Hot weather can be brutal on your Peterbilt. Between long hauls, heavy loads, and rising temperatures, your rig needs a little extra attention to stay in peak condition. A few smart maintenance checks now can save you from costly breakdowns and keep your cab comfortable through the summer stretch.
Whether you're an owner-operator or managing a fleet, here are key tips to keep your Peterbilt in top shape—along with direct links to purchase the parts you need at peterbiltparts.com.
1. Prioritize Your Cooling System
When temperatures rise, your cooling system works overtime. If it fails, your truck could overheat and leave you stranded.
What to inspect:
- Coolant level and condition (consider a full flush if it's been over 2 years)
- Hoses and belts for cracks or leaks
- Radiator fins for debris or corrosion
🔧 Parts to grab:
✅ Pro Tip: Check coolant ratios—especially if you're moving between climate zones.
2. Keep Your A/C System Ice Cold
An underperforming A/C system affects more than comfort—it impacts driver safety and focus.
Check these components:
- Cabin air filters
- Refrigerant levels
- A/C compressor and lines
🌬 Parts that help:
✅ Pro Tip: If your A/C is blowing warm, don’t wait—inspect before the compressor fails.
3. Monitor Tire Pressure Like a Hawk
Summer heat causes tire pressure to rise, which can lead to blowouts if not monitored.
To-do list:
- Check PSI regularly—when tires are cold
- Look for uneven wear or tread separation
🛞 Helpful product:
✅ Pro Tip: Use a quality tire pressure gauge and recalibrate as needed.
4. Battery Performance Can Suffer in Heat
High temps accelerate internal battery corrosion and evaporation.
Inspect:
- Terminals for corrosion
- Mounting brackets for tightness
- Voltage output
✅ Pro Tip: Heat is just as hard on batteries as cold—test before you’re stranded.
5. Brakes Need Extra Attention
Heat and heavy loads increase brake fade and wear.
Inspect for:
- Worn pads or shoes
- Cracked or glazed drums
- Proper adjustment
🛑 Shop for:
✅ Pro Tip: Schedule a brake check with every oil change during summer hauls.
6. Daily Walk-Arounds Are a Must
Minor issues in summer can escalate fast.
Include in your inspection:
- Fluid leaks
- Loose or missing hardware
- Tire, light, and hose condition
🧰 Stock up on maintenance must-haves at peterbiltparts.com
✅ Pro Tip: Create a pre-trip checklist you keep in the cab for consistency.
7. Make the Cab a Comfortable Workspace
Long days in a hot cab take a toll on driver focus and well-being.
Do this:
- Use sunshades when parked
- Replace dusty filters
- Keep extra water and snacks handy
🧼 Breathe easier with:
✅ Pro Tip: Clean HVAC vents and replace filters regularly for better airflow.
Ready for the Road?
Keeping your Peterbilt cool in the summer isn’t just about performance it’s about safety, comfort, and avoiding downtime. With a little preventative maintenance and the right parts, you’ll stay ahead of the heat and on schedule all season long.