At Branch Automotive, we get it — diesel tractor or truck repair can be costly. Although diesel trucks like the Powerstroke, Duramax, and Cummins are notorious for their reliability, durability, and towing capability, they tend to have higher truck repair costs than gasoline vehicles. But if you have unplanned breakdowns and need emergency repairs, the towing costs, missed customer appointments and deliveries, and other problems can amplify the costs.
Fortunately, the mechanics at Branch Automotive in Littleton CO can help. In addition to offering virtually every and any truck repair service your diesel will ever need, we pride ourselves on helping our customers save money. And one of the top ways we help diesel drivers in Littleton CO do so is with more cost-efficient diesel engine preventative maintenance.
While our diesel mechanic will do the heavy lifting and the technical diesel engine preventive maintenance, there are several steps you can take to prevent the risks of breakdown. Let’s take a closer look at some of our top diesel engine preventive maintenance tips and best practices you can use to save money and prevent more expensive emergency breakdowns.
Pay Special Attention to Your Tires Before Every Trip
As the only part of your diesel truck that contacts the road in Littleton CO, your tires are important. Even so, many drivers fail to pay their tires the attention they deserve, which is why failed tires are responsible for many highway breakdowns. Instead of ignoring your tires in Littleton CO and increasing the chances of a breakdown, use the following top tire tips:
- Make sure your tires have the right tire pressure. Overinflated tires can cause steering issues, but underinflated tires wear unevenly and lead to blowouts. At the same time, the wrong tire pressure can impact your fuel efficiency. Always ensure your tires have the right amount of tire pressure.
- Add air when the temperatures drop. Keep in mind your tires will lose about one PSI every month. But when temperatures drop in Littleton CO, your tires will lose air quicker. Pay special attention to your tire air pressure as temperatures drop in Littleton CO.
- Monitor your tire treads. If your tire treads are wearing unevenly, bulging in one spot, cracks, or aging, it’s imperative to have your tires inspected and replaced as needed.
Keep an Eye on Fluid Levels in Littleton CO
Like humans, your diesel truck relies on various fluids to function. And before a trip, it’s best to get in the habit of inspecting and checking all fluid levels. By checking for proper fluid levels, you can prevent the likelihood of your motor running out of engine oil or radiator fluid. And maintaining the right oil and coolant levels is a key diesel engine preventive maintenance service.
Listen and Examine the Brakes
While your vehicle can’t talk, it can communicate something is awry. And one system especially notorious for offering warning signs is your brakes. Every time you press the brake pedal, you should listen for strange sounds. If you hear squealing, grinding, or squeaking, you should schedule a brake inspection and truck repair in Littleton CO.
Due to the tremendous heat, pressure, and friction generated by your brakes, they are subject to damage. In fact, bad brakes are one of the top causes of truck repair. You can, however, prevent unplanned breakdowns by carefully paying attention to your brakes and proactively scheduling truck repair when anything seems off or awry.
Watch Your Electrical Systems
Your diesel truck utilizes enormous amounts of energy and power. All of this power comes from the battery and alternator. If you have an inadequate electrical system, your performance will be hindered, which can cause expensive diesel truck repairs. Instead, it’s best to take a proactive approach to maintain your electrical system.
For example, you should always ensure your battery is fully charged and in good working order. A faulty battery can cause your engine to shut down.
Inspect Battery & Battery Cables for Damage
Make sure your battery doesn’t exhibit any signs of physical damage. You can also visually inspect the wires and cables for signs of damage or corrosion. Severe system failure can usually be avoided with proper cable maintenance.
Partner with Branch Automotive in Littleton CO for the Best Diesel Engine Preventive Maintenance & Truck Repair
When it comes to preventing breakdowns in Littleton CO, your best line of defense is an experienced mechanic. And at Branch Automotive, our certified diesel mechanic will work closely with you to protect your diesel, extend its life, and ensure it’s performing at peak levels.
Contact Branch Automotive by completing our online contact form, calling (303) 771-2224, or stopping by to see us at 030 E County Line Road in Littleton, CO.
