The Basics of Semi-Truck Maintenance

When you become an owner operator running your own truck, you need to actively protect your investment with preventative maintenance and consider used truck OEM warranty protection. One repair can put you out of business. The primary way to keep your semi-truck reliable is with preventative maintenance. Unexpected repairs are costly, inconvenient, and could even impact your ability to make money. The key to keeping your semi-truck on the road longer with less costly emergency repairs is a structured semi-truck maintenance plan. Here are the basics of semi-truck maintenance to get you started.

FMCSA'S Required Maintenance Records

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) imposes specific requirements on semi-trucks to ensure road safety and the proper functioning of vehicles.

• The owner's name is a critical identifier for recordkeeping purposes.
• Detailing such as the make, model, and year of the semi-truck, along with it's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), are essential for accurate tracking and compliance.
• Tire size specifications play a vital role in maintaining optimal vehicle performance and safety.
• Each semi-truck is assigned a unique fleet number, aiding in efficient management within a larger commercial fleet.

Comprehensive records of both current and past maintenance schedules are crucial to demonstrate adherence to FMCSA regulations and to ensure that the truck is in a well-maintained and roadworthy condition. 

How often do semi-trucks need maintenance?

On average, the suggested range to receive basic service is every 10,000 – 20,000 miles. This service would consist of engine oil and filter change, fuel filter change, checking the air filter, and topping off the lubricate levels in the other major components. A thorough visual inspection would also be performed at this time. It is required to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for these services to comply with any warranty that may apply to the truck and its systems.

Seasonal Maintenance 

Warm Weather

• Air conditioning: Inspect for leaks or debris buildup.
• Coolant: Perform an annual system maintenance routine involving draining, flushing, and pressure testing.
• Electrical system: Examine the battery for corrosion and ensure wire connections are secure. 
• Tire pressure: Prevent the influence of warm air on tire pressure by regular monitoring. 

Cold Weather 

• Windshield: Inspect for chips and cracks; clean wiper blades and ensure they are free from dry rot; confirm proper functioning of defrosters. 
• Braking system: Prior to driving, verify the functionality of ABS; pay attention to potential overnight freezing of drum brakes. 
• Fluids: Perform daily checks on essential fluids such as engine oil, coolant, power steering fluid, and wiper fluid.
• Tire tread: Maintain minimum tread depth of 4/32 of an inch for steer tires and 2/32 of an inch for all other tires. 

What is preventive maintenance on a semi-truck?

Preventive maintenance (PM) is regular, planned maintenance that is scheduled according to usage or mileage-based requirements. The purpose of PM is to lessen the likelihood of equipment breakdowns.

How much does semi-truck maintenance cost?

On average the annual cost to maintain a semi-truck is $15,000.00. Studies show that this cost increased 3-5% in 2021.

Semi-truck maintenance is essential for making sure your truck is reliable, keeping your truck on the road longer, and avoiding costly repairs. Learn more about Peach State’s Parts Department and Peach State’s Elite Support Truck Service and how we can help keep you on the road with leading commercial & freightliner truck parts.