Truck preventive maintenance isn’t just a checklist—it’s the lifeline of every fleet, the heartbeat of safety, and the reason big rigs keep rolling across the country without costly breakdowns. At UpkeepRecord.com, maintenance isn’t just a task. It’s a mindset—rooted in care, consistency, and a belief that simple steps done regularly can save time, money, and stress in the long run.
This philosophy started early for me. Watching my dad fine-tune the family car every weekend and seeing my mom manage a calendar full of reminders taught me one core lesson: if you take care of your equipment, it takes care of you. That’s the same approach I bring to truck maintenance today—whether it’s organizing a PM schedule, checking fluid levels, or logging a DOT inspection.
Now, as a busy mom and the creator of UpkeepRecord, I know that life moves fast—and trucks even faster. That’s why this guide breaks down everything you need to know about truck preventive maintenance. We’ll cover how often you need service, what’s included in a PM, what it costs, and how to build a program that keeps your rig (or fleet) in top shape.
From real-world checklists to best practices backed by DOT and FMCSA standards, this article gives you practical, proven advice that’s easy to apply. Whether you’re an owner-operator, fleet manager, or just getting started with your first truck, you’ll find expert guidance made simple.
Discover great ideas like reliability-centered maintenance in our other articles to stay ahead of breakdowns and keep your fleet rolling smoothly.
Now let’s dive into the foundation of truck maintenance—starting with what Truck preventive maintenance really means.
Table of Contents
Understanding Truck Preventive Maintenance
What is Truck preventive maintenance?
Truck preventive maintenance is a structured approach to routine service, inspection, and replacement of parts before problems occur. Unlike reactive repairs—where issues are fixed after something breaks—preventive maintenance (PM) ensures that each component of the truck operates efficiently and safely over time.
For example, instead of waiting for brakes to wear out or fluids to run low, a PM schedule proactively checks and services these items. This keeps trucks road-ready, minimizes breakdown risks, and avoids costly roadside emergencies.
According to FMCSA standards and best industry practices, a good PM plan includes systematic inspections, timely part replacements, and consistent documentation. It’s designed to extend the truck’s lifespan, optimize fuel efficiency, and reduce downtime. Think of it as your truck’s health plan—regular checkups to avoid serious “illnesses.”
Truck preventive maintenance isn’t just for big fleets. Owner-operators benefit just as much—if not more—because every hour lost to a breakdown is revenue lost. By staying ahead of mechanical issues, drivers save money and avoid missed deadlines.
Why Truck preventive maintenance is Crucial for Trucking Operations
Every mile a truck drives puts stress on its systems—engines, transmissions, brakes, suspension, and tires. Without a consistent PM program, that wear adds up fast. Over time, small ignored issues snowball into large, expensive ones.
Here’s why truck preventive maintenance is mission-critical:
| Benefit | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Reduces Downtime | Well-maintained trucks break down less often, keeping deliveries on schedule |
| Lowers Operating Costs | Scheduled maintenance prevents high-cost emergency repairs and towing fees |
| Extends Vehicle Lifespan | Regular servicing keeps engines and parts in better shape for longer |
| Boosts Safety | Prevents brake failure, tire blowouts, and other dangerous road conditions |
| Ensures Legal Compliance | Meets DOT and FMCSA standards, reducing the risk of violations and fines |
| Improves Fuel Efficiency | Clean filters, correct tire pressure, and tuned engines all mean better mileage |
Whether you operate a single rig or manage a fleet of 50, skipping Truck preventive maintenance isn’t just a gamble—it’s a guaranteed loss. Even something as simple as a clogged air filter or low transmission fluid can derail an entire route.
UpkeepRecord is all about keeping life running smoothly—trucks included. That’s why we emphasize routine over repairs, and systems over scrambling.
“Discover great ideas like reliability-centered maintenance” (already placed in Introduction).
Types of PTruck preventive maintenance in Trucking
The 4 Major Types of Truck preventive maintenance
Not all Truck preventive maintenance is the same. In the trucking industry, there are four primary types of PM that work together to keep vehicles in top condition:
- Time-Based Maintenance (Scheduled PM)
This is the most common type of truck preventive maintenance. It’s scheduled based on time (e.g., every 3 months) or mileage (e.g., every 15,000 miles). Regular oil changes, brake inspections, and tire rotations fall into this category. - Usage-Based Maintenance (Condition-Specific)
This PM is scheduled based on how often a truck is used or how hard it works. A truck that hauls heavy loads daily will need more frequent servicing than one used less often. Fleet managers track engine hours, idling time, or fuel usage to plan this type of maintenance. - Predictive Maintenance (Data-Driven)
Using sensors and telematics, this method predicts when components are likely to fail. For instance, vibration sensors can warn of transmission wear before it breaks down. Predictive PM is gaining popularity in large fleets with digital monitoring systems. - Proactive Maintenance (Root-Cause Focused)
This strategy goes beyond fixing symptoms. It looks for the root causes of recurring problems—like improper installations, flawed processes, or poor-quality parts—and addresses those before they lead to larger failures.
