Almost every large organization relies on a fleet of semi-trucks to ferry parts and inventory to distribution centers and retailers across the country. Knowing how long a vehicle is expected to last will help you forecast a budget for semi-truck repairs and maintenance to ensure you get the most out of your investment. Below is an overview of the factors that influence the average life span of a semi-truck.

How Long Do Semi-Trucks Last?

Semi-trucks are built to be durable and reliable, capable of covering thousands of miles every day. While a variety of factors influence the longevity of a particular truck, most will last approximately 900,000 miles before they need to be retired.

How many years you’ll get out of your vehicles depends on how often they're driven. If they travel an average of 45,000 miles per year, you can expect 15 years of service out of your semi-trucks. Of course, if the trucks stay closer to your base of operations, they'll last even longer.

How to Extend the Life of a Semi-Truck

Without proper maintenance, a commercial vehicle may start to fail after just a few hundred thousand miles. Keeping the engine lubricated with regular oil changes is essential for a long-lasting semi. Regularly checking and repairing issues with the cooling system will also keep your trucks from overheating, which can otherwise lead to premature failure.

Bear in mind that the miles on the odometer only show how far the vehicle has traveled, which may not accurately reflect wear and tear on the engine. Many truckers idle their vehicles overnight, using the climate control and electrical systems.

While idling minimizes wear on certain parts and conserves fuel, it also means that the engine may have more true miles than the truck as a whole. Minimizing idle time on routes reduces engine wear, prevents unnecessary semi-truck repairs, and extends the useful life of the vehicles your business relies on.

Since 1993, business owners throughout central and western New York have relied on C L Enterprises to keep their vehicles moving. Along with providing prompt, on-site semi-truck repairs, their technicians create maintenance plans that will extend the life spans of your vehicles. See their website for more information on their semi-truck services, get updates and tips on Facebook, or call (585) 289-7900 to discuss your maintenance schedule with a member of their team.