Truck Maintenance Tips

With so many high-quality trucks on the market—and dozens of compact, city-friendly models joining their ranks—the appeal of pickup trucks is higher than ever. That translates to a whole lot of first-time pickup owners in Macon and beyond! If you’re a new truck owner or planning to become one, you probably have some questions about how often to get a truck serviced, and in what ways your routine truck maintenance schedule might be different from other vehicles. We’ll be answering all of your questions in the guide below, so stay tuned!

How Often To Get a Truck Serviced

The biggest difference between maintaining a truck versus other vehicles is less about the type of vehicle it is than what you’re using it for. If your pickup or large SUV works harder than other vehicles due to frequent towing or is customized for off-road driving, you should expect to invest more time and money into maintenance. 

Your owner’s manual will most likely include two separate truck service schedules: one for normal use, and another for “heavy” or “off-road use. Next, we’ll explore how often to get a truck serviced if you’re following that second option.

Automotive Fluids

“Heavy” use truck maintenance will involve checking and replacing automotive fluids more often. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Transmission fluid: Typically replaced after about 30,000 to 60,000 miles, but your truck may require a change more often. Check the color and condition of the fluid—if it is dark or smells burnt, replace it.
• Coolant: Check the level of your coolant at least twice a year, once before winter and once before summer. Coolant may need to be replaced anywhere from every 15,000 to every 100,000 miles, so check it frequently if you are towing or off-roading often.
• Brake and power-steering fluid: Technicians will check these fluids whenever you stop in for an oil change, but specific intervals will vary by vehicle make and model. 
• Differential oil: This oil lubricates parts in the axle housing of your drivetrain. Many trucks have all- or four-wheel drive, which means they’ll have three differentials: front, center, and rear. These may each use different types of oil, so be sure to check your owner’s manual for details.

Hardware

Heavy loads and rough terrain puts extra strain on your truck’s suspension, frame, steering mechanism, brakes, and more. All these will require extra attention, and your truck maintenance schedule should reflect that.

• Suspension: Before hauling a heavy load or heading out on a long drive from Byron, inspect your vehicle’s suspension for signs of sagging or breaking. 
• Spark Plugs: Spark plugs can last anywhere between 60,000 and 100,000 miles. Their condition will usually be checked by technicians as part of your routine truck service schedule—so be sure not to skip any recommended appointments at your local service center!
• Steering: Steering components should be inspected and lubricated at every oil change interval.
• Brakes: Stopping hard to maintain control on tough terrain can war your brakes down faster, and so can towing heavy cargo. Make sure that your truck’s brake pads and shoes are checked at every tire rotation interval.
• Frame: About once a year, take some time to inspect your vehicle’s frame for rust accumulation, bending, or cracking. If you have been towing, pay special attention to the area where the trailer hitch receiver attaches.
• Air filter: Your owner’s manual will recommend a certain mileage interval for changing the air filter, but it can get dirty faster if you spend time driving on dusty roads. Check the filter every few hundred miles, and change it as soon as it appears dirty.

Count On Us for Professional Truck Service Near Robins Air Force Base!

On top of what we’ve already covered, you should also note that there will be special considerations if your truck has a diesel engine. No matter what model you drive, the best way to keep your truck performing at its best is to drive it often, know your recommended maintenance schedule, and inspect it yourself to make sure that everything is looking good. 

Our team is here to help if you have any further questions about your SUV or truck maintenance schedule! Feel free to stop by our service center in Warner Robins or contact our team for more information.