The fluids in your car are as important as the blood in your body – without them, your engine would seize up, and everything would grind to a halt. Get the oil change service for your truck frequently.
That’s why it’s important to keep an eye on the levels of your truck’s antifreeze, brake fluid, washer fluid, coolant, and hydraulic fluid. When they’re running low, it’s the first sign that something is wrong and needs to be addressed as soon as possible.
One common problem is a leak in the hydraulic system, and this typically occurs around the reservoir cap or from a cracked hose or line.
Hydraulic fluid leaks can be extremely dangerous because they may lead to oil or coolant leaks. If the auto-shift system in your trailer locks up, you could lose control of your steering and brakes when pulling away from a light or starting on an incline.
Common Oil & Fluid Problems and Solutions
If the coolant leaks from around your reservoir cap or from a cracked hose or line, you will need to replace the damaged part. Fitting a new one requires special equipment and may also require resetting your antifreeze mix ratio to freeze in colder temperatures.
Your mechanic may also check your brake fluid because it’s easy to get low when you use your brakes a lot. They may recommend that you flush out the old fluid and replace it with new, synthetic antifreeze. Washer fluid is also an important fluid that should be checked periodically, but most vehicles have a sensor that will show when it’s running low.
Frequently Asked Questions
The ideal oil change interval for a heavy-duty truck depends on several factors, including the engine manufacturer’s recommendations, the age and type of the engine, your typical operating conditions, and the type of oil used. While a general guideline is often every 16,000 to 40,000 kilometers, it is crucial to consult your owner’s manual for specific intervals. Factors like frequent idling, heavy loads, and operating in dusty or extreme temperature environments can necessitate more frequent changes to ensure optimal engine protection and performance.
A comprehensive oil change service should always include an inspection of all critical fluids. Our technicians will check the levels and condition of your engine coolant (antifreeze), transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield washer fluid. This multi-point inspection helps to identify potential leaks or other issues before they can develop into more serious and costly problems.
Proper fluid levels and quality are important for the health and longevity of your truck’s mechanical systems. Clean oil is essential for lubricating the engine, reducing friction, and preventing overheating, which directly impacts engine longevity and fuel efficiency. Similarly, other fluids like transmission fluid and brake fluid degrade over time, losing their effectiveness. Regular fluid changes are a critical component of preventative maintenance, ensuring the reliability, safety, and performance of your heavy-duty truck.
Your truck can provide several warning signs that its fluids require attention. For engine oil, look for the oil change indicator light on your dashboard, dark or gritty oil on the dipstick, or an increase in engine noise. Other indicators of fluid issues include difficulty shifting gears (transmission fluid), a “spongy” or unresponsive brake pedal (brake fluid), or your engine running hotter than normal (coolant). Any visible fluid leaks under your truck are a clear sign that immediate service is required.
Schedule an Oil Change Service at Inland Truck & Equipment
To schedule truck oil change service, fill out the form below or find the nearest location to you and get in touch.