Truck owners want to keep their vehicles running smoothly for as long as possible. Aside from getting prompt truck repairs, schedule preventive maintenance to maximize the lifespan of its components and stay safe on the road. Check out the guide below for some helpful tips.

How to Keep Your Truck in Top Condition

1. Inspect Brakes

Brakes wear down differently depending on how you drive. If you drive through urban areas and face a lot of stop-and-go traffic, your brake pads and rotors may wear down more quickly. Have them inspected at least twice per year and replace them as necessary to avoid equipment damage.

2. Check Suspension

The suspension is the system of springs, shock absorbers, and linkages that connects your vehicle to its wheels. Before leaving on a long trip, visually inspect these parts to look for cracking or other signs of wear and tear. Nothing should be touching the suspension, which could interfere with its movement.

3. Change Oil

Oil acts as a lubricant to keep metal components from rubbing together. Without a sufficient amount of oil, your engine will wear down at a quicker rate and your vehicle may require truck repair. The interval for oil changes will depend on the age, mileage, and oil type of your vehicle. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations to maintain warranty coverage.

4. Maintain Tires

Tires need to be properly inflated and rotated for optimal performance, fuel economy, and lifespan. Most truck tires are meant to last 50,000 miles or more, but you should have them rotated every 5,000 to 8,000 miles to prevent uneven tread wear. You should also check tread depth to determine when it’s time for new tires.

5. Top Up Fluids

Coolant and transmission fluids are easy to forget about, as their change cycles are a bit longer than that of oil. However, these fluids are vital to the performance and longevity of your truck. Stay alert for pooling under the vehicle, which may indicate leaks. Consult your owner’s manual to determine how often to top up these liquids.

 

If you’re in need of truck repairs, reach out to the experts at C. L. Chase 24 Hour Towing & Recovery in Camp Douglas, WI. Serving clients throughout La Crosse, Jackson, Adams, Vernon, Wisconsin Rapids, and Chippewa counties, as well as Eau Claire, they offer everything from wrecker service to 24-hour roadside assistance. Call (608) 427-6734 to request assistance or visit their website for more information on their heavy-duty towing and semi repair services.