From Chef to Auto Mechanic | Truck Maintenance Tips for Food Truck Owner

From Chef to Auto Mechanic | Truck Maintenance Tips for Food Truck Owner

Many food truck owners are chefs and restaurant workers who are just drivers, not mechanics. That doesn’t mean that they are relieved from their duties of maintaining their vehicles. It’s their responsibility to follow regular maintenance that keeps their trucks in good working order.

Replace the Fluid Levels

Changing the oil every six months is necessary to lubricate the engine and prevent excessive wear and tear of the internal parts. As the truck is being used, the fluids decrease in volume as particles break off and float around. The fluids become dark and gritty compared to a normal clear or amber color. Not changing the fluids will result in leaks, odors and a vehicle that breaks down more easily under pressure.

Rotate or Replace the Tires

Truck drivers drive for long hours every day, going on trips that take days or weeks to complete. They are encouraged to get their tires rotated every few thousand miles. If not, the tires are likely to skid and break apart on the road. The more that a vehicle is driven, the less traction it holds on the road. If you drive the trucks every day, check the tread wear every few months to see if the tires need to be replaced.

Check the Computer Systems

It’s common to find computers and GPS navigation systems in the dashboards. Maintain the computer systems by checking that all of the lights and controls are working. If any part of the vehicle malfunctions, you need the computer to provide the right information. Perform this task at least once a year.

Check the Engine

The engine is the so-called heart of the vehicle that should be checked every 3,000 miles. Check the engine often if you drive the car at least 10 hours a week. Some drivers have predetermined dates when to check it, such as every 6 months or once a year, but the vehicle could break down before the next checkup.

Maintaining your truck is necessary for food truck drivers who visit stores, restaurants or bakeries almost every day. Most drivers follow the maintenance guidelines in their truck manuals. Some people keep track of the dates when they last made checkups. The worst thing is to act when you see the engine smoking or parts of the tires break off. Follow a schedule to know when it’s time to check the different parts of your vehicle.