Comparing the Most Reliable Vans for Vanlife

Winter driving in Colorado isn’t for the faint of heart. One day, the roads are dry and clear, and then overnight, you’re waking up to black ice and a foot of snow. If you’re still running all-season tires, you might be rolling the dice more than you realize. Here’s why winter tires are a game changer for safety and control when the temperatures drop. What Makes Winter Tires Different? Winter tires aren’t just about tread patterns - they’re made from a different type of rubber that stays flexible in the cold. Regular all-season tires harden in low temperatures, reducing grip, while winter tires keep their traction even in freezing conditions. Plus, their deep grooves and biting edges are designed to cut through snow and slush, helping you stay in control. Do You Need Winter Tires in Colorado? Short answer: Yes, if you want to drive safely in snow and ice and don't have other traction devices. Colorado’s winter roads can be unpredictable, and while all-wheel drive helps with acceleration, it won’t help you stop faster. Instead, your tires do that. If you drive in the mountains, winter tires can make the difference between getting up a pass or sliding backward. Even in the city, icy intersections and surprise snowstorms mean having the right tires could prevent an accident. The Colorado Traction Law If you’re driving in the mountains from September to May, you might already know about Colorado’s traction laws. When these go into effect, vehicles must have proper tires with at least 3/16" tread, snow chains, or a four-wheel/all-wheel drive system. You can view all of the up-to-date requirements here . Winter tires (or all-terrain tires with the right tread depth) make it easier to comply with these laws while also keeping you safer on the road. When to Switch to Winter Tires The best time to put on winter tires is before the first big freeze, typically around October or early November. A good rule of thumb? When temperatures consistently drop below 45°F, it’s time to swap them on. Once spring hits and the weather warms up, switch back to all-season or summer tires to prevent unnecessary wear on the softer winter rubber. Need Help Getting Winter-Ready? At Colorado Fleetworks, we know how important it is to keep your vehicle safe and reliable all year long. If you need winter tires installed or aren’t sure if your current ones are up to the challenge, we’re here to help. Swing by, and we’ll make sure you’re set up for whatever Colorado’s winter throws at you!

Winter is tough on vehicles, and the last thing you want is to deal with a dead battery or sliding around on icy roads. A little maintenance now can save you a lot of hassle when temperatures drop. Here’s what to focus on before winter really sets in. Check Your Tires Tires are your first line of defense against winter roads, so make sure they’re in good shape. Check the tread depth—if it’s worn down, you might need new ones. If you live somewhere with heavy snow and ice, winter tires are a smart investment since they provide better traction. Also, colder temperatures cause tire pressure to drop, so check it regularly and keep it at the recommended PSI. Test Your Battery Cold weather drains car batteries faster, and if yours is already weak, it might not have enough power to start your vehicle. If your battery is more than three years old, get it tested before winter hits. Also, check for corrosion on the terminals, since buildup can interfere with the connection. If you notice slow starts or dimming headlights, it might be time for a replacement. Keep Up with Oil Changes Winter temperatures make oil thicker, which can strain your engine. Check your owner’s manual to see if your car requires a different oil viscosity in cold weather. If you’re due for an oil change, don’t put it off—clean oil helps your engine run smoother, especially in freezing conditions. Inspect Your Brakes Slippery roads mean your brakes need to be in top shape. If you’ve noticed any squeaking, grinding, or a spongy brake pedal, get them checked out. Worn brake pads can reduce stopping power, which is the last thing you want when roads are icy. Keep Your Fluids Topped Off Antifreeze (coolant) keeps your engine from freezing, so make sure it's at the right level and mixed correctly. You’ll also want to check your windshield washer fluid and switch to a winter formula that won’t freeze. While you’re at it, inspect your wiper blades—if they’re streaking or skipping, replace them so you can keep your windshield clear in snow and sleet. Pack a Winter Emergency Kit Even with the best maintenance, breakdowns can still happen. Keep a kit in your car with essentials like an ice scraper, jumper cables, a flashlight, blankets, and extra gloves. If you travel in areas with heavy snow, consider adding a small shovel, kitty litter (for traction), and some non-perishable snacks in case you get stuck. Don’t wait until you're stranded to make sure your car is winter-ready. A little preparation now can keep you safer on the road and prevent unexpected breakdowns. If you need a winter tune-up or a battery check, bring your vehicle to Colorado Fleetworks and we can help. Stay safe out there!

