How Climate Can Influence the Used Trucks You Choose

Calgary faces extreme weather changes. Sometimes you have to scrape ice off your windshield, sometimes there’s summer hail. You also get spring slush and unpredictable fall freezes. There are sudden winds, shooting temperatures up. If you are shopping for used trucks Calgary, the weather is something you shouldn’t ignore. It is a crucial factor that affects your decision to buy a used car.

Your truck has to be ready for the long winter

During winter, temperatures hover around -10°C to -15 °C. During cold phases, the figure also drops down below -30°C. So, you may look for rugged truck models with a solid chassis and suspension. Here are some things you must keep in mind:

• Settle for models with Four Wheel Drive (4WD) for manual control. This matters when you are navigating icy roads or pulling out of a snow-packed driveway. All-wheel drive (AWD) is better for lighter winter conditions.
• Verify if the trucks have engine block heaters. In Calgary winters, this is not optional; it is essential. Many used trucks have damaged undersides, and rust can further damage them. Don’t skip checking these parts. Please take the vehicle to a mechanic for a thorough inspection.

Chinooks create unique wear patterns

In Calgary, temperatures can swing almost 20°C in a single day. And this happens because of Chinook winds. The repeated freezing and thawing during the thermal cycle stresses the tyre rubber, pressure balance, gaskets and seals, and battery performance. While evaluating a used truck, check where it was primarily stored and where it was driven. Look for trucks that were garaged during the winter. Pay close attention to the tyres for cracking along the sidewalls.

Summer and spring have their own challenges

Spring in Calgary comes with wet roads and heavy slush. Summer in Calgary is short but surprisingly intense. Hailstorms in Calgary are notorious and damage vehicles. Check vehicles on the roof, hood, and trunk for dents. Suspension wear is also common. Ask the used truck owner about the towing and payload history. Heavy, consistent towing may cause wear on the brakes, frame, and transmission.

Choosing the right drivetrain for Calgary living

Not everyone needs the same truck in Calgary. Choose trucks depending on your daily use and neighbourhood. If you live in a core city, settle for a 4x2 vehicle with good winter tyres for daily commutes. This also helps save fuel. However, things can be different for those who do lots of outings and drive on rough terrains.

Do you often drive on highways? Then a four-wheel drive truck will be better. If you choose used cars in Calgary for outdoor adventures, do not overlook this factor.

Summing it up

While purchasing used trucks in Calgary, test drive in conditions that reflect the actual conditions in the area. Request service records, along with related repairs and battery replacements. Finding a good price is not the only thing. You will have to find a model ready for the climate. So, take your time to find the right one.