Prepare for Summer with these Truck Maintenance & Safety Tips

With the frigid winter conditions finally behind us, it’s time to prepare for the warmer days ahead. While winter driving can be tough, summer driving comes with its own challenges - heavier traffic, an influx of tourists, construction, more wildlife and drivers being generally less cautious on the road. At Brandt, we want to shed light on truck and driver safety this season. Stay safe on the road with the following tips:
 

Truck Summer Maintenance 

After months of ice, snow and extreme cold, trucks need extra care and attention. When you bring your truck in for servicing, a technician will check for any leaks, damages, fluid top-ups, or other issues requiring repair. Be sure to inspect the following components regularly as the summer heat blazes on.

• Tires and tire pressure - Inspect your tires for wear and check the tire pressure regularly. Heat increases air pressure, which can wear the rubber down more quickly. 
• Air conditioner - Be sure to test your air conditioner, especially if you’re preparing for a lengthy trip. Test for any leaks in the hoses and pay attention to any strange noises. Have any damage repaired, no matter how small. During a hot summer day on the highway, the last thing you want to deal with is an air conditioner that has stopped working - not just for your comfort but for your safety with the risk of heatstroke and fatigue. 
• Brakes - Be extra attentive during your regular brake checks. Temperature changes can wear down the pads, linings, and hoses quicker and cause brake failure. 
• Fluid levels - Fluid level checks are typically a part of your pre- and post-trip inspections. Pay extra attention to your windshield washer and coolant fluid during the summer. Drivers tend to use more windshield washer fluid in the summer because of insects and construction debris. Store extra windshield washer fluid in your truck and check levels at rest areas. Inspect coolant levels and any leaks in the hose. 
• Battery - While cold-weather start-ups can be tough on batteries, the summer heat can be just as hard. Excessive heat exposure can cause batteries to fail, highlighting the importance of regularly checking the battery’s charge. 

 

Safety Tips for Summer Driving

As crucial as it is to get your truck ready for the summer heat, road safety lies in the hands of the driver. It’s just as important to prepare yourself for summer driving with the following tips.

• Drink water and wear lighter clothing - Prevent heat exhaustion by staying hydrated and wearing breathable clothing. Be aware of dehydration and heatstroke symptoms, including nausea, dizziness/fainting, confusion, excessive sweating, clammy skin, fatigue, and decreased alertness.
• Invest in a good pair of sunglasses - This is a must for all truck drivers and is not limited to only summer days. Light bouncing off pavement and snow is tough on our eyes and can cause irreversible damage. Always wear sunglasses that provide 100% UV protection to reduce your risk of UV-related diseases. 
• Be aware of construction zones - Summer is construction season. Familiarize yourself with any construction zones, slow down and account for any delays due to construction. 
• Adjust to heavier traffic - With more vacationers on the road, be extra attentive on highways, main arteries and busy intersections. Check for smaller sports cars and motorcycles and slow down in areas where animals frequently cross.
• Prepare an emergency kit - Be prepared for emergencies. Whether it’s an unexpected change in driving conditions or mechanical problems, anything can happen on your journey. Having an emergency kit prepared can keep you comfortable while you wait for assistance. Pack extra clothes, cash, a few days’ worth of food and water, a flashlight, blankets, a toolbox, an extra cellphone charger and flares. Save Brandt’s 24/7 emergency repair line in case you run into issues on your trip.

Our highly-skilled and experienced team will perform truck servicing no matter the make or model and regular maintenance inspections to optimize your truck. Contact your local Brandt Truck & Trailer dealership today to book an inspection or service.