If you’re a truck driver, you know your vehicle is your most valuable asset. That’s why it’s crucial to ensure it’s always in good condition, both before and during a trip.
To help you with this, we’ve compiled three things you need to know about pre-trip inspection and truck maintenance.
1. Pre-trip Inspection is a Must.
You should do a pre-trip inspection each time you head out on the road, especially if you drive many miles that day. This thorough check of the vehicle ensures everything is working as it should before you get too far from a garage.
The purpose of a pre-trip inspection is to identify any potential problems that could cause issues during the trip or before they become major headaches. It will help you identify any potential issues before you start driving.
During a pre-trip inspection, various truck parts are checked, including:
- Brakes: Check the brake pads, shoes, drums, and rotors for wear and tear. Also, make sure that the brake lines and hoses are in good condition and not leaking.
- Tires: Check the tire pressure and tread depth. Make sure that there are no cracks, cuts, or bulges on the tires.
- Lights: Check all the lights, including the headlights, taillights, turn signals, and brake lights. Make sure that they’re all working properly.
- Engine: Check the oil level and quality, as well as the coolant level. Also, make sure that there are no leaks in the engine or transmission.
- Steering and suspension: Check the steering system, including the tie rods, drag links, and steering gear. Also, make sure that the shocks and struts are in good condition.
When inspections are required by law, you might have an on-site inspector. However, the inspector can only check so much. You can schedule an appointment with Mast Service Center, and we’ll work with you to create a schedule for checking your trucks before they embark on a trip.
2. Regular Maintenance is Key.
In addition to conducting pre-trip inspections, it’s important to keep up with regular truck maintenance. This involves performing routine maintenance tasks, such as oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections.
Like pre-trip inspection, maintenance also catches issues so they can be fixed early on. It avoids costly repairs and also helps improve fuel efficiency (which can save you money in the long run).
To keep up with maintenance, always follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule. This will outline when you should perform various maintenance tasks. It’s also a good idea to keep track of your maintenance records so you can refer back to them if necessary.
At Mast Service Center, we can help you with the maintenance services your trucks and fleet vehicles need to operate safely and efficiently.
3. Regular Inspection and Maintenance are Tantamount to Safety.
Pre-trip inspection and regular maintenance are ways not only to keep your trucks on the road. They are also essential to keep the drivers safe as well as other people sharing the road with them.
Here are some examples of how regular inspection and maintenance promote road safety:
- Prevent Breakdowns: A breakdown on the road can be dangerous, especially if it occurs in a high-speed zone or on a busy highway. Pre-trip inspection and regular maintenance can help prevent this scenario by identifying and fixing potential issues before they become major problems.
- Improve Braking and Steering: Regular maintenance and pre-trip inspections can ensure that brakes and steering components are working correctly and can reduce the risk of accidents due to brake or steering failure.
- Reduce Tire Blowouts: Worn or underinflated tires are a common cause of blowouts, leading to loss of control of the vehicle and accidents. Regular tire inspections and maintenance can help address this issue.
- Ensure Proper Lighting: Properly functioning headlights, taillights, and turn signals are essential for safe driving, especially at night or in low visibility conditions.
Contact Mast Service Center Inc.: Your One-Stop Shop for Fleet Maintenance & Pre-Trip Inspections
Pre-trip inspection and truck maintenance are both essential for keeping your trucks (and other fleet vehicles) in good condition and ensuring your safety on the road. To create a pre-trip inspection and fleet maintenance schedule, don’t hesitate to reach out to Mast Service Center.
Call us at (574) 646-2127. We are conveniently located at 8608 North State Road 19, Etna Green, IN 46524. We operate in Etna Green, Nappanee, Warsaw, and nearby areas in Indiana.
