Making sure your truck does not break down on the side of the road is vital. At Kel Stanton’s, our diesel mechanic experts want to make sure that you don’t end up stranded! Below we have listed the common signs that your truck needs servicing:
The Service Sticker
It may sound obvious but making sure that you get your vehicle serviced when your service sticker says its due is extremely important. Regular servicing is both maintenance and preventative, ensuring that there are no current issues or anything that could become an issue. If the date on your servicing sticker is coming up then your safest bet is to get your vehicle booked in for a routine inspection/service. In newer trucks, your dash will even let you know when you are due for a service.
Blowing Smoke
If your truck is blowing smoke, either white or black, it is definitely time to book in for a service. White smoke most commonly indicates that there is either too much fuel being injected into your combustion chamber or that the heat is too low to burn the fuel. However it can also be due to low compression, residual coolant, or more. Black smoke, on the other hand, is a sign of fouled injectors caused by injector deposits. Getting your fuel system cleaned and your truck inspected can help to improve your vehicle's performance and lifespan.
Engine Oil Pressure
The main cause of oil pressure dropping is that your oil level has dropped below the minimum dipstick line; however, it can also be a sign of a deeper issue that needs to be addressed. This can happen at any time, even if you have recently had your oil changed. As your vehicle gets older, it uses oil faster. In part, this is due to the wearing of the piston rings, possible seal leaks, and more. If you see your oil pressure dropping, immediately book your vehicle in for a service.
High Fuel Consumption
If you find your truck is using fuel at a faster rate than normal it might be time for a service. If you are looking through your log book and can see your fuel consumption has jumped, this can be a sign of blocked air filters or dirty fuel injectors. If this occurs your vehicle is no longer effectively burning fuel and the increase your fuel consumption.
Leaking Oil
When you walk around your truck, you may notice an oil leak. Though it can seem like a minor issue, left unattended a small oil leak can become unmanageable and lead to much more extensive damage and repairs. If the oil leak grows enough, it can even lead to the possibility of the engine seizing. As such, if you notice an oil leak, get your truck serviced as soon as possible.
Think Your Truck Needs a Service? Give Us a Call.
At Kel Stanton’s Mobile Diesel Service, we have over a decade of experience specialising in maintenance and diesel repair service for diesel vehicles and equipment. We can help with everything from a truck breakdown service to fleet maintenance and we are here to help. If it is time for you to get your truck serviced or you are looking for mobile roadworthy vehicle inspections, give us a call today!