Keep Your Truck Looking Good

After buying a new truck, everyone works hard to keep it looking fresh and pristine - at least for a little while.  Unfortunately, all too often, people will start to neglect the upkeep of their truck.  With the pressures of work and timetables, it's easy enough to understand.  The problem is a dirty poorly maintained truck on the outside is going to start having maintenance issues on the inside.  Keeping your truck looking great can help stave off the need for truck service and repairs.  

Here are just a few ways that keeping up your truck's appearance and maintenance can pay off in the long run.

Rust is the enemy of every working vehicle.  Beyond looking ugly, it will quickly start to degrade the truck's frame and other vital components. 

Any new modern truck comes with a protective sealant on its undercarriage, but that doesn't last forever.  Other elements, higher up on the truck, may not have any protection at all.  That's why we recommend a full rust prevention treatment every 1-2 years, so your truck always has a shield against rust.

If you're driving on snowy or icy roads, your truck is undoubtedly getting exposed to de-icing agents used by cities - most commonly salt.  Salt is extremely corrosive and can eat straight through your paint, or even through the anti-rust treatment.  Your undercarriage wiring is also at risk.

If possible, your truck should be washed at the end of every haul in the winter, or at least as frequently as possible, to remove the salt and other chemicals.

Your truck is never more vulnerable than when you aren't in it.  If your truck is stored outside, it could easily be damaged by storms - either by the storm directly, or by debris thrown around by the winds.  Not to mention the risk of theft, or vandalism.  

So, we recommend keeping your truck indoors, in a garage or similar facility, whenever possible.

Don't neglect your interior!  Over time, it's easy for a truck's interior to become filled with dust, debris, crumbs of food, and other garbage.  This can easily lead to allergy issues, and potentially also attract pests such as roaches or mice which can do a lot of damage.  Keeping your interior clean will also prevent inadvertent damage.

Truck Repair Tips for Boosting Longevity and Performance

Trucks are the workhorses of our world; from off-roading adventures to cross-country hauls, these machines are engineered for heavy-duty, yet they demand a certain level of care and attention to maintain their optimum condition. As truck owners, you'll want your beast to look good and function at its best. So, here are some essential tips on truck repair, including why Mainline RV & Truck Service is your best partner throughout the process.

1. Keep the Oil Clean

The lifeblood of your truck, oil, keeps the engine parts lubricated and cool. Over time, oil can become dirty and lose its viscosity, leading to decreased engine performance and even damage. Regular oil changes are critical in ensuring that your engine stays healthy and runs smoothly.

2. Regular Maintenance

Just like us, our trucks need regular check-ups too. Regular maintenance helps you catch issues early, saving you from costly repairs down the road. This includes checking your brake pads, transmission fluid, filters, and even the truck's overall body for any potential issues.

3. Pay for Higher Quality

High-quality parts might be more expensive upfront, but they're an investment in your truck's longevity. They tend to last longer and perform better, giving you peace of mind and saving you money in the long run.

4. Alignment, Wheel Balancing, and Rotation

These procedures help ensure that your truck drives smoothly and evenly. Regular wheel balancing and rotation can reduce tire wear, saving you money on replacements. Additionally, alignment can improve your truck's handling and prevent uneven tire wear.

5. Give Your Truck Running Time Breathing Room

Avoid running your truck non-stop for extended periods. This practice can lead to overheating, strain on the engine, and reduced truck lifespan. Try to give it a break every few hours to cool down and "breathe."

6. Drive Smoothly

Avoid hard acceleration and braking as these can strain the truck's systems. Smooth, controlled driving can help prevent unnecessary wear and tear, and reduce your fuel consumption.

7. Warm Up Your Engine

Give your engine  a little time to warm up, especially in colder weather. Doing so allows the oil to heat up and circulate effectively, providing optimal lubrication.

8. Look Ahead for Hazards

Pay attention to the road and be mindful of any potential hazards that could damage your truck. Potholes, road debris, and other obstacles can cause significant damage to your truck's suspension, tires, and bodywork.

9. Keep Your Speed Regular and Down

Maintaining a consistent, reasonable speed is key to enhancing your truck's lifespan. Speeding puts additional strain on your truck's systems and can lead to premature wear and tear.

10. Check for Smells and Sounds

Unusual smells or sounds could be signs of mechanical issues. Whether it's a burning smell or a grinding noise, these abnormalities should be checked out by a professional immediately.

11. Fuel and Oil Level Maintenance

Regularly check your truck's oil and fuel levels. Running too low on oil or fuel can lead to serious engine damage.

12. Winter-Specific Maintenance

Winter can be tough on trucks. Consider using winter-grade oil and coolant, check your battery, ensure your heater and defroster are working properly, and use winter tires for improved traction.

13. Analyze Repair Data

If you frequently visit the repair shop, keep track of your truck's repair history. Patterns in the data could help identify underlying issues that need to be addressed.

14. Cleanliness is Key: Interior and Exterior

While mechanical and engine upkeep is essential, keeping your truck clean inside and out also plays a crucial role in its overall longevity. Regular cleaning prevents the buildup of dirt and grime, which could lead to corrosion and damage over time.

Exterior Cleaning

Exposure to elements such as rain, snow, and dust can lead to the accumulation of dirt and grime on the truck's exterior, which could potentially damage the paint and lead to rusting. Make it a point to wash your truck regularly, focusing on the undercarriage, which often becomes a hotspot for rust. A good-quality wax applied post-wash can further shield your truck's paint, offering an additional layer of protection.

Interior Cleaning

A clean interior provides a better driving environment and helps in maintaining the value of the truck. Vacuum the seats and floor mats to remove dust and debris. Wipe down the dashboard, steering wheel, and other surfaces to prevent dirt buildup. Also, don't forget to clean the windows for unobstructed views.

Remember, your truck mirrors your personality and work ethic. A clean, well-maintained truck reflects positively on you and your business.

If your truck does need repairs on the East Coast, our Mainline RV & Truck Service team has you covered.  Click here to schedule a service appointment.

Contact Mainline RV & Truck Service for Truck Repair Services

When things go wrong (and before they do), don't hesitate to contact Mainline RV & Truck Service for your truck repair needs. With a team of professionals offering a wide range of services, we can handle everything from routine maintenance to major repairs, keeping your truck in top shape for longer.