Frequently Asked Questions About Commercial Truck Maintenance

Taking care of your commercial truck is essential. Proactive maintenance helps keep your box truck out of the service department and on the road where it belongs. But how do you know what tasks you should tackle and what projects to leave to professionals?

Keep reading as we answer common questions about caring for a box truck. If you want more advice, need to schedule a service department appointment for your box truck, or want to shop commercial trucks for sale, Draco Isuzu Truck Center is here for you! We are happy to help with anything we can. Our dealership is based in San Diego, California, and we proudly serve those throughout San Diego County.

Why Is Commercial Truck Maintenance Important?

All box trucks will eventually get worn down over time, needing parts replacements and repairs. But the rate at which they break down varies - and is largely influenced by how well you keep up with maintenance.

Preventative maintenance, as the term implies, can prevent issues from happening. Avoid having to deal with certain costly and time-consuming repairs altogether!

Some repairs are inevitable, but proper upkeep can delay them strategically. You can get a few extra years of use out of parts or systems, which buys you valuable time and saves you money over the commercial truck's lifespan.

Upkeep can even reduce the seriousness of repairs. Catching problems when they are first emerging allows you to fix them right away...before they trigger other issues or manifest into a bigger (and more expensive) problem.

How Do I Know What Tasks Are Essential?

Start with the manufacturer's recommendations. These are found online and in the owner's manual. Then, glance at the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration regulations. These resources can help you keep your box truck running well for as long as possible.

How Do I Stay On Top Of Box Truck Maintenance?

There are many different tasks that owners can tackle, but it can be hard keeping them all straight. Different tasks happen at different times. Some are based on the age of the commercial truck, others are based on reaching a certain mileage, and others are done on an as-needed basis. It's easy to lose track of what you have done and what still needs to be done.

It's often helpful to make a commercial truck maintenance schedule. Write out every task and when it needs to happen. Remember to articulate whether you will handle a project or whether you will be taking the box truck to a service department (and be sure to schedule an appointment in advance to ensure you stick to the schedule).

How Do I Prepare For Commercial Truck Maintenance On The Road?

Sometimes, an issue pops up during a drive. Small problems, such as replacing a flat tire or burnt out bulb, can be easily addressed with the right tools. That's why it's important to keep a toolkit stored on your box truck.

Be sure that you are in a safe situation to tackle a maintenance issue. You may have all the skills and tools needed, but be stuck in a dangerous position. For example, maybe you are forced to pull off into a narrow shoulder on the freeway. It'd be better to call a tow truck than risk your safety.

We hope you found this guide helpful! For more advice or to shop commercial trucks for sale, visit Draco Isuzu Truck Center. We carry a range of models, including box trucks, and can help you find the perfect match. Reach out online, give us a call, or stop by our dealership in San Diego, California. We also proudly serve those in San Diego County, California.