Signs that your Truck Needs Servicing
If you know what to look for, there are many signs which can indicate that it is time to get your truck serviced even before it might actually be overdue.
A lot of these things you will be able to pick up on when you drive the truck every day, so you will need to pay close attention to your truck.
Pay Attention to Your Dashboard
When you look at the dashboard of a modern day truck, it is almost like flying a spaceship when compared to trucks 50 years ago. We have all manner of computer controlled systems, which are monitored by computers in the engine.
You will see a number of different warning lights on the dashboard of your truck, and you will need to find out what each one of them means. This information can be found in the vehicle handbook provided by the manufacturer. When these warning lights come on, pay attention to them; your truck is telling you something is wrong. There are many places which offer truck servicing so you should be able to find a qualified mechanic, if required.
Pay Attention to Sounds
Every now and then you should try turning your radio off, and see what sounds you can hear your truck making. Roll the window down and turn off the radio to listen to out-of-place sounds. Try to do this when you are coasting along at a steady speed, when you are slowing down, and when coming to a complete stop.
If you do hear any strange sounds, try and locate them before pulling over and giving them a closer inspection. Unusual sounds can be the first symptom that something is wrong, so you may wish to take it in and get your truck serviced, and to see if they can isolate the cause.
Pay Attention to Smells and Smoke
Strange smells can be an indication that there might be something wrong with your truck. If you come across and odours or strange smells when you are driving, take note of these and investigate as to the cause. It may just be your egg and prawn sandwich going bad, but you may also come across another problem such as then engine burning oil. If you are sure that the smell is related to the truck, you will need to take this in to be checked out by your local truck servicing company.
If you detect smoke, pull over and call out a mobile mechanic right away, as pushing the truck on may cause serious damage to the engine.
Getting to Know your Truck
Apart from keeping an eye out for the obvious signs that there is something wrong with your truck, you should get to know it intimately. Each vehicle does tend to have its own character, and sometimes needs a bit of loving care.
Make sure that you balance your loads properly when you load the trailer to increase performance and reduce wear and tear. If you keep your truck well maintained, the next time you need a truck servicing, you will find that there should be no major surprises of work that is needed to be done.
Prolong the life of your truck, save money over time, and keep on trucking!
Image by Kevin Millican via flickr
