Nov 10, 2023

Diesel trucks are typically designed to be performance powerhouses, so if you want your RAM to be in top shape throughout the winter, you will need to schedule winter car maintenance at your RAM dealership. Preparing for winter before the first freezing temperatures of the year can save you money on auto repair costs in the future. 

In general, engines that run on diesel fuel have a slightly harder time during the winter because these engines depend on higher combustion temperatures. However, modern diesel engines exposed to mild winter temperatures shouldn’t encounter too many challenges. 

Routine Car Maintenance

The main reason you might encounter performance issues during the winter with your diesel truck is if you have failed to follow the recommended service schedule for your vehicle. You should always schedule oil changes, tire rotations, and filter replacements on a schedule, usually at least twice a year to maintain the performance quality of your vehicle. 

For your motor oil, it’s typically best to switch to a synthetic oil with a lighter weight if this oil is compatible with your engine. Motor oil that is specially formulated to perform at colder temperatures can ensure cold starts don’t harm your engine over the winter. Your RAM mechanic can recommend the best motor oil for your truck model. 

Battery Health Check

Sometimes, car batteries struggle in colder temperatures. Whether or not you have noticed battery performance issues, you should always have a mechanic check the health of your battery before the winter. Issues like excessive corrosion, wiring connections, and low battery charge can all be addressed at your dealership. 

Fuel Filter Replacement

Changing the fuel filter in your truck might be the key to avoiding issues such as diesel fuel gelling over the winter. A fresh filter will be free of clogs that can affect the performance of your engine. 

When Should You Get Winter Auto Repair at Your RAM Dealership?

Even if you’re only expecting a mild Texas winter, it’s still a good idea to have all of your repairs completed before the coldest weather sets in. For most drivers, this means scheduling winter maintenance in October or November. By December, the weather at night may be cold enough to affect the performance of your vehicle, especially if you aren’t driving every day. It’s best to prepare for this cold weather beforehand to avoid performance complications.

Winterizing your RAM is important, even if you don’t expect deep freezes in Texas. On the chance that a blizzard blows through or there is an especially cold snap, you should schedule routine maintenance for your diesel truck before the winter months. Book your service appointment to prepare your truck for winter at Freedom Ram today.