10 Basic Tips for Truck Maintenance in Fort Wayne, Indiana
Truck maintenance in Fort Wayne is an essential responsibility regardless of the make and model that you drive. Following truck maintenance tips and recommendations on time prevents unnecessary breakdowns and keeps you and others safer on the road. If you are looking for a knowledgeable and trustworthy expert in truck maintenance in Fort Wayne look no further than Kruse Automotive
1. Change the Oil
Oil changes serve the vital purpose of ensuring that the hardworking parts in your truck’s engine are properly lubricated. When oil is old and sludgy, excessive wear and heat can take a toll on the engine and result in a serious breakdown.
2. Rotate the Tires
Your tires require your attention as well. This important aspect of truck maintenance ensures that wear on the tires is even. It promotes the longevity of your tires and can help you to maintain great traction on the road.
3. Service the Brakes
If your last brake inspection was more than a few months ago, the time to schedule an inspection is today. Brakes will often show signs that the pads are wearing out, and these signs include slower stopping times, squealing, grinding and more. However, it is easy to overlook these and other signs. A brake inspection is a surefire way to learn about your brakes’ remaining life.
4. Replace the Wiper Blades
Streaks impair the visibility of the road in front of you. As wiper blades wear out or become damaged with use, they cannot wick away moisture as easily. This is a relatively affordable, easy service to complete, and it serves the vital function of promoting full visibility for the safe operation of your truck.
5. Change the Filters
From the AC system’s air filter to the oil filter and more, the filters in your vehicle will become filthy with regular use. When they are dirty, they are less effective at filtering out particles. As a result, the functionality and efficiency of various systems will be impaired. During your truck’s next maintenance service, ensure that the filters are inspected and replaced as needed.
6. Inspect the Suspension System
This is one aspect of quality car care that is easy to overlook. However, the condition of the suspension system can impact wear on other parts, and it plays a role in safety behind the wheel. Generally, the shocks, struts and springs throughout the truck should all be replaced at the same time when the need arises.
7. Replace the Spark Plugs
Your truck’s spark plugs play a crucial role in the functionality of the engine. Generally, you should check the spark plugs at the first sign of engine trouble. Because spark plugs will wear out at the end of their useful life, it makes sense to replace them as they age and before they fully wear out.
8. Change the Coolant
Did you know that your truck’s coolant impacts the water pump, the radiator and the heating and cooling system? The quality of engine coolant will decline over time. Simply changing the coolant on a regular basis as part of your truck maintenance efforts will help you to avoid under-the-hood corrosion and to stay comfortable in the cabin.
9. Clean the Battery Terminals
Over time, corrosion around the battery terminals will develop. It looks like a flaky, white or bluish substance in most cases. As the corrosion builds, the substance impacts the connection between the battery and the truck. Eventually, the battery will no longer be able to provide power to the truck. The best way to address this problem is to check the battery terminals for corrosion twice per year.
10. Replace Worn Hoses and Belts
Belts and hoses under your truck’s hood play crucial roles in operations. They also impact wear on other vital parts and can lead to serious repair issues if they are not replaced as needed. During your next truck maintenance service, request an inspection of the radiator hose, the serpentine belt, the timing belt, the radiator hose and other vital components.
The mechanics at Kruse Automotive are available to tackle everything from oil changes Fort Wayne to tire replacements, hose replacements and more. By bringing your truck into the service shop at regular intervals, you can conveniently stay on top of its maintenance needs. This can prevent a breakdown and help you to avoid expensive repair issues. Schedule your truck’s next service by calling Kruse Automotive today.
