Even though trucks are known for their power, durability, and strength, it doesn’t mean that they won’t get damaged. After many miles of driving or constant exposure to rugged off-road terrains, certain truck parts will start showing signs of wear and tear. Depending on the damage, you can repair the broken parts, and they’ll be ready. However, there are times when having them replaced is an easier and more cost-effective option.
By installing replacement parts, you’ll be able to maintain the looks and performance of your truck. It also allows you to upgrade to more reliable and longer-lasting truck components. In this article, we’ll look at five truck parts you should check for replacement. This way, you can contact an auto parts supplier in New Zealand ASAP and avoid getting into accidents caused by driving your truck with damaged or malfunctioning components.
Brake Pads and Rotors
Because trucks are heavier than sedans, they require a robust braking system to ensure they can come to a safe stop. Unfortunately, even though the OEM brake pads and rotors designed for trucks are quite durable, they will still eventually lose their strength.
As a general rule, brake pads must be replaced after 48,000 to 56,000 kilometres (30,000 to 35,000 miles), while brake rotors should be replaced after 80,000 to 112,000 kilometres (50,000 to 70,000 miles). However, if you use your truck for heavy-duty towing and off-roading, expect to replace its brake pads and rotors earlier.
If you want your new brake pads and rotors to last, it helps to stop as slowly and smoothly as you can. If you use your truck for extreme driving, however, this might not always be possible. Thus, you might want a replacement brake pad and rotor kit designed for off-roading or towing.
Clutch
Clutches on trucks tend to wear out faster compared to the ones in standard vehicles. The usual signs of a malfunctioning clutch include a grinding noise when changing gears, difficulty shifting gears, a loose or sticky clutch pedal, and weak acceleration. With a new clutch, your rides won’t get jerky or bumpy. You’re also sparing the other components in your vehicle’s transmission from getting damaged.
Tyres
Whether you’re driving your truck on the highway or on rough trails, its tyres will see a lot of wear and tear. Moreover, because the tyres are constantly exposed to the elements, they can easily get cuts, punctures, bulges, and cracks.
It isn’t ideal for driving with worn tyres because they don’t offer a lot of traction. To ensure that your truck has a good grip on the road, replacing its tyres is a must. Fortunately, replacing your truck’s tyres is an easy and quick task you can do alone if you have some mechanical expertise. Make sure to get the right kind, depending on where you most often drive. When in doubt, you can always get all-season, all-terrain tyres for flexibility.
Side-View Mirrors
Even if your truck comes equipped with backup and side mirror cameras, you’ll still rely on its side-view mirrors to help you see what’s happening. Indeed, due to their design and function, these mirrors are vital components in keeping your rides safe.
Unfortunately, because of where they’re located, your truck’s side-view mirrors are more susceptible to damage. If you often take your truck out on off-roading adventures, rocks, branches, and other debris can break your vehicle’s side-view mirrors. If your truck’s side-view mirrors have broken off, detached from their mounting locations, or cracked, it’s best to replace them ASAP to keep your drives safe.
Headlights and Tail lights
You need headlights and tail lights to help you see your surroundings when driving at night and in dimly lit areas. They also keep your truck visible to pedestrians, as well as the other motorists on the road. Plus, driving with functioning headlights ensures your drives stay street-legal.
Unfortunately, because your truck’s headlights and tail lights are exterior components, they’re constantly exposed to many things that can cause damage. These include flying debris and bumper-to-bumper accidents. Over time, the bulbs will also get dimmer and dimmer. If you notice that your truck’s headlights or tail lights aren’t working properly, it’s in your best interest to replace them pronto.
Because of their strength and power, it’s easy to think that trucks are invincible vehicles that can handle your most demanding drives. However, after driving yours for several years and kilometres, you’ll start to notice that some of your vehicle’s components are beginning to show signs of wear and tear. To keep your truck in good condition, strive to be knowledgeable about its most commonly replaced parts. This way, you can change these components quickly when necessary and before they can do more damage to your vehicle.