Winter Prep For Your Commercial Fleet As winter approaches, it’s crucial to ensure your commercial fleet is prepared for the challenges that come with colder weather, icy roads, and reduced daylight. Proper preparation can help prevent costly breakdowns, improve safety, and keep your vehicles running smoothly throughout the season.
At Hammonds Commercials , this month’s blog gives you a guide to help get your fleet ready for winter. For more information, don’t hesitate to call us in West Sussex 01903 719 128 .
Check Your Tyres Tyres are your first line of defence against icy and wet roads. Ensuring they are in top condition is essential for safe driving in winter. Start by checking the tread depth—UK law requires a minimum of 1.6mm, but for better grip in winter conditions, 3mm is recommended. Tyre pressure should also be monitored regularly, as cold temperatures can cause it to drop, affecting handling and fuel efficiency.
Consider switching to winter tyres, which are designed to provide better traction on snow and ice. These tyres are made from a softer rubber compound that remains flexible in lower temperatures, offering improved performance in harsh conditions.
Inspect the Battery Cold weather can take a toll on your vehicle’s battery, making it harder to start the engine. Ensure your fleet’s batteries are in good health by checking the voltage, cleaning the terminals, and ensuring all connections are secure. If any batteries are old or struggling to hold a charge, it’s best to replace them before the cold sets in.
A proactive battery check can prevent the inconvenience of vehicles failing to start on freezing mornings, which can lead to costly delays and lost productivity.
Maintain Fluid Levels During winter, it’s important to keep a close eye on the levels of key fluids in your vehicles. Antifreeze, in particular, is vital for preventing your engine from freezing. Ensure that the antifreeze level is correct and that the concentration is adequate for freezing temperatures.
Windshield washer fluid should also be filled with a solution that won’t freeze in colder conditions. Regular engine oil checks are equally important, as oil tends to thicken in the cold, potentially reducing lubrication. Consider using a winter-grade oil that flows better at lower temperatures to keep engines running smoothly.
Check Your Brakes Safe braking is critical in winter, especially when roads are icy or wet. Ensure that your brakes are in optimal condition by inspecting the pads, discs, and fluid levels. Pay attention to any signs of wear or damage, such as unusual noises or reduced responsiveness.
If any issues are detected, address them immediately. Well-maintained brakes can make all the difference in emergency situations, where stopping distance is increased on slippery roads.
Test The Heating And Defrosting Systems A properly functioning heating and defrosting system is essential for both driver comfort and safety. Before winter begins, test the heater to ensure it can maintain a warm cabin temperature during long journeys. Additionally, the defroster should be able to clear windows quickly and efficiently to provide maximum visibility.
Don’t forget to check the condition of your vehicle’s wiper blades, as they tend to wear out faster during winter. Ensure they are in good shape and replace them if necessary to keep windscreens clear of snow and rain.
Monitor Weather Conditions Encouraging your drivers to monitor weather forecasts before heading out can help them prepare for hazardous conditions. Equip your fleet with GPS and weather tracking technology to provide real-time updates on road conditions. Adjust routes if necessary to avoid areas heavily affected by snow or ice.
Providing drivers with clear guidelines on how to handle icy roads, such as driving slowly and avoiding sharp braking, can reduce accidents and keep your vehicles on the road safely.
Contact Hammonds Commercials For more information about our services, contact Hammonds Commercials in West Sussex. Call us on 01903 719 128 . You can also send us a message via our contact form and we’ll be in touch.
