Summer is just around the corner, and when it really kicks in, heat doesn’t just hit you on the worksite – it can take a toll on your truck too.
The team at Truck Assist know all too well that two of the most common truck issues when the mercury rises are with batteries and tyres. Both are easy to overlook, but if they give out on the job, they can bring the whole day to a standstill.
Batteries don’t love the heat
There’s no real surprise when batteries fail in winter, but if you’re new to owning a truck you may not be aware that high temps can be just as tough – sometimes worse.
SEE MORE: Tradie Tough Tests
Heat speeds up the chemical reactions inside a battery, which can lead to quicker wear, fluid loss, and corrosion. If you’re running air con, tools, lights, or charging gear on the go, that adds even more strain.
The result? A flat battery, usually when you least expect it – like when you’re loaded up and already running late for a job.
What you can do:
- Keep your battery terminals clean and free from corrosion.
- Check for cracks or swelling in the battery case.
- Make sure it’s securely mounted (vibration + heat = bad combo).
- If your battery is more than three years old, get it tested before summer hits full swing.
Tyres under pressure
Hot weather and heavy loads aren’t best mates. As road temps climb, so does the air pressure inside your tyres. That can lead to over-inflation, uneven wear, or – worst case scenario – a blowout. On the flip side, under-inflated tyres generate extra heat from friction, which can be just as dangerous.
Factor in tradie gear, trailers, or equipment, and you’re carrying serious weight. If your tyres aren’t up to the task, you might be risking more than just a flat – you could be risking control of your truck.
What you can do:
- Check tyre pressures regularly, ideally when tyres are cold.
- Don’t overload your vehicle; know your truck’s limits.
- Rotate your tyres to spread wear evenly
- Keep an eye out for cuts, bulges, or worn tread.
Stay ahead of the heat
The good news? A little bit of care goes a long way. Giving your battery and tyres a quick check doesn’t take long, but it can save you hours waiting for a tow or scrambling to get your gear to site.
And if the worst does happen?
That’s where Truck Assist comes in. With specialist roadside assistance and truck insurance built for tradies, we’ve got your back when your truck, trailer, or equipment lets you down. From flat batteries to blowouts, we’ll help get you sorted and back on the job.
Don’t wait for a breakdown to ruin your day. Get a quick online quote today and see how Truck Assist can keep you moving.