​​How To Make an Older Pickup Truck Last Longer​

We rely on our pickup trucks to get the work done every day. We fill the bed with everything we need for the farm, our home, and the jobsite. They are built to get us through thick and thin – extreme weather, snowstorms, and the scorching heat.  

They are an extension of who we are, and we want them to last for a long time. To start up the first time every time, to carry the load with no problem, and to pull a trailer over miles on end. Even to take the family out for a night on the town after it is all said and done. 

To be dependable year in and year out, no matter how many miles it has on the odometer, your pickup truck needs to keep running at its best. How do you make sure your current pickup truck lasts a long time?  

The folks at Pickup Truck and SUV Talk offer a few tips to keep your older pickup truck running at its best. These tips will help ensure you are providing regular maintenance to prolong the life of your current pickup truck.  

That starts with regular oil changes. Before you start grabbing the oil and filter, check the factory-recommended interval for changing the oil in your pickup truck and stick to that schedule. Also, make sure you put the exact amount of oil into your engine. The old oil can be recycled through a local garage.  

Your tires keep your pickup truck on the road. They also require regular maintenance to keep them rolling. That starts with regular tire pressure checks. You can always reference the tire pressures stated on the sticker inside your driver’s door jamb to make sure they are at the proper pressure. Rotating your tires is important. It is recommended that two-wheel-drive pickup truck tires be rotated every 5,000-7,000 miles. For four-wheel drive pickup truck tires, they should be rotated every 3,000-5,000 miles. Also, always check the tire tread depth. Using a penny, if you can see Lincoln’s head, it’s time to get new tires.

Regularly checking the fluid levels in your pickup truck will also extend the life of your trusted rig. The fluids you should check are engine oil, coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid, and power steering fluid. As long as they look good and are at the appropriate level on the dipstick, you should be fine. If not, go ahead and replace those fluids.  

The 12-volt battery will also need to be checked. For that, you want to inspect for corrosion, make sure the connections at the terminals are tight, and verify the voltage is 12 volts. For diesel pickup trucks, remember to check both batteries.  

Importantly, schedule routine inspections for your vehicle. Your technician should always check the condition of your brake pads, suspension components, exhaust system, all belts and hoses, and the operation of the lights and electrical system. 

If you are unable to perform any of these maintenance items, don’t worry. The Service Center at McFarland Chevrolet is here to help. Schedule an appointment with us, and we can help you keep your trusted pickup truck going for the long run.