Top 5 Causes Of Truck Breakdowns-101

Are you a truck driver wanting to know how to avoid breakdowns or new to the business? If so, here are the top 5 causes of truck breakdowns and how one can easily prevent them:

Truck drivers’ personal hell is facing issues with the truck like breakdowns in the middle of nowhere. Driving through remote cities or towns and ending up losing power or finding damage to the vehicle’s components can be a tough situation. Even though most of the troubles with trucks cannot be anticipated, proper maintenance and checks before heading out on a trip can help a lot. 

Nonetheless, here is a list of the top 5 causes of truck breakdowns and how one can easily prevent them:

1. Tyre Blowouts:

Tyres of trucks are one of the major causes of breakdowns. Especially during the summer season, underinflation of tyres makes them prone to blowouts. Underinflated tyres are a reason for tyre blowouts because the more the contact patch, the more the friction and with heavy loads, they produce extreme heat causing them to fail. So, it is advised to maintain the right tyre pressure. 

Also Read: Here Are Top 5 Tips And Tricks For Truck Drivers During Summer

2. Brakes Overheating:

Failure of the braking system is also a major issue. It can cause accidents involving pedestrians and vehicles. Driving at a single stretch is one of the major reasons why brakes fail. It's quite simple- brakes work on the basis of friction and friction means the generation of heat, therefore, it's always a good idea to stop and cool them down for sometime.

3. Battery and Starter Motor Issues: 

Next on the list is a common issue that most of us face at some point in time- issues with the battery. The electrical system of trucks functions with the coordination of the alternator, battery and starter motor. If any of these components fail to work, then the truck would not fire up its engine. However, battery issues are the most common reason why a truck wouldn’t start. It must be noted that batteries usually have a lifespan of 5 years, hence, replacing them every few years will keep the electrical system functioning properly. 

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4. Malfunctioning Refrigeration of Trailer

Up next on the list is an important note to tractor-trailer drivers. It's a known fact that if the refeer fails, then the refrigeration of the freight will not take place, resulting in the ruining of the goods. Hence, it is important to keep an eye on the system. 

5. Age Factor: 

This is simply one of the reasons why breakdowns occur. Due to continuous stress and operation, as time passes by, the truck's ability to function like it was brand new, will be lost eventually. Therefore, performing a fitness certification process for trucks is a good way to keep the vehicle in a healthy condition. 

Thus, the aforementioned are the top 5 causes of truck breakdowns and how to prevent them.