Semi-Truck Oil Change Service FAQ
Welcome to LubeZone Truck Lube Center semi-truck service FAQ page. We’re here to answer some of the most common semi-truck oil change FAQs that we hear from customers so you can be best informed on our services and operations before you arrive. In the trucking industry, we know that TIME IS MONEY. That’s why here at LubeZone, we make it as easy as possible to get the information you need regarding the semi-truck service FAQ at any of our centers and provide you with as many answers as possible upfront.
Keep reading to learn more about LubeZone Truck Lube Center, our services, pricing, locations, and more. Or, find a service center for a commercial truck oil change near you today and come right on in. We promise to get you in and out the door quickly so you can hit the road again and make your miles. At LubeZone Truck Lube Center, we’re making sure that FAST IS BACK!
What Are the Hours of Operation at LubeZone?
Each of our semi-truck service centers has unique hours of operation, best suited for the geographic area and drivers that they serve. One thing they all have in common, though, is convenience and extended availability. Many of our centers have early morning as well as evening hours of operation and are also open on weekends.
Some centers are open seven days a week, while others close on Sundays or have modified weekend hours. It’s always best to call the location you’re planning to visit to see what their individual hours may be for that day.
What Services Does LubeZone Offer?
Here at LubeZone Truck Lube Center, we provide professional and high-quality preventative maintenance to semi-trucks and fleets. This is what enables us to complete a full-service oil change in just 30 to 40 minutes, saving you time and money. We don’t do any major mechanical or bodywork and repairs–that way, you never get stuck behind a driver who is getting lots of time-consuming services done to their vehicle.
Instead, we focus on speedy and efficient preventative service that includes oil changes, tire checks, tractor and trailer grease, oil analysis, air filter changes, tire alignments, and DOT inspections.
What Are Your Prices?
How much you pay at LubeZone Truck Lube Center will depend on several factors, including the specific services you receive and the truck you’re driving. We don’t believe in a one-price-fits-all approach. While other semi-truck service centers may charge all drivers the same fee, that means that if you have a less complex engine that requires less expensive filters and oil, you end up covering the cost for drivers with more expensive configurations.
That’s not how we do things. We charge you based on your unique engine configuration and the specific filters and oil you purchase in the exact quantities.
All base prices for full-service oil changes include the following services:
- Oil and Labor
- Tractor Lube
- Check and Fill: Wiper fluid, power steering fluid, and hubs
- Check and test coolant freeze point and nitrate levels
Please note that filter charges will vary and apply based on engine type. Oil change prices start as low as $176 for Medium Duty trucks Class 1-7, spanning up to $407 for Full Synthetic 5W30 service. Please call your specific location for the precise cost of your particular semi-truck.
Does LubeZone Offer Any Discounts or Rewards Programs?
We know that, ultimately, your bottom line is everything. That’s why we continuously work to keep prices down and provide drivers and fleet managers with the best possible offers. Check with your specific service center regarding current deals and promos. Additionally, follow us on social media to get the latest news about contests, drawings, and more that provide customers with even more ways to save.
Also, be sure to sign up for LubeZone Rewards before your next visit. We have a very unique rewards system that enables customers to get REAL CASH BACK for every single purchase across all locations. We don’t do points or give out things like cold beverages and hot dogs as rewards. We put actual money back in your pocket, so you can use it however you’d like. POINTS SUCK, EARN CASH.
How Often Are Semi Trucks Serviced?
The frequency of service for semi trucks varies depending on several factors, including the make and model of the truck, the hauling it does, and the distance it covers. However, there are general guidelines that many in the trucking industry follow.
- Routine Maintenance: This can include checks and minor adjustments to ensure the truck runs smoothly. Routine maintenance might be scheduled every 10,000 to 25,000 miles or more frequently if the truck is under heavy use. This could involve oil changes, tire inspections, and brake checks.
- Intermediate Service: Often scheduled every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, intermediate service might include more detailed inspections of engine components, fluid levels, and the replacement of parts that are known to wear out with moderate use, such as filters, belts, and hoses.
- Major Service: Major service is more comprehensive and is typically conducted every 120,000 to 150,000 miles. This service level may include in-depth inspections of the engine, transmission, and driveline. It often involves replacing parts that have a longer service life but eventually need to be changed, such as certain engine components, shocks, and suspension parts.
It’s important for operators to adhere to the manufacturer’s service recommendations and consider the specific demands placed on their vehicles. Sticking to a regular maintenance schedule helps prevent breakdowns, extends the lifespan of the semi-truck, and ensures it operates efficiently and safely. Fleet operators often use a combination of mileage, engine hours, and time intervals to determine service needs, adjusting schedules based on real-world usage and conditions.
How Often Do Semi Trucks Change Tires?
The frequency at which semi-trucks change tires depends on several factors, including the type of operations (long haul vs. regional vs. urban), road conditions, tire quality, maintenance practices, and driving habits. However, some general guidelines can help estimate how often tires need to be replaced on semi-trucks:
- Mileage: On average, steer tires on a semi-truck can last between 100,000 to 150,000 miles under normal conditions with proper maintenance. Drive tires and trailer tires might have a similar or slightly shorter lifespan, depending on the conditions they’re subjected to.
- Time Frame: While mileage is a common measure for tire replacement, time can also be a factor, especially in less frequently used trucks or in conditions that cause tires to age more rapidly. It’s generally recommended to inspect tires regularly and consider replacement every 3 to 6 years, regardless of mileage, due to wear from weathering and aging.
