Preventive Maintenance for Heavy Trucks: Avoid Costly Breakdowns

Is your truck trying to tell you it needs a little TLC? Paying attention to early warning signs is essential to maximizing your investment and preventing escalating repair costs. RJ’s Tire Pros & Auto Experts has you covered, providing preventive maintenance for heavy trucks to help you avoid roadside breakdowns. Our experienced diesel truck mechanics serve fleet owners and independent contractors throughout the Yakima Valley, providing trustworthy automotive services for less.

Signs your truck may need maintenance or repair:

  • Diesel truck engine overheating
  • Tire failures
  • Brake wear
  • Air system leaks
  • Transmission slipping
  • Electrical system issues
  • Missing maintenance records

Diesel Truck Engine Overheating

If your big truck’s temperature gauge runs hotter than usual, or you’ve begun noticing signs of leaks like low oil or coolant levels, puddles, and odors, you may be behind on oil change or cooling system maintenance. These simple routine maintenance tasks prevent overheating and costly engine damage.

Tire Failures

Tires showcase many warning signs when they’re not in the best shape. If you notice low tread, bald spots, and uneven wear alongside drivability issues like noisy operation, vibration, pulling to one side, and poor traction and braking response, we recommend a tire inspection. Timely tire replacement and routine vehicle alignments help reduce excess tire wear and fuel costs, and provide protection against liability from tire-related accidents.

Brake Wear

Never ignore squealing brakes, vibrations, a squishy or sinking brake pedal, and reduced stopping power when driving your truck. Avoid DOT violations and accidents with regular brake inspections and service by RJ’s experienced auto mechanics.

Air System Leaks

Problems in your air system can impact many driving systems, including braking and suspension. If you’re experiencing reduced braking power, uneven suspension height, frequent compressor cycling, and low-pressure warnings, we recommend scheduling truck service as soon as possible to avoid major safety hazards.

Heavy Duty Truck Transmission Slipping

Rough or delayed shifting, strange noises on acceleration, fluid leaks, and an illuminated engine or transmission dashboard warning light indicate a vehicle in serious need of transmission maintenance in Yakima. To avoid a costly transmission overhaul and ensure clean, lubricated gears, don’t let transmission service issues slide.

Electrical System Issues

When trucks in your Yakima fleet are slow to start, won’t start, or experience frequent blown fuses, dimming lights, and accessory operation issues, have them inspected by our electrical service and repair team. We can test your battery, alternator, starter, fuses, wiring, ECU, and sensors, getting to the bottom of malfunctions fast.

Missing Truck Maintenance Records

Manufacturer-recommended service tasks can be easy to miss when you’re busy keeping up with day-to-day operations. Signing up for a fleet maintenance plan at RJ’s ensures compliance with federal maintenance requirements and protects you from potential liability. We help you stay up to date, keeping a detailed log of inspections, maintenance, and repairs to showcase your promptness in handling issues.

Get Affordable Truck Maintenance and Inspection Services in Yakima Valley

Stay on top of preventive maintenance for heavy trucks and avoid costly breakdowns with help from RJ’s Tire Pros & Auto Experts. Contact our Yakima service center at 509-453-8170 to get a heavy-duty truck repair estimate or set up a commercial truck maintenance plan today. 

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