Bosch winter tips for batteries and more
Vehicle technology provider Bosch has provided guidance on 
key component areas to consider when preparing CV fleets for winter, including batteries.
“Every trucker and fleet operator knows that winter can be a tough time – for drivers, vehicles and dispatchers,” said Bosch.
“That‘s why it‘s advisable to do a thorough check before the cold season sets in. The vehicle needs to be looked over and any worn parts that are in danger of failing must be exchanged. Some wearing parts should also be replaced as a precaution.
“Paying attention to quality, will save money in the medium term. Breaking down or taking risks in terms of safety are not acceptable solution.”
The company continued: “Lack of charge and deep discharge of batteries are the most common reasons for failure in winter – even in professionally operated vehicles. The batteries are especially challenged when starting – among other things because of the viscous oil. Their condition should therefore be checked before the winter.
“Reliable power supply is provided by the powerful and durable Bosch truck batteries TA, TE, T5, T4 and T3.”
Another area highlighted by Bosch is windscreen wipers, which the company says are particularly exposed to wear when operating at sub-zero temperatures.
“At night, for example, some cardboard can be placed between wiper and windscreen to prevent the rubber from freezing to the windscreen and being damaged. If they need to be replaced, Bosch recommends to mount Aerotwin flat-blade wipers (500 – 750 mm length).
“These wipers feature an aerodynamic profile and the innovative Power Protection Plus wiper blade technology along with a particularly quiet and long-lasting performance.
“Another robust wiper blade is the hard-wearing Twin (400 – 1,000 mm length) with metal bracket system and triple corrosion protection.”
Bosch also stresses the impact of colder weather on CV pneumatic systems.
“The compressed air of the pneumatic systems in commercial vehicles must be dehumidified and cleaned of particles and oil mist,” it said.
“The beginning of the cold and wet season is the best time for the annual replacement of the air dryer cartridge.
“Frozen water in the compressed air can affect the function of the valves. The risk of corrosion in air reservoirs, valves and cylinders also increases.”
The company adds that winter checks are the perfect opportunity to replace cabin air filters – which it recommends is done every 120,000km at the latest, or once a year – since they help prevent window fogging and reduce deposits on the air conditioning system.
Finally, it highlights the importance of examining the function and correct setting of vehicle lights during winter checks.
“With the Trucklight, Trucklight Maxlife, Xenon HID, Xenon Gigalight HID and Xenon White HID product lines, Bosch offers durable and robust 24 V automotive bulbs for commercial vehicles.”
