With summers getting hotter in Quebec and across North America, heavy trucks traveling on our highways are more exposed to heat than ever before. These extreme temperatures have several effects on trucks and can cause breakdowns if the vehicle is not properly maintained. 

Here are the most common truck problems associated with extreme heat. Contact a nearby garage if you suspect your truck is experiencing any of these symptoms. 

Engine overheating

Although somewhat rarer in Quebec, since our temperatures don’t reach those in the southern and western United States, high temperatures can cause the engine to overheat, especially if the cooling system is older. This type of breakdown rarely occurs on its own and is often caused by a lack of coolant, a broken thermostat, or a faulty water pump. 

Evaporation or viscosity of fluids in the engine

In hot or extremely hot temperatures, the various fluids used by a heavy truck engine can be affected. 

High temperatures can reduce the viscosity of engine oil. Low viscosity is normally desirable: after all, it is when oil is liquid that it lubricates all the moving parts of your engine! However, oil that is too viscous is detrimental to engine efficiency. The normal viscosity of your engine oil keeps the engine running efficiently, prevents overheating, and avoids maintenance issues. Abnormal viscosity increases engine wear, reduces your mileage per liter, encourages engine overheating, and can cause leaks. 

Battery failure

Heat can cause premature wear on your battery and even cause it to fail. Battery fluid can be affected by heat waves and slowly evaporate, which wears out the battery and damages electrical components. This type of wear can eventually lead to failure and may force you to replace the battery. 

Air conditioning wear

This one is a bit obvious, but to survive 30-40 degrees Celsius days on Quebec asphalt, you need air conditioning.  

Your air conditioning will work hard on hot days or during trips to the American desert. This constant use wears out your air conditioning system and can cause it to break down. 

Tire expansion and blowouts

Hot air can cause the air in your vehicle’s tires to expand and increase the internal pressure of the tires. Overinflated tires are more prone to punctures, especially when the asphalt is extremely hot. What’s more, tire treads separate more easily in hot weather. Replacing and aligning and balancing tires is crucial after a heat-related puncture. 

Diesel particulate filter (DPF) wear

Modern heavy trucks often have a diesel particulate filter (DPF), which can also be affected by high temperatures. The DPF burns soot on the filter, which maintains engine performance and allows trucks to reduce carbon emissions. 

Constant heat, such as after a trip through the American desert, can cause the filter components to overheat. This puts a lot of stress on filter components such as the diesel oxidation catalyst or SCR system. High temperatures can affect the regeneration process itself. 

RIL CT-CAM does not offer DPF filter maintenance services, but several fellow mechanics in Montreal, such as Montréal DPF or Solution DPF, can help you with this type of problem. 

“Experts who do the heavy lifting”

At Ressorts Industriels Laval/Centre de Camion C.T. CAM, we specialize in the maintenance and repair of all types of trucks, from heavy-duty trucks to pickup trucks. If you notice any problems with your vehicle’s mechanical components, contact us immediately for repairs.