5 Truck Maintenance Mistakes That Cost Money
Keeping your trucks in top condition is more than routine upkeep, it’s a key part of protecting your bottom line. Even experienced operators and fleet managers can overlook small truck maintenance details that lead to major downtime and costly repairs.
Below are five of the most common (and expensive) truck maintenance mistakes fleets make.
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1. Ignoring Regular Oil and Filter Changes
Skipping or stretching oil change intervals is one of the costliest mistakes a fleet can make. Over time, dirty oil causes excessive engine wear, poor fuel economy, and reduced engine life.
Engines operating under heavy loads, in dusty job sites, or in Alberta’s extreme weather conditions require consistent oil monitoring and timely filter changes.
Pro Tip: Follow manufacturer-recommended oil intervals and use high-quality oil and OEM filters, especially for PACCAR or Cummins engines in Kenworth trucks.
2. Neglecting Tire Maintenance
Tires are one of the biggest operational costs for any fleet, yet they’re often overlooked. Improper inflation, uneven wear, and missed rotations can reduce tread life, increase fuel costs, and even cause blowouts.
Pro Tip:
- Check tire pressures weekly and inspect for wear patterns.
- Ensure wheel alignments are checked after operating on rough terrain or job sites.
- Rotate tires regularly to maximize lifespan.
3. Skipping or Improperly Changing Fuel Filters
Fuel filters protect your engine by keeping dirt, debris, and water out of the fuel system. Neglecting to replace them on schedule can restrict fuel flow, reduce power, and damage expensive components like injectors.
In Alberta’s cold climate, condensation in fuel tanks can introduce water — making regular filter changes even more important.
4. Overlooking Cooling System Maintenance
Your truck’s cooling system is critical for engine health. Ignoring coolant checks or failing to flush the system can lead to overheating, cracked heads, or catastrophic engine damage.
Pro Tip:
- Check coolant levels weekly and inspect hoses for leaks or cracks.
- Test coolant freeze protection before winter sets in.
- Flush the system according to manufacturer recommendations.
5. Ignoring Early Warning Signs of Truck Maintenance
Warning lights, odd noises, and small leaks are your truck’s way of asking for attention. Too often, drivers “wait until the next run,” which can turn a simple fix into a major repair and costly downtime.
Pro Tip: Encourage drivers to report warning signs immediately. Use a fleet maintenance tracking system to log service intervals, inspections, and repair history for every unit.
The Importance of Truck Maintenance
Preventive maintenance isn’t just about keeping trucks on the road — it’s about keeping costs down, performance high, and operations running smoothly.
Avoiding these five common mistakes helps fleets save money, extend equipment life, and maintain reliability through Alberta’s toughest conditions.
At GreatWest Kenworth, we understand what it takes to keep your fleet moving. From OEM parts to expert service, our team helps Alberta fleets stay road-ready and efficient.