Don’t Ignore These 6 Warning Signs of Engine Trouble

Among the many stresses of being a truck driver, there’s one particular fear that all truckers want to work extra hard to prevent — engine trouble.

Even the smallest inconvenience with engine trouble could lead to catastrophic consequences for truckers. If you have 24/7 access to a free load boards this means you have the opportunity to stay loaded consistently, so keeping your truck in tip-top shape is essential.

Prevention will be your best friend. Putting in a little extra time for routine inspections could save you from costly repairs and potentially dangerous situations.

Here are some important warning signs to keep your truck loads safe and ensure all necessary maintenance is taken care of.

Red Flags Your Truck May Be Having Engine Problems

If you notice any of the following signs, you’ll want to act sooner rather than later to ensure your truck is running smoothly and safely.

1. Blue or Black Exhaust: This is a telltale sign that something irregular is going on with your engine; it could be that you’re burning oil or fuel environment is too lean. Don’t let this go unchecked for too long.
2. Frequent Oil Changes: Do you find yourself adding more oil between changes in fear that you’ll run dry? If you have to check your oil more frequently than the norm, then this could be a red flag of engine trouble.
3. Strange Sounds: A clear way to identify engine issues is by simply listening. Do you hear unusual knocking sounds or something more than the average hum of an engine? This is a serious sign that should not be left unattended.
4. Increased Fueling: Are you spending more refueling than normal? When engines need some attention, they tend to cause low fuel economy.
5. Overheating: This is a common issue with big rigs and can have other common causes like outside temperature or blockage to the radiator. However, if your engine regularly overheats, that’s not normal and you’ll want to have it checked.
6. Unexplained Smells: Anytime automotive smells make it inside your cab you should be worried. This is generally a warning sign of a much bigger issue at hand and can actually have fatal consequences if left unchecked.

Recognizing these six warning signs can save you from potential engine trouble and downtime from maximizing your truckers load board due to repairs.

If you really want to ensure that your engine is in good working order, you should be committed to regular maintenance plan that will help you get the most out of your truck. Watching fluid levels, checking and cleaning air filters, frequent brake checks, and complete vehicle inspections before hitting the road are all key components of a solid prevention plan, and can help you identify and avoid any engine problems that may arise.

Early intervention will be your best bet in avoiding any catastrophes on the road. Looking for other helpful tips exclusive for truckers? Check out our blog. Then sign up for access to the world’s largest free load boards for truckers.