For truckers and fleet managers, shifting seasons in Alberta bring more than just a change in temperature—they bring a whole new set of challenges for your heavy-duty trucks. The last thing you want is to be stranded in the middle of a job because your engine froze overnight or your brakes failed in the summer heat.
At Get ‘R Done Truck Repair, we’ve seen it all: frozen fuel lines in winter, overheating engines in summer, and everything in between. That’s why a solid seasonal fleet maintenance plan is crucial to keep your trucks running efficiently and avoid unexpected breakdowns.
Let’s dive into the must-know maintenance tasks for every season so you can stay ahead of problems before they hit.
Winter Fleet Maintenance: Braving the Cold
Winters in Alberta aren’t just cold—they can be brutal. When temperatures drop, truck components are pushed to their limits. Here’s how you can winter-proof your fleet:
1. Inspect and Protect the Battery
Cold weather can be a battery killer. Batteries lose about 30% of their power at 0°C, and even more in deep freezes.
✅ Test battery voltage before winter hits
✅ Keep terminals clean and corrosion-free
✅ Consider a battery blanket or trickle charger for extreme cold
💡 Pro Tip: A driver once told us about getting stranded with a dead battery in -30°C weather—turns out, it was an old battery that hadn’t been checked in years. A simple battery test could have saved him from that frozen nightmare!
2. Use the Right Engine Oil
Thick, summer-grade oil doesn’t flow well in cold temperatures, making cold starts harder.
✅ Switch to a lower-viscosity oil recommended for winter
✅ Check for manufacturer guidelines on cold-weather oil changes
3. Prevent Diesel Fuel Gelling
At freezing temperatures, diesel fuel thickens and clogs filters, leading to hard starts or no starts at all.
✅ Use winter-grade diesel or add anti-gel additives
✅ Keep tanks at least half full to prevent condensation
✅ Drain water separators frequently
4. Check Cooling and Heating Systems
You don’t want a frozen engine block or a driver shivering in the cab.
✅ Inspect radiator and coolant levels
✅ Ensure heater and defroster work properly
✅ Look for cracked hoses or leaks
5. Inspect Brakes and Tires
Snow and ice reduce traction, and worn-out brakes or tires make things worse.
✅ Use winter-rated tires with good tread
✅ Check air brakes for moisture buildup—it can freeze and cause failure
✅ Keep an eye on tire pressure, as it drops in cold weather
Spring Fleet Maintenance: The Thaw & Mud Season
Spring might seem like a relief after winter, but melting snow and fluctuating temperatures come with their own set of challenges.
1. Deep Clean the Undercarriage
Winter leaves behind road salt and grime, which can cause rust and corrosion.
✅ Power wash the chassis, axles, and suspension
✅ Check for rust and treat affected areas
✅ Inspect wiring and connectors for damage from salt exposure
2. Inspect Suspension and Alignment
After months of driving on icy, pothole-riddled roads, suspension components take a beating.
✅ Look for worn shocks and bushings
✅ Get an alignment check to prevent uneven tire wear
3. Check Fluids and Filters
Winter moisture can contaminate fluids and cause issues in the spring.
✅ Inspect engine oil, coolant, transmission, and differential fluids
✅ Change fuel and air filters clogged from winter dirt and debris
Summer Fleet Maintenance: Beating the Heat
Hot weather can be just as tough on your truck as freezing temperatures. Here’s how to avoid overheating and breakdowns:
1. Keep the Cooling System in Top Shape
Engines work harder in the heat, so a faulty cooling system can lead to catastrophic failures.
✅ Check for coolant leaks
✅ Flush and replace coolant if needed
✅ Inspect radiator fins for clogs or bent areas
2. Monitor Tire Pressure
Heat causes air to expand, leading to overinflated tires.
✅ Check tire pressure daily
✅ Rotate tires regularly to prevent uneven wear
💡 Fun Fact: A driver once shared that his truck’s tires burst mid-haul due to overinflation from summer heat. Now, he checks pressure before every trip!
3. Watch Out for Air Conditioning Issues
Drivers need working A/C to stay comfortable during long summer drives.
✅ Test the A/C system for leaks
✅ Ensure the blower motor and vents are working efficiently
Fall Fleet Maintenance: Prepping for Winter
Fall is all about getting ahead of winter problems. Here’s what to focus on:
1. Perform a Full Truck Inspection
✅ Check brake pads and rotors before icy roads arrive
✅ Inspect belts and hoses for wear and tear
✅ Test lights and replace any burned-out bulbs
2. Stock Up on Winter Supplies
Now’s the time to get ahead of winter shortages.
✅ Load up on diesel anti-gel additives
✅ Carry emergency supplies: extra fuel, blankets, jumper cables
3. Schedule Major Repairs
If you’ve been putting off engine work or transmission repairs, don’t wait until winter when breakdowns are more dangerous.
Final Thoughts: Stay Ahead with Seasonal Fleet Maintenance
Truck maintenance isn’t just about fixing problems—it’s about preventing them before they cost you time and money. Whether you’re battling Alberta’s cold winters or scorching summers, a solid seasonal fleet maintenance plan keeps your trucks running smoothly all year long.
At Get ‘R Done Truck Repair, we specialize in keeping your fleet road-ready through every season. Need a full winterization check or summer cooling system inspection? We’ve got you covered.
📅 Book your seasonal maintenance check today! Call us or visit our shop in Edmonton—we’ll make sure your trucks are ready for whatever the road throws at them.
Not what you were looking for? Here are some of Get ‘R Done’s services:
Commercial Vehicle Inspections (CVIP)
Get ‘R Done’s Top Resources for Fleet Maintenance:
Alberta Motor Association: Fleet Management
Alberta.ca: Safety and maintenance programs – Commercial carriers
City of Edmonton: Fleet and Facility Services
