You want to maintain your vehicle so it runs smoothly for as long as possible. The good news is if you’re the proud owner of a pickup truck, you made a great investment. Don’t waste your money on unnecessary repairs—use these simple tips for making your truck last.
Drive Less
You should use your pickup truck when you need it, such as commuting to work or traveling to a doctor’s appointment. Avoid unnecessary and spontaneous trips as much as you can. Certainly, if you need to go out for emergencies, do so. However, cutting down on the number of miles you drive every week can save gas, money, and maintenance. Consider using alternatives for travel, such as carpooling, walking, or public transportation. You don’t have to do this daily, but not driving just a couple of days out of the week can add longevity to your truck.
Change Your Fluids Regularly
It is essential that you change your engine oil and other fluids to keep your vehicle in working condition. You don’t want to risk blowing your engine or stalling your vehicle because you forgot to replace the fluids. Read your owner’s manual to find out how often you should change the fluids. Typically, this will happen every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. It is also a good idea to check your fluids when the seasons change.
Get Inspections
Make sure to schedule regular inspections with a mechanic to ensure your truck is in optimal condition. Mechanics and technicians know how to analyze your vehicle for potential issues. They can keep your truck safe and running efficiently via an expert diagnosis.
Customize
Remember your truck is yours to customize and build on. Even slight modifications can keep it running longer. You can prolong your truck’s life by adding accessories that reduce the wear and tear on the car’s frame. Consider switching to an LED light kit for brighter lights, or add a bed cover to protect your flatbed and shield it against debris.
Rotate, Balance, and Replace Your Tires
Tire condition is an often-neglected component of truck health. You should check your tires as often as you perform fluid maintenance. Be sure to rotate your tires every time you change your oil to prolong their durability. Well-maintained tires also make for a smoother ride and reduce stress on your suspension. You should also balance your tires—this redistributes the tire’s weight around the axle. If you frequently drive off-road, your tires will significantly benefit from this balance. Unbalanced tires can lead to wear on your suspension and cause uneven wear on your tires. Further, depending on the condition they’re in, you may need to replace your tires.
