Vans are built to handle demanding conditions. However, the environment they operate in can have a major impact on their tyres, fluids, bodywork and mechanical systems, generally. A van that spends the summer carrying equipment on long motorway journeys will face different stresses from a van that operates non-stop throughout cold mornings, frost, heavy rain and wintry road conditions. But what can you do to keep your van running smoothly throughout both seasons? We’ll be giving you a plan of action in this article.
Why is seasonal van maintenance important?
A van is exposed to a wide range of conditions throughout the course of the year. Extreme temperatures are present during both the winter and the summer months, and they can affect things like fluids, batteries, tyres and engines. In addition, other factors that are present during the two seasons, like grit, salt, snow, water and sunlight, can accelerate wear and tear on your vehicle.
By maintaining your van properly throughout the summer and winter, you’re reducing the chances of unnecessary van breakdowns when you need it most. Whether you own a commercial vehicle or require the van for summer staycations throughout the country, van maintenance is essential for ensuring it’s running smoothly and safely. So, what can be done by way of van maintenance during the hot and cold seasons?
Summer & winter van maintenance: what needs to be done?
Van maintenance is rather straightforward, especially during transitional weather. However, when we experience extreme temperatures and conditions, such as those you experience throughout the summer and winter, van maintenance can change somewhat. So what needs to be done in the summer that doesn’t need to be done in the winter, and vice versa? Let’s take a closer look:
Summer van maintenance
Summer van maintenance might seem simple, mainly because rainfall is reduced and the cold weather is at bay. However, it might surprise you to learn that you need to pay particular attention to van maintenance even when the sun is shining. But what should you be checking? Here’s a list of everything that needs to be included in your summer van maintenance checks and van servicing:
- Check the cooling system – the cooling system is paramount during hot weather. Never ignore damage, and keep fluid levels topped up. Inspect coolant levels and condition, radiator condition and hoses, cooling fans, water pump operation and signs of coolant leaks
- Inspect the air conditioning – air conditioning is important for comfort, especially if you’re always behind the wheel. Test the air-conditioning and have it regassed if it’s not cold enough
- Pay attention to the tyres – tyres can deteriorate in direct sun. It can affect tyre depth and strength and cause cuts, bulges, cracks and uneven wear. Check your tyres and replace them if necessary
- Look at the battery – extreme heat can affect battery health. Check the battery for signs of corrosion, damage and general deterioration. If it’s damaged, replace the battery. This is best done by a professional, like us here at VanServ
- Examine the windscreen wipers – thunderstorms are rife during the summer, and dirt and debris can accumulate on the windscreen. As such, the wipers need to be in working order. Look for cracking, splitting, streaking and poor contact with the windscreen. If you spot the aforementioned, then replace the wipers
- Protect bodywork – strong sunlight and UV rays can impact the van’s bodywork. It can take the colour out of the interior and exterior paint and plastics. Use shade protectors and park your van in the shade at your destination
Winter van maintenance
Winter brings some weather challenges. Therefore, look closely at the following to keep your van operational throughout the colder months:
- Test the battery – battery problems can make it difficult for the engine to start. Look out for slow engine cranking, dim lights, electrical accessories behaving unusually, difficulty starting on cold mornings and repeated need for jump-starting
- Check antifreeze and coolant levels – the cooling system protects against freezing and overheating
- Inspect the tyres – cold weather can impact tyre wear and performance. Inspect your tyres for tread depth, pressure, cracking, bulging and punctures. Consider winter tyres during the cold season
- Examine lights in and around the vehicle – you’ll rely on your lights more often during the winter as daylight hours reduce. Therefore, check that your headlights, brake lights, indicators, rear lights, fog lights, number plate lights and hazard lights are working
- Pay attention to the windscreen wipers and washer fluid – winter can wear your windscreen wipers. This is because the roads are filled with ice, grit, salt and dirt, which can flick up onto your windscreen. Use wipers to clean the front and back windows effectively
- Keep washer fluid topped up – washer fluid keeps the windscreen and back window clear. It’s imperative for maintaining full visibility during the winter
Summer vs. winter van maintenance: what are the differences?
We’ve just discussed van maintenance throughout the winter and summer. So, it’s easier to see the differences between what needs to be done on your van as the seasons change. But what actually is the difference between looking after your van in winter and maintaining it in the summer? Let’s go into more detail:
Summer & winter van maintenance differences
- The battery is inspected for deterioration in the summer and starting performance in the winter
- The cooling system is prevented from overheating in the summer and prevented from freezing in the winter
- Tyre pressure and wear are checked in the summer, whereas grip, tread depth and pressure are checked in the winter
- Cooling performance of the AC system is checked in the summer, whereas its demisting performance is checked in the winter
- Wipers are checked for visibility in the summer and wear in the winter in order to get rid of road debris, ice and snow in the winter
- Coolant levels are checked in the summer, whereas antifreeze and screenwash are checked in the winter
- Lights need to be working in the summer, but it’s especially important in winter with reduced daylight hours
- Bodywork is checked for sun exposure in the summer, and checked for salt, grit and corrosion damage in the winter
- The engine is checked to ensure it cools in the summer and that cold starting and lubrication is sufficient in the winter
- Heat and long journeys are more likely in the summer, whereas driving in snow, ice and rain in the winter can lead to reduced visibility
VanServ know how important your vehicle is to your livelihood. That’s why we’re pleased to offer a wide range of services, including van servicing, van gearbox repairs and replacements, van clutch repairs and replacements, key cutting and programming, van remapping and more. If you’d like further information about how we can keep your van in top condition, no matter how heavy the load is, get in touch with a member of our friendly, knowledgeable team today – we’re always happy to hear from you.