While Australia’s moderate temperature means we don’t have to worry about a full winter prep for vehicles, like European countries or New Zealand do, it’s the changing weather conditions that can make typical year-round challenges more noticeable.
We’ve put together a guide on preventing and minimising problems, along with key things to monitor, ensuring you and your truck are good-to-go.
Monitor Tyre Pressures
Incorrect tyre inflation can cause them to wear faster, affect fuel consumption and compromise handling. Ensure you monitor tyre pressures, adjusting accordingly to manufacturer specifications to to keep wear and fuel consumption to a minimum, and maximise safety.
Check Your Battery
Check your batteries regularly. They will be in need of extra attention if you are driving through the southern regions during winter where temperatures can drop to zero.
First Aid Kits and Emergency Supplies
Breakdowns in summer are inconvenient and in winter they can be fairly uncomfortable. Knowing where you are heading can help you prep better before leaving. For warmer regions ensure you have an ample supply of fluids for hydration, and adequate shade should you leave your vehicle.
For the southern regions, shovels (in snowy and boggy regions), flashlights, warm clothing, along with food, water, and a thermos, can make a real difference.
Ensure first aid kits are replenished and safety reflector triangles are in good shape.
Increase Visibility
When driving in less than favourable conditions, it’s important to ensure you have the best visibility possible. Make sure windshields are clean and in good condition, and wiper blades are regularly checked, and replaced, as required. Check washer fluid quality and levels for added safety.
Make Sure Lights Are Undamaged
Ensure your lights are working correctly and faulty globes are replaced, especially in winter when the days are shorter and night sets in early.
Reflectors need to be damage-free and clean to maximise your safety, and that of other drivers.
Check Cooling Systems
Check for potential failures (radiator, belts, and hoses) and ensure your coolant is suited for the regions you are travelling to or through.
Having fresh coolant in your cooling system helps ensure your vehicle’s longevity. When booking in your truck for its next service, request a cooling system flush. This will:
- Remove any built-up oil deposits, scale, and rust from your cooling system
- Protects your engine from boiling over in summer
- Protects your engine from freezing in winter (if you’re in a region where temperatures drop below zero)
- Enhances the longevity of your cooling system by preventing corrosion and rust.
- Ensures you have fresh coolant in your system
While Australia’s climate is moderate, and the likelihood of your engine freezing up is next to nil, you shouldn’t neglect your cooling system. Especially if you need to drive through the southern regions where temperatures can reach (and exceed) freezing.
Familiarise Yourself with ABS & VSC
With the changing weather, tougher road conditions mean it’s important to know the features in place that makes your driving safer. Familiarise yourself with how the Anti-lock Braking System works, along with the attributes and advantages of Vehicle Stability Control.
Slow Down. Save Lives.
Speed limits should be followed at all times, especially on wet roads or when visibility is poor. A 'drive to survive' mentality is essential for all drivers.
Schedule Regular Servicing
With weather conditions running amok in the winter months, scheduling your vehicle for a regular service is the perfect way to identify the above issues before they become a problem. Making sure your truck performs at its best at all times.
