Winter brings a different set of challenges for HGV drivers. Longer nights, freezing temperatures and constant road spray all make trucks work harder than they do at any other time of year. Surfaces stay wet for longer, dirt builds up faster and visibility can drop within minutes on busy routes.
Because of this, cleaning isn’t just about keeping a truck presentable during winter. It plays a key role in safety, fuel efficiency and day-to-day reliability. A few simple cleaning steps can help prevent salt damage, protect sensors and keep the cab comfortable as the weather turns colder.
This guide breaks down the essential cleaning tasks that help drivers and fleet managers prepare their trucks for winter, along with practical tips that are easy to follow.
Key Takeaways
- Clean lights, mirrors and cameras regularly to maintain visibility.
- Remove road salt and grime often to protect paint, sensors and underbody parts.
- Keep the cab clean to reduce condensation and improve comfort.
- Use the right winter-grade cleaning products for better safety and compliance.
- Prepare early. Winter issues often come from small problems that build up over time.
Why Winter Cleaning Matters for HGVs
Winter pollutants stick more easily to surfaces. Grit, salt and wet dirt can block sensors, dull reflective markings and create corrosion under wheel arches and chassis areas. Even a thin layer of grime can affect visibility and fuel efficiency.
A consistent cleaning schedule helps avoid many of these issues. It is also a simple way to spot minor defects before they become bigger problems.
If you run a fleet, using a professional service like LPW Truckwash or LPW Mobile Fleetwash can keep vehicles clean throughout winter with minimal downtime.
1. Clean Lights, Mirrors and Cameras
Visibility drops quickly in winter. Dirt builds up faster on:
- Headlights
- Indicators
- Brake lights
- Dipped beams
- Reverse cameras
- Wing mirrors
- Marker lights on trailers
Wipe these down at every stop if possible. Even a small amount of grime reduces brightness and makes the truck harder for other road users to see.
A full exterior clean at an LPW Truckwash site helps ensure all lights and mirrors are completely clear and streak-free.
2. Remove Salt and Road Film Often
Salt is one of the biggest winter problems. It sticks to paint, alloys, bumpers and chassis components. When left for too long, it causes corrosion.
Key areas to watch:
- Wheel arches
- Underside panels
- Fuel tanks
- Steps and grilles
- Mudguards
A regular wash helps prevent early rusting and keeps the truck looking professional on the road. Mobile Fleetwash is useful for fleets parked overnight or at depots, as teams can clean trucks onsite during quiet hours.
3. Wash the Windscreen and Use Winter-Grade Screenwash
Winter conditions make windscreens dirty very quickly. This affects visibility and can wear down wiper blades faster.
Use a winter-grade screenwash designed to work in freezing conditions. LPW Fleetcare’s Extreme Screenwash helps prevent reservoir freeze-ups to –15 degrees and clears frost and salt without smearing.
Check levels regularly, especially after long motorway stretches.
4. Clean the Cab to Reduce Condensation
Condensation builds up more in winter. A clean and dry cab reduces misting and helps keep controls clear.
Focus on:
- Dashboards
- Steering wheel
- Door panels
- Vents
- Floors and mats
- Glass interiors
5. Protect the Bodywork
A protective layer helps stop salt sticking to the truck. While trucks pick up grime quickly, adding a good protective treatment makes it easier to clean off later.
Professional washes at LPW Truckwash include snow foam, TFR and brushed cleaning to remove tough winter build-up safely.
If a fleet prefers in-house cleaning, Fleetcare TFR and professional washing equipment can help maintain a high standard across multiple vehicles.
6. Check Grilles, Radiators and Sensors
Winter grime can block airflow and interfere with:
- ADAS sensors
- Radiators
- Cooling systems
- Parking sensors
- Front and rear grilles
A quick inspection after each wash helps spot any obstructions. Keeping these areas clean supports better fuel efficiency and safer driving.
7. Choose a Consistent Winter Cleaning Routine
A good routine for winter might look like:
- Light daily checks (lights, mirrors, cameras)
- Full exterior wash weekly
- Cab clean weekly
- Salt removal as often as possible
Fleets that operate long hours or travel on coastal, rural or gritted routes may need more frequent washes.
FAQ: Winter Truck Cleaning
How often should you wash an HGV in winter?
Most trucks benefit from a full wash once a week during winter. Vehicles exposed to heavy salt or long motorway journeys may need cleaning every few days to prevent corrosion and maintain visibility.
Does winter salt damage trucks?
Yes. Salt speeds up corrosion on steel and aluminium. It affects paint, wheels, chassis parts and underbody components. Regular washing helps prevent long-term damage.
What cleaning products work best in winter?
Winter-grade screenwash, traffic film remover and strong exterior cleaning solutions help remove heavy grime and salt. Products like LPW Fleetcare’s TFR and Extreme Screenwash are designed for this.
Is hot water better for cleaning trucks in cold weather?
Warm water can help remove frozen grime, but it must be used safely to avoid temperature shock on cold glass. Professional washes ensure the correct temperature is used.
How can I reduce winter condensation inside the cab?
Keep mats dry, wipe interior glass often and use interior cleaners that remove residue. A clean cab mists up less and stays fresher for longer.
The Importance of Consistent Winter Cleaning
Preparing a truck for winter is mainly about consistency. Small cleaning steps done regularly help prevent bigger problems, reduce downtime and keep drivers safe.
Whether you clean your own vehicles or rely on professional services, starting early makes winter driving much easier.