Keeping a commercial truck running reliably in 2026 means more than occasional oil changes. It requires a mix of proactive inspections, smart record-keeping, and knowing when to call a trusted professional. Whether you operate a single rig or manage a fleet in Surrey, BC, this guide gives straightforward, actionable maintenance steps that reduce breakdowns, save money, and improve safety.
Why Preventive Maintenance Matters
Downtime isn’t just frustrating; it’s expensive. Recent industry guides show that unplanned truck downtime and major repairs can quickly multiply operating costs, pushing the urgency for structured preventive maintenance programs. A strong PM (preventive maintenance) program lowers repair bills and keeps trucks earning on the road.
Use a Daily Walk-Around Checklist
Before you turn a key, spend two minutes on a visual and functional check:
- Tires: inflation, cuts, tread depth, even wear
- Lights: headlights, tail lights, indicators, brake lights
- Fluid leaks: oil, coolant, fuel, air system
- Mirrors, windshield wipers, glass for visibility issues
- Brakes: listen for abnormal noises and check air pressure gauges
A short, consistent routine catches small problems before they become costly failures. For fleet operations, digitize the checklist so drivers log results and supervisors track trends.
Prioritize the Engine: Oil, Filters, and Fuel System
Diesel engines reward meticulous care. Regular oil and filter changes remain the single most effective way to extend engine life and maintain fuel economy. Replace fuel filters on schedule, water and particulate contamination cause hard starts and injector damage, especially after winter months. Keep a close eye on coolant condition and belt/hoses integrity to avoid overheating.
Keep tires, alignment, and suspension in spec
Tires affect safety, load capacity, and fuel consumption. Maintain correct tire pressures (adjust for load), rotate tires per manufacturer guidance, and correct wheel alignment promptly. Uneven wear often signals alignment or suspension problems – left unchecked they increase rolling resistance and shorten tire life. Include tire inspections in daily checks and schedule professional alignments regularly.
Don’t Ignore Brakes and Air Systems
Brakes are the non-negotiable safety system on a heavy truck. Inspect linings, drums/rotors, hoses, and air valves routinely. For air-brake systems, monitor for leaks and maintain compressor and dryer service intervals — moisture in the system leads to corrosion and valve failures. If you detect spongy feel, longer stopping distances, or audible air leaks, remove the truck from service until a qualified technician evaluates it.
Electrical & diagnostic checks — modern trucks need attention
Modern trucks have complex electrical systems and telematics. Follow a scheduled battery and alternator check, clean terminals, and confirm secure grounding. Use onboard diagnostic tools to read fault codes early — many problems show up first as a logged code rather than obvious symptoms. Early electronic diagnostics cut repair time and get you back on the road faster.
Plan seasonal readiness (especially for BC coastal conditions)
Surrey and coastal British Columbia present unique challenges salt spray, rain, and winter temperature swings cause corrosion and fuel contamination. Before winter and again in spring:
- Flush and refill coolant with the correct concentration
- Replace fuel and water separator filters
- Apply corrosion prevention where applicable
- Inspect HVAC and defrosting to maintain visibility
Seasonal prep reduces weather-related failures and extends component life.
Embrace Mobile Repair and Trusted Local Shops
When roadside failures happen, reliable mobile repair can be a lifesaver. Choose a shop or mobile team with 24/7 capability and clear service guarantees — they’ll reduce tow time and lost revenue. For Surrey operators, local shops provide faster response and an understanding of regional needs; keep trusted contacts handy. (Coast Truck & Trailer Repair, for example, offers on-site diagnostics and mobile support in Surrey.)
Record keeping: the backbone of good maintenance
Accurate service logs make warranty claims easier, help diagnose recurring faults, and optimize maintenance intervals. Log dates, odometer/hobbs hours, parts used, and technician notes. For fleets, use fleet-management software to predict service windows and reorder parts before stockouts. Good records also improve resale value when it’s time to trade or sell.
Train drivers to spot small problems early
Invest in short training sessions: teach drivers to recognize leaks, abnormal vibrations, and early warning signs on dashboards. Empower them to perform the daily walk-around and report issues immediately. Early detection prevents cascading failures and fosters a culture of safety and responsibility.
Final Checklist
- Start using a standardized daily checklist (paper or digital).
- Audit oil/filter change and fuel filter schedules; book overdue services.
- Verify tire inflation and schedule alignment if uneven wear appears.
- Confirm 24/7 mobile repair contacts and shop availability for your area.
- Implement or update digital service logs for every unit.