Seasonal Maintenance Tips for Commercial Fleets
When you manage a commercial fleet, keeping your vehicles in top shape isn’t just smart—it’s essential. Every mile your fleet travels represents your business, your reputation, and your bottom line. But Wisconsin’s shifting seasons throw a lot at your vehicles, from icy winter roads to blazing summer heat. If you want to avoid breakdowns, keep your drivers safe, and reduce repair costs, seasonal fleet maintenance needs to be part of your regular game plan.
At Sanfelippo Auto Repair, we’ve spent over 30 years helping businesses in the Milwaukee area keep their fleets running strong in every season. Built on a foundation of integrity, family values, and ASE-certified expertise, we know what it takes to prepare your vehicles for the challenges that come with the changing weather. Let’s take a closer look at how seasonal maintenance can help protect your fleet, reduce downtime, and keep your business moving smoothly.
Why Seasonal Fleet Maintenance Matters
Fleets aren’t like personal cars. They’re under constant pressure—more miles, more wear, and much less room for error. Ignoring the effects of seasonal weather changes can lead to sudden breakdowns, unsafe conditions, and expensive repairs. That’s why seasonal fleet maintenance isn’t optional—it’s a proactive investment in your business.
By tailoring your maintenance schedule to the demands of each season, you can ensure that your fleet is equipped to handle what’s coming next, whether it’s freezing temperatures, spring storms, or summer heat waves. Let’s break it down by season.
Winter Fleet Preparation: Staying Ahead of the Cold
In Milwaukee, winters are no joke. Snow, ice, and sub-zero temperatures can take a serious toll on vehicles—especially when they’re driven daily and under load. Here’s how to prepare your fleet for cold-weather performance:
- Battery Testing and Replacement
Cold weather saps battery power. If a battery is already weak, winter can push it over the edge. Test all fleet vehicle batteries before the season starts and replace any that show signs of aging or weakness. - Check and Replace Fluids
Engine oil thickens in cold temperatures, which can make startups harder and cause wear. Switching to winter-grade oil ensures smoother cold starts. Also, check antifreeze levels and confirm that coolant is rated for the lowest expected temperatures. - Inspect Tires and Tread Depth
Traction is everything on snowy roads. If your fleet runs year-round, make sure all vehicles are equipped with tires that have appropriate tread depth. Consider switching to winter tires for added safety and grip. - Ensure Proper Wiper Blades and Washer Fluid
Visibility during winter storms is critical. Replace worn wiper blades and use winter washer fluid to prevent freezing. - Heating and Defrost Systems
Drivers can’t do their jobs if they can’t see or stay warm. Check that cabin heaters, defrosters, and mirrors with heating elements are functioning properly. - Undercarriage Protection
Salt and brine used on winter roads can corrode your fleet’s undercarriage. Schedule regular washes and inspections to protect the chassis and brake lines from rust.
By handling these winter fleet preparation tasks before the first snow hits, you minimize risk and keep your drivers safe on the road.
Why Seasonal Fleet Maintenance Matters
Fleets aren’t like personal cars. They’re under constant pressure—more miles, more wear, and much less room for error. Ignoring the effects of seasonal weather changes can lead to sudden breakdowns, unsafe conditions, and expensive repairs. That’s why seasonal fleet maintenance isn’t optional—it’s a proactive investment in your business.
By tailoring your maintenance schedule to the demands of each season, you can ensure that your fleet is equipped to handle what’s coming next, whether it’s freezing temperatures, spring storms, or summer heat waves. Let’s break it down by season.
Winter Fleet Preparation: Staying Ahead of the Cold
In Milwaukee, winters are no joke. Snow, ice, and sub-zero temperatures can take a serious toll on vehicles—especially when they’re driven daily and under load. Here’s how to prepare your fleet for cold-weather performance:
- Battery Testing and Replacement
Cold weather saps battery power. If a battery is already weak, winter can push it over the edge. Test all fleet vehicle batteries before the season starts and replace any that show signs of aging or weakness. - Check and Replace Fluids
Engine oil thickens in cold temperatures, which can make startups harder and cause wear. Switching to winter-grade oil ensures smoother cold starts. Also, check antifreeze levels and confirm that coolant is rated for the lowest expected temperatures. - Inspect Tires and Tread Depth
Traction is everything on snowy roads. If your fleet runs year-round, make sure all vehicles are equipped with tires that have appropriate tread depth. Consider switching to winter tires for added safety and grip. - Ensure Proper Wiper Blades and Washer Fluid
Visibility during winter storms is critical. Replace worn wiper blades and use winter washer fluid to prevent freezing. - Heating and Defrost Systems
Drivers can’t do their jobs if they can’t see or stay warm. Check that cabin heaters, defrosters, and mirrors with heating elements are functioning properly. - Undercarriage Protection
Salt and brine used on winter roads can corrode your fleet’s undercarriage. Schedule regular washes and inspections to protect the chassis and brake lines from rust.