If you drive a diesel, you already know they’re built for serious work. But come winter, diesel vehicles need a bit of specialty maintenance to keep them running strong. The cold brings unique challenges, and neglecting them could leave you stuck, or worse, facing expensive repairs. The big ones to pay attention to? Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) and Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) systems. These two are critical, but there are a few other key areas you’ll want to prep before winter hits. Here’s what you need to know. Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) DEF is a must-have for modern diesel vehicles to reduce emissions. But here’s the kicker: it freezes at 12°F (-11°C). Make sure your DEF tank is topped off and that the system is working properly. If DEF crystallizes, it can cause clogs or damage to your system. Don’t let that happen, check it before the cold sets in. Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Your DPF traps soot to keep emissions clean, but in winter, it can be harder for the system to complete its cleaning cycle, especially if you’re making short trips. A clogged DPF means reduced performance and potential breakdowns. Keep your engine warm and running long enough for those regenerations to happen. Glow Plugs and Modules Glow plugs act like spark plugs for diesels, warming the engine cylinders so it can start. In the cold, worn glow plugs or a faulty glow plug module can make starting a nightmare. If your vehicle struggles to turn over on cold mornings, it’s time to get these checked. Winter Fuel and Anti-Gel Additives Diesel fuel tends to gel in freezing temps, turning waxy and clogging your fuel lines. Using winter-grade diesel fuel or adding an anti-gel treatment can help prevent this. Trust us, you don’t want to deal with gelled-up fuel when you’re already late for work or trying to make it to a job. Battery and Starter Check Cold weather drains batteries faster and puts extra stress on your starter. Diesels need strong cranking power to start, so if your battery’s already weak , it’s a good idea to replace it before winter hits. Clean terminals and a quick battery test can save you from being stranded. Is Your Diesel Ready for Winter? Winter can be hard on diesel vehicles, but a little prep goes a long way. At Colorado Fleetworks, we specialize in diesel maintenance , from DEF and DPF systems to glow plugs and winter-ready tune-ups. If you want to keep your diesel humming through the cold months, swing by. We’ll make sure you’re ready for whatever winter throws your way. Stay warm, and keep that diesel running strong!

Your battery may be the unsung hero of your vehicle, but it doesn’t last forever. As we head into winter here in Colorado, symptoms of a bad battery can get much worse. Cold weather reduces your battery's ability to hold a charge, and it can also slow down the chemical reactions inside, making it harder to start your engine. If your battery is already weak, the extra strain from freezing temperatures combined with increased power demands like running the heater, defroster, and lights could leave you stranded. Here are some clear signs it’s time for a replacement. 1. Slow Engine Start If your engine cranks slower than normal when you start the car, your battery could be losing power. This is one of the first warnings of a failing battery. 2. Dim or Flickering Lights A weak battery can’t power your vehicle’s electrical systems properly. If your headlights or interior lights dim, it’s a red flag. 3. Dashboard Warning Light Many vehicles have a battery-shaped light that appears when the system detects low voltage. Don’t ignore this—it’s there for a reason. 4. Corrosion on Battery Terminals Check under the hood. If you see white or blue corrosion on the battery terminals, it can interrupt the connection and cause performance issues. 5. Swollen or Leaking Battery A bloated or cracked battery case usually means it’s overheating or has internal damage. This can be dangerous, so get it replaced immediately. 6. Frequent Jump Starts If you’ve needed to jump-start your car more than once in a short time, the battery isn’t holding a charge properly. 7. Strange Electrical Issues Your radio resetting, power windows acting up, or the key fob not working consistently could point to a battery problem. Ready to Replace Your Battery? Most car batteries last around 3 to 5 years. If yours is older and showing any of these signs, don’t wait for it to fail completely. A dead battery at the wrong time can leave you stranded. At Colorado Fleetworks, we know vehicle batteries inside and out. If you’re unsure about yours, we can test it and replace it along with any other winter maintenance your vehicle needs , helping you get back on the road with confidence.

