If you own a truck, you understand just how important of an investment this is. If you want to get as many miles out of your truck as possible, you must make sure you take care of it. Even though you feel like your truck might be working well, you still need to take it to the shop for routine maintenance. If you skip these routine truck maintenance tasks, you simply increase your chances of having to face significant repairs in the future. What are a few of the most important truck maintenance tasks you need to complete regularly?
Get Your Oil Changed
One of the most important truck maintenance tasks that you should complete regularly is an oil change. In general, you should get your oil changed at least once per year or every 10,000 miles, whichever one comes first. Even though you may feel like your engine is working well, you still need to change the oil regularly. When you get your oil changed, talk to the mechanic about what type of motor oil you should use. Oil is important because it lubricates your engine, producing wear and tear on the parts. Furthermore, the right motor oil could improve your gas mileage, allowing you to save money at the pump. Make sure you change your oil at least once per year.
Rotate Your Tires
Next, you need to make sure you rotate your tires regularly as well. If your truck is four-wheel drive, you might not need to rotate your tires as often. On the other hand, there is still a chance that the tires on the front of your vehicle might not wear at the same rate as the tires on the back of your vehicle. You should rotate your tires approximately once per year, but you should talk to the mechanic about the exact schedule for your make and model. If your tires do not have enough tread left on them, you may need to get a new set of tires. Talk to the professional at the shop about the best type of tires for your truck.
Check the Timing Belts
In addition, you should check your timing belt. Your timing belt is important for making sure your internal components work properly. Even though you will probably get tens of thousands of miles out of your timing belt, it is easy to overlook because you probably don’t think about it regularly. Therefore, take a close look at the life left on your timing belt, and make sure it works properly. If you don’t have a properly functioning timing belt, it can significantly impact the safety of your vehicle.
Top Off the Fluids
When you take your car to the shop, you also need to take a look at the fluids. There are lots of fluids that have to work together to ensure your truck functions well. For example, you might need more windshield wiper fluid. You might also need to top off your engine coolant, as this is responsible for making sure your engine does not overheat. You also need to make sure you have plenty of brake fluid, as this is important for lubricating your brakes. You might need to put more refrigerant in your air conditioner as well.
Swap Out the Filters
Finally, you may need to change the filters in your truck as well. There are multiple sets of filters that ensure your truck is working with clean air. For example, you should take a look at your engine air filters to make sure your engine is not exposed to dust and debris. You should also check your cabin air filters to make sure you and your passengers have clean air to breathe. You might need to change out your filters from time to time, so don’t overlook this maintenance staff.
Make Sure To Take Care of Your Truck
These are just a few of the most important truck maintenance tasks you need to complete on a regular basis. Keep in mind that every truck is different, so you need to take a look at the manual to ensure you complete all of these maintenance tasks on time, every time. Even though you might not like to take your car to the shop, it is important for making sure your truck lasts as long as possible. If you want to maximize your fuel efficiency and get as many miles out of your truck as you can, make sure you stay up-to-date on routine maintenance. This is a good opportunity for you to invest in the outer part of the truck as well, like the paint or the bed. Finding a nice truck bed cover would help maintain the bed and would help make sure your truck is properly protected.
