Thicker engine oil, reduced tire pressure, and higher idling times are the main culprits.

Cold temperatures increase internal friction and delay engines from reaching optimal operating temperatures. At the same time, tire pressure drops approximately 1 PSI for every 5°C decrease in temperature — resulting in increased rolling resistance and wasted energy.

According to a 2024 Transport & Environment report, proper tire management alone can improve fleet fuel efficiency by up to 5%.

Even a minor imbalance in a truck tire can magnify these winter inefficiencies. Unbalanced tires increase rolling resistance, vibration, and uneven wear — all factors that accelerate fuel consumption. Traditional lead weights often lose precision as temperatures fluctuate, while dynamic internal balancing remains stable and self-adjusting.

That’s where Counteract Balancing Beads make a difference.

By using 100% tempered recycled glass beads, Counteract automatically redistributes balance while the vehicle is in motion, maintaining even contact with the road — even in extreme cold.

For easy winter installations, consider the Throw-In Bag system — a sealed, pre-measured bag that releases beads as the tire spins. It’s fast, clean, and perfect for workshops during peak maintenance months.

Fleets often overlook how cold starts and varying road friction increase thermal cycling in tires. This expansion and contraction can weaken the tire structure, reducing overall lifespan.

Counteract’s internal balancing helps distribute centrifugal forces evenly across the entire rotating assembly — wheel, hub, and drum — reducing heat build-up and extending tire life by up to 33%, as verified in SAE and TMC Type II tests.

To maintain fuel efficiency during winter:

• Monitor tire pressure weekly. Use TPMS systems and ensure compatibility with internal balancing media like Counteract.

• Use winter-grade lubricants to reduce engine friction.

• Plan routes efficiently to minimize short, cold-engine trips.

• Install Counteract Balancing Beads during seasonal maintenance for a consistent, self-adjusting balance that supports long-term efficiency.

While winter amplifies inefficiencies, Counteract’s benefits extend year-round. Fleets using internal balancing solutions report:

• +2.2% improved fuel economy

• Up to 50% longer tire life

• Reduced operating temperatures by up to 17 ºC

Fuel efficiency is not just about the engine — it’s about balance, precision, and sustainability.

With Counteract, your fleet stays optimized through every season, ensuring smoother rides, reduced emissions, and measurable cost savings.

Learn more about Counteract Balancing Beads and explore installation options like Throw-In Bag and Injector Bottle to prepare your fleet for the winter ahead.