On-time deliveries are crucial for the success of your business. There are always factors out of your control that can cause delays. However, the condition of your trucks is one factor that you can have a lot of control over. Keeping your trucks serviced and in good condition is one thing you can ensure to prevent potential breakdowns and delays. The question that arises here is how often should trucks be serviced? Find out in this guide.
Trucks & Service Intervals
On average, a truck should be serviced in the range of 10,000 and 20,000 miles. A basic service involves inspection of the brakes and lights and refilling the lubricants and oil. It is best to refer to the owner’s manual to check the exact intervals. When it comes to a complete inspection, it should be performed every 30,000 miles. A preventative maintenance check can include the following:
- Brake inspection
- Lube and oil change
- Air, oil, and fuel filter change
- Completing any repairs to meet DOT standards
- Electrical and lighting inspection
- Steering and alignment inspection
- Proper tire inflation
Importance of Regular Truck Servicing
There are many ways in which your fleet and business can benefit from regular vehicle servicing. The most important of these reasons are as follows:
- Avoiding Expensive Repairs: Regular maintenance costs are much lower compared to emergency repairs. Breakdowns can have a significant impact on your profits and bottom line.
- Safety: This is the most important reason why your truck should be serviced on time. A truck with components in good condition is less likely to breakdown, thus increasing the safety of the driver, other people on the road, and the shipment.
- Increased Vehicle Lifespan: It doesn’t require much explanation as to how regular and proper service can increase the lifespan of your truck. Timely maintenance and service offers the following benefits:
- Increased uptime
- Lower cost per mile
- Increased profits
- Lower operational costs
- Meeting DOT Regulations: When you service your truck in a timely manner, you are avoiding Out of Service Violation.
Factors Affecting Service Intervals
While 30,000 miles is considered the ideal mileage for a more thorough inspection, this figure can change depending on many factors. It is recommended to service a truck used for long-haul at least every 30,000 miles or once a year, whichever occurs the first. This servicing will include:
- Oil & lube changes
- Safety checks
- Filter checks
The mechanic will use this servicing to check for any signs of wear and tear before they transform into major issues. Manufacturers also recommend a more thorough inspection and maintenance service every 125,000 miles.
The service interval of a truck can vary depending on the following factors:
How Your Truck is Being Used?
Long-haul trucks spend more time on the road. All the components of the vehicle undergo heavy usage on a regular basis. Such trucks will require more frequent servicing. The load and size of trucks increase the need for brake repairs.
Driving Conditions & Season
Trucks have to put up with harsher environments during the winter season. Your truck will need servicing before this time for a safer and more reliable winter driving experience. A pre-winter inspection can include the following steps:
- Air system inspection
- Battery testing
- Coolant checking
- Winter tires installation
- Testing engine block heaters
Finding potential mechanical issues before they turn into major problems can help you save a lot of money. It will also increase your business’ uptime.
Serviced Trucks Mean More Reliable Business Operations
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, a truck should complete a maintenance inspection at least once every year. It is recommended to get your truck properly serviced at least once a year. Besides meeting the safety and legal requirements, it will ensure that your truck is ready for all the challenges that the roads and conditions will put up. A well-maintained fleet will also create a more reliable impression for your business, thus increasing the chances of repeat business.
While meeting the service interval requirements is one important aspect, choosing a licensed and experienced truck service and maintenance provider is another important point. Make sure to do your research before choosing a truck maintenance and repair company for regular servicing of your fleet.
