28 Apr Signs that your industrial vehicle needs an urgent overhaul
Signs that your industrial vehicle needs an urgent overhaul
Preventive maintenance in industrial vehicles is not just a recommendation, it is a necessity. The high demands placed on their daily operation mean that any oversight can result in costly breakdowns, unplanned downtime or even safety risks. Early detection of warning signs is key to prolonging vehicle life and ensuring vehicle performance.
At Consman, as specialists in commercial vehicle maintenance and repair, we tell you the 10 most common symptoms that indicate it is time for an urgent overhaul.
List of signs indicating a potential problem in the industrial vehicle
1. Unusual noises or abnormal vibrations
A clanking sound, squeaking or unusual vibrations can indicate mechanical faults in the brakes, transmission, steering or even engine problems. Never ignore them: they are one of the first warnings that something is not working as it should.
2. Loss of power or difficulty in accelerating
When the vehicle responds sluggishly or does not achieve its usual performance, it may be due to problems in the injection system, clogged filters or turbocharger failures. In electric or hybrid vehicles, it could also be due to errors in the electronic management.
3. Panel lamps illuminated
Not all dashboard warnings are equally critical, but if lights such as engine, oil, brake or temperature lights appear, you should stop the vehicle and consult a service technician immediately. Ignoring these warning lights can lead to serious breakdowns.
4. Less efficient brakes or irregular response
Less effective braking, vibrations when braking or a softer brake pedal are signs of wear on brake discs, brake pads or brake fluid. In industrial vehicles, where weight and intensive use are common, the braking system must always be at 100 %.
5. Liquid leakage
Stains on the floor under the vehicle may indicate oil, coolant, steering fluid or fuel leaks. A constant loss of fluid not only affects performance, but can damage critical components or cause electrical failure.
6. Excessive or abnormally coloured smoke
The colour of smoke is a great indicator of engine condition:
- Black: excess fuel
- Blue: oil consumption
- White: water or coolant in the combustion chamber
Any of these requires immediate diagnosis.
7. High fuel consumption
If consumption increases suddenly without a change in normal use, there may be a fault in the injection system, sensors or even a mechanical problem that prevents efficient operation.
8. Electrical or electronic problems
Faults in the lights, sensors, driver assistance systems or errors in the electronic control unit are frequent symptoms in the latest generation of vehicles, especially in hybrid or electric models. The electrical system should be checked by specialised workshops such as Consman.
9. Irregularly worn tyres
Uneven wear is often a symptom of alignment, suspension or incorrect pressure problems, factors that directly affect vehicle safety and efficiency.
10. Smell of burning or liquids
Abnormal smells such as burning rubber, hot oil or antifreeze are often a sign of overheating, excessive friction or internal leaks. Don’t wait for it to become a major malfunction.
Servicing and maintenance: key to commercial vehicle mobility
In the event of any of these symptoms, the best thing to do is to visit a workshop specialising in industrial vehicles, such as Consman, as soon as possible. We have expert technicians, advanced equipment and a service network adapted to all types of urban fleets and heavy vehicles. Prevention is the best investment for your company!
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