As the harsh winter approaches, the efficiency and reliability of your forklifts—whether internal combustion or electric—will be seriously affected. Low temperatures often make starting these machines difficult, negatively impacting work efficiency.Winter’s extreme cold, combined with snow and rain, presents even greater challenges for forklifts. During this time, poor maintenance can lead to costly breakdowns and downtime. But with the right care and attention, you can keep your forklifts running efficiently through even the harshest winter months.

Here’s how to ensure your forklifts stay in peak condition, prevent common winter issues, and maintain productivity all season long.

I. Maintenance Tips for Internal Combustion Forklift

Fuel and Fluid Checks: The Backbone of Cold Weather Performance

(1) Diesel Fuel 

Cold weather can thicken diesel, reducing fuel flow, worsening combustion, and lowering engine efficiency. To ensure smooth operation, use diesel with a freezing point 3–5°C lower than the ambient temperature to avoid freezing and ensure consistent power delivery.

(2) Engine Oil 

As temperatures drop, engine oil thickens, increasing friction and making it harder to start the engine. Replace the oil with a low-viscosity alternative that flows easily, ensuring your engine’s moving parts stay well-lubricated and operational.

(3) Gear Oil and Lubricants 

Replace gearbox and reducer oils with winter-grade options to ensure proper transmission lubrication. Use low-temperature grease for hinge mechanisms and wheel bearings to keep everything running smoothly.

(4) Hydraulic Oil 

Choose hydraulic oil suited to the temperature conditions:

· Below -20°C: Use ISO VG46 hydraulic oil for long-term operation or storage.

· Above -20°C: Use ISO VG32 hydraulic oil to maintain optimal performance.

(5) Brake Fluid 

Brake fluid can degrade or absorb moisture over time, leading to compromised performance. If the fluid appears contaminated, replace it with fresh, manufacturer-recommended fluid for safe braking in the winter months.

(6) Cooling System 

Keep the engine cool by ensuring the radiator is filled with winter-grade antifreeze to prevent freezing. Also, check that the thermostat and water pump are functioning correctly to avoid overheating in extreme cold.

II. Battery Maintenance for Electric Forklifts

(1)Charging and Storage: Avoiding the Cold's Impact

When temperatures drop below 10°C, the performance of electric forklift batteries can be significantly reduced. For optimal charging, always store the forklift indoors and avoid charging it in freezing conditions. This prevents battery inefficiency and potential damage to internal components.

(2) Charging Best Practices

Charge the battery fully before each shift to ensure maximum performance. But be careful not to overcharge it—prolonged high-current charging can shorten battery life and efficiency. Use manufacturer-recommended charging cycles for long-term battery health.

Don't Let Winter Ruin Your Forklift 

Winter weather doesn’t have to affect your forklift fleet. With the proper maintenance, you can prevent common cold-weather issues and keep your equipment running at full capacity. Taking a few simple steps now will pay off in reduced downtime, fewer repairs, and more efficient operations throughout the season.

Looking to optimize your forklift maintenance further? Get in touch with our team of experts to learn more about how to keep your machines running smoothly—no matter how cold it gets.