Nobody wants to deal with their car breaking down and getting stuck on the side of the road. It's especially bad when you're hauling valuable merchandise, and every minute you spend on the sidelines is costly. Not all accidents are avoidable, but to ensure things go smoothly, here are some common maintenance tips that truck drivers should know to try reducing risks before they occur.
Check Tire Pressure
Checking the tires may be exhausting—especially when your rig has 18 of them—but it's always good to know your pressure before getting on the road. When tires are below proper pressure, it negatively affects your steering and makes driving more difficult. Overinflated tires are prone to popping, which is a major safety risk. Take the time to check all your tires and keep an eye on the external temperatures as a safety precaution; adverse weather conditions may change tire pressure more drastically.
Examine Fluid Levels
Your engine and truck contain several vital fluids. Before you get on the road, it’s essential to check everything, including your truck’s oil, fuel, coolant, and even wiper fluid. Ensuring the truck’s fluids are topped off can help prevent accidents and reduces time spent filling up on fuel or other fluids during your trip. If you notice any sudden drops in engine coolant, it may be a sign of a bad gasket, so be sure to pay close attention to coolant levels in particular.
Get a Feel for the Brakes
Another maintenance tip that every driver should know is how to care for and replace your truck’s brakes. When applying pressure on the brakes, ensure there are no squeaks or other unusual sounds. If holding down the brakes causes any noticeable shakes or vibrations, it may be time to swap out the brake pads or check-in with a mechanic. Trucks are heavy pieces of machinery, and you want to be confident you can come to a quick and easy stop in an intense situation.
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