How Long Should a Semi Truck Oil Change Interval Be?
Oil changes are a must for any type of vehicle, especially for semi-trucks. That’s why every trucker must know which is the right semi truck oil change interval.
When performing your oil changes at the right time, you can have a better fuel economy and improve engine performance! That’s why not only will we show you how often you’ll need to perform an oil change, but the importance behind it as well. So, keep reading this blog to learn more!
Why You Shouldn’t Neglect Oil Changes for Your Truck?
The last thing any trucker wants is ending up stranded in the middle of a long haul. For this reason, all truck drivers must know how to prevent this sort of circumstance from happening. But, how do you do this? By providing maintenance to your semi-truck.
No matter which engine type your semi-truck might count on, you must always take good care of it. This maintenance routine often incorporates checking your oil from time to time. By performing oil changes every so often, you increase your engine’s durability.
Constant oil changes can grant you the following benefits:
- Better fuel economy
- Eliminates oil sludge
- Engine component wear out slower
- Oil changes keep the engine lubricated
Better Fuel Economy
Just like with cars, oil changes can help truckers become much more fuel-efficient. On the other hand, if you neglect oil changes to your truck, then it’s very likely you’ll end up using more fuel as well. The reason behind this is because your engine works harder if it doesn’t count on the lubrication it needs.
Technically speaking, when not lubricating your engine, you may use between 1-2% more. Although it might not sound much, you probably already how those small extra costs tend to eventually add up to larger numbers.
Eliminates Oil Sludge
Due to the constant friction of engine components, engine oil becomes sludgy over time. Not only that, but worn oil can have all sorts of debris as well. Both of these elements can make your engine work much more than it should.
Luckily, with an oil drain, you can rinse out any debris and sludge your engine might have. Therefore, you’ll ensure a smooth working order for your engine.
Oil Changes Keep the Engine Lubricated
Lubrication is key for a semi-truck engine. After all, your engine probably counts on many parts that are in constant movement. This constant movement can generate intense heat. And, this heat can ultimately destroy your engine’s parts.
By using a high-quality oil to lubricate your engine, you prevent your engine from overheating. Not only that, but your engine will also have much less friction as well, thus prolonging its lifespan and improving its performance.
Engine Component Wear Out Slower
Needless to say, due to its cleaning and sealing effects good-quality oils bring, oil changes tend to make your engine wear out slower. In other words, this can help you save money in the long run by keeping away any costly repairs. Your engine can last you up between 50,000 miles to 100,000 miles more!
Which Is the Correct Semi Truck Oil Change Interval ?
Now that you know the importance of constant oil changes, you must be aware of how often you should perform them.
Generally speaking, the proper semi truck oil change interval for truckers is on average every 25,000 miles. Moreover, many factors can influence how frequently you’ll need to do an oil change. Some of these factors include vehicle age and type, engine condition, oil quality, and road conditions.
Semi Truck Age
Of course, newer semi-truck models count on a much better performance than older models due to their latest components such as premium oil filters. This can many times result in some trucks enduring many more miles without a change. That’s why it’s key for you to make sure which is the right oil change interval for your vehicle by reviewing its user manual.
Also, another essential factor that influences oil change intervals is the truck type. For instance, for light-duty trucks, oil change must be between 3K and 5K miles. However, for heavier trucks, it must be between 13K to 16K miles.
Engine Condition
The engine condition plays an important role in a semi truck oil change interval. If it’s in excellent shape, then the drain interval would be less. For this reason, many trucking companies tend to monitor engines. That way, they can get a clearer picture of its state and how often a truck needs an oil change.
Moreover, some factors that might negatively affect your engine involve long idling time periods and adding ethanol gasoline.
Oil Quality
Additionally, another factor that’s vital for oil change intervals is oil quality. When using a poor-quality oil to lubricate your engine, then it’s very likely that you’ll need to change your oil more often. Not only that, but it can also damage your engine in the long-run as well.
On the other hand, if you use high-quality engine oil that contains additives and sealants, then the interval will be longer.
Road Conditions
Lastly, road conditions and driving tendencies can take a toll on a semi-truck engine. Being among one of the top safety tips for truckers, choosing the right road conditions is key for a successful trip.
If you constantly have to deal with unpaved roads or steep inclined, then oil change intervals are shorter. Differently, by choosing a smoother road, you get to change your oil less often.
How Do You Check Your Oil?
Regularly checking your oil can help you get a good idea if your engine needs an oil change. That’s why we’ll go over the main signs to look out for.
First, you’ll want to stay aware of your oil sensors. After all, these sensors have the main function of letting you know when the oil levels are low.
Moreover, when using an oil stick, examine the oil’s appearance. If your oil starts to look sludgy or degraded, then it’s a warning sign to change your oil.
Lastly, be sure to schedule your oil check-ups and take an oil sample from time to time. By making an oil analysis every few days, you’ll know if it’s time for an oil change.
By knowing the proper semi truck oil change interval and main factors to consider, you’ll keep your truck in top shape!