When you own a business vehicle such as a truck or van, it can be challenging to keep it in good working order. After all, commercial vans and trucks are meant for use on the road and require special maintenance and upkeep. In addition to being mindful of your budget, there are a few things drivers should keep in mind when maintaining their trucks on an ongoing basis. Keeping your commercial vehicle in good working order will help ensure it lasts as long as possible and that it can handle all your duties when necessary. Fortunately, there are many small things you can do on a regular basis to keep your commercial vehicle in top shape. Here are some common mistakes people make when maintaining their commercial trucks so you can avoid them if they apply to you and your operation:
Some people put off maintenance because they don’t like their mechanics or don’t trust that they’re doing a good job. If you find a mechanic you trust implicitly, you could avoid this mistake by making sure you’re upfront about any issues with your truck so they can address them quickly. You can also make it easier for them to do a thorough job by bringing your van or truck to them for service. If you don’t want to be involved in the maintenance process to the point where you feel you have to, consider having a mechanic come out on your property to inspect the vehicle and provide you with a report of any issues.
Proper maintenance includes taking preventative measures to avoid breakdowns. For instance, make sure your tires are properly inflated and rotated, and that you’re using an air filter that’s not only clean but also in good shape. You can also check the oil and transmission fluid levels to make sure they’re full, and that they’re clean and free of debris. Beyond that, you can use a checklist to make sure everything else on the truck is in good working order.
Beyond taking preventative measures, you also need to make sure you’re maintaining your truck on an ongoing basis. Some areas to keep in mind include the engine, transmission, tires, and brakes, all of which can contribute to breakdowns. In addition to those, make sure you’re checking the air filter, oil, and coolant, as well as the hoses and belts in the engine and transmission. If you’re transporting hazardous materials, be sure to get the proper certification for your state and follow all regulations.
Maintenance isn’t just about preventing breakdowns. It’s also about addressing issues before they become big problems. For instance, if you notice the air filter is dirty, but you don’t want to deal with it right away, there are filters out there that can be cleaned with vinegar. Likewise, if the oil or transmission fluid looks dirty, there are additives that can clear up surface buildup without having to change the entire fluid. If you notice a problem with your tire, there are tire repair kits that can be used for minor issues. If you notice your battery is low, you can buy a new one or use a jump start to get your engine started again.
Keeping your commercial vehicle in good working order is crucial to its long-term success. That’s why it’s important to maintain it on a regular basis. By taking the time to perform regular maintenance, you can reduce the risk of breakdowns and increase the lifespan of your truck. However, you need to be careful not to neglect essential upkeep due to trust issues with your mechanics or a lack of diligence.