Driving a semi-truck requires patience and focus. You should also pay attention to detail when maintaining your vehicle and getting the necessary repairs to keep it on the road for long trips. You should always have the number of a trusted semi towing company on hand in case there are issues, but you can avoid many of those severe problems with the right maintenance.

How to Properly Maintain a Semi Truck

1. Perform Inspections Before Trips

Keep a checklist on hand and perform a full inspection of the truck before you leave on long trips. Go over all the moving parts, but pay special attention to the radiator, brakes, and tires. Radiator leaks are common in vehicles that drive long distances and can lead to overheating while you’re on the road. If this issue occurs, you’ll need a semi towing company to get to a nearby service center. Brakes and tires are also essential for your safety on the road, so look out for worn-down tread and squeaky noises when you come to a stop.

2. Look Out for Trouble

Once you’ve performed your inspections, the situation can still change once you get on the road. Keep an eye out for problems with your vehicle and bring it to a professional repair shop immediately if you notice anything. For example, your check engine light could indicate damage to your exhaust system, which you should address before it worsens. You should also fix conditions like cracked windshields and fluid leaks right away.

3. Change Oil & Grease Regularly

Regular oil changes are essential for keeping engine parts lubricated, so the temperature stays down. You should also have all the moving parts of your truck greased regularly to reduce friction. This process includes everything from the chassis to the clutch release. If you are confident, you can do this job yourself during your pre-trip inspection. However, if you aren’t, you should have a truck maintenance shop perform this tuneup.

Even with the proper maintenance, you may need a semi towing company from time to time. Buckeye Riverside Towing is based in Cincinnati, OH, and serves the entire Tri-State area with fast and reliable emergency towing and heavy-duty recovery services. The team is available 24/7 and has the experience and equipment necessary to tow large trucks and provide roadside assistance services that will get you back on the road. Visit the company’s website to see a full list of services, and call (513) 244-7200 the next time you need semi towing service.