Pickup trucks are hard-working and high-performing vehicles, but they require maintenance checks and special attention to sustain those qualities. Most truck drivers take precautions to winterize their pickup truck and protect it from the summer heat. But, few realize the importance of taking proper care of their truck during the fall and spring seasons as well.
Springtime presents a perfect opportunity for you to make repairs on any damage that occurred over the cruel winter and prepare your pickup for the demanding summer ahead. Conducting a spring truck maintenance ensures that your truck and trailer can continue operating at its fullest capabilities.
Have a look below at our checklist on the most essential components to inspect during your routine truck maintenance in the spring.
Batteries
Cold weather can have a detrimental impact on your truck’s batteries. Batteries are forced to slow their chemical reactions and work harder during low temperatures, so it’s a good idea to get them checked.
A strong sulfur smell is an indicator that your batteries may be leaking and should be replaced. Inspect your truck’s wires, plugs, and batteries for corrosion. Be cautious by wearing proper eye and face protection, along with an apron and gloves. If you notice any distinct odors or signs of leakage and corrosion, take your truck to a certified technician and have its electrical system tested.
Brakes
There’s a good chance that your brakes have been getting a workout if you drive in an area that gets snow and ice pileup during the winter. Now that you don’t have to deal with those hazards any longer, it’s a perfect time to make changes to your truck’s brakes. Inspect your entire brake system, including brake lines and hoses, ensuring that its fluid levels are accounted for.
Tires
Temperature fluctuations can cause under-inflated or over-inflated tires, which is a definite concern when driving on the road. Without properly inflated tires, your truck can experience decreased fuel efficiency and serious long-term damage to its wheels and suspension system as well. As warmer weather approaches, it’s vital to check your truck’s tire pressure and adjust it according to the recommended tire pressure in your vehicle manual.
In addition to tire pressure, snow, ice, and other road hazards have most likely caused some wear and tear to your truck’s tire tread. Insufficient tread depth leads to poor handling and slow maneuverability on the road, so it’s essential to make sure your tires are in top shape before driving. Conduct the penny test to check on all four tires to check for missing tread, and replace if necessary.
Shocks and Struts
Shocks and struts play a crucial role in the stability and safety of your heavy-duty pickup truck. Winter conditions may have caused severe damage to these parts due to the constant stress of dampening and absorbing road shock. Visit your local mechanic to ensure that your truck’s suspension system is still intact and highly capable.
Hoses and Belts
Your truck’s hoses and belts are in charge of regulating the engine’s cooling, heating, and air conditioning systems. Any signs of deterioration on these parts means it’s time to replace them. Check for brittle or cracked hoses and belts, and take into consideration their age as well. Rubber that is older than five years usually calls for repair services or replacements.
Lights
Cold weather can result in debris accumulation and worn-out bulbs, which present a huge safety hazard when driving during foggy conditions or in the nighttime. Test your truck’s headlamps, tail lamps, brake lights, turn signals, and hazard lights. If you notice any dim or flickering lights, take time to clean or replace them.
Windshield Wipers
Last but not least, your truck’s windshield wipers are an integral part of safe driving. Snow and ice buildup on your windshield throughout the winter months and cause your wiper blades to become ineffective.. Now is a good opportunity to clean your wipers, refill wiper fluid, and replace any damaged parts in preparation for the spring showers and summer rainstorms.
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