Is your truck trying to tell you something? 

Unusual sounds, sluggish braking, or a persistent warning light might seem minor, but they often signal much bigger issues beneath the surface. 

In the transport and logistics industry, even a few hours of downtime can cost your business thousands. That’s why proactive maintenance is not just good practice, it’s essential.  

At Bunbury Trucks, our experienced technicians regularly respond to faults that could have been avoided with early detection. 

To help you stay ahead of costly breakdowns, here are five key warning signs that indicate your truck is due for a service, based on real-world insights straight from the workshop floor. 

Unusual Engine Noises 

Persistent knocking, ticking, or other abnormal engine sounds are often early indicators of mechanical issues. One of the most concerning causes is worn engine bearings, which, if neglected, may result in catastrophic engine failure. These sounds should never be dismissed as they typically precede serious mechanical degradation. 

Common symptoms include: 

• Knocking during acceleration 

• Ticking at idle 

• Abrupt changes in engine tone 

Recommendation: Seek inspection immediately to avoid major engine damage. 

 Brake Performance Issues 

The braking system is a critical safety component. Irregularities in performance, such as vibrations, noises, or inconsistent pedal response, can suggest worn pads, rotor issues, or hydraulic faults. 

Warning signs may include: 

• Screeching, grinding, or squealing sounds 

• Shuddering or vibration during braking 

• A soft or unresponsive brake pedal 

• Vehicle pulling to one side when stopping 

Recommendation: Prompt attention can prevent further wear and ensure operator safety. 

 Fluid Leaks 

Fluid leaks are a common but serious issue that can result in system failures or environmental hazards. The presence of oil, coolant, brake fluid, or transmission fluid beneath the vehicle is a strong indication that maintenance is required. 

Types of leaks to monitor: 

• Engine Oil – dark brown/black 

• Coolant – green, pink, or orange 

• Transmission Fluid – red or brown 

• Brake Fluid – clear to amber 

• Windscreen Washer Fluid – blue 

Recommendation: Identifying and repairing leaks early is essential to avoiding system failures and ensuring regulatory compliance. 

 Engine Overheating 

An overheating engine can lead to serious mechanical damage, including warped cylinder heads or total engine seizure. Overheating is often caused by low coolant levels, radiator blockages, or faulty thermostats. 

Symptoms include: 

• Rising temperature gauge readings 

• Steam from the engine bay 

• Sweet odours (indicating coolant leaks) 

• Dashboard warning lights 

Recommendation: Stop the vehicle immediately if overheating occurs and arrange for professional inspection. 

Dashboard Warning Indicators 

Modern heavy vehicles are equipped with sophisticated onboard diagnostics systems. If a warning light illuminates, it should never be ignored. These alerts are designed to detect issues before they escalate into critical problems. 

Important indicators: 

• Check engine light 

• ABS/brake system warning 

• Low oil pressure 

• Battery/charging system warning 

Recommendation: Use a diagnostic scan to identify and address faults promptly. 

Proactive Maintenance is the Key 

Routine servicing and early issue identification are fundamental to the longevity of your fleet.  

At Bunbury Trucks, we offer comprehensive vehicle maintenance services either in the workshop or on-site. 

Call 9795 000 to get started today.  

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