By handling these winter fleet preparation tasks before the first snow hits, you minimize risk and keep your drivers safe on the road.
Spring and Fall: Transition Times That Deserve Attention
Spring and fall might seem like mild seasons, but they’re perfect times to catch up on inspections and repairs. After the punishment of winter, spring is an opportunity to clean, assess, and plan. Fall, on the other hand, is your last chance to get ahead of the cold.
Spring Maintenance Checklist
- Inspect for Winter Damage: Check brakes, tires, and suspension for wear caused by potholes and ice.
- Clean and Detail: Road salt can linger in hard-to-reach places. A thorough wash helps prevent corrosion.
- HVAC System Check: Get ready for the warmer months by testing the air conditioning system.
- Fluid Top-Off: Windshield washer fluid, transmission fluid, and brake fluid should all be checked and topped off.
Fall Maintenance Checklist
- Lighting and Electrical Systems: Shorter days mean more driving in the dark. Make sure lights and electrical systems are reliable.
- Cooling System Inspection: Don’t head into winter with a compromised radiator or thermostat.
- Replace Cabin and Engine Air Filters: Falling leaves and debris can clog filters fast, reducing HVAC efficiency and engine performance.
Treat spring and fall as key checkpoints in your seasonal fleet maintenance strategy. They help you stay on top of small issues before they become big, expensive problems.
Summer Vehicle Care: Don’t Let the Heat Win
Hot weather creates a new set of challenges for commercial vehicles. From tire blowouts to overheating engines, the summer months can quickly turn into a mechanic’s nightmare—unless you plan ahead.
- Monitor Tire Pressure Regularly
Heat causes air to expand, which can push tire pressure beyond safe limits. Overinflated tires are at higher risk of blowouts—especially on hot asphalt. Make tire pressure checks part of your daily or weekly fleet routine during summer. - Cooling System Inspection
Engines run hot in the summer. If your cooling system is already under strain or developing leaks, the heat will expose it. Check coolant levels, radiator caps, hoses, and belts to ensure everything’s up to par.
- Test the Air Conditioning System
Drivers spend hours behind the wheel. If the A/C isn’t working, it’s not just uncomfortable—it can lead to driver fatigue and reduced productivity. Check refrigerant levels and system performance before summer kicks in. - Inspect Brake Systems
Heat can cause brake fluid to thin, reducing effectiveness. Make sure pads, rotors, and fluid levels are all in good shape. Address any squeaks, grinding, or soft pedal feel promptly. - Check Engine and Transmission Performance
Hot weather amplifies stress on engines and transmissions. Regular inspections and timely fluid changes can prevent costly failures and keep your fleet running reliably.
Good summer vehicle care isn’t just about comfort—it’s about safety and uptime.
Building a Year-Round Fleet Maintenance Plan
Successful fleet managers don’t treat maintenance as an afterthought. They build a seasonal fleet maintenance schedule that reflects the local climate and driving conditions. Here’s what that looks like in practice:
- Quarterly Inspections: Set a recurring schedule for multi-point inspections.
- Driver Checklists: Encourage your drivers to report issues as soon as they notice them.
- Service Tracking: Keep a detailed log of all maintenance and repairs—this helps with warranty claims, resale value, and compliance.
- Partner With a Trusted Shop: Working with an experienced, full-service repair facility like Sanfelippo Auto Repair ensures your fleet is always in expert hands.
Fleet maintenance isn’t one-size-fits-all—but when you tailor it to the seasons, you’re putting your business in the best position to succeed. Whether it’s switching fluids for winter, preparing the cooling system for summer, or getting a jumpstart on inspections during the shoulder seasons, small steps can make a big difference.
At Sanfelippo Auto Repair, we understand the unique needs of commercial fleets—because that’s how we got our start. For over three decades, we’ve helped local businesses in Milwaukee keep their vehicles safe, dependable, and road-ready, no matter the season.
Our ASE-certified technicians don’t work on commission, so you’ll always get honest recommendations and top-tier service, with your best interest in mind. Whether you operate a handful of vans or a fleet of trucks, we’re ready to help you create a seasonal maintenance plan that keeps your business rolling without the stress.
Call Sanfelippo Auto Repair today or stop by our Milwaukee facility to schedule your fleet inspection. Let’s build a custom maintenance plan that fits your fleet, your budget, and the Wisconsin weather.
