How Many Miles Do Semi Trucks Last?

Compared to even the most heavy-duty truck on the consumer market, semi-trucks are truly in a league of their own. Heavy cargo and long hours behind the wheel are just an everyday part of semi truck life, so commercial trucks are designed with extra-durable engineering that can handle the toughest tasks on the Ft. Lauderdale roads. But just how many miles do semi trucks last? Let’s take a look at the different factors that influence your semi truck lifespan:

Average Semi Truck Lifespan

Your average sedan or SUV starts to head downhill once it reaches the 200,000 mile marker or so. While these vehicles more than meet the demands of your typical Riveria Beach commuter or Ft. Pierce family, they simply can’t handle a lot of wear and tear. A semi truck, on the other hand, lasts upwards of 750,000 miles – and some semis have hit the million mile mark! When you consider the average mileage of 45,000 miles per year, that means you can expect around 15 years for your trusted truck.

Diesel vs Gas Engine

One of the biggest reasons for the exceptional durability of the semi truck is the diesel engine design. Diesel engines have many advantages for professional drivers:

• Diesel fuel is lighter and more efficient, which makes it safer and less volatile for most engines.
• Diesel engines run at a slower rate with lower RPM, which can translate to less wear and tear overall.
• Diesel engines are designed to prevent engine failure through gear-based mechanics, multiple thermostats, specialized valve design, and more.

Semi Truck Maintenance

Want to extend your semi truck life to its maximum? Proper maintenance is key.

• Keep your engine lubricated by getting regular oil changes, and try to prevent multiple starts which are hard on your engine.
• Overheating can damage your engine quickly, so keep an eye on your exhaust and cooling systems. Check them over every year and if you notice anything unusual, schedule your service immediately.
• Consider diesel fuel additives to help clean and stabilize your engine system. While traditional maintenance like oil and filter changes are essential, additives can give you an extra edge when it comes to performance.

Find Out More with Rechtien International Trucks

Now that you know how many miles do semi trucks last, do you have any questions about truck sizes, maintenance, or how much you can make as a driver? Contact us at Rechtien International Trucks of and we’d be happy to help!