HOW LONG DO SEMI TRUCK LAST?

Anytime you have something expensive, you want it to last as long as possible. A semi-truck is a large investment, so if you can get extra miles out of it, your money will go further. Find out how long a semi-truck will last and what factors may cause you to replace your truck more quicker.

How long do semi-trucks last? Semi-trucks can last for about 750,00 miles, which equates to 10 to 15 years. Semi-truck tires need to be changed every 25,000 to 400,000 miles, depending on what they are used for. In addition to getting a trained mechanic to regularly look at their truck, drivers should also look for signs of tire damage, leaking fluids, or faulty electrical elements. The more preventative maintenance is done, the longer the truck will last.

Average semi-truck lifespan

The average lifespan of a semi-truck is between 10 and 15 years. This is quite the variable and your truck’s lifespan will depend on a lot of different factors.

How many miles can you put on a semi-engine?

While we often think of replacing a truck in accordance with its age, the number of miles it travels is a much better way of gauging this need. The average number of miles a semi-truck can travel is 750,000 miles.

Factors that extend the lifespan of a semi-truck

Terrain

Driving on pristine highways will naturally extend the lifespan of your semi-truck. In contrast, driving over bumpy, old roads will decrease the lifespan.

There are many moving parts within a semi-truck engine and the more exposed to uneven terrain, the more wear and tear will happen.

Temperatures can also be a cause of a shorter lifespan. Very cold temperatures mean the engine takes longer to warm up and fuel won’t be as lubricated as need be.

Similarly, hot temperatures can overheat your engine and cause the parts to work harder. Even the constant starting and stopping with city driving can be a lot for a semi-truck to handle.

Load

Semi-trucks are made to haul very large loads but this constant exposure to heavy weights can decrease the lifespan of the truck. Everything is affected by a maximum load, from the shocks to the tires, so these will need to be replaced more often.

Proper maintenance

Just as you need to regularly service your car, so too do you need to service your semi-truck. Truck drivers will know the importance of regular maintenance that can check for any issues and keep your truck running at an optimal level.

Furthermore, as a driver, you should be aware of any changes in your semi-truck. If you notice a difference in your steering ability, gas mileage, or any extra noises, these may be signs your truck needs help, so you should get everything checked out right away.

New technology

Newly purchased semi-trucks should last longer than similar trucks built decades ago. The technology in how vehicles are created has changed for the better.

More efficient engines, lighter materials, and more reliance on computers have increased the lifespan of semi-trucks.

How to properly maintain your semi-truck

One of the best ways to get more life out of your semi-truck is to keep them properly maintained. Here are a few easy ways to ensure your semi-truck is healthy and ready for its next long haul.

Brakes

Proper, well-functioning brakes are non-negotiable with semi-trucks. They also go through a lot of stress, especially if you regularly drive on roads with hills.

Drivers can learn to inspect the lining of the brakes to see if there are any air pressure system leaks. Furthermore, if a driver suspects there is an issue with their brakes while driving, they should immediately look for a mechanic.

Tires

Tires need to be constantly replaced with semi-truck. This can be from one to three years.

Even if you think your tires still have some life still in them, ask a mechanic to check for any signs that they need to be replaced.

Drivers should regularly check the tread of the tires to ensure the grooves are deep enough and should also check the tire pressure.

Fluids

A lot happens under a truck, so be sure to see if there are any leaks coming from the engine. Any liquid patches under a semi-truck can signal that all is not well.

Fluid levels of fuel, oil, coolant, and antifreeze should regularly be checked.

Electrical

There are many lighting areas of a semi-truck that can have issues. Brake lights, turn signals, and warning lights all rely on electrical connections to work.

Grab a partner and regularly check that all your external lights are working. This way you can cover all angles of the truck and see if there are any issues.

What is the most reliable semi-truck?

There are many quality models of semi-trucks that shouldn’t cause too many issues. Freightliner, Kenworth, Mack, Peterbilt, and Volvo are all reputable brands.

How many miles will a semi-truck tire last?

There are actually three different types of tires that a semi-truck will use. These three types will have different lifespans as they are used in different ways.

Steer tires

In order to move the semi-truck in the direction you want it to go, you need to have steer tires. Their average lifespan is around 150,000 miles.

Drive tires

While steer tires do the turning, drive tires are meant simply for driving. They can last longer as they work less, so you only have to replace them between 350,000 and 400,000 miles.

Trailer tires

As you can expect, trailer tires are mainly used for the trailer portion of a semi-truck. They have a shorter lifespan of between 25,000 and 75,000 miles.

The lifespan of trailer tires is almost exclusively tied to the weight that they need to support.

Conclusion

While a semi-truck should last between 10 and 15 years, this is more dependent on mileage. Expect to get about 750,000 miles from your semi-truck, as long as you engage in routine maintenance such as fluid checks and tire changes.