Ontario drivers know one thing for sure: our weather keeps us on our toes. From humid summer heat to icy winter roads, each season brings unique challenges for heavy trucks. Understanding how weather affects your truck’s performance is key to avoiding costly breakdowns, staying safe, and keeping deliveries on schedule.
Heavy Truck Performance in Ontario: Weather Challenges and Solutions
At Marshall Truck & Trailer Repair, we’ve seen firsthand how weather can take a toll on trucks. Here’s what Ontario drivers need to know – and how to adapt to keep your rig running smoothly all year long.
1. Cold Weather: Battery, Fluids & Starting Issues
Freezing temperatures can wreak havoc on batteries and engine fluids. Cold cranking amps drop, making it harder to start your truck. Diesel fuel can gel, and engine oil thickens, putting extra strain on components.
Tips to Adapt:
- Test your battery before winter to ensure it has enough power.
- Use winter-grade diesel fuel and anti-gel additives.
- Park in a heated space or use an engine block heater overnight when possible.
2. Hot Weather: Overheating & Tire Pressure
Summer heat stresses your cooling system, and tire blowouts are more common when pavement temperatures rise. Overheating can lead to expensive engine damage and unexpected roadside downtime.
Tips to Adapt:
- Check coolant levels and quality regularly.
- Inspect belts and hoses for cracks that could lead to cooling system failure.
- Monitor tire pressure – heat causes air inside tires to expand.
3. Rain & Thunderstorms: Reduced Visibility & Traction
Ontario’s rainy seasons can turn highways slick and dangerous, making stopping distances longer. Heavy rain can also impact electrical systems and visibility.
Tips to Adapt:
- Replace worn wiper blades and keep washer fluid topped up.
- Slow down on wet roads and increase following distance.
- Regularly inspect lights to ensure maximum visibility in poor weather.
4. Snow & Ice: Traction Challenges & Brake Stress
Snow and ice are a fact of life in Ontario, creating traction issues and putting extra strain on brakes as drivers rely on them more often.
Tips to Adapt:
- Invest in quality winter tires and ensure proper tread depth.
- Keep air tanks drained to avoid frozen brake lines.
- Reduce speed and brake gently to avoid skidding.
5. Seasonal Road Conditions: Salt, Debris & Corrosion
Ontario uses road salt heavily in winter, which can accelerate corrosion on your truck’s undercarriage and components. Spring and fall bring debris and potholes that can damage suspensions and alignments.
Tips to Adapt:
- Schedule regular undercarriage washes to remove salt and grime.
- Inspect suspension components after harsh winter seasons.
- Address small rust spots before they turn into major repairs.
Why Preventive Maintenance Matters
Ontario’s changing weather is tough on trucks – but with regular maintenance, you can stay ahead of the problems. We offer:
- Seasonal inspections to catch issues early.
- Engine diagnostics to prevent costly breakdowns.
- Cooling system and brake checks to keep you safe in any weather.
- Comprehensive fleet maintenance programs for consistent uptime.
Stay Road-Ready, No Matter the Forecast
Weather may be unpredictable, but your truck’s performance doesn’t have to be. By taking a proactive approach and working with a trusted repair partner, you can reduce downtime, avoid emergency repairs, and keep your business moving forward – rain, snow, or shine.