If you’re serious about your diesel pickup, you know it’s more than just a daily driver. It’s your workhorse, your weekend toy hauler, and definitely your pride and joy. That kind of responsibility demands more than the occasional oil change. To keep your diesel rig running strong and efficient—and to keep it out of the shop—you’ve got to give it the right care and maintenance on a regular basis.

Rislone, a trusted name in made-in-the-USA engine treatments for over a century, lays out five smart, simple maintenance tips every diesel truck owner should know. Whether you’re pulling heavy loads or just cruising, these five maintenance musts will keep your truck in top shape and help you avoid costly downtime.

1. Don’t Just Change Oil — Keep It Clean

Diesel engines work hard, and their oil takes a beating. Follow your manufacturer’s oil change intervals, typically every 5,000 to 10,000 miles, depending on your driving habits and load. Use a quality oil filter and always check your levels between changes. Clean oil keeps vital engine components protected and running smoothly. Skip it, and you’re gambling with your engine’s life.

2. Maintenance For The Fuel System

Contaminated diesel and moisture are the enemies of performance. Replace your fuel filter every 15,000 to 20,000 miles, and don’t forget to regularly drain the water separator. For added protection and performance, run a bottle of Rislone Hy-per Diesel Complete Fuel System Treatment (part #4740) every 5,000 miles. It cleans injectors, fights fuel system corrosion, and improves combustion—all of which help you get more power and better mileage.

3. Keep Emissions in Check to Avoid Limp Mode

Modern diesel pickups rely on selective catalytic reduction (SCR) systems and DEF (diesel exhaust fluid) to meet emissions standards. If those systems get clogged with white crystal deposits, your truck could be forced into “limp mode” or stop running altogether.

To clear out existing deposits, use Rislone DEF Crystal Clean Diesel DEF and SCR Emissions System Cleaner (part #4784). Then, prevent future buildup by adding Rislone Diesel DEF Treatment (part #4740) every time you top off your DEF. It’s a small step that saves you from big headaches and costly emissions repairs.

4. Take Care of the DPF

Short trips, idling, and low-speed driving can clog your diesel particulate filter (DPF), robbing your truck of power and fuel economy. Instead of waiting for a regeneration cycle to kick in—or worse, facing a DPF replacement—stay ahead of the game with Rislone DPF Clean Diesel DPF, Exhaust, and Emissions System Cleaner (part #4744). Add it to your tank four times a year to help reduce buildup, extend the life of your DPF, and keep your exhaust system flowing free.

5. Make Maintenance a Habit

Finally, set a schedule and stick to it. That means regular oil and filter changes, fuel and emissions system treatments, and simple checks of belts, hoses, fluids, and tire pressure. Check for and clear debris under the hood. It’s not just about performance—it’s about long-term reliability.

If you give it the care it deserves, your diesel truck will last. With the right routine and some help from proven products like Rislone, you’ll keep your diesel running strong for the long haul. For more tips and tools to keep your diesel’s performance sharp and emissions system clean, visit Rislone.com/diesel-defense.