Automotive Maintenance 101 for Trucks

Maintenance services are intended to keep a vehicle’s motor in optimal condition and prevent future costly breakdowns and repairs. They are quite necessary, whether you have a car or a truck. If you are new to owning both a car and a truck, you will start to notice a slight difference in their maintenance needs. A truck’s maintenance schedule and requirements differ from that of a standard two or four-door vehicle. But overall, both types of vehicles require pretty much the same services.

The owners’ manual gives detailed instructions regarding your make and model’s factory scheduled maintenance needs and agenda. If you do not have this manual for your vehicle, you can most likely download a copy online, or consult an auto mechanic for professional advice.

Continue reading to learn the recommended car maintenance schedule for trucks, plus where to get dealership-level auto repair and service at a fraction of the cost in Indianapolis.

Truck Mechanic Indianapolis Indiana 317-475-1846
Truck Mechanic Indianapolis Indiana 317-475-1846

The Fundamentals of Routine Truck Maintenance

Fluid Refills

All motor vehicles, whether truck, car, or SUV, requires a certain level and array of fluids to operate effectively and safely. These fluids include motor oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, coolant, windshield wiper solution, power steering fluid, and battery fluid. But cars and trucks are used for different purposes, and they drive differently. A car only holds up to five passengers and drives mostly on smooth roads; whereas a truck is likely to carry loads, haul items, and drive on rougher terrains. This type of driving causes the fluids to run hotter and get used up quicker. For this reason, trucks will require more frequent fluid changes than a standard car.

Lube and Oil

On the topic of fluids, trucks also require routine lubrication of their ball joints and U-joints. These areas also need to be inspected regularly for damages or defects. For manual trucks, it is important to also check on the clutch reservoir fluid to make sure it is at a good level.

Vehicles need air and oil filters to keep the motor clean of solid debris. Otherwise, the debris would enter the motor and grind between moving parts, causing engine damage. For trucks that are used in construction or other rugged outdoor sites, it is likely that the air and oil filters are accumulating more debris at a faster rate. This means trucks used under these conditions will require more frequent filter changes than cars.  Fortunately, filters are cheap and easy to change.

Tire Inflation

Lastly, trucks require more frequent tire inflation. Tire inflation is important, and necessary, for trucks because they carry cargo. Tires should be evenly and properly inflated to safely haul cargoes. If tires are not adequately inflated, tire blow outs can occur, causing truck accidents and collisions.

Are you looking for a skilled automotive mechanic who can get your truck in and out of the shop, fast? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional scheduled truck maintenance in Indianapolis, Indiana. Request a free estimate, or schedule service, today.

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