Here’s a breakdown to help compare:
| PM Type | Trigger | Examples | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Time-Based | Time/Mileage | Oil change every 10,000 miles | All trucks |
| Usage-Based | Workload-driven | PM after 400 engine hours | High-mileage fleets |
| Predictive | Telematics/Data | Warning alerts from onboard sensors | Tech-enabled fleets |
| Proactive | Root-cause identification | Correcting systemic failure causes | Advanced maintenance strategies |
Each of these types has its place. Most trucking operations use a blended PM strategy, with time-based maintenance as the foundation and others layered on as needed.
Which Maintenance Type is Best for Heavy-Duty Trucks?
Truck Preventive Maintenance: Choosing the Right Approach
For heavy-duty trucks—especially long-haul semis—time-based truck preventive maintenance is non-negotiable. These rigs put on hundreds of miles daily, so oil, filters, belts, and tires wear fast. Consistency is key here: sticking to your truck preventive maintenance schedule can prevent major powertrain issues and avoid DOT violations.
However, large fleets and commercial carriers should also incorporate predictive and proactive truck preventive maintenance to catch deeper problems and save on long-term costs. Adding condition-based monitoring tools like engine temperature sensors or transmission fluid diagnostics helps track vehicle health between truck preventive maintenance services.
Fleet management systems make it easy to combine these truck preventive maintenance approaches. They log service dates, send reminders, and generate reports to ensure nothing falls through the cracks in your truck preventive maintenance program.
Bottom line? The best type of truck preventive maintenance is the one that fits your operation, budget, and vehicle load. What matters most is having a comprehensive truck preventive maintenance plan—and sticking to it.
PM Schedules and Intervals
How Often is a PM Required for Trucks?
The frequency of Truck preventive maintenance depends on a few key factors: truck type, usage, engine type, manufacturer guidelines, and operating conditions. However, there are standard industry benchmarks you can use as a foundation.
For most heavy-duty diesel trucks, here’s a general breakdown of PM intervals:
| PM Service Level | Typical Interval | Key Tasks Included |
|---|---|---|
| PM-A (Basic) | Every 10,000 – 15,000 miles | Oil change, tire check, fluid top-off, visual inspection |
| PM-B (Intermediate) | Every 25,000 – 30,000 miles | Brake inspection, transmission check, battery test, belts |
| PM-C (Comprehensive) | Every 60,000 – 90,000 miles | Cooling system service, differential check, complete drivetrain inspection |
DOT inspections also impact PM frequency. A truck must be in DOT-compliant condition at all times, meaning brakes, lights, steering, and tires should be inspected more often—especially if hauling heavy or hazardous loads.
Factors That Affect Maintenance Intervals
No two trucks or routes are the same. That’s why your PM frequency should be customized based on your real-world conditions. Consider these factors:
- Mileage and Road Type
Highway driving is easier on trucks than stop-and-go urban routes. Dirt or gravel roads increase suspension wear and air filter clogging. - Load Weight
Trucks carrying full-capacity loads daily experience more stress on brakes, tires, and axles. - Engine Hours vs. Miles
Idling burns engine hours without adding miles. For trucks that idle a lot—like delivery vehicles—engine hours are a better PM trigger than odometer readings. - Climate and Weather
Cold climates require more frequent battery and oil checks. Dusty or humid regions wear down filters and electrical systems faster. - Driving Habits
Aggressive acceleration, braking, and cornering wear down components faster. Driver training directly impacts maintenance needs. - Manufacturer Recommendations
Brands like Freightliner, Volvo, and Peterbilt provide model-specific PM schedules in their service manuals.
