Introduction: The Cost of Small Mistakes
Even experienced truck owners and mechanics sometimes overlook small maintenance details that can lead to major problems. Inconsistent servicing, skipped inspections, or using the wrong parts may cause unexpected breakdowns, high repair bills, or even export rejection. Understanding these mistakes helps you maintain your truck better and avoid costly surprises.
1. Skipping Scheduled Maintenance
The most common and most damaging mistake is neglecting the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule.
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Why it happens: Busy schedules or cost-cutting
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Result: Gradual wear becomes a sudden failure (e.g., seized engine, broken suspension)
📌 Always log oil changes, fluid replacements, and inspections—even for used trucks awaiting export.
2. Ignoring Small Leaks
Drivers often dismiss minor oil, coolant, or brake fluid leaks as harmless.
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Mistake: Believing small leaks are normal
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Risk: Leads to engine overheating, brake failure, or transmission damage
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Tip: Check under the vehicle daily and address leaks immediately
3. Using the Wrong Type of Oil or Fluids
Every engine and transmission requires a specific oil grade or fluid type. Using substitutes or cheaper alternatives may shorten the life of key components.
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Mistake: Using universal oil for a turbocharged engine
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Result: Poor lubrication, sludge buildup, and reduced fuel efficiency
✅ Always check the truck manual or service label under the hood.
4. Overlooking Tire Condition and Pressure
Tires are often “visually checked,” but detailed inspections are skipped.
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Mistake: Not checking pressure or tread depth
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Consequence: Poor handling, tire blowouts, and increased fuel usage
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Best practice: Use a pressure gauge weekly and rotate tires every 10,000 km
5. Neglecting the Cooling System
The radiator and coolant system are vital, especially in tropical or desert regions.
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Mistake: Not flushing coolant or using plain water
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Effect: Corrosion, engine overheating, cracked head gasket
💡 Flush the radiator at least every two years and use the correct coolant mix (usually 50/50 antifreeze and water).
6. Delaying Brake System Checks
Brakes don’t usually fail overnight—they degrade slowly.
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Mistake: Waiting for noise or reduced performance before inspecting
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Risk: Warped rotors, fluid leaks, or total brake loss
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Action: Inspect pads, discs, and fluid levels every 10,000 km
7. Poor Battery Maintenance
Batteries are often forgotten until the truck won’t start.
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Mistake: Not cleaning terminals or testing voltage
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Problem: Battery drain, starting failure in cold/hot weather
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Solution: Test battery load quarterly and replace every 3–5 years
8. Forgetting to Check Belts and Hoses
Timing belts and radiator hoses may look fine—but age silently weakens them.
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Mistake: Not replacing belts/hoses after years of use
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Outcome: Engine shutdown, overheating, stranded vehicle
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Advice: Replace timing belts every 80,000–100,000 km or as recommended
What We Do at EVERY Co Ltd
At EVERY Co Ltd, we inspect every used Japanese truck before export to make sure these mistakes are not passed on to the next owner.
Our checks include:
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Scheduled maintenance log review
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Leak detection and fluid top-up
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Battery and tire tests
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Brake, belt, and coolant inspections
“I bought a used Hino Dutro from EVERYCAR.jp, and it arrived in great condition. The inspection was so thorough—no oil leaks, perfect brakes, and all fluid levels were topped up.”
— Mr. James K., Accra, Ghana
Conclusion: Don’t Let Simple Errors Cost You
Avoiding these common maintenance mistakes ensures your truck runs longer, safer, and more efficiently. Whether you own a single vehicle or manage a fleet, attention to detail will save time, money, and stress.
Looking for properly maintained trucks from Japan?
Trust EVERYCAR.jp and EVERY Co Ltd to deliver trucks that have been carefully inspected and serviced—ready for reliable performance from day one.
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