Commercial Truck Preventative Maintenance Schedule Guide
A well-planned preventative maintenance schedule is the key to maximizing your truck's lifespan, minimizing unexpected breakdowns, and controlling operating costs. This comprehensive guide provides detailed maintenance intervals and checklists to keep your commercial truck running at peak performance.
Why Preventative Maintenance Matters
Cost Savings Impact:
- Reduces major repair costs by up to 50%
- Improves fuel efficiency by 5-10%
- Extends vehicle life by 30-40%
- Minimizes costly roadside breakdowns
Daily Inspection Checklist
Pre-Trip Inspection (Required by DOT)
- Tires: Check pressure, tread wear, and damage
- Lights: Test all exterior lights and reflectors
- Brakes: Check air pressure, test parking brake
- Fluids: Check for leaks under vehicle
- Mirrors: Clean and adjust as needed
- Horn: Test operation
- Windshield: Check for cracks, clean for visibility
- Emergency Equipment: Verify presence of fire extinguisher, triangles
Weekly Maintenance Tasks
Every 1,000-2,000 Miles
- Tire Pressure: Check and adjust all tires including spare
- Fluid Levels: Top off oil, coolant, windshield washer
- Battery: Check terminals for corrosion
- Belts and Hoses: Visual inspection for wear
- Air Filter: Check and clean if needed
- Drain Air Tanks: Remove moisture daily in winter
Monthly Maintenance Schedule
Every 5,000-10,000 Miles
- Brake Adjustment: Check and adjust as needed
- Grease Fittings: Lubricate all chassis points
- Tire Rotation: Follow manufacturer's pattern
- Exhaust System: Check for leaks or damage
- Suspension: Inspect springs, shocks, and bushings
- Lights and Electrical: Test all systems thoroughly
Quarterly Service Intervals
Every 15,000-25,000 Miles
- Oil and Filter Change: Use manufacturer-recommended oil
- Fuel Filter Replacement: Both primary and secondary
- Air Filter Replacement: More frequent in dusty conditions
- Coolant System: Check concentration and condition
- Transmission Service: Check fluid level and condition
- Differential Service: Check fluid levels
- Wheel Alignment: Check and adjust if needed
Semi-Annual Maintenance
Every 50,000-60,000 Miles
- Brake System: Complete inspection, measure drums/rotors
- Coolant Flush: Replace with fresh coolant
- Transmission Fluid: Change fluid and filter
- Power Steering: Flush and refill system
- Battery Load Test: Replace if failing
- Clutch Adjustment: Check free play and adjust
- U-Joints: Inspect and replace if worn
Annual Maintenance Requirements
Every 100,000-120,000 Miles
- DOT Annual Inspection: Required by law
- Valve Adjustment: Set to manufacturer specs
- Injector Service: Clean or replace as needed
- Turbocharger: Inspect and service
- Radiator: Deep clean and pressure test
- Cab and Body: Inspect for rust and damage
- Fifth Wheel: Complete service and adjustment
Major Component Service Intervals
| Component | Service Interval | Expected Lifespan |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Oil | 15,000-25,000 miles | N/A |
| Transmission Fluid | 50,000-60,000 miles | N/A |
| Brake Pads/Shoes | Check every 25,000 miles | 150,000-200,000 miles |
| Tires | Rotate every 10,000 miles | 100,000-150,000 miles |
| Batteries | Test annually | 3-5 years |
| Belts & Hoses | Inspect monthly | 60,000-100,000 miles |
Maintenance Record Keeping
Essential Documentation
- Service Records: Keep all receipts and work orders
- Inspection Reports: File DOT and state inspections
- Repair History: Document all repairs and parts replaced
- Warranty Information: Track coverage for major components
- Mileage Log: Record service mileage for each maintenance item
Schedule Your Preventative Maintenance
Let Wayne Truck & Trailer create a customized maintenance schedule for your fleet. Our certified technicians will help you maximize uptime and minimize costs with professional preventative maintenance services.
- Sidney, OH:(937) 658-9412Call (937) 658-9412
- Brookville, OH:(937) 658-9412Call (937) 658-9412
Cost-Benefit Analysis
Consider this example for a typical Class 8 truck:
Without Preventative Maintenance:
- Major engine repair: $15,000-$25,000
- Transmission rebuild: $5,000-$8,000
- Downtime costs: $1,000-$2,000 per day
- Total potential cost: $25,000-$40,000
With Preventative Maintenance:
- Annual PM costs: $3,000-$5,000
- Reduced downtime: 75% fewer breakdowns
- Extended component life: 30-40%
- Better fuel economy: 5-10% improvement
A comprehensive preventative maintenance program is an investment that pays for itself through reduced repairs, improved reliability, and extended vehicle life. Partner with Wayne Truck & Trailer to develop a maintenance schedule that keeps your trucks on the road and your business profitable. Remember, the best time to fix a problem is before it happens.