Before I hit the road, there's a ritual I never skip. It's not just about checking the tires or the oil — it's about knowing every inch of this machine, because every bolt, every wire, every gasket is a promise to the people who depend on me to get their package there safe and on time.
I start with my feet on the ground, circling the truck. I look for leaks, cracks, anything that doesn't belong. I check the tires — not just the pressure, but the tread, the sidewalls, the way they sit on the rim. A loose lug nut can be the difference between a smooth ride and a disaster.
Pro tip: Run your hand along the tire. If you feel a bump or a soft spot, that's a warning sign. Don't ignore it.
Next, I check the oil, the coolant, the brake fluid. Every drop matters. If the oil is low, that's a sign something's wrong. If the coolant is low, that's a sign something's wrong. And if the brake fluid is low, that's a sign something's wrong.
I keep a little notebook where I write down the levels every time I check. That way, if something changes, I know exactly when it started.
Before I start the engine, I turn on the headlights, the taillights, the turn signals. Every light has to work, because on the road, a broken light is a danger sign. I also check the mirrors — if they're cracked or foggy, I fix them before I even think about driving.
A good mirror is worth its weight in gold. You can't see what's behind you if your mirrors are broken.
Once I'm sure everything's in place, I start the engine. I listen to the sound — every tick, every hum, every rattle. If something sounds off, I stop right there. I don't take any chances.
A good mechanic knows the sound of a healthy engine. If you hear something that doesn't belong, that's your cue to stop and look closer.
This isn't just a checklist. It's a promise. Every time I get behind the wheel, I'm promising to bring every package home safe, and every time I check my truck, I'm keeping that promise.