During the winter, operating fluids in vehicles, including trucks, require special attention. Low temperatures can affect their properties and, in extreme cases, lead to damage to key vehicle systems. To avoid problems with operating fluids in winter, it is important to prepare them properly, check them regularly and use the right products adapted to low temperatures.
In winter, each of the operating fluids plays an invaluable role in ensuring safe driving and good technical condition of the vehicle. Here are the most important fluids that are worth checking and replacing before winter arrives:
Coolant
Coolant plays a vital role in maintaining the optimum engine temperature, especially during the winter when low temperatures can lead to freezing. Winter coolant should be adapted to extreme conditions, providing protection against freezing of the engine. It is important to remember that used or frozen coolant can lead to serious engine damage, so it is important to regularly top up fluids before the winter season.
Engine oil
In winter, lower viscosity oils are better because they make it easier to start the engine in difficult conditions. High-quality engine oil provides better lubrication, reduces friction and improves the overall engine efficiency, which is crucial at low temperatures. It is therefore worth considering changing the oil to the right type before the winter season.
Windshield washer fluid
Windshield washer fluid that does not contain the appropriate antifreeze additives can freeze at temperatures below 5°C, which leads to the washer system becoming blocked. Winter washer fluid containing ethyl alcohol prevents this problem, ensuring that the system works properly even in severe frosts.
To ensure that your fluids perform optimally in winter conditions, it is worth following a few simple rules:
Regularly check fluid levels
Before each winter season, it is worth checking the level of coolant, brake fluids and other operating fluids. You should also make sure that these fluids are of the right quality and do not require replacement.
Changing fluids to winter ones
In the case of fluids such as windshield washer fluid or coolant, it is worth replacing the summer version with a winter one. Summer fluids can freeze at low temperatures, leading to problems with car systems.
Using the right fuel additives
Winter fuel additives can improve engine performance in severe conditions by preventing fuel from freezing and water from forming in the fuel system. They will help your engine run smoother, even in very cold temperatures.
Proper storage of fluids
Operating fluids that are stored in vehicles should be protected from frost. If the car is not used for a long time, it is worth storing fluids in a warmer place to prevent them from freezing.
In winter, not taking proper care of fluids can lead to many problems. The most common are:
Fluid freezing – improperly selected fluids may freeze at low temperatures, leading to blockage of systems such as windshield washers, radiators or brake systems;
Reduced brake efficiency – water absorption by the brake fluid can reduce its efficiency, which is particularly dangerous in winter, when road conditions are difficult;
Engine starting problems – engine oil that is too thick or the wrong type of coolant can make it difficult to start the engine at low temperatures.
We encourage you to familiarize yourself with our offer of winter operating fluids for trucks and cars, which are adapted to the most difficult conditions. You will find a wide range of products, including parts for trucks and oils and fluids for trucks . We also offer TotalEnergies brand products, which are characterized by high quality and reliability even in extreme winter conditions.
