Your truck becomes your trusty companion when you spend long hours on the road. However, trucks require TLC and regular check-ups to stay in top shape like any good companion. Here are essential truck maintenance tips to improve your driving experience and your ride running smoothly.
- Schedule preventative measures
- Tires and Wheels
- Electrical and Wiring System
- Brakes
- Oils and Fluids
- Air Conditioning System
- Get truck insurance cover
Schedule preventative measures
Taking a proactive approach is better than waiting for things to go wrong before you act, especially when it comes to trucks. Regular preventative truck maintenance helps you stay ahead of any potential issues and prevents minor ones from becoming major expensive headaches. This also reduces the risk of breakdowns and extends the lifespan of your truck.
Tires and Wheels
Tires are constantly in contact with various types of road surfaces and are driven at different speeds, making them prone to wear and tear. It is essential that they’re in good condition to ensure overall safety.
- Alignment & Rotation – No matter how good of a driver you are, the general use of trucks will cause your wheels to misalign over time. Tire misalignment can increase draft and pressure for your truck, causing damage to the wheels. So, though it can cost a bit, professional tire alignment checks are critical if you want your truck to keep running longer.
- Tire Pressure – The optimum tire pressure varies depending on the truck model and load. So, look up the recommended tire pressure before conducting a pressure check. Ensure you do this for each tire at least once a month. Driving with uneven tire pressure can mess with the weight distribution and lead to issues with alignment.
- Tread Wear – Constant use can cause wear and tear on your tires. Regularly check for any damages, cuts, or cracks to avoid having a tire blowout while on the road. Also, check the tread depth for any stones or debris stuck in between the ribs. And if the patterns start to get smooth, it may be time to get replacements.
Electrical and Wiring System
A well-maintained electrical system is crucial for optimum performance and safety of your truck. Any electrical problems can disrupt operations and require prompt diagnosis and repair.
- Battery – A dead or weak battery can be caused by an alternator that isn’t working properly, lose or corroded battery connections, or an excessive amount of power being used by electrical accessories. So, every 5 to 6 months, inspect your battery for signs of corrosions or loose connections. If you have the necessary tools, you can check the voltage and charge capacity. Also be sure to inspect your cables and terminals are in order to avoid unexpected breakdowns while driving.
- Lights and Signals – The list includes your truck’s headlights, flashers, brake lights, turn signals, and other lights inside and outside the vehicle. Make it a habit to regularly check if all your lights are working properly. If they’re not working, they may need a bulb replacement.
- Wiring – Trucks have a complex wiring system which are put under a lot of stress when you’re driving. The constant movement and vibrations can cause them to loosen. And because there’s a lot of interconnected wires, finding the source of the problem can be tricky. You can do regular checks such as inspecting for damages and making sure they’re intact. However, it’s best to immediately contact a professional if you see anything out of the ordinary. Lights and controls not working properly or the fuse blowing up could be a sign.
- Windshield Wipers – Another thing you should check is your windshield wipers. If they’re struggling to clear away debris or making strange noises when moving, they may need greasing. If that doesn’t fix the issue, consider replacing them immediately. Even though you may not notice any problems, it’s recommended to replace wipers every 6 to 12 months. Paying for wipers is much better than risking your visibility on the road or causing more expensive damage to your windshields.
Brakes
Your safety relies on your brakes. So before even pulling out from the garage, check your brakes for any squeaking or resistance in the pedals.
- Brake Oil – If you start to notice a brake delay or unusual feeling with your brakes, check your fluid level. A good rule of thumb is to replace and refill the oil every 6 months. However, if you’re covering large distances in a single drive, you may have to check it more frequently.
- Brake Pads – Any strange noise is a bad sign. When you’re braking and hear anything out of the ordinary, remove the wheels to check on the brake pad. If it’s looking thin and worn down, immediately replace them.
- Rotors – Also check the thickness of the rotors. When you’re hitting the brake and notice vibrations or extra resistance, it may be time to replace them.
Oils and Fluids
Ideally, you should have your truck’s fluid levels inspected every time you refuel, especially if you’re doing long drives.
- Engine Oil – Check if your truck is equipped with an electric oil monitor or use an oil dipstick to measure the levels. It is generally recommended to change your oil every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, depending on your vehicle and usage.
- Coolant – Check the coolant as well to ensure the cooling system is functioning correctly. If not maintained well, it can lead to issues with the radiator, heater core, and water pump.
- Transmission Fluid – Regularly refill the transmission fluid and avoid waiting last minute to do so. If you’re not sure what the best level is, you can ask professionals when you get your truck checked. Transmission fluid essentially acts as a lubricant to reduce friction and prevent overheating. It ensures that the gears are running smoothly so keep them in mind.
Air Conditioning System
Australia can get very hot during the day, and if you’re driving a truck, it can increase the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion, and even heatstroke. These conditions can negatively affect your driving experience, impair your ability to drive, and increase the likelihood of accidents. It’s best to keep your air conditioning system in good working order by having it checked and maintained regularly.
- Compressor Belt – Check if the compressor belt is intact and in good condition. Clear out any debris.
- Compressor – Start your engine and turn the air conditioning unit on at maximum. If the compressor clutch makes strange noises, it’s best to contact a professional to have it checked.
- Air Filter – The filters in your air conditioning system can become clogged with dust or debris overtime. You can prevent the issue from escalating by regularly cleaning and replacing the filter. This is good not only for ensuring the proper airflow in the truck but helps reduce adverse effects of exposure to air pollutants.
Get truck insurance cover
Owning a truck can be expensive and accidents can still occur even with proper truck maintenance. So, be proactive and protect your truck and your finances by investing in a comprehensive truck insurance policy. If you need help finding suitable cover, Ryno Insurance has a team of advisers who can assist you in navigating through different plans.
Contact us today and get insured.
Keep your truck in shape and the roads safe
Performing regular truck maintenance is crucial to prevent accidents caused by faulty equipment. Not only does it ensure your safety, but it also enhances your driving experience and can help extend your truck’s life. So, show your truck some love!