Here’s an example of how a PM plan might look for a Class 8 semi-truck:
| Interval | Service Tasks |
|---|---|
| Every 15,000 mi | Oil & filters, tire inspection, air filter clean |
| Every 30,000 mi | Brake system, battery, belts & hoses |
| Every 60,000 mi | Transmission service, coolant system check |
| Annually | DOT inspection, emissions check, HVAC service |
Tip: Use fleet software or an upkeep spreadsheet to log dates and mileage for every service. Staying organized means fewer surprises and lower repair bills.
Looking for inspiration? Try our reliability-centered maintenance method to enhance your scheduling strategy.
What Does a Truck PM Service Include?
Common PM Service Checklist Items
Preventive maintenance (PM) for trucks is more than an oil change—it’s a comprehensive service that targets multiple systems to prevent failure before it happens. A well-executed PM covers over 50 individual checks and adjustments, though the exact items may vary based on truck class, mileage, and manufacturer.
Below is a typical PM-A service checklist (basic maintenance):
| PM Checklist Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Engine Oil & Filter | Drain and replace with OEM-recommended oil |
| Air Filter | Clean or replace based on condition |
| Fuel Filter | Check for contaminants and replace if needed |
| Brake Inspection | Check pad wear, air lines, drums/discs |
| Tire Pressure & Tread | Inflate to spec, inspect for uneven wear |
| Battery Terminals & Voltage | Clean terminals, test charge and capacity |
| Lights & Reflectors | Verify all external lights, brake, and turn signals |
| Belts & Hoses | Look for cracks, leaks, or signs of wear |
| Suspension & Steering Components | Check joints, bushings, and fluid levels |
| Fluid Levels | Coolant, power steering, windshield washer, DEF |
Mid- and high-level PM services (PM-B and PM-C) include deeper diagnostics and component replacements:
- Transmission fluid change
- Differential and axle inspection
- Exhaust system inspection
- HVAC check
- DOT compliance evaluation
- Torque checks on suspension components
- Emissions system service (especially for post-2007 diesel trucks)
Each item on this list plays a role in either truck performance, fuel efficiency, or road safety.
Is a PM Just an Oil Change?
Absolutely not. While an oil change is a key part of any truck preventive maintenance plan, a full PM service goes far beyond that. Think of it this way:
Oil change = 1 service task
Preventive maintenance = 50+ checks across the entire vehicle
An oil change alone won’t catch:
- Cracked brake pads
- Low battery voltage
- Failing u-joints
- Worn suspension bushings
- Leaking axle seals
That’s why relying solely on oil change intervals without broader inspections leaves gaps that can lead to roadside breakdowns and failed DOT inspections.
A true PM program is proactive—you fix it before it breaks.
Don’t miss our guide on reliability-centered maintenance to structure PM service levels around performance data.
Cost & Time Expectations for PM Services
How Much Does a PM Service Cost on a Semi-Truck?
Truck preventive maintenance costs vary depending on truck size, service level, location, and whether it’s done in-house or outsourced. For a standard Class 8 semi-truck, here’s a breakdown of average service pricing in the U.S.:
| PM Level | Service Description | Average Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| PM-A | Oil & filter, basic inspection | $150 – $300 |
| PM-B | Brake check, fluid replacement, deeper checks | $400 – $700 |
| PM-C | Full drivetrain inspection, advanced diagnostics | $800 – $1,200+ |
Additional costs can arise if technicians find:
- Leaking seals
- Faulty sensors
- Belt wear
- Contaminated filters
- Low tire tread
Also, mobile PM services typically charge a travel fee ($75–$150), while dealer PM services may offer packages with warranty coverage or software updates bundled in.
To manage costs effectively, many fleet managers use maintenance contracts with local shops or set up in-house service bays to handle routine tasks.
How Long Does a Typical Truck PM Take?
Time is money—especially in logistics. Here’s how long you can expect each PM level to take:
| PM Level | Approx. Duration | Tasks Included |
|---|---|---|
| PM-A | 1 to 2 hours | Oil change, filter check, basic walk-around |
| PM-B | 2 to 4 hours | Intermediate inspections, brake & battery test |
| PM-C | 5 to 8 hours | Full system diagnostics, suspension, HVAC, drivetrain |
Scheduling Your Truck Preventive Maintenance
If you’re scheduling multiple trucks for truck preventive maintenance, expect slightly longer wait times unless your shop has multiple service bays and technicians available.
For owner-operators, minimizing downtime means choosing smart truck preventive maintenance scheduling—like overnight PMs or bundling services with state inspections.
Tip: Ask your shop if they offer “express truck preventive maintenance service” or digital reports with photos and real-time alerts. These can help you plan smarter and cut unnecessary delays in your truck preventive maintenance routine.
