Summer Road Trips? 5 Tips to Prep Your Diesel Truck for Long Hauls

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As summer kicks into high gear, many diesel truck owners and fleet operators are gearing up for long hauls across the country. But with rising temperatures, increased road congestion, and heavier loads, your truck needs to be fully prepared to handle the challenges of summer driving.

Here are five essential tips to ensure your diesel truck is road-trip ready this season.

1. Check and Change Your Fluids

Heat accelerates fluid breakdown—especially engine oil and coolant. Old, dirty oil can reduce engine efficiency and increase wear, while degraded coolant can lead to overheating. Make sure to:

• Check oil and coolant levels
  
  
• Change oil and filters if due
  
  
• Inspect hoses for cracks or leaks
  
  

Use manufacturer-recommended oil with proper viscosity for summer heat. Coolant should be tested for its boiling point and pH levels.

2. Inspect Your Tires Thoroughly

Tire blowouts are more common in hot weather due to high road temperatures and underinflated tires. To stay safe:

• Check tire pressure regularly
  
  
• Look for signs of tread wear or cracking
  
  
• Rotate tires if needed
  
  

Always check tires when they’re cool for accurate readings and don’t forget to inspect your spare.

Check out NHTSA's tire safety tips for commercial vehicles.

3. Test Your Air Conditioning and HVAC System

Summer comfort isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity on long drives. A failing A/C system can lead to driver fatigue and safety risks. Make sure to:

• Inspect refrigerant levels
  
  
• Replace cabin air filters
  
  
• Check for leaks in the A/C system
  
  

If your A/C isn’t blowing cold or makes odd noises, have it inspected before you hit the road.

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4. Evaluate the Battery and Electrical System

High heat can be just as damaging to batteries as freezing cold. Make sure your battery is ready to handle the strain of summer:

• Inspect battery terminals for corrosion
  
  
• Check voltage and charge level
  
  
• Clean connections and secure cables
  
  

5. Schedule Preventive Maintenance

The best way to avoid unexpected breakdowns is through preventive maintenance. Before any long trip, make sure your truck has a:

• Multi-point inspection
  
  
• Filter and belt check
  
  
• Diagnostic scan
  
  

This not only extends the life of your vehicle but helps reduce downtime and costly repairs.

Stop by Gallaher Fleet Solutions Today

At Gallaher Fleet Solutions, we specialize in diesel maintenance and repair for light, medium, and heavy-duty trucks. Whether you're headed out solo or managing a full fleet, our certified technicians, second-shift services, and two convenient locations (Statesville and Bessemer City) have you covered.

✅ Get summer-ready with reliable service you can count on.
📍 Visit us today or schedule your appointment online.

👉 Book Your Service Now

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