Vehicles & Accessories

Essential truck battery tips every tradie should know

Despite continual advancements in battery technology – including improved electrical systems and turn-off automation, the experts at Truck Assist can tell you a flat battery is still one of the most common reasons for trucks breaking down, especially in winter.

Why Winter is tough on truck batteries

Cold temperatures can increase the internal resistance of vehicle batteries and lower their overall capacity. So, consistent battery performance and longevity is largely dependent on battery maintenance.

If you’re a tradie who’s recently upgraded to a truck, now’s the time to take a few preventative steps to protect your investment and your business from getting stuck on the roadside.

SEE MORE: Tradie Tough Tests

Check your battery more frequently than your scheduled service

Don’t rely solely on your regular service intervals. With many trucks only serviced once or twice a year, battery issues can sneak up in between visits to the mechanic.

Instead, try making battery checks part of your monthly routine. A healthy battery in warmer months doesn’t guarantee winter reliability. Regularly check the battery’s load capacity, electrolyte levels (if applicable), and clean your terminals to prevent corrosion and connection issues.

Pro Tip: Truck Assist suggest checking out Battery World for a free battery check*.

Take care in the cold

Cold conditions can double the amount of current needed to start your truck. That means even a slightly weakened battery might fail in winter. Don’t get caught off guard. Know your battery’s condition and plan ahead during the colder months.

Be aware of hidden battery drains

Your battery doesn’t go to sleep just because your engine is switched off. Remember, there are several functions that may drain your battery. The phone charger, radio, navigation system, lights and on-board fridge, to name a few, are all things that drain your vehicle’s battery.

While no single preventative measure can guarantee the life of your battery, a little preventative maintenance and keeping an eye on your accessories can make all the difference.

Get specialist cover and roadside assistance for your truck

Don’t have specialist insurance or roadside cover for your truck for when things go wrong?

Check out Truck Assist and see if its right for you. Simple, no-nonsense truck insurance and roadside built for tradies on the go. The best part is – you can get an online quote in minutes from Australia’s truck insurance experts here, in just a few clicks.

*Limits and exclusions apply. This article contains general information only. When making decisions about our insurance, consider the PDS and TMD on https://truckassist.com.au/insurance/truck-insurance. National Transport Insurance is an equal joint venture administered on behalf of the insurers (CGU Insurance ABN 11 000 016 722 AFSL 227681 & Vero Insurance ABN 48 005 297 807 AFSL 230859) by its manager NTI Limited ABN 84 000 746 109 AFSL 237246.
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