenance isn’t optional—it’s essential. After a long winter battling harsh weather, corrosive road treatments, and fluctuating temperatures, spring is the perfect time to inspect, clean, and service your fleet. A $300 fix today can prevent a $3,000 breakdown tomorrow.
Spring Maintenance Must-Do’s
Winter weather takes a toll on your trucks, and as temperatures shift, the strain on your equipment changes. Cooling systems, HVAC, and corrosion protection all require attention before summer heat ramps up. Here’s where to focus:
1. Cooling System Check
Moving from cold winter air to rising spring and summer temperatures means your cooling system has to work harder. Now is the time to:
• Inspect and replace worn belts and hoses
• Check belt tensioners for proper function
• Flush radiators to clear out salt and debris
• Ensure coolant levels and quality meet manufacturer specifications
Ignoring these small details can lead to overheating, downtime, and potential costly emergency repairs.
2. HVAC System Inspection
Your HVAC system isn’t just about driver comfort—it’s a key part of maintaining a safe, productive fleet. As winter ends, check for:
• Dirty or clogged cabin air filters, especially in dusty or high-debris environments
• Leaks in the A/C system, indicated by oil and dirt buildup on lines
• A clear condenser, free of dirt and road debris
A simple cabin air filter replacement can improve air quality and prevent system inefficiencies that lead to expensive failures down the road.
3. Corrosion Prevention
If your trucks run through salt and brine-treated roads, corrosion is a major enemy. Combat it with regular washing—especially after winter storms—to prevent long-term structural damage. Some fleets utilize oil-based undercoating to create a barrier against corrosive chemicals, reducing wear on axles and other key components.
4. Don’t Push Preventive Maintenance Intervals
With rising costs and parts availability concerns, some fleets are tempted to push out PM schedules—but this is a gamble that rarely pays off. Regular maintenance:
• Catches minor issues before they turn into major repairs
• Prevents unexpected breakdowns and costly roadside service calls
• Helps avoid DOT violations that could put your truck out of service
Stretching intervals too far can turn a routine repair into a multi-thousand-dollar problem that sidelines your truck when you need it most.
5. Prepare for International Roadcheck
Every year, hundreds of trucks are placed out of service during the International Road Check due to violations that could have been prevented with regular maintenance. Brake wear, tire condition, and air leaks are common issues that inspectors flag. Getting ahead of these problems through scheduled PMs and pre-trip inspections keeps your fleet moving without interruption. For more information on the International Roadcheck you can visit the CVSA website.
Keep Uptime a Priority
Preventive maintenance isn’t just about avoiding breakdowns—it’s about ensuring efficiency, safety, and profitability. As spring approaches, take the time to give your fleet a thorough inspection. Your future self—and your budget—will thank you.
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