If you’re looking for a van for work, deliveries, or life on the road, reliability is probably your biggest concern. The Ram ProMaster has earned its place as a popular option, offering some real advantages compared to other vans. In fact, the ProMaster is one of our favorite vans to specialize in repairing . How well do they hold up over time? Let’s break it down. Where the ProMaster Stands Out One of the biggest benefits of the Ram ProMaster is its front-wheel drive system. This design gives it better traction on wet or slippery roads and makes the van easier to maneuver in tight spaces. It also allows for a lower floor height, which is a huge plus if you’re loading tools, cargo, or even building out a camper. The ProMaster’s shape is another major win. With its square, straight walls and wide cargo area, you get more usable space than in other vans. Whether you’re installing shelves for work or trying to squeeze in camper van furniture, you’ll appreciate every inch of that boxy design. Compared to vans like the Mercedes Sprinter, ProMasters are also more affordable. They cost less upfront and are cheaper to maintain over time. Parts are easier to find, and repairs tend to be simpler since the ProMaster skips a lot of the premium bells and whistles. The Drawbacks to Be Aware Of No van is perfect, and the ProMaster has a few quirks. Transmission issues can be a problem in older models, especially if maintenance has been overlooked. Electrical systems are another area where trouble can pop up, so keeping an eye on any warning lights is important. The front-wheel drive, while great for city driving, isn’t ideal for rough terrain or off-road conditions. The ProMaster doesn’t have an all-wheel-drive option, which could be a downside if you spend a lot of time in snow or on unpaved roads. How to Keep a ProMaster Running Strong Like any van, reliability depends on how well you take care of it. Regular oil changes , transmission services , and chassis maintenance go a long way toward extending the life of a ProMaster. It’s also worth sticking to a consistent service schedule, especially if you use the van for heavy-duty work or long trips. If you’re using a ProMaster as a camper, be sure that any build-out or modifications don’t interfere with key systems like wiring, brakes, or the transmission. A good van mechanic will know how to work around those setups without causing damage. Are ProMasters Reliable? For most owners, yes. ProMasters are dependable when they’re maintained properly, and they’re an excellent choice for anyone who needs a spacious, practical van that won’t break the bank. They’re ideal for city driving, delivery routes, and budget-friendly camper conversions. If you’re looking for a rugged van that can handle extreme weather or off-road adventures, you might want to look at other options like a Sprinter or Ford Transit. But for everyday use and smart, affordable design, the ProMaster delivers. And if you’re ever in doubt about your van’s reliability, it helps to have a shop that knows what they’re doing. Vans have their own set of unique challenges, and the right mechanic can save you a lot of time, money, and headaches. If you're in the Denver area and needing service or maintenance, give us a call .

If you’ve got a van, whether it’s for work, road trips, or both, at some point you’ll probably need some body work done. But not all body shops are set up to handle the size and needs of a van. At Colorado Fleetworks, we know how important it is to have a body shop that can actually fit your big van in the door , and we’ve got the equipment to make sure the job gets done right. Why You Need a Shop That Can Handle Vans Here’s the thing: a lot of body shops are built for cars and smaller vehicles. Vans, especially ones like Sprinters , RAM ProMasters , or Ford Transits , are way taller and longer. If a shop doesn’t have the right space or equipment, they might struggle to do the work correctly. Or worse, they could damage your van in the process. Vans also have a lot more surface area, so painting and repairs can get tricky if the shop doesn’t have enough room to move around. This is especially true for paint work, which is where many body shops fall short when it comes to larger vehicles. Tall Paint Booths Matter One of the biggest challenges for van owners is finding a body shop with tall enough paint booths. Vans need extra space for the painter to move around and apply an even coat. A shop that doesn’t have tall booths might try to cram your van into a space meant for sedans, and that’s just asking for trouble. At Colorado Fleetworks, we’ve got two of the tallest paint booths in the Denver metro area . That means we can handle even the biggest vans, and we’ve got the room to make sure the paint job is done right. Whether you need a small touch-up or a full repaint, we’re ready to take care of it. Experience With Van Repairs Vans are a different beast when it comes to body repairs. They take more wear and tear, and the larger panels can get banged up pretty easily. Whether it’s dents, rust, or more serious damage, it’s important to have a team that knows how to work on vans specifically. We’ve worked on all kinds of vans, and we know how to get them looking good as new. We’ve got the equipment, the experience, and the space to handle everything from minor dings to full-body repairs. At the end of the day, you want your van to look its best and be in good hands. We’ve invested in the right tools like our tall paint booths to make sure we can handle any job, no matter the size of your van. If you’re in the Denver metro area and need body work, we’ve got you covered. Give us a call or stop by Colorado Fleetworks, and we’ll make sure your van looks as good as it runs.

