Semi trucks, like any other vehicle, need regular oil changes to keep them running well. Without regular oil changes, the truck’s engine will suffer damage and may eventually fail. So how often should you change the oil on a semi truck?
The answer to this question depends on the type of engine your truck has and the type of oil it uses.
Most semi trucks use either diesel or gasoline engines and require different types of lubricants. For example, diesel engines require a heavier grade of oil than gasoline engines do. It may also depend on how much you use your truck and what type of driving conditions you encounter.
In general, it’s recommended that you change the oil in your semi truck every 6,000-8,000 miles (9,656-12,875 kilometers). This is because diesel engines tend to accumulate more dirt and debris in their lubrication system than gasoline engines do over time. The longer you wait to change your oil, the more contaminants accumulate in it and the less effective it becomes.
What About Synthetic Oil?
Synthetic oils are becoming increasingly popular among semi truck owners as they provide better protection for their engine over regular motor oils. Synthetic oils can help extend the time between oil changes up to 10,000 miles (16,093 kilometers). However, this doesn’t mean that you should wait that long before changing your oil; it just gives you some extra wiggle room if needed.
Oil Filter Changes
In addition to changing your engine oil regularly, it’s also important to change your vehicle’s oil filter at least every other service interval (every 12-15 thousand miles). Your filter helps remove any dirt or debris that may have built up in your vehicle’s lubrication system while also helping maintain proper pressure throughout the system.
Other Considerations
When deciding how often to change the oil in your semi truck, there are a few other considerations that should be taken into account. These include ambient temperatures (especially if operating in hot climates), driving conditions (such as off-roading), engine loads (hauling heavy loads), and any modifications made to the engine or its components.
To keep your semi truck running smoothly for years to come, it is important to stay on top of its maintenance schedule by changing its engine oil regularly every 6-10 thousand miles depending on whether you use synthetic or regular motor oils. Additionally, make sure to replace its filters at least every 12-15 thousand miles for optimal performance.
