How to Prepare your Fleet for Winter 

Weather conditions may pose serious risks for your fleet which is why it is critical to get ready for possible emergencies with all the resources at your disposal. Vehicle tracking is a great way to ensure that drivers remain connected to fleet managers 24/7 to deal with unexpected circumstances they may face on the road. Drivers must have their smartphones with them at all times and they must be fully charged before departure. Their training should include protocols for tackling emergencies and high responsiveness for constant updates.   

Ensure good visibility 

Always clean ice, snow and debris off your vehicle’s windows, mirrors and plates. If your driver is travelling during snowfall they should clean these areas regularly. It is important to replace the blades of windscreen wipers annually and choose the type based on the amount of snowfall your region experiences. In order to protect your fleet from accidents make sure the lights are 100% operational at all times.

Regular tyre checks 

Regardless of the weather, your vehicle’s tyres must always be inflated to the correct level before departure. Switch to winter tyres that are excellent for driving on snowy or icy roads. Since you require more friction when the temperature drops, winter tyres offer better traction to prevent the tyres from slipping at high speed. Most importantly, the driver has to be trained on how to handle the vehicle in such weather. 

Engine requirements 

Make sure that all the necessary fluids are in good condition and the viscosity of the engine oil is suitable for the cold season. Monitor the state of sparkplugs to prevent issues related to ignition and take care of engine temperature through heating devices. Fuel level should be kept at least half to avoid freezing and the fuel’s composition must be assessed for suitability according to the weather. 

Battery maintenance 

Stay on the lookout for indications that the battery has become weak including motor noise during ignition, lights become dim or the engine going idle. Never compromise on the quality of your vehicle’s battery and keep a spare one if possible. All connections must be secure before the vehicle leaves your parking area and the battery must be thoroughly cleaned by an expert on a regular basis.

Brake function 

When you get your vehicle serviced you must remind the experts to replace brake fluid every two to three years depending on mileage. The brake pads must function perfectly and not make any noise when pressed. Keep your dir dryer well maintained to avoid moisture from freezing in the air channels which can lead to brake failure. 

Smart route planning 

Vehicle tracking combines several elements that raise your overall efficiency and safety standards. Fleet managers have access to data about previous journeys and driver performances allowing them to make informed decisions. They can plan routes based on traffic updates and news on blocked roads. GPS tracking software provides a dashboard to monitor vehicle location and engine status in real-time. This saves time and energy while ensuring safety.