5 ways weather can affect heavy-duty truck performance

March 21, 2025 36

Weather doesn’t just dictate the day’s outfit or weekend plans. For truck drivers, it can drastically impact how their vehicles perform on the road. Understanding how weather can affect heavy-duty truck performance ensures both safety and efficiency, whether delivering goods across the city or tackling long hauls in extreme conditions.

Here are five weather-related challenges that every truck owner and operator should prepare for.

Extreme cold impacts engine efficiency

When temperatures drop, everything from the truck’s engine oil to its battery becomes more sluggish, and starting the engine may take extra effort. Cold weather can thicken engine fluids, reducing lubrication and forcing the engine components to work harder. Worse, subzero temperatures can drain batteries faster than usual, leaving drivers stranded.

Pro tip: Ensure your engine coolant is properly mixed, and invest in a high-quality block heater to make those frigid starts easier.

Heat accelerates tire wear

Hot weather can be equally unforgiving. High temperatures overheat engines and make tires more prone to blowouts. Heat causes the air in tires to expand, increasing pressure and straining the rubber. This can become a costly safety issue for truck owners carrying heavy loads.

Before hitting the road in summer, inspect your tires for visible signs of wear and ensure they’re properly inflated—not under or over. Choosing tires designed for heavy-duty trucks is essential to handle temperature fluctuations and weight.

Rain reduces traction

Rainfall creates slick roads and decreases traction, making it harder to control vehicles, especially on steep terrains. Because of their heavy loads, trucks are particularly vulnerable to hydroplaning, which significantly increases the risk of accidents.

Drivers should slow down during heavy rain, maintain safe distances, and ensure their truck’s tire tread depth can effectively channel water. Windshield wipers and brake systems must also be fully operational to improve visibility and control.

Snow and ice increase brake risk

Navigating icy or snowy roads requires more precise handling. Braking becomes far riskier in these conditions, as wheels may lock up due to insufficient traction. Furthermore, salty roads can corrode a truck’s undercarriage, reducing vehicle lifespan.

To combat these challenges, equip trucks with anti-lock braking systems (ABS) to help prevent skidding. Regularly clean the undercarriage after driving on salted roads to prevent rust build-up.

Wind affects stability

Strong winds can turn highway driving into a nerve-racking nightmare. High-profile vehicles like trucks have a larger surface area that catches wind, making them more susceptible to tipping or swaying. Crosswinds are particularly dangerous when passing bridges or open stretches of road.

Planning your route and monitoring weather conditions can help avoid windy areas. When driving through windy regions, maintain a lower speed and keep both hands firmly on the wheel to stabilize the truck.

Be prepared for every weather condition

Weather is unpredictable, but truck owners and drivers can prepare effectively by maintaining vehicles regularly and staying well-informed. Knowing how weather can affect heavy-duty truck performance ensures your safety, preserves your truck’s health, and minimizes costly repairs.

Whether you’re upgrading to weather-resistant tires or recalibrating settings for improved handling, don’t overlook seasonal truck preparation. Take the proactive route and keep your fleet road-ready year-round.