Proper truck maintenance is essential for the reliability and longevity of your truck. It also helps avoid expensive repairs and accidents. And it can prevent you from getting stopped by law enforcement for a “fix-it ticket,” like having a broken taillight.
It’s easy to take your truck for granted. It’s parked in the garage, driveway or on the street most of the time. But that doesn’t mean you can ignore its basic maintenance.
Here are five tips for proper truck maintenance:
Table of Contents
Get Regular Tuneups
To avoid breakdowns and costly repairs, regular checkups are essential. Engine problems are most common due to the wear and tear of the car. So it’s recommended to get your engine tuned every 10,000 miles.
You can schedule a routine service at any auto repair shop. In addition to keeping your car mechanically sound, these services will also help improve the overall condition of your vehicle by reducing emissions, diesel diagnostics and fuel efficiency.
Check The Cooling System
Don’t forget to check your coolant level. Check the radiator and expansion tank for fluid levels, and top off. If it’s too low, you may not have enough water in your cooling system to effectively remove heat from the engine. If it’s too high, you may have an internal leak or other problem with your cooling system.
Check The Shocks and Alignment
Shock absorbers work to smooth out your truck’s ride and reduce bottoming out. They should be checked regularly for wear, usually indicated by a soft or bouncy ride, excessive swaying and bouncing at higher speeds, or a tendency to bounce up after hitting bumps. If you notice any of these signs, have them inspected by a mechanic as soon as possible.
If you’re comfortable working on your vehicle, changing shocks is an easy task that only requires essential hand tools like sockets and wrenches. Many auto parts stores offer free installation services if you’ve purchased your shocks elsewhere (such as online). But it’s still worth checking with them first before your appointment. Confirm what work they’ll do. Ask if there’s any additional requirement from you.
Change Filters And Fluids Regularly
The filter and fluid systems are among many components of your truck that require maintenance. If these integral systems are not properly maintained, serious problems can occur.
There are two types, oil and air. Oil lubricates your engine; air filters are responsible for keeping dust and dirt out of the truck’s engine. Changing filters and fluids regularly maintains these systems.
Keep Tires Properly Inflated
The final step to proper truck maintenance is to keep your tires properly inflated. The tire pressure should be checked every time you refuel. The tire pressure should be adjusted if wear or damage is detected. Under-inflated tires are more likely to blow out; Over-inflated tires wear out faster and increase the chance of a blowout.
Taking care of your truck keeps it in great condition and operating smoothly, and it saves you money.
Text provided by The Weekly Driver News Service and other content providers.
Article Last Updated: July 11, 2022.
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