How many miles does a semi-truck last before it needs to be replaced? It is a question that many people are curious about, and for a good reason. A semi-truck is a critical part of the transportation industry, and it’s essential to ensure they are always in good condition. Trucks are used for public transportation, load carriage, long-haulage, logistics activities, etc.
The average life of a semi-truck depends on several factors, such as how well it’s maintained, the quality of parts used, and the types of loads it typically carries.
This blog post will discuss everything you need to know about how long a semi-truck lasts. We will cover topics such as how many miles they can travel before needing maintenance, how often they should be serviced, and more!
1. Driver Experience
The truck business is quicker than rail transportation and considerably less expensive than air transport, giving it an advantageous position in the market. Cargo organizations have utilized the demand by utilizing bigger and heavier trucks, driving the trucking industry’s development.
Semi-truck drivers with a lot of experience can make a truck last longer. They know how to handle their trucks and take good care of them. A well-experienced driver will avoid hard braking, rapid acceleration, and truck overload.
The correct driver will also know how to make the best use of their truck’s features and keep track of mileage and maintenance.
2. Road and Traffic Conditions
The road and traffic conditions are the second factor determining how long a semi-truck will last.
The better the roads, the less wear and tear on the truck. If a truck is constantly stop-and-go in city traffic, that will shorten its lifespan. It exerts pressure on the engine, braking system, and transmission.
The average life of a truck traveling on good roads is 12 years, or about 500,000 miles.
3. Type of Cargo Transported
Semi-trucks are used for transporting all sorts of cargo. The type of cargo transported affects how long the truck will last. For example, a truck that regularly transports heavy loads will have a shorter lifespan than a truck that transports lighter loads.
4. Maintenance and Preventive Care
A semi-truck can last between 500,000 to 750,000 miles with regular maintenance and preventive care. It involves changing the oil, checking the brakes, and rotating the tires. By doing this, you can avoid significant problems and keep your truck running smoothly for a long time.
Read more to know how often a semi-truck needs an oil change.
5. Operating Environment
Lastly, the operating environment affects how long a semi-truck lasts. If a truck is driven cross country in good weather, it will last longer than a truck that makes local deliveries in stop-and-go traffic. The type of terrain is also a factor. A truck that frequently drives on gravel roads will not last as long as a truck that stays on the highway.
If you are looking for a semi-truck repair Gainesville, GA, Road Rescue is the place for you. We are a full-service truck repair shop for preventative maintenance and emergency repairs.
