What Should Full Service for a Semi-truck Include?
Full service for semi-truck operators is important to keep fleet operations running smoothly. Considering how semi-trucks are frequently on the road, ensuring that every vehicle is suited for travel will help avoid problems along the way. However, some commercial maintenance service providers for semi-trucks may not offer the full range of services that they claim.
You would think that their “full-service” operations would cover everything your semi-truck needs. Perhaps they don’t specialize in one or two essential items, leaving your vehicles at risk of costly downtime or equipment failure. We prepared a checklist that includes everything you should expect from a full-service for commercial trucks.
Let’s take a closer look…
Checklist for Preventative Maintenance
When looking at full-service semi-trucks, confirm whether the provider offers the following services:
- Engine: As the heart of your semi-truck, it needs the most attention during regular maintenance routines. Engine upkeep usually involves checking the machine for any fluid leakage, including coolants, fuel, or oil. Your technician would also look at the wire seals and connectors for any damage.
- Brakes: Inspecting brakes is important because keeping these pedals functional can help save lives. Two types of brakes include air brakes and hydraulic brakes. Any sign of wear and tear upon inspection is a good indicator of needing replacement. Brakes also need a constant inspection to ensure their compliance with FMCSA standards.
RELATED ARTICLE: Tire Trends to Watch Out for in 2023
- Transmission: Your vehicle’s transmission is a major component made up of hundreds of parts that make your semi-truck move. Transmission fluid also plays an important role in your vehicle’s smooth movement. As such, transmission maintenance as part of a full service can help prevent transmission failure.
- Exhaust: Semi-truck exhausts need maintenance to ensure no toxic gasses accumulate within your mechanism. Your full-service should ensure that the mechanic looks at every component of your fleet’s exhaust system, including the manifold, sensors, converters, mufflers, hangers, clamps, and joints.
- Electrical System and Wiring: Ensuring that your semi-trucks brake lights, flashers, headlights, and turn signals function correctly is another critical aspect of a full-service. During maintenance, you may discover lens cracks, wiring abrasions, burnt-out batteries, or loose connections.
CLICK TO LEARN MORE ABOUT FLEET MAINTENANCE
- Fluids: Antifreeze, coolant, brake oil, engine oil, and power steering are essential fluids that need regular maintenance. Checking them comes down to ensuring they won’t leak anywhere. In addition, the mechanic will check whether they need changing.
- Safety System: Essential safety parts in a semi-truck include windshield wipers, power steering, stability control features, blind-spot monitoring, and other smart features that will depend on your specific model.
- Tires: Tire maintenance is about checking for cuts, abrasions, uneven wear, and bulges on each of your semi-trucks tires. They must also comply with federal regulations.
RELATED ARTICLE: Commercial Retread Tires: The Bauer Built Difference
Service providers claiming to offer full service for semi-trucks but skipping one or more of these items are likely cheating you out of your money. Keep this checklist in mind when sending your commercial fleet out for its regular maintenance.
At Bauer Built Tire & Service, we have over 75 years of experience in mechanical maintenance and repair, including tire services. We have a team of highly trained professionals, and we can provide commercial tires that are in top condition.
Contact us today to schedule your tire maintenance and repair services.
Categories: Bauer Built Blog