Most Common Semi-Truck Mechanical Issues: Tips For Preventing Future Breakdowns

One of the biggest risks to a trucking career is mechanical breakdown. Not only is it costly to spend time off the road, but there are dangers to a breakdown in the middle of a trip. A breakdown happens when your vehicle is not functioning in the way that it was designed to operate. To stay safe on the road, knowing how to handle mechanical issues, and how to prevent them, is key. There are a lot of different things that can go wrong with a truck on the road, but we've compiled some of the most common mechanical issues, and a few tips to prevent breakdowns in the future: 

Tire Issues

One of the most important issues drivers may have to address is problems with their tires. Unlike regular drivers, truckers can’t just pull over to the side of the road and replace a bad tire, so it is essential to pay extra attention. With the miles driven, the tire likely will deflate or undergo some wear and tear. However, depending on the age of your tires, there could also be issues with the tube inside your tire, where if damaged due to penetration by sharp objects, can result in loss of air. Tires often get damaged due to foreign objects which are picked up on the roads at high speeds or in areas with a lot of debris and junk. Other factors which can lead to tire issues or blowouts include:

• Sun Damage: The road gets quite hot in the sunny months, and the heat from the tarmac can transfer to the tires, which results in the rubber wearing out quicker than it normally would.
• High Speed and Impact: When tires are overloaded with pressure from both speed and the road ahead, the impact of any obstacles or objects is felt strongly, which can result in damage including causing the tire crown top to burst. Speed and road bumps can also lead to misaligned axles, so it is important to be mindful.
• Insufficient Air Pressure: The tire can easily get crushed or cracked due to lack of air pressure, which can result in issues. Remember that insufficient pressure can increase your risk of hydroplaning, while over-inflated tires can result in uneven wear and more susceptibility to road hazards.  

To avoid issues; always check the air pressure regularly and inflate your tires before heading off. Check your tires for any damage, cracks or worn thread. If you have air pressure monitoring features on your truck or the tools, use them. Change any worn out tires, maintain accurate pressure (do not overinflate or underinflate) and get regular tire rotations. Make sure that your pre-trip and post-trip inspections are detailed enough to examine the tire and address any issues.

Battery Issues

The semi-truck is just as affected by cold weather, as it is by heat. While most batteries are meant to last three to five years, the weather plays a factor in changing this. There is a need to check your batteries more frequently in colder months, as they can easily go flat and need to be replaced. Older batteries may be less able to cope with the temperature changes, which makes them more sensitive to winter weather. 

In order to address any potential battery issues, make sure to check the trailer sockets and battery terminal points regularly. You want to test your batteries in the winter or colder months, in order to know how they really perform in these conditions.  Clean your vehicle often as well, because during the winter season salt and dirt from the roads can cause damage. You may opt to use an engine block heater, or park near warmer or heated buildings, as a way to shelter your car from the ambient temperature.

Suspension Issues

The wear and tear on a truck can cause issues with suspension. If you find yourself hearing clicking noises, seeing shaking while driving, or one corner of your truck is sitting lower, then your truck may have issues with its suspension. Often the ball joins on one side may be the first to go, which can create a bumpy ride and also damage your fleet further. You have suspension issues if you notice you are being pulled to one side when driving or any road bumps feel more intense than they should, as your shock absorbers or ball joints may need some attention. Since your steering and control of your truck is affected by your suspension system, it is important to stay on top of your maintenance.

In order to keep your truck in good form, always conduct your pre-trip and post-trio inspections and also look into diagnostic checks to help locate any issues. Invest in quality parts and make sure you invest in qualifies mechanics to address any issue which may come up.

Engine Issues

Semi-trucks are powerhouses, but unfortunately diesel engines are more prone to issues in the long run, and this is especially true if you drive an older model. Since you are driving long hours and many miles, odds are the engine is overused and requires extra care. Ways to spot potential engine issues could be in being unable to go the same speeds you used to, as well as getting less gas mileage than normal. You may encounter issues with your engine due to a  number of factors, including fuel leaks, blown gaskets, or lack of proper maintenance.

To keep your engine running smoothly, replace the oil frequently, as well as the air filter. Oil should be replaced about every 20 to 30 thousand (20,000-30,000) miles.  You want to make sure that you are keeping your engine clean, and monitor your exhaust system, as this is essential in keeping your engine functioning well.

Brake Issues

One of the most essential safety factors to consider is your brakes, and ensuring that they are always fully functioning. Brake problems are responsible for not only breakdowns, but also potential accidents and injury. The heavy weight of a semi truck weighs significantly on brake systems, which makes a breakdown much more likely than in a regular car. The brakes are more likely to be damaged due to the friction caused by heat and pressure of the truck.

In order to ensure your brakes are functioning properly, make sure to conduct your inspections in detail. Since semi trucks are more vulnerable to air leaks, it is important to check the air compression pressure gauge, as well as your linings and hoses often. The linings should be at least ¼ inch in thickness. Replace any damaged or worn hoses when needed. Your truck’s pressure gauge should be reading over 60 pounds per square inch (psi) before use, meanwhile it should be at about 100-125 during use. Always make sure to replace any parts regularly, based on use or any damage.

Truck drivers face a lot of mechanical issues throughout their career span. Learning how to handle any mechanical concerns can help you stay safe and on the road, no matter what happens. A little extra time in your pre-trip inspections can make a big difference in increasing safety. Do not try to save money on maintenance costs, as this can cost more in the long run. No matter how careful you are, any breakdown can get messy, so preventative maintenance is key.