The average lifespan of a commercial truck is between 10,000 and 12,000 miles. Given these statistics, it might seem like keeping your truck in good condition is a constant struggle. However, there are many ways you can extend the life of your vehicle to maximize its efficiency and reduce the amount of money you spend on repairs. Whether it’s adjusting your driving habits or scheduling necessary maintenance, there are plenty of things you can do to make sure your semi truck lasts as long as possible — and with minimal impact on your bottom line . The following tips will help you get your machine into tip-top shape faster than ever before.
Check and change your oil and filters regularly
Your truck’s engine relies on an oil and oil filter to operate efficiently. If you don’t change them regularly, they will become dirty and begin to collect debris, which can lead to a variety of problems.To save time and money, it’s best to do this task at home. It’s also a good idea to use synthetic oil, which can last for 10,000 miles. However, if you use conventional oil, you should change it every 3,000 miles.
Don’t skimp on gas or diesel
It’s tempting to use the cheapest grade of fuel possible, but doing so can have a negative impact on your truck. For example, using the wrong grade of fuel can reduce your engine’s horsepower, which can lead to decreased performance and higher emissions.Using low-quality fuel can also cause a variety of other problems — like engine damage or clogged filters. If you use the correct fuel, you can avoid many of these issues.
Don’t drive for hours on end
You might think that driving for long hours is what makes you a successful truck driver, but in reality, it’s one of the worst things you can do for your vehicle’s health. Driving for long periods of time can lead to excessive wear and tear, which can result in costly repairs.If you want to avoid having to pay for expensive repairs, it’s best to limit the amount of time you spend behind the wheel. Doing so will reduce the risk of wear and tear and save you money in the long run.
Don’t skip the tune-up
Just like with your oil and filters, it’s a good idea to perform a regular tune-up on your truck. Doing so can help you avoid a number of issues, such as poor performance, reduced efficiency, and higher emissions.You can perform a tune-up at home using a truck-specific maintenance kit, or you can visit your mechanic for a thorough inspection.
Change your tires regularly and properly
Your tires are exposed to a lot of wear and tear, and they will need to be replaced on a regular basis. However, you can extend their lifespan by changing them at the right time.That said, it’s important to remember that you don’t want to change your tires too early. If you do, you’ll reduce your vehicle’s efficiency, which can lead to higher emissions and higher fuel costs.
Change your air filter frequently
Like your tires, your air filter will also need to be replaced regularly. However, you can extend its lifespan by changing it before it becomes dirty.How often you need to change your air filter will depend on your driving conditions and the type of fuel you use. It’s best to change your filters once a month if you drive on a regular basis.
Keep your brakes clean and in good condition
Your brakes are one of the most important safety features on your truck, but they can also be the source of many problems. This is especially true if you don’t clean them frequently.To ensure that your brakes are in good condition, you can use a truck-specific brake cleaning kit. Doing so will help you avoid costly repairs and keep your brakes in good working order.
Conclusion
The average lifespan of a commercial truck is between 10,000 and 12,000 miles. Given these statistics, it might seem like keeping your truck in good condition is a constant struggle. However, there are many ways you can extend the life of your vehicle to maximize its efficiency and reduce the amount of money you spend on repairs.Whether it’s adjusting your driving habits or scheduling necessary maintenance, there are plenty of things you can do to make sure your semi truck lasts as long as possible — and with minimal impact on your bottom line .The above suggestions will help you get your machine into tip-top shape faster than ever before.