How to Extend the Life of Your Used Truck

If you run a haulage business, then your trucks are likely to be your biggest investment. These can be extremely costly, and so many turn to the used truck market as a cost-effective alternative. As these vehicles will have already had at least one previous owner, you need to make sure that you take good care of them in order for them to last as long as possible and provide you with the service that you need.

That is why we have put together our top tips to help you extend the life of your used truck so that it can cover as many miles as possible.

Maintenance is key

If you wait for something to go wrong on your truck, then you are likely to be in for a costly repair and some significant downtime. It is therefore important that you have a regular maintenance schedule in place to help you identify problems as early as you can and nip them in the bud before they become bigger and more expensive.

As well as regular checks of the vehicle, you will also need to schedule maintenance such as servicing. This will involve the truck being out of use for a short period of time, so make sure that it is planned and scheduled in advance so that you can stay organised.

Checking your brakes

One of the most important things to stay on top of is the condition of your truck’s brakes. This helps to keep your drivers and other road users safe, so they should always be checked before and after any long journeys, as well as at any point when a driver reports abnormal vibrations or sounds. As your truck’s brakes are a perishable part, you should expect to replace them several times throughout your truck’s lifespan.

Keeping on top of fluids

The radiator will also need regular attention to ensure that it can maintain an optimal temperature for your truck. It can overheat in warm climates or on long journeys, so ensure it is inspected and refilled regularly to keep your truck operating smoothly.

All fluid levels and greasing need to be dealt with on a regular basis too. Trucks tend to go through oil quite quickly, so you need to check oil levels and the condition of your oil regularly. At the same time, you should ensure that your coolant levels have been topped up. It is also important to remember that there are many moving parts in your truck, so keep them greased to allow them to work smoothly and avoid any premature wear and tear.

Tyre wear

Your tyres are essential to the overall health of your truck, as uneven tyre wear will affect handling, fuel efficiency, and safety. This means it is important to regularly inspect your tyres for wear and tear as well as damage, and you should pay close attention to the tread depth. Your tyres should always be properly inflated, and it is recommended that you rotate them every 6,000 to 8,000 miles to ensure that the levels of wear remain even. This helps to extend the life of your tyres as well as your truck’s suspension system.

Engine care

The engine is the heart of your truck, so you need to give it a little bit of TLC from time to time. This is because dirt and debris can start to accumulate under the bonnet and begin to clog up some of the essential components like the radiator, filters, and belts. A regular clean of the engine bay will help to maintain the efficiency of these parts and prevent any long-term damage from occurring. You should also clean around the battery terminals to keep corrosion at bay.

Look for an exhausted exhaust

The exhaust system is often overlooked as part of truck maintenance, but it is crucial in maintaining engine performance and fuel efficiency. Keep an eye out for any leaks, rust, or unusual noises, as these are all indicators of more serious problems. If you stay on top of the maintenance for your exhaust system, you can ensure that your truck meets the necessary emission standards that will enable it to pass an MOT.

Suspension maintenance

The suspension system absorbs the impact of road conditions, and with the number of potholes currently seen on the UK’s roads, it is important that you look after it. By checking the shock absorbers, struts, and springs for signs of wear, you can help to ensure a smoother ride and reduce any strain on the truck’s other components.

Truck storage

Looking after your truck is not just about paying attention to it when it’s on the road, but also when it is not in use. Whether it is overnight or for a prolonged period of time, you need to make sure that your truck is stored in a sheltered area in order to prolong its lifespan. This will help to protect it from any harsh weather and conditions that might affect its condition. If you know that the vehicle will not be used for a while, then put the battery onto a trickle charge to ensure that your truck will start straight away when you need it.

Keeping clean

It is also important to make sure that your vehicle is clean. This isn’t just to make it look good, but also to remove the dirt, road salt, and grime that can contribute to rust and corrosion. By regularly washing and waxing the truck, you can protect the paint and body from damage.

The way you look after your truck will determine how long it lasts. A second-hand truck needs a lot more care if you want to keep it on the road, so having a maintenance checklist to hand will help you to stay on top of what is needed. It is important to remember that a few simple checks and changes can help to avoid much more costly and damaging breakdowns and repairs further down the line.