Summer heat doesn’t just make the road tougher—it puts extra stress on your equipment. Staying ahead of seasonal wear can prevent expensive breakdowns and keep you rolling. Here’s what drivers should focus on as temperatures climb.
Cooling System: Don’t Wait for Overheating
High temps push your engine harder, and a weak cooling system won’t hold up. Make sure coolant levels are right and the mix is correct—usually 50/50 coolant and distilled water. If you haven’t flushed the system in a while, now’s the time. Gunk and scale slow cooling efficiency. Check for debris around the radiator, condenser, and charge-air cooler. Dirty fins block airflow fast.
Also, check your radiator cap. If it’s not holding the proper pressure, it can cause boil-over or leaks. A pressure test takes minutes and saves a major headache.
Tire Pressure: Heat Doesn’t Forgive Mistakes
Tire pressure fluctuates more in the summer. Hot pavement and long runs push tire temps up fast. Over-inflation increases blowout risk, and under-inflation leads to faster wear. Always check pressure when tires are cool, and adjust to spec.
While you’re at it, inspect tread depth. You’re required to have at least 4/32″ on steer tires and 2/32″ on others. Uneven wear could mean alignment issues or problems with shocks.
A/C System: Stay Sharp Behind the Wheel
When your cab’s too hot, it gets harder to focus. Make sure the air conditioning is doing its job. Start with the basics—check refrigerant levels, clean the condenser, and inspect belts and hoses for signs of wear or leaks. A cabin filter that’s clogged with dust will choke airflow and make the system work harder.
Fluids: Don’t Rely on Last Month’s Check
Oil and other fluids break down quickly in heat. Watch for changes in level or color, and check your oil daily. Also, look at transmission fluid, power steering, and brake fluid. Heat adds stress across the board, especially under a heavy load or in stop-and-go traffic.
Belts and Hoses: Small Parts, Big Problems
Belts and hoses are more likely to fail during summer runs. Look for cracking, soft spots, or bulging. Press lightly on the ends of your hoses—if they feel spongy, it’s time to replace them. The water pump is also worth checking. Any leak or sound from that area should be taken seriously.
Brakes: Check Them More Than Once
Hot weather increases brake fade, especially on hills. If you haven’t inspected your brake pads, drums, or rotors in a while, do it now. Air lines should be checked for leaks, and the system should be draining properly to avoid moisture buildup.
Lights and Electrical: Storm Season Is No Joke
Summer storms can hit without warning, and poor visibility is a major risk. Make sure headlights, brake lights, and signals are all working. Swap out cracked lenses or dim bulbs. Don’t forget wiper blades—if they streak or skip, replace them. And check your battery terminals for corrosion. Heat and vibration accelerate battery wear.
Documentation: Stay Legal and Covered
FMCSA rules (49 CFR 396) require regular inspections and written maintenance records. Keep track of everything you do—fluid changes, brake checks, tire inspections—and file it in one place. If you’re ever pulled in for a DOT inspection, having clean records can make or break the day.
Staying ahead of the heat isn’t about guessing or hoping things hold up. It’s about regular checks, a solid routine, and knowing what to watch. Knock out these tasks before the next long run, and you’ll be a step ahead of whatever summer throws at your truck.
