Preventative maintenance for Auxiliary Power Units (APUs) isn’t just a matter of keeping things running—it’s a strategic approach that saves fleets real money, ensures compliance, and optimizes driver comfort.

1. Fuel Economy Gains
Idling a Class 8 truck burns about 0.8–1 gallon of diesel per hour. Over 8 hours nightly, that’s up to 2,400 gallons per year—over $9,000 in fuel. Poorly maintained APUs, however, burn more fuel than optimal models. A proactive tune-up can cut that boost, typically offering $700–$1,500 in annual savings per unit.
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2. Reduced Engine Wear & Repair Time
Idling equates to roughly 80 miles of engine wear per hour. Every hour saved with a well-maintained APU preserves engine health, reducing oil change frequency and major repairs. A premature engine overhaul can cost tens of thousands; preventative care helps avoid that.
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3. Avoiding Regulatory Penalties
Many states enforce idling restrictions, with fines often ranging from $300 to $1,000 per incident—especially in clean-air regions like California and New York. An efficient APU keeps you in compliance and shields against costly violations.
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4. Enhancing Driver Comfort
A reliable APU provides consistent heating and cooling, essential for driver well-being and alertness during mandated rest periods. Preventative checks ensure the HVAC system operates efficiently—no surprises during harsh weather.

5. Extending APU Lifespan
A neglected APU often fails early. Filter replacements, coolant flushes, firmware updates, and inspections of tubing and mounts help prevent breakdowns. The cost of a midline APU replacement can reach $10,000+, while preventative service is just a fraction—typically $200–$600 annually.

6. Optimized Productivity & Uptime
APU Center provides tailored preventative service packages—including diagnostics and on-site inspections—designed to keep fleets on the road. Their skilled technicians handle everything from routine filters to electrical system tests.
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The result? Less downtime and more reliable off-hour operations.

What Your Preventative Maintenance Checklist Should Include:
Oil & fuel filter changes

Coolant system flushes

Battery voltage & alternator efficiency tests

Inspection of mounting hardware & vibration pads

Firmware updates (for electronic/battery APUs)

HVAC thermostat & ductwork evaluation

Choosing the Right Maintenance Plan
APU Center offers customizable service tiers tailored to usage:

Tier Includes
Basic Biannual fluid changes, filter replacements
Premium Basic + thermal checks, firmware updates, safety inspections
Fleet Premium + on-site visits, priority scheduling, full diagnostics

Ask your rep for estimated ROI comparisons—APU Center provides personalized quotes showing ROI, fuel savings, and compliance benefits.