When winter hits, there are many things business owners need to consider, ranging from preventative measures against slips, trips, and falls to safety measures while driving. Winter driving presents hazards every year for commercial drivers such as decreased starting and stopping abilities, poor traction, slippery roads, reduced ability to stop, and reduced visibility (both to see and be seen). That’s why it’s especially important to make sure that every vehicle in your fleet is properly inspected and serviced before temperatures drop.
Fleets should take extra precautions to keep vehicles running efficiently in extreme winter weather. Air systems, batteries, and electrical components, as well as fuel and diesel particulate systems, are just some of the items that require additional attention in pre-winter servicing. Newer vehicles with emission control systems or advanced sensors also require checks for proper calibration to avoid costly malfunctions.
To help, here are six things you can check on your vehicles before someone gets behind the wheel, as well as some things to avoid.
- Winterize your vehicles: Closely examine the tires, batteries, belts, hoses, anti-freeze, air systems, brakes, heater, and defroster as well as windshield wipers. Keep fuel tanks more than half full to prevent moisture problems and add weight. Also check block heaters, engine oil viscosity (use manufacturer-recommended winter grade), and air dryers to ensure no ice build-up. Replace worn or weak batteries early, as cold weather can reduce battery power by up to 50 per cent.
- Inspect fuel and fuel tanks: Fuel and fuel tanks require extra attention when snow and ice are present. Fuel tanks must vent to work properly, and if that vent becomes blocked with snow or ice, performance will suffer. Diesel fuel should be treated in winter months to prevent gelling. Check water separators and filters regularly to avoid freezing. Many modern diesel engines also require diesel exhaust fluid (DEF), which can freeze at -11°C. Store DEF properly and use insulated tanks or heaters where possible.
- Lights and markers: Make sure all the lights work and are clean. Carry a small spray bottle of windshield fluid and a rag to clean off headlights, taillights, and mirrors every time you stop. While every component of a pre-trip inspection is important, lights and markers deserve extra attention during winter’s long, dark days.
LED lights are especially common in fleets today, and though they’re more efficient, they don’t generate enough heat to melt snow and ice, so manual cleaning is still necessary. Ensure reflective tape and markings are visible at all times. - Tires: The traction between tires and the road determines how well a vehicle rides, stops, and turns, which is crucial to safe winter driving. When you expect heavy snow or icy roads, use chains when required or allowed by law. Businesses should train employees on how to install chains to tires. Check the tread depth and monitor tire pressure. As a rule, tire pressure drops 1p.s.i. for every 5°C drop in temperature but be sure to check manufacturer recommendations.
Inspect sidewalls for cracking, check alignment to avoid uneven wear, and ensure all tires are winter-rated or meet Transport Canada’s requirements for severe snow conditions. According to the Tire and Rubber Association of Canada, 76 per cent of Canadian drivers now use winter tires. Replace worn tires before they reach 4 mm tread depth for commercial use. - Regeneration and exhaust systems: Pay attention to exhaust aftertreatment systems in cold months. Heat is essential for them to work properly, and it is sometimes hard for systems to reach the necessary temperatures. Encourage drivers to complete full regeneration cycles before shutting off the engine, especially after short trips. Incomplete cycles can lead to soot buildup, reduced performance, and costly repairs.
- Cold soaks: Avoid leaving a vehicle idle and shut down for more than a day in extreme cold weather. When the engine block and fluids drop to ambient temperature, a cold start can cause a tremendous amount of wear and tear. Use block heaters or engine pre-heaters as required.
Cold-soaked vehicles can take 30-60 minutes longer to reach normal operating temperature, increasing fuel consumption and engine stress. Encourage drivers to plug in equipment whenever possible and store vehicles indoors if space allows. In February 2025, nearly half of the Toronto city’s snow-removal equipment was unavailable during a storm due to maintenance issue, showing the importance of regular upkeep.
Protect your fleet and your business with insurance
Failure to prepare vehicle equipment for winter may leave you stranded on the side of the road. Extra care during pre-trip inspections and ongoing winter maintenance can help prevent costly delays and keep your operations running smoothly. To learn more about how a tailored policy can help protect you, your employees, and your bottom line, visit our Transportation & Logistics Services Insurance page today!