Bottom line? The best type of truck preventive maintenance is the one that fits your operation, budget, and vehicle load. What matters most is having a comprehensive truck preventive maintenance plan—and sticking to it.
Looking for peace of mind with proactive care? Learn more about reliability-centered maintenance for cost-effective PM scheduling.
Truck preventive maintenance for Different Truck Models
PM Services for Freightliner Trucks
Freightliner, one of North America’s top heavy-duty truck brands, recommends a tiered Truck preventive maintenancee schedule tailored to mileage and engine type. If you own a Freightliner Cascadia, M2 106, or Coronado, you’ll want to follow OEM-specific guidelines that support optimal performance and warranty compliance.
A typical Freightliner PM plan includes:
| Mileage | Recommended Service Tasks |
|---|---|
| Every 10,000–15,000 mi | Oil & filter change, inspect brake linings, check DEF system |
| Every 25,000–30,000 mi | Inspect air dryer cartridge, inspect exhaust piping and clamps |
| Every 60,000+ mi | Inspect turbocharger, clean EGR valve, service transmission and coolant systems |
Freightliner’s proprietary Virtual Technician system also assists with predictive maintenance by monitoring diagnostics and sending alerts to both the driver and the fleet manager. It helps reduce unexpected failures and extends uptime.
Key Tips for Freightliner PM:
- Use Detroit™ or approved synthetic fluids for optimized fuel efficiency
- Check HVAC and dash controls regularly—common fail points
- Update software at dealer PM intervals (if applicable)
Variations in PM Across Popular Truck Brands
Different truck brands and models require unique PM attention due to their design, engine configuration, and onboard systems. Here’s a quick look at how Truck preventive maintenance varies across brands:
| Brand | Notable PM Differences |
|---|---|
| Kenworth | Sensitive to coolant system issues—check every PM; clutch adjustment varies by model |
| Peterbilt | High-precision electronics—require frequent diagnostic scans for sensors and alerts |
| Volvo | Complex emissions systems—PM must include DPF checks and regen system performance |
| Mack | Air suspension and lift axles need extra inspection if used in regional hauling |
| International | Early EGR models may need more frequent valve and injector checks |
While base PM practices are the same—oil, filters, brakes—the frequency and depth of inspections depend on truck brand and application. For example, vocational trucks operating in stop-and-go city conditions need more frequent brake inspections than long-haul trucks on open highways.
Pro Tip: Use manufacturer-specific service software or dealer portals (e.g., Freightliner’s ServicePro) to create a custom PM calendar based on real data.
Check out expert advice on reliability-centered maintenance to customize your PM across different truck brands.
Building a Truck preventive maintenance Program
Steps to Set Up a Fleet-Wide PM Plan
Whether you manage a single semi or a full fleet, building a successful Truck preventive maintenance (PM) program starts with structure and consistency. A solid PM plan ensures trucks are safe, compliant, and always ready for the road.
Here are the core steps to build your own PM program:
- Inventory Your Assets
Start with a list of all trucks, trailers, and major equipment. Include VINs, engine types, mileage, service history, and warranty details. Each unit should have its own PM calendar. - Establish PM Intervals
Base this on manufacturer guidelines, engine hours, or miles driven. Create levels (PM-A, PM-B, PM-C) with tasks tied to each service milestone. - Create Custom Checklists
Develop PM checklists tailored to your truck models. Don’t rely on generic lists—match them to real-world conditions. Include filters, lights, belts, emissions systems, and safety gear. - Train Your Drivers
Drivers are your first line of defense. Train them to perform pre-trip inspections, listen for abnormal noises, and report dashboard warnings immediately. - Assign Technicians or Shops
Decide whether you’ll use an in-house maintenance crew or third-party vendors. Choose certified mechanics experienced with heavy-duty trucks and DOT requirements. - Document Every Service
Use service logs to record date, mileage, work performed, parts replaced, and technician name. This helps with warranty claims, audits, and resale value. - Audit and Adjust Quarterly
Review service logs, breakdowns, and repair trends every 3 months. If you’re seeing repeated failures in certain systems, your PM intervals may need tightening.
Digital Tools to Track Truck PM Schedules
Manual tracking works—until it doesn’t. As fleets grow, digital maintenance tracking tools become essential. They reduce human error, send reminders, and offer analytics to improve reliability.
