How Many Kilometers Should a Truck Be Serviced?
3 Answers
Truck maintenance is generally recommended every 5,000 kilometers. Below is an introduction to truck maintenance knowledge: 1. Oil Change: Engine oil should be changed every 5,000 kilometers because, by this point, the oil is nearing its usage limit, and both its lubricity and viscosity have decreased. 2. Maintenance Content: Around 14,000 kilometers, a major service should be performed, including tasks such as changing the engine oil, inspecting the steering system, replacing brake pads, and changing the three filters (air, oil, and fuel). During maintenance, it is crucial to replace the oil filter when changing the oil. Skipping the oil filter to save money will significantly reduce the performance and effectiveness of the oil. Additionally, consumable parts of the vehicle should be replaced on time, such as brake pads, wiper blades, tires, belts, batteries, and brake fluid.
I've been driving trucks for long-distance hauls for over 20 years, and maintenance intervals really vary from person to person. Generally, you need to visit the dealership every 7,000 to 8,000 kilometers for an oil and filter change. Trucks always haul heavy loads, so engine wear is much faster than with passenger cars. Exceeding the mileage for maintenance is the most dangerous—I once went over 10,000 kilometers without servicing, and it led to burning oil and blue smoke, costing me thousands in repairs. When oil deteriorates, lubrication worsens, and parts start making clunking noises. If left unchecked, it can ruin the entire engine. You also need to regularly check brake pads, tires, and coolant to avoid breakdowns on the road. If I drive more on mountain roads or in heavy traffic, I'll schedule maintenance at 6,000 kilometers. The manual suggests 5,000 to 10,000 kilometers, but that's just a baseline—it's best not to slack off beyond 8,000 kilometers to ensure safety and save money.
Small businesses rely on trucks to make money, and maintenance can save you big. I set the oil change interval between 5,000 to 7,500 kilometers—too frequent is wasteful, too long is risky. For city deliveries with heavy traffic and high engine load, I often service early; smooth highway driving can stretch to 9,000 km. Blackened oil increases fuel consumption by 10%, which isn’t worth the extra cost. A dirty filter lets dust damage the engine, and repairs mean days of lost orders. Skipping mileage-based maintenance costs more—like unchecked brakes leading to major repairs. I also monitor tire wear and oil quality, adjusting regularly to keep the vehicle economical and durable. Remember, the manual suggests starting at 5,000 km, but fine-tuning based on actual use is wise.
