Semi Maintenance Schedule & Odometer Readings

Semi-trucks are unique machines. They can run longer and farther than your average everyday vehicle. Just look at a semi’s odometer and you’ll see what we mean. While your average vehicle tops out around 200,000 miles, a semi will average 100,000 miles in a single year and keep performing up to a million miles before needing an engine rebuild.  In 2013, semis alone drove about 275 billion miles in the United States, delivering over 68.8% of all goods (trucking.org).

As you can see, semis are pretty durable vehicles designed for long hauls and many years of use. However, without proper maintenance, your semi will begin to wear down and experience problems, making it less likely to reach those high miles without costly repairs. We want to help you avoid any major breakdowns, which is why we suggest that you pay attention to your odometer.

Keeping a semi maintenance schedule based on odometer readings is a smart and efficient way to make sure your truck stays in top shape. We’ve put together a helpful guide to help remind you of what you should be checking at different mileage readings. Keep in mind that these are simply suggestions and your truck’s maintenance needs might differ based on the make and model of your truck, as well as the conditions that you work in (highway vs. construction).

Every 10,000 Miles

• Spot check your truck for signs of wear and tear (brake pads, tire tread, etc.)
• Grease fifth wheel platform and chassis
• Top off all fluids & sample engine oil
• Change engine oil filter

Every 30,000 Miles

• Grease all joints, suspension, chassis & drivetrain components
• Complete a full oil change
• Check tires, brakes, and hoses for corrosion
• Clean primary fuel filter and change secondary
• Check hub oil, transfer case oil, transmission fluid and coolant

Every 50,000 Miles

• Get a truck alignment

Every 100,000 Miles (Annually)

• Complete truck’s annual certification inspection

The total mileage of your semi is a big factor in determining its value. While there is a secondary market for semi-trucks with high mileage, if your semi hasn’t been properly maintenanced while it accumulated all those miles, chances for resale are less likely. Take good care of your semi now, in order to get the most out of it down the road.

Is your semi due for an alignment? Has it been more than 50,000 miles since your last one? Check your service log and odometer to see if it’s time to bring your truck into the shop. Schedule with Smith Springs and we’ll make sure your suspension is good to go so you can get back out on the road.