Is Your Fleet Ready for Winter? Here’s How to Prepare Before the Freeze Sets In

Winter may not officially start for a few more weeks, but for anyone running diesel-powered trucks, the season's first cold snap can arrive faster than expected. To better understand how fleets are getting ready, we recently ran a LinkedIn poll asking, "Is your fleet prepared for winter?"

The results were telling. Half of the respondents said their companies have a documented and enforced winterization program. The other half reported a reactive approach, preparing their trucks as needed when cold weather hits. Notably, no one indicated that their program is informal, relying solely on supplier advice, or that they have no policy in place. This even split highlights a key reality in the industry: while half of fleets are proactively managing winter risks, the other half are still taking action only when problems arise. The absence of informal or non-existent programs suggests that awareness of winter risks is high, but approaches to mitigation vary widely.

What Happens to Diesel in the Cold?

When temperatures drop, it's not just the driver who feels the chill. Your truck's fuel, filters, tires, and even battery face extra stress. A little preparation now can prevent costly downtime and frustrating roadside breakdowns later.

As diesel fuel cools, the paraffin wax molecules inside begin to crystallize. This process turns clear fuel cloudy, known as the cloud point. Drop a few more degrees, and those wax crystals start clumping together, clogging filters and restricting flow; that's the Cold Filter Plug Point (CFPP).

The result? Hard starts, power loss, and stalled engines. That's why the type and quality of diesel you're using, and how you treat it, matters more in winter than at any other time of year.

Should You Use Diesel Fuel Additives in the Winter?

Short answer: yes. Some additives are designed to prevent fuel gelling, while others go further, improving lubricity, enhancing fuel economy, and cleaning the system. A high-quality winter additive can lower the fuel's pour point (the temperature at which it stops flowing), ensuring it remains liquid even in sub-zero weather.

Think of it as giving your truck's fuel system an extra layer of protection. And if your truck ever gels up completely? An emergency-use de-gelling additive can re-liquefy the fuel and get you moving again.

Inspect Your Battery

Few things are more frustrating than a truck that won't start on a cold morning. Freezing temperatures drain battery power fast, and older batteries may not hold a charge long enough to crank a diesel engine.

Before the deep freeze sets in, check your battery's charge level and make sure the terminals are clean and corrosion-free. If your battery is more than a few years old, replacing it now could save you from a tow later.

Monitor Tires

Tires are the only thing between your truck and the ice. As temperatures fall, tire pressure drops too, about 2 to 3 psi for every 10°F decrease. Underinflated tires reduce traction and fuel efficiency, while worn treads make braking hazardous.

Check the tread depth regularly to ensure even wear, and carry snow chains in case of unexpected weather. It's not just about compliance, it's about control.

Stay on Top of Engine Health

Engines work harder in extreme weather, making it essential to monitor oil and fluid levels regularly. Coolant, antifreeze, and transmission fluids help prevent systems from freezing or overheating. Understanding the role of lubricants and their viscosity rating is also key. Since oil thickens in low temperatures, selecting the right grade for seasonal conditions is crucial to protecting your engine.

Having a reliable lubrication program in place ensures consistent performance and prevents costly wear and tear. Mansfield Service Partners offers comprehensive lubrication solutions to maintain optimal protection and keep your fleet running efficiently throughout the year.

Stay Ahead, Stay Safe

Winter driving doesn't have to mean constant headaches and breakdowns. Most cold-weather issues, from gelling fuel to dead batteries, can be prevented with proper maintenance and planning.

Mansfield offers extensive coverage and has a proven track record of delivering effective solutions for businesses facing winter fueling challenges.

By working closely with Mansfield, you can benefit from our industry expertise, cutting-edge additives like ColdPro, and a commitment to delivering the solutions you need to keep your operations running smoothly, even in the harshest winter conditions. With Mansfield, you can navigate the complexities of winter-fueling with confidence and peace of mind. Contact us today!