- Wear and Tear Indicators: Tires come with tread wear indicators, and once the tread is worn down to these indicators, it’s time to replace the tires. Regular inspections can help identify other signs of wear, such as uneven tread wear, which might indicate alignment issues, or damage to the tire that could necessitate earlier replacement.
- Retreading: Many semi truck tires are designed to be retreaded, which means that when the original tread wears out, a new tread can be applied to the tire casing. Retreading can be done multiple times on the same tire casing, depending on the tire’s condition and the quality of maintenance. This practice can extend the life of the tire significantly and is a cost-effective and environmentally friendly option compared to buying new tires.
- Seasonal Changes: In regions with severe winter conditions, semi trucks might switch to winter tires or chains to cope with snow and ice. These tires are usually swapped out at the end of the season.
Regular maintenance, including tire rotations, proper inflation, and alignments, can extend the life of tires. Fleet operators and drivers should follow the tire manufacturer’s recommendations and federal regulations regarding tire tread depth and condition to ensure safety and compliance on the road.
What Type of Payments Does LubeZone Accept?
We accept cash, along with the following methods of payment:
- All major credit cards
- Comchecks
- EFS Checks
- Company Checks
Do I Need an Appointment?
This is one of our most common semi-truck service FAQs. One of the most convenient aspects of visiting LubeZone Truck Lube Center is that not only do you not need an appointment, but we actually don’t take appointments at all. This is done by design to help keep wait times short.
We also know that when you’re on the road, things happen. Traffic can get backed up, weather can slow you down, or a stop along your route may take longer than anticipated. The last thing you want is to rush or even miss an oil change appointment. That will never be the case at LubeZone. Arrive on your own time when you’re able to get here, with no rushing and no headaches. We’re happy to provide you with friendly, fast service on your schedule.
Does LubeZone Truck Lube Center Do Tire Alignments?
Yes, LubeZone is now offering tire alignments at select locations! We’ve partnered with Hunter Engineering to provide accurate alignment readings in just minutes. Their WinAlign HD technology provides accurate, 3x-axle wheel alignment readings so you can quickly identify the cause of tire wear and ensure the performance and safety of your vehicle in under three minutes. Quick adjustments can be made, and you’ll be back on the road in no time.
Here’s what total wheel alignment can do for you:
- Reduce tire wear
- Reduce fuel consumption
- Reduce component wear
- Spot problems early
- Improve handling
- Minimize rolling resistance
What is The Average Maintenance Cost for a Semi Truck Per Mile?
The average maintenance cost for a semi-truck per mile can vary widely depending on several factors, including the age and condition of the truck, the type of operations (e.g., long-haul vs. regional), the terrain and roads where the truck operates, and fuel prices. However, to give a general idea:
- General Estimates: Maintenance costs for semi trucks are typically estimated to range from $0.10 to $0.15 per mile, though these figures can fluctuate based on the specifics mentioned above. This estimation includes routine maintenance, repairs, tire costs, and other upkeep necessary to keep the truck in operating condition.
- Annual Perspective: Looking at it from an annual perspective, considering a semi-truck might cover 100,000 miles a year, the maintenance cost could range from $10,000 to $15,000 annually. However, for trucks that are older, heavily used, or those operating in harsh conditions, these costs can be significantly higher.
- Major Repairs: It’s also important to note that these per-mile costs are averages. Major repairs, such as engine or transmission rebuilds, can significantly increase the average cost in the year they occur. These types of repairs might not be needed annually but can represent a substantial expense when they do happen.
- Fuel Costs: While not strictly a maintenance cost, fuel efficiency significantly impacts the operation cost of a semi-truck. Poor maintenance can lead to decreased fuel efficiency, indirectly increasing the cost per mile when considering the total cost of operation.
Fleet operators and independent drivers must budget for maintenance and repairs to ensure their trucks remain reliable and safe. Regular, proactive maintenance can help minimize unexpected repairs, which can be more costly and result in downtime. Keeping detailed records of maintenance and repairs can also help owners and operators monitor their costs more accurately and plan for future expenses.
What is The Lifespan of a Semi Truck?
The lifespan of a semi truck can vary significantly based on factors such as make and model, how it’s used, maintenance practices, and operating conditions. However, there are general guidelines that can give you an idea of how long a semi truck might last:
- Mileage: Semi trucks are built for long-haul, heavy-duty work, and it’s not uncommon for them to reach or exceed 1 million miles with proper maintenance. Some trucks can even approach 1.5 million miles or more under optimal conditions.
- Years of Service: In terms of years, a well-maintained semi truck can have a lifespan of 10 to 15 years in rigorous over-the-road service, and potentially longer in less demanding applications or with exceptional care.
- Maintenance and Repairs: The key to maximizing a semi truck’s lifespan is rigorous and proactive maintenance. Regularly scheduled maintenance, prompt attention to repair needs, and thorough inspections can extend a truck’s usable life significantly.
- Rebuilds and Overhauls: Engine overhauls, transmission rebuilds, and other major refurbishments can also extend the life of a semi truck. These major repairs can be cost-effective alternatives to purchasing a new truck, especially if the truck’s structural components are still in good condition.
- Depreciation and Economic Lifespan: While a truck might physically last for a million miles or more, its economic lifespan might be shorter. Depreciation, advances in technology, improvements in fuel efficiency, and regulatory changes can all influence when it becomes more economical to replace an older truck with a newer model.
- Usage: The type of work a truck is used for also affects its lifespan. Trucks used for short, regional hauls may experience less wear and tear per year compared to those used for long-haul, cross-country trips, but they might also undergo more starting and stopping, which can affect different parts of the vehicle.