Antifreeze and Other Essential Fleet Fluids to Stock Up on for Winter

Winter is approaching, and if you’re managing a large fleet of trucks, you need to prepare your vehicles to handle the cold temperatures, icy roads, and frequent moments of low visibility. Along with maintenance checks and part replacements, you also need to prepare by stocking up on essential fluids that can help your trucks operate smoothly and safely in winter. 
Here are the top five fluids that you may want to buy in bulk now so you’re ready when the snow starts flying. Remember, you never pay delivery fees when you purchase directly from Keller-Heartt. 

Resource: Winter Car Care Products

Antifreeze

Topping off your engines with the right antifreeze (coolant) is critical to keep them from freezing up. While most trucks use a 50:50 mixture of antifreeze and water, you may need to adjust the ratio to 70:30 if temperatures dip below −34 degrees Fahrenheit. Make sure to use the right type of antifreeze for your engines, whether that’s ethylene glycol or propylene glycol.

Resource: Selecting the Right Extended-Life Coolant

Lower-Viscosity Oil

Lower-viscosity oil is thinner oil that flows more easily in cold weather, reducing engine wear and tear and improving fuel efficiency. In winter, you may want to switch to a lower-viscosity oil grade, such as 5W-30 or 0W-20, instead of using the standard 10W-30 or 20W-50. This change ensures that oil reaches the engine parts faster, reducing starting time and resistance.

Resource: Cross-Reference Guide for Popular Motor Oil Brands

Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF)

Diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) is a nontoxic, colorless liquid that consists of pure urea and water. It’s used to control the emission of nitrogen oxides (NOx) from diesel engines, which are a primary air pollutant responsible for smog and acid rain. DEF is injected in the exhaust system, where it breaks down into ammonia and combines with NOx to produce harmless water and nitrogen. In winter, DEF can freeze if left exposed to cold temperatures, so make sure to stock up on DEF that’s properly labeled and stored.

Resource: Best Practices for Storing DEF

Wiper Fluid

Wiper fluid is essential in winter to remove snow, ice, and dirt from the windshield and improve visibility. While you may use regular wiper fluid in moderate temperatures, you need to switch to winter-grade wiper fluid if you operate in colder areas. Winter-grade wiper fluid contains alcohol, which prevents it from freezing and damaging the system. Similarly, make sure to check your wiper blades and replace them if they’re worn out or damaged.

Brake Fluid

Hydraulic brake fluid transfers pressure from the brake pedal to the brake pads, enabling the truck to stop safely. In winter, brake fluid can become contaminated with moisture, reducing its boiling point and increasing the risk of brake failure. To prevent this, you should change the brake fluid every two years or as recommended by the manufacturer. Make sure to use the right type of brake fluid for your trucks, whether it’s DOT 3, DOT 4, or DOT 5.

Don’t wait until the last minute to order these fluids, as cold weather can strike unexpectedly. Instead, plan ahead and overcome the winter challenges with confidence. If you have questions about best practices for winter vehicle care, reach out to the experts at Keller-Heartt.