Expedited Trucking and Courier Vehicles Rely on Excellent Maintenance

When it comes to meeting our customers’ demands and needs we need to get on the road and sometimes that means driving in harsh conditions. We rely on our vehicles to keep our drivers safe and to get the job done. This requires that we keep all vehicles in tip-top shape with excellent maintenance routines at all times.

Summer and Winter are radically different in temperature and travel conditions, and each season requires different maintenance routines for our trucks and vehicles. As we prepared for this winter, we thought we would share with you some ideas to keep you safe on the road this winter no matter what may come.

While we are only too happy to offer some tips, we strongly recommend that before servicing your car yourself that you first check your owner’s manual as not all vehicles are the same. And we also recommend that you schedule an appointment at your dealership where they are familiar with your make and model to winterize your vehicles. Our maintenance suggestions are general recommendations and may not be right for your particular vehicle.

Stock Your Trunk:
Winter weather can throw some surprises that could get you stuck or leave you stranded. Now is a good time to take stock of what’s in your trunk and restock it so you are prepared for any situation that could leave you and your family out in the cold. Here is a list of things we recommend having in your trunk this winter:

• Snow chains, shovel and jumper cables
• Flares and reflective triangles
• Blankets, boots, mittens, socks and hats
• Tool kit, ice scraper and snow brush
• Wind up or battery radio
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Engine oil, washer fluid and some extra coolant
• Road map and compass
• Nonperishable, high energy snacks such as energy bars
• Drinks such as bottled water or drinks with electrolytes
• First Aid Kit – check to make sure it is stocked and not out of date
• The following are several important maintenance steps to help insure trouble-free driving:
  
  Windshield:
  I bet you’ve driven behind another car or truck when the roads are all slushy and experienced the coating that gets flung on your windshield. To keep you and your loved ones safe, make sure that you have ample washer fluid mixed with some antifreeze so that it is at the ready when you need.

  If you’ve been putting off fixing your windshield if it has some cracks or dings, just know that the freezing cold can make a little crack much larger. It is a good idea to check your windshield for any cracks or holes created by flying debris.

  Tires:
  IF you don’t have all season tires on your vehicle, you’ll want to change all 4 tires to snow tires about now. And while you have tires on your mind, it is a good time to double check your spare tire!

  And Don’t Forget about Your Engine:
  Your engine is the heart of your vehicle and winterizing the engine to manufacture’s specifications provides ideal protection and performance during winter months. Things to consider are that are cold weather related are that engines typically require a thinner and less viscous oil such as a 5W-30. Regardless of which oil is best for your vehicle, it is probably a good time to schedule an oil change.

  While you’re getting that oil change done, have your engine coolant winterized as well. Depending on your make and model, you’ll want to find out what ratio of coolant to water will work best. And don’t forget your battery fluids and overall health. Batteries are challenged during the winter months and so cleaning the battery cables and terminals before they freeze up is a good idea, and check the battery fluid.

  We hope that you find this checklist helpful.
  Safe Driving!