10 Maintenance Musts for Your Semi

If you’re behind the wheel of a semi, you already know this: your rig is your livelihood. And whether you’re hauling coast to coast or just doing regional runs, the last thing you need is a breakdown in the middle of nowhere with a load of frozen chicken slowly turning into a very expensive soup.

That’s where preventative maintenance comes in. It’s not just about avoiding surprise repairs—it’s about protecting your time, your wallet, and your reputation. So let’s get into it.

Here’s a no-fluff checklist of maintenance must-dos every trucker (and fleet manager) should keep on repeat.

1. Oil Changes: Don’t Push It

Let’s start with the obvious. Regular oil changes keep your engine healthy and your truck running smooth. Skipping oil changes or stretching the mileage is a fast track to engine wear—and that’s a repair no one wants to pay for. Check your manual, follow the intervals, and if you’re running long hauls in tough conditions, err on the cautious side.

2. Brake Checks: Your Stopping Power Matters

You’re not driving a Prius. You’re pulling tens of thousands of pounds. Your brakes are under constant stress, and ignoring them is dangerous. Look for wear and tear, air leaks, or anything that seems off. Squeaky brakes? Weird pedal feel? Check it now, not later.

3. Tire Pressure and Tread: Stay Grounded

Your tires are your contact with the road, and they’re not cheap. Keep the pressure at manufacturer specs (check before every trip), and watch that tread. Uneven wear could signal alignment issues. Blowouts are not just annoying—they’re dangerous, especially at highway speeds.

4. Lights and Signals: Don’t Be That Guy

You know the one. Tail lights out, hazards flickering like a disco ball. Do a full walk-around before each trip and check your lights. It’s an easy fix that keeps you safe and visible, especially in low-light or bad weather.

5. Air Filters: Breathe Easy

Clogged air filters choke your engine and kill your fuel economy. A clean air filter keeps things running smooth and saves you money at the pump. Check them often, especially if you’re driving in dusty or dirty conditions.

6. Fluids Galore: Coolant, Transmission, Power Steering

It’s not just about oil. Your rig relies on a cocktail of fluids—coolant to prevent overheating, transmission fluid to shift smooth, and power steering fluid so you’re not wrestling the wheel like it's a rodeo. Top off and replace as needed.

7. Battery Health: Don’t Get Stranded

Cold weather, old age, or bad connections can leave you with a dead battery—and a bad time. Keep terminals clean and tight, and test your battery regularly, especially before winter hits.

8. Belts and Hoses: Little Things, Big Problems

A cracked belt or busted hose can sideline your truck fast. Inspect for wear, fraying, or leaks and replace them before they snap and leave you fuming at mile marker 112.

9. Suspension and Alignment: Smooth Sailing

Feeling a pull to one side? Noticing uneven tire wear? That’s your alignment screaming for attention. Suspension problems can also lead to poor handling and more wear on other parts. Get it checked, especially after hitting rough roads or curbs.

10. Keep Records: Your Future Self Will Thank You

Seriously—write it down. Log every oil change, inspection, tire rotation, and repair. It keeps you on track, makes inspections easier, and boosts resale value if you ever decide to upgrade your rig.

Maintenance Is Cheaper Than Breakdowns

Preventative maintenance isn’t just about “doing the right thing”—it’s the smart thing. A little time in the shop now saves you a lot of time (and cash) stuck on the shoulder later. Plus, it keeps your rig safer and more reliable, and gives you peace of mind knowing your truck’s ready to haul whatever’s next.

So next time you think about putting off that oil change or skipping a brake check, remember: trucks are tough—but they still need love.