If you rely on your Ford Transit for work or personal use, keeping it in top shape is key to getting the most out of it. These vans are built tough, but like anything, a little care can go a long way. At Colorado Fleetworks, we repair Ford Transits in our Denver shop every week, and we know firsthand that routine maintenance is the best way to keep them running smoothly for years. Here are a few simple tips to help extend the life of your Transit. 1. Stick to Regular Maintenance First things first, always stick to your regular maintenance. Oil changes, filter replacements, and fluid checks should be done on schedule. It’s easy to put these things off, but delaying routine service can lead to much bigger (and more expensive) problems down the road. If you’re not sure what your van needs or when, check the manual or ask us. We're happy to help. 2. Keep an Eye on Your Brakes Brakes are a big deal, especially if you’re using your van to haul heavy loads or doing a lot of city driving. If you hear squeaking or grinding, or if it feels like it’s taking longer to stop, don’t wait. Getting your brakes checked regularly can save you from bigger problems down the line. Plus, replacing brake pads when they’re worn out is a lot cheaper than dealing with damaged rotors. 3. Pay Attention to Your Tires Your tires might not always be top of mind, but they’re critical for both safety and performance. Underinflated tires can mess with your fuel economy, and worn-out tires reduce your grip on the road. Check your tire pressure regularly and keep them inflated to the right level. Also, rotating your tires every 5,000 to 7,000 miles will help them wear evenly which will keep you safer and make them last longer. 4. Don’t Forget Your Transmission Your Transit’s transmission is doing a lot of heavy lifting, especially if you’re using it for towing or carrying big loads. Keep an eye on the transmission fluid and make sure it’s topped off and clean. If you’re noticing any weird noises or issues shifting, it’s time to have it looked at. Transmissions aren’t cheap to fix, but catching problems early can save you a lot of hassle. 5. Take Care of the Cooling System Overheating is no joke, and it can really damage your engine. Make sure your coolant levels are where they should be and replace the coolant according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. If your engine’s running hot or your temperature gauge is creeping up, don’t ignore it. Have a knowledgable Transit mechanic take a look and find the issue. By sticking to these basic tips, you can get a lot more life out of your Ford Transit. Regular maintenance, catching problems early, and keeping things clean all help keep your van in great shape. If you need any help with your Transit, whether it’s routine maintenance or something more serious, give us a shout at Colorado Fleetworks and our expert Transmit mechanics. We’re here to make sure your van stays on the road for the long haul.

If you're trying to decide between a diesel or gasoline van for your business, you're not alone. It’s one of the most common questions we get at Colorado Fleetworks. Both diesel and gas vans have their pros and cons, and what’s best for you depends on how you plan to use your vehicle. After years of working on both types, we’ve learned what works and what doesn’t. Here’s a breakdown to help you make the right choice. 1. Fuel Efficiency Diesel Vans: Diesel engines are known for their fuel efficiency, especially if you’re doing a lot of highway driving or carrying heavy loads. Diesel fuel has more energy per gallon than gasoline, which means you get better mileage. If your van spends most of its time on long trips, diesel might save you money on fuel in the long run. Gas Vans: Gasoline engines burn through fuel a bit faster, especially when you’re dealing with city driving or stop-and-go traffic. However, gas is typically cheaper than diesel, so depending on how much driving you’re doing, the cost difference might not be huge. The Bottom Line : If your business involves a lot of highway miles or heavy cargo, diesel’s fuel efficiency makes a big difference. For lighter loads or city driving, gas will do just fine and might save you a bit at the pump. 2. Maintenance and Durability Diesel Vans: Diesel engines are built tough and can handle high mileage and heavy loads better than gas engines. They tend to last longer, but when repairs are needed, they can be expensive. Parts like turbochargers and fuel injectors aren’t cheap, and diesel engines require specialized maintenance. Gas Vans: Gas engines are generally easier and cheaper to maintain. Repairs are typically less expensive, and there are more mechanics who can work on them. However, gas engines don’t have the same lifespan as diesels. They might need more frequent repairs as they age, especially if they’re put through heavy use. The Bottom Line : Diesel engines last longer and are better for businesses that put a lot of wear and tear on their vehicles. Gas engines are cheaper to maintain but may not go the distance if you’re relying on them for heavy-duty work. 3. Power and Towing Capacity Diesel Vans: Diesel engines produce more torque, which means they can handle towing and heavy loads better than gas engines. If your van is frequently used to haul equipment or tow trailers, a diesel engine will give you the extra power you need without putting too much strain on the engine. Gas Vans: While gas engines have less torque than diesels, they’re still more than capable for lighter loads and regular use. If you’re not towing or carrying extremely heavy cargo, a gas engine will meet your needs just fine. The Bottom Line : If towing capacity and power are critical to your business, go with a diesel. For lighter use, a gas van will get the job done without the extra cost of a diesel engine. 4. Upfront Costs Diesel Vans: Diesel vans tend to cost more upfront. The engines are more expensive to produce, which means you’ll be paying a premium when you buy a diesel vehicle. However, the long-term savings from better fuel efficiency and longer lifespan can balance out that initial investment. Gas Vans: Gasoline vans are usually more affordable to buy. The upfront cost is lower, and for businesses on a budget, that can make a big difference. However, keep in mind that they may not last as long as a diesel engine, so you’ll need to consider the potential for higher long-term costs. The Bottom Line : If your budget allows and you’re looking at long-term savings, diesel might be the better investment. If you’re focused on lower upfront costs, a gas van will save you money from the start. Which is best? When it comes to choosing between a diesel or gas van, it really boils down to how you plan to use your vehicle. Diesel vans offer better fuel efficiency, power, and longevity, making them a great choice for businesses that need to tow or drive long distances regularly. However, they come with a higher upfront cost and more expensive maintenance. On the other hand, gas vans are cheaper to buy and maintain, making them ideal for businesses with lighter needs or a more budget-conscious approach. At Colorado Fleetworks, we’ve got the expertise to help you keep your diesel or gas van running smoothly . Contact us to discuss any repair or maintenance your van needs.

