Owning a commercial vehicle is more than just getting from Point A to Point B; it’s also about taking care of your vehicle and ensuring it’s in good working order. That’s why regular maintenance is so essential. We’ve put together a comprehensive maintenance checklist to help you keep your commercial vehicle running smoothly and efficiently.
Check Commercial Vehicle engine oil levels
Engine oil must lubricate the various parts of an engine to reduce friction and minimise unnecessary loss of power. A well-lubricated engine will burn fuel more effectively and therefore perform better. Top up the engine oil in your commercial vehicle as needed.
Test the brakes and brake pads
Brakes that aren’t routinely inspected or not maintained properly can let you down when you need them most. The most common brake system problems on light trucks or commercial vehicles include:
- a spongy brake pedal
- a hard brake pedal
- squealing sounds when braking
- vibrations when braking
- persistent brake warning light
Test the steering system
Commercial vehicle steering systems are complex and need to meet many industry demands. Scheduled maintenance and routine inspections on your steering system can help increase driver safety and productivity and reduce the chances of the vehicle being placed out of service.
Test the suspension for wear and tear
Pay attention if your ride begins to feel rougher. Over time, components of your suspension can wear out. While visually inspecting components can often let you know if they’ve become compromised, the easiest way to determine if you are having a suspension issue is by paying attention to how the ride in your vehicle feels.
Replace air filters and fuel filter
Dirty air and fuel filters in your commercial vehicle or light truck can massively affect its performance. Replace air filters and fuel filters as needed.
Inspect lights
Inspect all lights, including headlights, tail lights, indicators, reversing lights and fog lights.
Check tyre pressure regularly
The tyres are one of the most essential parts of your commercial vehicle. Make sure that all four tyres have enough air pressure and that there are no cuts or punctures. Ensure that there is enough tread left. If any tyre needs to be replaced, replace them in sets of four for better balance and stability. It is recommended that you check the tyre pressure on your commercial vehicle approximately every two weeks.
Check Commercial Vehicle wheel alignment
Wheel alignments are proven to get the most from your commercial vehicle. Regular wheel alignments will help you get the best performance from your tyres and extend their life.
Examine wheel bearings for signs of damage or excessive wear
Beyond leaving you without a tyre on your commercial vehicle, a bad wheel bearing can compound issues and lead to extreme wear of other parts of your suspension, including the CV joints and hub. It also wears the transmission and your tyres, causing uneven or faster wear.
Ensure windscreen wipers are working efficiently
Windshield wipers are a small part of your commercial vehicle, but they have a big impact on your driving and overall safety.
Test battery charge levels
Your battery is responsible for providing power to start up your engine and operate other electrical components such as lights and windscreen wipers. Ensure there is enough charge in the battery by checking the terminals for corrosion and making sure there is no water leakage.
Check Commercial Vehicle fuel lines
Like oil changes or transmission services, a fuel system service is a vital preventative maintenance procedure. It helps prevent performance problems and mechanical damage in the engine while keeping it running efficiently for the life of the vehicle. It is important to check fuel lines for leakage.
Check Commercial Vehicle fluids
Fluids play an essential role in keeping your engine running smoothly. Check all fluid levels – including oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, transmission fluid and windscreen washer fluid – to ensure they are at the optimal level.
The importance of regular servicing of commercial vehicles
Regular servicing will ensure that your commercial vehicle or light truck remains roadworthy. This should involve an overall inspection of the entire vehicle as well as any other maintenance tasks mentioned above which may have been neglected. It is important to note that some components may require replacing instead of being serviced. This includes belts, hoses, spark plugs and more. A qualified commercial vehicle mechanic can advise you on what needs to be done in each case.
Keep your commercial vehicle functioning efficiently with Moorooka Automotive
Is your car, 4WD or commercial vehicle due for a service? The team at Moorooka Automotive are fully equipped to provide mechanical services for light commercial vehicles including vans, courier and transit vehicles. Our team of qualified diesel mechanics can complete a full range of repair services to all makes and models.
Based in Moorooka, our highly skilled mechanics have over 60 years collective experience in the industry. Find out more about us here or give us a call today at (07) 3892 1153. You can send an email to or complete a contact form online.