Every year, whether we like it or not, winter returns to rear its ugly head. Making sure your diesel is ready for the winter is one of the most important things you can do for your vehicle and for yourself. Not sure where to start? We’ll help you break down the key steps to keep your diesel running strong all winter
The Basics
- Check your Battery
- Making sure your battery is healthy is an essential step during the colder months. Colder weather takes more of a toll on your battery. While your vehicle is off use a voltmeter or multimeter to check the voltage. Typically below 12v is an indicator of a weak battery and it should be replaced.
- Check your Glow Plugs
- Most newer diesels will give you a check engine light when your plugs are bad. If you have an older diesel check your plugs using a multimeter and replace any failed glow plugs.
- Check your Tires
- Making sure your tires are properly inflated is essential. Low tire pressure gives you less traction when driving in slippery conditions. Additionally, your air pressure will drop naturally due to the cold environment. Recommended tire pressure is usually found inside the fuel door or inside the driver or passenger door.
- Check your Wipers
Preventative Tips
- Replace your Old Fuel Filter
- Clogged fuel filters are one of the biggest reasons for a no start in the winter. If you’re overdue, replace the filter now.
- Tip: Keep a spare in your trunk so you aren’t stuck at parts stores looking for your filter.
- Use a High Quality Diesel Fuel Additive
- Diesel fuel is already treated for the winter temperatures at the pump. But sometimes poor treatment or leftover summer fuel can be in the tank. High quality additives like Opti-Lube and Stanadyne will lower the gel temperature and increase the lubricity of your fuel.
- Tip: Keep a bottle of Opti-Lube Gel Melt handy in case of emergencies. It works even if your tank has completely gelled!
- Use a Plug In Heater
- Block heaters and coolant heaters warm the engine in your vehicle before starting it. This reduces wear and tear on your engine and also can provide heat to the cabin of your vehicle quicker. IDParts.com has FrostHeaters for a variety of vehicles as well as other coolant heaters and plug in block heaters.
- Tip: Plug the heater into a timer or smart switch to turn the heater on automatically. Your vehicle will be warm before you need to leave and if you’re lucky, maybe you can even get a few extra minutes of sleep!
- Keep a Winter Preparation Kit in your Trunk
- It’s always good to keep things like gloves, hats, blankets, snow brush, and even hand warmers in your trunk. It can keep you alive in emergency situations
The winter can be tough on your vehicle, but following these easy steps is the best way to make sure your diesel runs smoothly even in the winter months.