If you drive a van for work or as a camper, it’s important to know that vans aren’t like other vehicles. They have more complex systems and unique challenges that require specialized knowledge. That’s why you need a mechanic who understands vans inside and out. At Colorado Fleetworks, we’ve seen firsthand how important it is to have someone who knows their way around vans for both routine maintenance and serious repairs. Vans are More Complex Than Regular Vehicles Vans aren’t just bigger versions of cars—they're designed for different purposes, like hauling heavy loads or being converted into homes on wheels. Their engines and electrical systems are often packed into tighter spaces, which makes repairs a little trickier. For example, commercial vans like the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter or Ford Transit are built to handle more weight and have more complex systems than your standard car or truck. If you’re not used to working on vans, you could easily miss things. A van expert knows exactly how to get to those hard-to-reach areas without damaging other components and can handle the quirks that come with these larger vehicles. Unique Problems Need Specialized Van Repair Knowledge Vans come with their own set of issues that require specific experience. Many vans, especially workhorses like the Sprinter or ProMaster, run on diesel engines, which need a different approach than gas engines. If your mechanic doesn’t know how to properly service a diesel engine, they could miss or misdiagnose common problems, like turbo or fuel injector issues. Bigger vans also face challenges related to their size, like suspension wear and tear or weight distribution problems, especially if they’re regularly carrying heavy loads. A van expert knows what to look for and can spot these problems early, saving you from bigger repairs down the road. Camper and Work Van Customizations Add Complexity If you’ve got a camper van or a work van with custom shelves, partitions, or other gear, things can get even more complicated. Camper vans often have electrical systems, plumbing, or built-in appliances that need to be worked around carefully. The last thing you want is for someone to damage your solar panel wiring or plumbing while trying to fix your van’s engine. Similarly, work vans often have equipment installed, and it takes a careful hand to work around these setups. A van expert knows how to remove, repair, and reinstall everything correctly without causing more issues. Why a Van Expert Saves You Time and Money Nobody wants to deal with unexpected breakdowns or long repair times, especially when your van is your livelihood or home. A van expert saves you time by diagnosing issues faster and getting the repairs done right the first time. We've seen it all before and know how to handle the specific problems vans face. More importantly, we can spot issues before they become major problems. Regular maintenance with a van expert means catching little things—like wear on your suspension or a transmission issue—before they turn into costly repairs that leave your van stuck in the shop. Vans are complex vehicles with unique needs. Whether it’s a work van or a camper, you want a mechanic who knows how to handle everything from engine repairs to dealing with customizations. At Colorado Fleetworks, we specialize in repairing vans and understand how to keep them running smoothly for the long haul. Don’t trust your van to just any shop—trust a van expert and contact us if you need your van repaired near Denver .