Essential winter parts kit for long-haul drivers
Essential winter parts kit for long-haul drivers
Winter can turn a routine run into a slow-motion breakdown if you’re not prepared. The good news: a compact, well-planned kit keeps you moving, protects the truck, and buys you time until help arrives. Here’s the kit we recommend for long-haul HGVs, plus packing and refresh tips.
Core “keep-you-moving” parts and consumables
- Screenwash concentrate rated to at least −20 °C and a 1 L top-up bottle in the cab.
- Premium de-icer, ice scraper and a soft snow brush (stiff brushes scratch lenses and paint).
- Wiper blades (spare pair) and workshop wipes to clean the screen before fitting.
- Spare bulbs and blade fuses matched to your truck, plus a mini circuit tester.
- Air dryer cartridge (carry one if your maintenance policy allows) to prevent moisture-related brake issues.
- AdBlue (DEF) top-up can (5–10 L) with disposable nitrile gloves and a clean funnel; remember AdBlue can freeze at around −11 °C—store sensibly.
- Approved winter diesel anti-wax additive (follow the dosage exactly; only use products your operator signs off).
- Lock and latch lubricant (non-staining) to stop doors and trailer locks freezing.
Traction and recovery essentials
- Snow chains or tyre socks (if your route or local rules require them) and a practice session in the yard before you need them.
- Folding shovel and a small bag of grit/kitty litter for traction under drive wheels.
- Traction boards/mats sized for HGV tyres.
- Rated recovery strop only if your operator’s procedures allow driver-installed towing—otherwise leave recovery to professionals.
Power, lighting and visibility
- 24 V-capable jump starter or heavy-duty jump leads.
- LED head torch plus a high-output handheld torch, with spare batteries.
- Two reflective warning triangles, hi-vis vest, and waterproof gloves.
- Microfibre cloths to keep lenses and cameras clear of slush and salt.
Safety, comfort and contingency
- First-aid kit and foil thermal blankets (or a cold-rated sleeping bag).
- Hand warmers, hat/neck gaiter, and insulated work gloves.
- 2–3 L of drinking water, high-calorie snacks (nuts, oat bars, jerky), and a thermos flask.
- Power bank (20,000 mAh+) with cables for phone, dashcam and work tablet.
- Paper copies of emergency contacts, breakdown policy and key route info in case devices die.
Smart spares and quick fixes
- Heavy-duty duct tape and cable ties for temporary securing of trims and loose wiring shrouds.
- Assorted hose clamps and a short length of coolant hose (operator-approved) for controlled temporary fixes.
- Valve caps and tyre inflator/pressure gauge (keep checks to “cold” pressures).
- Gladhand seals for trailers, if you’re trunking with different units.
How to pack it (so you can reach it when you need it)
- Split into two grab-bags:
- Cab bag (visibility, warmth, snacks, torches, screenwash, de-icer, gloves);
- Locker box (chains/socks, shovel, traction mats, spares, fluids).
- Secure everything with straps or bungees so it can’t become a projectile in a stop.
- Keep weight balanced and low; don’t block emergency exits or extinguisher access.
Quick pre-departure winter checklist
- Screenwash is mixed for sub-zero temps; bottle topped up.
- Tyres at correct cold pressures; visible damage checked.
- Lights and cameras clean; spare bulbs/fuses on board.
- Battery cranks strongly; jump kit charged.
- AdBlue level healthy; DEF can and gloves stowed.
- Chains/socks and shovel accessible; PPE and triangles reachable from the cab.
- Phone, power bank and torch fully charged.
Monthly refresh routine (five-minute habit)
- Replace used consumables (de-icer, wipes, snacks, gloves).
- Test torches and jump starter; recharge power bank.
- Inspect dates on first-aid items and hand warmers.
- Check that your chain/sock kit still fits current tyre sizes.