Whether it’s a light-duty, medium-duty, or all-out heavy-duty truck, it’s imperative to understand how long your vehicle will last. Fortunately, its longevity depends on how well you keep up with truck maintenance. And the team at Consolidated Truck in Alexandria, LA is here to help.
As the premier center for almost any type of diesel or heavy-duty truck, our mechanics have the specialized skills, equipment, and expertise to help you get the most out of every mile.
Let’s explore how long each type of truck could last.
How Long Does a Light-Duty Truck Last?
A light-duty truck is often categorized as any Class 1 to 3 truck. These trucks tend to have a gross vehicle weight of up to 8,500 lbs and a maximum payload of 4,000 lbs. In addition to personal use, the light-duty truck can double as a commercial truck.
Light-duty trucks have the lowest longevity among all trucks, although they are still impressive.
According to a study conducted by iSeeCars.com that included more than 13.8 million pre-owned vehicles, five light-duty trucks have an exceptional probability of surpassing 200,000 on the odometer:
- Honda Ridgeline
- Toyota Tacoma
- Toyota Tundra
- Chevrolet Silverado 1500
- Ford F-150
The Toyota Tundra and Tacoma rank as the best pick-up truck, boasting the ability to surpass 300,000 miles.
How Long Does the Medium-Duty Truck Last?
The medium-duty truck includes Class 4 to 6 vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating between 19,501 and 33,000 lbs. As a commercial truck, the medium-duty truck transports paying passengers or goods.
The top medium-duty trucks are:
- Chevrolet Silverado 4500 HD /5500 HD/6500 HD
- Ram 4500 / 5500
- Ford F-450/ F-550/ F-650 Super Duty
- Isuzu FVR De Rate
Because almost every medium-duty truck will run on diesel engines, you can expect these vehicles to have a greater lifespan than a light-duty truck.
However, the actual lifespan of your medium-duty truck will depend. A well-kept and maintained medium-duty truck can exceed 700,000 miles.
How Long Do Heavy-Duty Trucks Last?
Split between Class 7 and Class 8 trucks, the heavy-duty truck includes any commercial vehicle that is either a semi-truck or an industry-level body-on-frame vehicle. They’re mainly running on diesel engines. They have a gross vehicle weight rating that exceeds 33,0000 pounds.
As the highest class, heavy-duty truck tends to have the highest average lifespan. A typical semi-truck can last north of 750,000 miles. Some semi-trucks have even exceeded the one million-mile mark.
Considering the typical semi or commercial truck averages around 45,000 miles a year, you can expect 15 years of use or more.
Maximize the Longevity of Your Commercial & Pick-up Trucks
No matter the type of truck you drive in Alexandria, LA, its longevity will depend on how well you do preventative truck maintenance and have the necessary repairs. If you are slow to have repairs, a failing component can cause problems with other parts, which can cause more expensive repairs.
To maximize your diesel engine truck, heavy-duty truck, or commercial truck:
- Always have regular oil changes and other services at the manufacturer’s suggested intervals.
- Have a diesel truck expert tune your engine regularly.
- Use fuel additives.
- Have regular brake and radiator inspections.
- Inspect your fuel vent for blockage.
- Install high-performance air filters.
- Make sure all moving parts are greased.
- Upgrade your exhaust system and diesel fuel injectors.
- Install a turbocharger.
The most important step for protecting your truck is to partner with the experienced mechanics at Consolidated Truck Parts & Service in Alexandria, LA. Our expert diesel truck mechanics have the skills, expertise, and tools to keep your truck running well and delivering peak performance.
Contact our Alexandria shop at (318) 767-4287 or stop by 3333 North Bolton Ave., Alexandria, LA 71303.
