5 Major Tips to Avoid a Roadside Breakdown

Every truck driver who has experienced a roadside breakdown knows that it is stressful, expensive and time consuming ౼ but it’s also avoidable!

Ensuring your trucks remain operational is crucial to minimising downtime. When trucks are sidelined, truck drivers face multiple delays: waiting for a tow (lost time), waiting for parts (most lost time), and waiting for repairs (even more lost time!). This not only keeps trucks and their cargo off the road but also significantly impacts the bottom line. 

Here are five tips to help you prevent breakdown issues and keep your fleet running smoothly.

Plan Ahead

Plan regular maintenance and schedule routine checks to catch potential problems early. You will be able to identify and address potential issues before they escalate into costly repairs or breakdowns.

This proactive approach will significantly reduce the risk of unexpected breakdowns, as well as enhance the longevity of your trucks and ensure they remain roadworthy. Ultimately, ensuring safety and efficiency of your fleet. 

Check Everything: Look over the engine, brakes, tires, and electrical parts regularly to spot any issues early.

1. Fluids: Make sure to check and change the oil, coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid often. These keep your truck running smoothly.

2. Tyres: Keep tyres properly inflated and check the tread. Rotate and balance them to make them last longer.

3. Brakes: Look at the brake pads, discs, and lines. Replace anything worn out to keep your truck safe.

4. Battery: Check the battery’s charge and clean the terminals. A good battery is key for starting the truck and running electrical systems.

5. Follow Service Schedules: Stick to the manufacturer’s service schedule for oil changes, filter replacements, and other routine services.

6. Keep Records: Write down all maintenance activities. This helps you keep track of each truck’s condition and plan future checks.

By doing these simple checks regularly, you can avoid big problems, keep your trucks on the road, and make sure they’re safe and efficient.

Look For The Signs

While not all breakdowns are preventable, many  can be avoided with proper vigilance. Educate your team to watch for warning signs while on the road. Here are some signs to look out for:

1. Flickering Lights: If lights flicker while idling, it could signal issues with the alternator or battery. Addressing this early can prevent more serious electrical problems.

2. Overheating: Overheating might indicate radiator problems. Ignoring this can lead to severe engine damage, so it’s crucial to address it immediately.

3. Blinking “Check Oil” Light: This is a clear signal that should never be ignored. Low oil levels can cause significant engine damage if not addressed promptly.

4. Oil Leaks: Even minor oil leaks can lead to major problems, including engine breakdowns or damage to other vehicle parts. Regularly check for and address any leaks.

Have A Plan in Place

Even the most well-maintained trucks can break down. It’s essential for your fleet to know what to do if they find themselves stranded on the side of the road. The safety of the truck driver and other road users is paramount. Drivers should know who to call, how to chock the wheels, or otherwise secure the truck and be familiar with roadside safety protocols.

With advances in technology, predictive maintenance procedures are becoming more common. This approach uses sensors and digital systems to detect problems early,, order parts in advance, plan repairs more efficiently, and better manage  technicians and drivers’ time.

Avoid Overloading Your Vehicle

Overloading can put excessive strain on your vehicle's components, leading to premature wear and potential breakdowns. Ensure your load complies with weight limits specified by regulations and your vehicle's capacity. Regularly check the weight of your loads and adjust as necessary to prevent overloading issues.

Have an Emergency Kit Ready

Being prepared for emergencies can make a big difference if a breakdown does occur. Equip each vehicle with a comprehensive emergency kit that includes:

- A flashlight with extra batteries
- First aid supplies
- Basic tools for minor repairs
- A blanket and warm clothing
- Non-perishable food and water
- A reflective warning triangle and high-visibility vest

Having these items on hand can help drivers manage unexpected situations more effectively and safely.

Whether your fleet uses sensors or relies on traditional methods, anticipating maintenance issues will minimise breakdowns and keep your trucks on the road!
 

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