Your truck is your business—your office, your investment, and your lifeline. Keeping it well-maintained isn’t just about passing inspections—it's about safety, performance, and avoiding costly breakdowns.

Whether you're an owner-operator or fleet manager, this year-round truck maintenance checklist will help you stay proactive and keep your rig running smooth mile after mile.



✅ DAILY CHECKLIST (Before Every Trip)

Start strong every day with a quick inspection:

  • ✔️ Check tire pressure & tread depth

  • ✔️ Inspect lights (headlights, brake lights, turn signals)

  • ✔️ Test brakes, including air pressure build-up and leaks

  • ✔️ Check fluid levels: oil, coolant, washer, brake

  • ✔️ Inspect for leaks under the truck

  • ✔️ Make sure wipers and mirrors are clean & functional

  • ✔️ Confirm load is secured (if applicable)

  • ✔️ Ensure horn, heater, and defroster work

🛑 Why it matters: Daily checks catch small issues early—before they turn into downtime or DOT violations.

🔄 WEEKLY CHECKLIST

Go deeper with a more thorough inspection:

  • ✔️ Grease fifth wheel, kingpin, and chassis parts

  • ✔️ Check battery terminals for corrosion

  • ✔️ Inspect air lines for cracks or leaks

  • ✔️ Inspect belts and hoses for wear or fraying

  • ✔️ Clean or replace cabin air filter

  • ✔️ Drain water from the air tanks (especially in cold climates)

🧰 Pro Tip: Use a maintenance app to track what you've checked—many fleets use tools like Fleetio or KeepTruckin.

🗓️ MONTHLY CHECKLIST

Prevent long-term wear and tear:

  • ✔️ Inspect suspension system and shocks

  • ✔️ Rotate tires and check for uneven wear

  • ✔️ Check and top off transmission, power steering, and differential fluids

  • ✔️ Test battery load and alternator performance

  • ✔️ Examine exhaust system for leaks or rust

  • ✔️ Run a diagnostic scan if you use ECM readers or fleet software

📈 Bonus: Monthly checks improve fuel efficiency and performance—especially on older rigs.

🌦️ SEASONAL CHECKLIST (4x per year or as weather changes)

❄️ WINTER PREP:

  • ✔️ Check block heater function

  • ✔️ Use winter-grade diesel or anti-gel additive

  • ✔️ Inspect heater, defroster, and windshield wiper system

  • ✔️ Test cold-crank amps on battery

  • ✔️ Carry snow chains and emergency supplies

☀️ SUMMER PREP:

  • ✔️ Flush & refill coolant system

  • ✔️ Check AC operation and refrigerant levels

  • ✔️ Inspect tire pressure more frequently (heat expands air)

  • ✔️ Check UV damage to hoses and belts

🧊 Safety Tip: Extreme temps can cause sudden failures. Seasonal prep helps you stay ahead of the weather.

📆 ANNUAL / LONG-TERM MAINTENANCE

  • ✔️ Full DOT annual inspection

  • ✔️ Replace all filters (air, fuel, oil, cabin)

  • ✔️ Flush and replace brake fluid

  • ✔️ Replace coolant (as per OEM guidelines)

  • ✔️ Inspect turbo system and emissions components

  • ✔️ Calibrate sensors and ELD systems

  • ✔️ Service transmission (fluid & filter change)

⚙️ Recommended: Schedule these during slower months or downtime to avoid impacting revenue.

📝 Bonus: Keep a Maintenance Log

Always log what you check and when. Not only is this good business practice—it’s required in case of audits, inspections, or resale.

📲 Digital tools:

  • Fleetio

  • RigDig

  • TruckerPath Maintenance

  • Even a simple Google Sheet can work!

Final Thoughts

Regular maintenance isn’t just a checklist—it’s your insurance policy on the road. It helps you avoid unexpected repairs, maximize uptime, and extend the life of your truck.

Whether you’re a solo driver or manage a dozen rigs, staying on top of this routine will keep your equipment road-ready all year round.