Fall maintenance for your truck is imperative if you plan on using it for the winter. The truck maintenance you do in the fall is in addition to the manufacturer-recommended maintenance and includes mostly checks to catch safety issues before the snow flies. Mevert Automotive & Tire Center in Steeleville IL has the tools and equipment for fall truck maintenance, factory-recommended maintenance, and truck repairs, for all vehicles, including big trucks.

1. Truck Batteries

Big trucks have at least one battery – some have as many as four. It takes a lot to start a diesel, so you want to be sure the batteries are in good condition before winter starts. If they are near the end of the warranty, we recommend replacing them before the cold really sets in. If you’ve had problems with the batteries in previous winters – even when they were fresh, we recommend using a battery tender on them. Mevert Automotive & Tire Center can test the charging system to ensure the batteries and the alternator are all giving you the maximum charging and storing power.

2. Truck Tires

As part of fall maintenance for trucks, you should check the tires on the tractor and the trailer. The cold significantly affects tires, and if you have retreads, you could end up stranded if the tires are worn too much.

For other large trucks, be sure to check all tires, including the spare tire, for proper air pressure, dry rot, cracks, or a separated tire. The tire techs at Mevert Automotive & Tire Center in Steeleville IL have the equipment to balance the tires. We’ll also check for uneven wear, which denotes alignment or suspension issues.

3. Diesel Fuel

In most cases, you won’t have trouble with road diesel. However, if the temperature gets too cold, it could gel. You may want to use a winter conditioner for diesel fuel to prevent gelling and condensation in the tank. If the fuel system has issues, regardless of how minor, you should have it repaired before the cold sets in for good. Our auto technicians can also clean the injectors to ensure everything is running as it should.

4. Brakes

The heavier the vehicle, the longer it takes to stop. And if the brakes are not in good condition, you can add a bunch of time to that initial stopping time. In wet and snowy weather, brakes in less than stellar conditions can be a significant safety factor. Ensuring the truck’s brakes are in good condition gives you time to repair them before winter. Mevert Automotive & Tire Center in Steeleville IL has a certified auto tech check the pads, calipers, hoses, disks and the master cylinder. We can also check the ABS with the computer, if necessary.

Contact Mevert Automotive & Tire Center in Steeleville IL

When it’s time for fall truck maintenance or factory-recommended maintenance, contact Mevert Automotive & Tire Center in Steeleville IL at (618) 965-9609 for an appointment. We are conveniently located at 1014 West Broadway, Steeleville IL 62288.