Here are some top-rated truck maintenance tools:
| Software | Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| UpKeep | Cloud-based, mobile PM tracking, photo uploads | Small to mid-size fleets |
| Fleetio | Vehicle history, service reminders, integration ready | Full fleet management |
| Whip Around | Custom digital inspections, defect reports | Daily driver inspections |
| Samsara | Telematics, real-time alerts, predictive maintenance | Tech-forward operations |
These tools let you set PM intervals by mileage or engine hours and automatically notify your team when a truck is due for service.
Want something simple to start? An Excel sheet + calendar reminders work fine for owner-operators or fleets under 5 vehicles.
Bottom Line: A successful preventive maintenance program is predictable, trackable, and repeatable. The fewer surprises you face on the road, the more control you have over your schedule and bottom line.
Don’t miss our smart strategy for reliability-centered maintenance to optimize your fleet care.
Compliance, Safety, and Benefits
FMCSA Preventive Maintenance Guidelines
If you’re in the trucking industry, you’re no stranger to DOT compliance—and preventive maintenance plays a direct role in staying legal and avoiding penalties. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires every commercial vehicle to be in safe operating condition at all times.
Here’s what FMCSA regulations require for truck maintenance:
| Requirement | What It Means |
|---|---|
| §396.3 – Systematic Inspection | Trucks must undergo regular, documented inspections |
| §396.11 – Driver Inspection Reports | Daily vehicle inspections before and after trips are mandatory |
| §396.17 – Annual Inspections | Every truck must pass a complete DOT inspection annually |
| §396.21 – Maintenance Records | Detailed records must be kept for 12 months after vehicle use |
The FMCSA doesn’t specify exact PM intervals but expects that you have a documented program in place. You must be able to show:
- Inspection dates
- Repairs completed
- Technician certifications
- Defect corrections
Failure to comply can lead to out-of-service violations, fines, or even loss of operating authority.
Tip: Store PM reports digitally and back them up. DOT auditors want fast, traceable documentation during reviews.
How PM Enhances Safety and Lowers Liability
Beyond avoiding tickets, truck preventive maintenance protects lives. A properly maintained truck is:
- Less likely to suffer brake failure on a downhill grade
- Better able to stop quickly in traffic
- Less vulnerable to tire blowouts
- Quieter and more stable on rough roads
- Less prone to lighting or signaling issues
According to the FMCSA’s Large Truck Crash Causation Study, mechanical failure is a factor in 10% of truck crashes, with brake and tire issues leading the list. Many of these incidents could have been avoided with basic PM.
Here’s what Truck preventive maintenance can reduce:
| Risk Factor | How PM Helps |
|---|---|
| Brake failure | Regular lining inspection and air leak tests |
| Tire blowouts | Pressure checks and tread depth measurement |
| Engine fire or stalling | Wiring, fuel lines, and cooling system inspections |
| DOT roadside violations | Clean PM logs and proactive defect corrections |
Legal liability after a crash often hinges on maintenance records. A complete PM file can prove due diligence and protect you in court. In contrast, missing documentation may result in penalties—even if the crash wasn’t your fault.
Looking for inspiration? Try our reliability-centered maintenance strategy to stay fully compliant and safer on the road.
Common Mistakes & Best Practices
Mistakes to Avoid in PM Programs
Even with the best intentions, many trucking operations unknowingly weaken their Truck preventive maintenance efforts by falling into these common traps:
- Relying Only on Mileage for PM
Mileage is important—but engine hours, load weight, and idle time also wear down components. Ignoring these can lead to missed servicing windows. - Skipping Documentation
Verbal communication or sticky notes won’t cut it. Without a written log, you can’t prove compliance during audits or defend against legal claims. - Inconsistent Inspections
If technicians vary in their checklists or skip “quick” items to save time, problems go unnoticed. Standardized procedures are essential. - Delaying Small Repairs
That “tiny” fluid leak could lead to engine damage. Delaying minor issues allows them to become major breakdowns. - Using the Wrong Parts or Fluids
Using cheap or incompatible oils, filters, or brake pads might save money today—but cost you thousands in engine or drivetrain repairs later. - No Driver Feedback Loop
Drivers notice issues first. Without a clear reporting system, warning signs like vibrations or odd smells may go unaddressed for weeks. - Poor Training
Both technicians and drivers need up-to-date knowledge of modern truck systems, especially for emissions components and electronics.
Avoiding these missteps protects your uptime, reputation, and bottom line.
