Heavy-duty vehicles like trucks, buses, and construction equipment require regular maintenance, even though they’re built to endure tough conditions. These machines are indeed resilient, but with regular maintenance, you will avoid costly breakdowns and defects.
If you own such a vehicle or more of them, then you already know the importance of having a trustworthy service company and supplier like STS-Global for your procurement support worldwide. But what do you need to know about regular maintenance?
Understand the Importance
Regular maintenance is all about keeping your heavy-duty vehicle looking good and completely functional. Additionally, it brings these benefits:
- Preventing breakdowns by catching the minor defects pretty early
- Extending the vehicle’s lifespan because the wears and tears are reduced
- Improved safety, because well-maintained vehicle is a safe vehicle
- Fuel efficiency as the engine is well-maintained, cleaned, and completely functional
Keeping the vehicle valuable, as potential buyers will be more interested in maintained heavy-duty vehicles.
As we covered the benefits, let’s move to the section about the essential checks a person can do themselves.
Essential Checks on Your Heavy-Duty Vehicles
As a heavy-duty vehicle owner, there are various things you can check to estimate if it needs bigger repair, or it’s something you can deal with yourself.
- These are the potential problems you can spot early:
- Engine oil and coolant levels – Check them once a week or before a long trip
- Tire pressure and tread wear – A crucial step for your safety
- Lights and electrical systems – Ensure everything is functioning properly
- Windshield wipers and washer fluid – Check the wipers for cracks and tears, and always keep the washer container full
- Fluid leaks – Check for any leaks, whether it’s oil, coolant, or other fluid in your vehicle
- Warning lights – Never ignore them, as they help you understand what’s happening with your car
Schedule a Maintenance
The mentioned regular checks are very important, but comprehensive maintenance is a must. Every manufacturer has a recommended period between two maintenance, but if there is some visible problem, you should bring the vehicle earlier.
The common maintenance offer includes:
- Oil changes
- Filter replacements
- Brake inspection and service
- Cooling system service
- Drivetrain inspection
- Suspension and steering checks
All these elements are an important part of vehicle maintenance. You only have to plan the maintenance schedule carefully, as heavy-duty vehicles require more time and dedication. Still, it’s a wise investment, because security and safety must be top priority, at any time.
By addressing the issues as they happen, you’re avoiding larger problems that may occur, that may result in costly repairs. But this doesn’t mean you’re allowed to skip big maintenance activities. All these steps contribute to keeping your heavy-duty vehicle fleet operational in the long run.
Remember, regular maintenance on your heavy-duty vehicle fleet is the most responsible thing you can do. That way you prevent larger and more costly repairs, but also care for the overall safety of the employees who drive those vehicles. Set a reminder, so you won’t forget the next maintenance – because it’s worth it.
