Vital winter weather considerations for fleet operators with newer technology

Jan. 25, 2015
Fleet operators with newer engine technology (2007-2010) for their vehicles should take note of several key factors when operating their fleets during the cold winter weather season.

Fleet operators with newer engine technology (2007-2010) for their vehicles should take note of several key factors when operating their fleets during the cold winter weather season. A new feature of 2010 engine technology is the presence of Diesel Exhaust Fuel (DEF). DEF is an ammonia-based fluid that circulates through the engine to Fleet Considerations for Winterthe system, you could experience issues with the engine that could ultimately cause your vehicle to breakdown.

During the cold weather, be sure to keep your truck remove waste particles from the emission system. Many fleet operators don’t realize that DEF begins to freeze below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. If the engine is not warm enough to keep DEF flowing through warm by:

  • Driving it immediately once you start the vehicle — do not let it idle
  • Plugging in the engine block heater whenever the truck is turned off in temperatures that dip below freezing

Finally, it is important that you do not overfill or put any other fluid inside the designated DEF tank.

For 2007 engine technology, there are several considerations as well. For example, historically fleet operators have started their vehicles and let them idle as a means of heating up the engine and truck prior to the driver’s departure. With new engine technology, you should never let your vehicles idle in this way.

Low vehicle temperatures and in general, engine temperatures when idling, can prevent the Diesel Particulate Filters (DPF) from reaching appropriate temperatures to convert soot to ash. As soot builds up, it could require a more frequent regeneration process for the vehicle and eventually clog the filter.

Always make sure to plug in your vehicles overnight to keep the engine warm.

For more information, click here

Sponsored Recommendations

ZEUS+: The Cutting-Edge Diagnostic Solution for Smart, Fast, and Efficient Auto Repairs

The new ZEUS+ simplifies your diagnostic process and guides you through the right repair, avoiding unnecessary steps along the way. It gives you the software coverage, processing...

Diagnostic Pre- and Post-scan Reports are Solid Gold for Profitability

The following article highlights the significance of pre-scans and post-scans, particularly with Snap-on scan tools, showcasing their efficiency in diagnosing issues and preventing...

Unlock Precision and Certainty: TRITON-D10 Webinar Training for Advanced Vehicle Diagnostics

The TRITON-D10 lets you dig deep into the systems of a vehicle and evaluate performance with comparative data, systematically eliminating the unnecessary to provide you with only...

APOLLO-D9: Trustworthy Diagnostics for Precision Repairs

The APOLLO-D9 provides the diagnostic information and resources you need to get the job done. No more hunting through forums or endlessly searching to find the right answers. ...

Voice Your Opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Vehicle Service Pros, create an account today!