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While all parts of your semi-truck are necessary for proper function and serve an important role, some parts are more crucial to the integrity of your fleet than others. In this blog, we’ll talk about the truck parts that you should check or have inspected before every long haul, such as:

• Brakes

• Tires

• Headlights

• Mirrors

• Radio

Brakes

Brakes are possibly the most important part of your truck’s safety equipment. Without well-maintained, functioning brakes, your truck is a danger to you and others on the road. It’s important to make sure you check your brakes and have them replaced routinely so you can keep yourself and others safe, as well as ensure peak performance from your fleet. While the life of your brakes will depend on the route you travel, weather you encounter, and weight of the load you’re carrying, you should typically replace your brake components every 30,000 to 50,0000 miles.

Tires

While tires may seem like an insignificant part of your truck’s equipment, maintaining them is actually crucial for several different reasons:

• Safe transportation

• Save on fuel consumption

  • Low rolling resistance means less force is required to move your tires, which can translate into less overall fuel consumption

• Rule compliance

  • Many companies have strict rules about commercial truck tire maintenance, like how often to change them and what specific type should be used, in order to prevent costly repairs down the line

Without proper tire maintenance, you’re risking your life, the lives of others, and your precious cargo. Semi-truck tires should be replaced every three to six years, so if it’s been awhile since your last tire change, it may be a good idea to start looking at replacement options for your fleet.

Headlights

Similar to brakes, headlights are also a vital piece of your truck’s safety equipment. Whether you’re driving at night or in inclement weather, properly functioning headlights will keep you safe during your travels. Headlight issues aren’t usually noticeable until the sun goes down, which is the least ideal time to have to deal with malfunctioning parts — this is why it’s so important to inspect your headlights before an upcoming drive.

Mirrors

For semi-truck drivers, mirrors are vital for not only driving, but delivering goods, as well. Of course, you need them during your travels — mirrors increase your overall road visibility and can help you avoid major accidents. However, mirrors are also crucial when backing into a loading dock or other small space where products get unloaded. Before each trip, make sure your mirrors aren’t cracked or broken and that they’re in the correct positions.

Radio

While a car radio is simply for entertainment purposes, a semi-truck’s radio is a crucial line of communication. These pieces of equipment can help keep drivers safe and connected to other drivers in case they get stranded or need help. Ensuring your radio works properly before traveling gives you an extra layer of security and safety.

Need Your Truck Parts Inspected?

At Tri-State Truck Service Centers, we’ll double-check each and every part of your semi-truck so you can have the safest trip possible.Find a location near you and have your fleet inspected before your next long haul!