Best Practices to Extend Truck Life Span
Want your truck to run strong past 1,000,000 miles? These best practices make the difference between a reliable rig and a rolling liability:
| Best Practice | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Follow a tiered PM schedule | Aligns services with wear patterns and avoids over-servicing |
| Log every inspection | Builds service history, helps resale value, supports audits |
| Use OEM parts | Maintains performance, fuel efficiency, and warranty status |
| Train and retrain drivers | Improves pre-trip inspections and early problem detection |
| Leverage maintenance software | Keeps PM on track with reminders and history tracking |
| Invest in diagnostics | Early detection saves thousands in repairs and downtime |
| Evaluate trends quarterly | Identify recurring issues and fine-tune your PM schedule |
Even something as simple as checking your tire pressure weekly can increase lifespan, boost MPG, and cut operating costs. Maintenance doesn’t need to be complicated—it just needs to be consistent.
Don’t miss our powerful reliability-centered maintenance guide to build smarter, data-driven PM strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions About Truck Preventive Maintenance
What is preventive maintenance on a truck?
Preventive maintenance on a truck is a planned and proactive service strategy designed to keep the vehicle in optimal condition and avoid unexpected breakdowns. It involves regular checks, oil changes, brake inspections, and fluid replacements based on mileage, engine hours, or calendar intervals. The goal is to reduce costly repairs and extend the truck’s lifespan.
What regular maintenance should be done on a truck?
Regular truck maintenance includes:
Oil and filter changes
Brake system inspections
Tire pressure and tread checks
Coolant and transmission fluid level checks
Lighting and electrical system inspections
Air filter and fuel filter replacements
These tasks should be performed based on a time or mileage schedule outlined by the truck manufacturer or fleet policy.
How often is a PM required on the truck?
Preventive maintenance (PM) frequency depends on truck type and usage, but a common industry standard is:
PM-A every 10,000 to 15,000 miles
PM-B every 25,000 to 30,000 miles
PM-C every 60,000+ miles
High-use trucks or those operating in extreme conditions may require more frequent maintenance.
What does a PM service consist of?
A PM service includes a series of inspections and replacements to maintain vehicle health. These may include:
Oil and filter change
Brake lining inspection
Battery test
Air system check
Belt and hose evaluation
Suspension and steering inspection
It also involves documenting all services for compliance and warranty protection.
What are the four types of preventive maintenance?
The four main types of truck preventive maintenance are:
Time-Based Maintenance – Scheduled by calendar or mileage.
Usage-Based Maintenance – Based on engine hours or fuel consumption.
Predictive Maintenance – Triggered by telematics or sensor alerts.
Proactive Maintenance – Targets root causes to prevent recurring issues.
How much is a PM service on a semi?
The cost of a PM service on a semi-truck depends on service level and location:
PM-A (basic): $150 – $300
PM-B (intermediate): $400 – $700
PM-C (comprehensive): $800 – $1,200+
Costs can rise if parts need replacement or mobile service is requested.
Is a PM service an oil change?
No. While an oil change is included in a PM-A service, preventive maintenance goes beyond that. A true PM includes multiple checks such as brakes, tires, lights, batteries, and more. It ensures the entire truck is road-safe and compliant with DOT regulations.
How long does it take to do a PM on a semi truck?
A PM service can take:
1 to 2 hours for basic PM-A
2 to 4 hours for PM-B
5 to 8 hours or more for full PM-C
Time may vary depending on the shop, truck condition, and whether diagnostics or part replacements are needed.
What is included in PM service on Freightliner?
A Freightliner PM service generally includes:
Oil and filter change
Brake system inspection
Air filter check
Transmission and cooling system inspection
DEF system check
Emissions and EGR system servicing
Freightliner also uses telematics (like Virtual Technician) to monitor vehicle health and alert fleet managers in real-time.
Conclusion: Truck Preventive Maintenance
Truck preventive maintenance isn’t just another expense—it’s the foundation of reliability, safety, and long-term savings. Whether you’re an owner-operator running a single rig or managing a fleet of 50, your ability to stay ahead of issues will always beat scrambling after breakdowns.
By following structured PM schedules, training drivers, using OEM parts, and logging every inspection, you build a system that keeps trucks on the road—and your reputation intact. With tools like maintenance tracking software, checklists, and smart diagnostics, you can shift from reactive chaos to a proactive system that saves time, money, and stress.
At UpkeepRecord, we believe that maintenance should be simple, repeatable, and empowering. It’s about care, not just compliance. It’s the small consistent habits that keep your operations moving—and your trucks rolling strong for years to come.
