Why Seals Fail in Winter and How to Prevent It

Winter is one of the most demanding seasons for vehicles and for the sealing solutions that protect critical components. Cold temperatures, moisture and road salt combine to accelerate seal wear and can lead to premature failure if not properly managed. Understanding why seals fail in winter helps technicians prevent costly breakdowns, comebacks and customer dissatisfaction.

Why winter is tough on seals

Seals are designed to keep lubricants in and dirt and water out, but winter operates

conditions place them under extra stress. Several factors increase the risk of seal

failure during colder months

• Cold temperatures make seals harder and less able to move with nearby components.
• Metal parts shrink slightly in cold conditions, increasing the risk of small gaps where dirt and moisture can enter.
• Ice formation around sealing lips can cause mechanical damage at start-up.
• Water and road salt can get into the sealing area and cause rust on nearby parts.

A report published by the US Transportation Research Board (TRB)[1] confirms that winter road maintenance practices, particularly the use of de‑icing salts combined with moisture, significantly accelerate corrosion of vehicle components and metal interfaces. This corrosion can damage sealing surfaces, increasing the risk of leakage and premature seal failure during winter operation.

Common winter-related seal failures seen in workshops

During winter inspections and repairs, technicians often encounter the same seal-related issues across wheel ends, driveline components and engines:

• Cracked or hardened sealing lips caused by prolonged exposure to low temperatures.
• Leakage due to wear tracks or corrosion on the shaft surface.
• Grease or oil contamination with water, leading to reduced lubrication performance.
• Seal lip damage caused during cold installation without proper tools or procedures.

How technicians can prevent seal failures in winter

Preventing winter-related seal failures starts with correct diagnosis, handling and installation. A few best practices can significantly extend service life:

• Always inspect the shaft or housing for corrosion, wear or damage before installing a new seal.
• Ensure sealing surfaces are clean and free from ice, dirt or old lubricant residues.
• Use appropriate installation tools to avoid deforming the seal, especially in cold conditions.
• Check that the seal material is suitable for low-temperature operation and compatible with the lubricant used.
• Advise customers on regular winter inspections, particularly for vehicles operating in harsh environments.

SKF Vehicle Aftermarket: sealing expertise for all seasons

As a sealing specialist with decades of OE and aftermarket experience, SKF designs seals to perform reliably under extreme conditions. SKF Vehicle Aftermarket sealing solutions are developed using advanced materials and precise geometries to maintain flexibility, sealing force and durability even at low temperatures.

In addition to high-quality products, SKF supports workshops with technical documentation, application guidance and installation recommendations to help technicians achieve long-lasting repairs – regardless of the season.

Winter does not have to mean increased seal failures. By understanding the challenges posed by cold weather and applying best installation and inspection practices, technicians can protect critical components, reduce comebacks and ensure reliable vehicle operation throughout the winter months.

 Source: Transportation Research Board (TRB), Effects of Road Salt on Motor Vehicles and Infrastructure, National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, USA.