Many people require a vehicle to get to work. However, for food truck owners, their vehicle is their livelihood, which is why keeping it running smoothly, efficiently, and reliably is essential. That is why Shanghai Mobile Kitchen Solutions, the go-to supplier of mobile kitchen products of Brooklyn, NY, has shared their best tips for maintaining food trucks.

Do:

Stress the small stuff.

You may already know to regularly change your oil, but how often do you have your lights inspected? The smallest details matter. Once every few months, clean the car battery and have the spark plugs and brake pads checked. Every 30,000 to 45,000 miles, change out the engine's air filter. This prevents dust, dirt, bugs, and debris from cycling through to the engine, which can result in damage.

Pay attention to the tires.

While the stovetop and refrigeration are important parts of the business, food trucks need tires to get to customers. Pay special attention to your tires and adhere to basic yet important maintenance rules. For example, know the appropriate air pressure and fill up when needed. Likewise, have a mechanic rotate your tires every 6,000 to 8,000 miles. This allows for even wear on the tread, extends their life spans, and keeps you safe in slippery conditions. While driving, if you ever notice your truck pulling to one side or another, an alignment may be required. 

Don't:

Ignore the signs.

If the engine light is on, you notice an unusual sound or smell, or the feel of the car is different, take it in for an inspection and repairs immediately. Minor issues may be resolved quickly and affordably. However, if left unattended, they can grow into more costly problems. In some cases, this may take the food truck off the road entirely. Not only will you pay for the repairs, but you’ll also lose potential profit.

Do it yourself.

While it may be tempting to perform some DIY car maintenance, it is always best to trust a professional. Without the right education, experience, equipment, and products, you may worsen the problem. Find a local, reliable mechanic you can trust with routine inspections and major repairs alike. This will end up saving you time, frustration, and money in the long run.

Keep your food trucks operable by investing in maintenance. If any of your interior appliances need replacing, contact Shanghai Mobile Kitchen Solutions. Based in Brooklyn, NY, this family-owned business serves Philadelphia, Boston, New Jersey, Maryland, and North Carolina. In addition to mobile vending services, they can also help you design your restaurant kitchen. See how they can help you by visiting their website or calling (800) 253-4815 today.