5 Tips For Truck Servicing
Whether you're a truck owner or an operator, maintaining your vehicle is critical to its safe and reliable operation. There are many things you can do to make sure that your vehicle stays in top condition. By knowing the important aspects of vehicle servicing, you can prevent costly breakdowns and keep your vehicle running like new.
Preventing costly breakdowns
Truck servicing can help you avoid costly breakdowns. But how can you make sure that your fleet of vehicles is in good working order? Here are five tips to keep in mind.
It may seem obvious, but the best way to keep your truck running smoothly is to have it serviced regularly. You can do this by visiting a reputable truck repair shop for preventive maintenance and repairs.
When you take your vehicle in for a preventive maintenance inspection, you'll find out if any parts are going to need replacing. For example, if you notice a brake that needs to be replaced, the next step would be to check the brake pads and linings.
Keeping your fleet running reliably
Truck servicing is an important part of keeping your fleet running reliably. A well-maintained fleet can save your business money and time by reducing breakdowns and increasing fuel efficiency. Regular maintenance will also make your trucks safer and reduce the risk of accidents.
The best truck fleet maintenance plans are proactive and follow the manufacturer's recommendations. This will increase your vehicle's lifespan while maximizing your investment.
Fleet maintenance will also help you avoid costly roadside breakdowns. These breaks can negatively affect your company's productivity and your customer's satisfaction.
It is a good idea to invest in a reliable and centralized software solution to track and manage your fleet maintenance. Such a system will allow you to immediately communicate with your staff about any maintenance needs. You can also easily monitor your expenses and productivity.
Creating a pre-service standard
A pre-service standard for truck servicing is the way to go. There are numerous benefits to a well thought out preventative maintenance program. The most important is the avoidance of unexpected downtime. Other benefits include increased fuel efficiency and lower overall cost of ownership. As a fleet manager, you are required to abide by a variety of regulatory guidelines. In particular, you are tasked with maintaining an inventory of vehicles and keeping records of their maintenance. This is where a software suite comes in. Using a maintenance tracking app to log the mileage of your vehicles will not only improve your fleet's safety record, it will also keep you and your fleet on the road as opposed to the roadside.
Checking exterior and interior lights
It's not a bad idea to do a little bit of checking up on your truck from time to time. As you know, semi-trucks can be noisy and exhaust can affect the quality of the air inside. To help keep you and your kin safe, check up on your truck's lights with a quick scan of the dashboard or a brisk walk around the trailer.
One of the best places to do this is in a well lit garage. While you're there, check out the rear lights. This is the smartest thing to do since it will make sure you get home safely.
Checking engine fluids
The best way to protect your vehicle's engine and make it last longer is to check engine fluids regularly. This is a simple task that can prevent breakdowns and mechanical damage.
Engine oil keeps engine components lubricated, reducing the chance of rust and corrosion. In addition, engine oil helps to keep temperatures within a comfortable range.
Different types of fluids are required for different vehicles. If you are uncertain which one your car needs, ask your dealer or your owner's manual. It will tell you which fluids to use and when to change them.
Some of the most common fluids to check are the power steering and the brake fluid. You can check these by removing the reservoir cap and checking the fluid level. Power steering fluid allows you to make easy maneuvering and steering changes, while the brake fluid helps pressurize the brake pads.
Palmerston North Service
Phone:
06 355 9192
After hours call out:
0800 456 559
Service Manager:
Shanon Udy
Email Shanon
Napier Service
Phone:
06 843 0538
After hours call out:
021 033 9608
Service Manager:
Dave Tatton
Email David
Workshop Department
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Andrew John
Director, After Sales Manager
With over 22 years in diesel repair and leadership experience, Andrew heads busy and successful workshops in both Palmerston North and Napier. He knows that by having an excellent team, First Commercials can provide the best service to its customers. When he is not at work, Andrew can usually be found in his shed with all things automotive.
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Shanon Udy
Service Manager, Palmerston North
Since a young age, Shanon has been a little obsessed with everything automotive. He has been working in the industry since 1997. Biking is another of Shanon’s passions and he can be found exploring tracks of the Manawatu in his spare time.
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Kirsten Kilmartin
Service Advisor, Palmerston North
Kirsten's passion for the motor industry has lead her to First Commercials where she is currently the Service Advisor and the first smiling face you will see when you walk through the door. With many years of administration, customer service experience and her knowledge from pre-trade qualifications, she is happy to help you on all your servicing needs. In Kirsten's spare time she loves spending time with her kids and family, playing sport and socialising with her friends.
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David Tatton
Service Manager, Napier
With more than 30 years in the industry, David has managed the Napier workshop for over 7 years. He is known for his integrity, technical expertise and ability to repair most types of diesel engine. When he is not at work, David can be found out on his motorbike.