Brakes are one of (if not the) most important components of your Peterbilt truck. Understanding proper maintenance, upkeep, and operation will help you reduce downtime, improve safety, and attain ultimate operational efficiency on every haul.
Most Peterbilt trucks use heavy-duty air-brake systems designed to handle the demands of commercial transportation. These systems rely on a complex network of air compressors, tanks, valves, brake chambers, drums, and many more maintenance parts in order to stop safely under heavy loads. Due to these systems working harder than those in standard everyday vehicles, regular inspection and preventative maintenance are essential.
Brake Inspections
Before any long-haul, it is essential to inspect your braking system to ensure it is fully functional for the road ahead. Catching minor issues early can prevent expensive repairs, DOT violations, and dangerous breakdowns.
What to inspect
Inspect airlines, fittings, and hoses for leaks or damage. Listen for escaping air, or check the pressure to make sure it is what it should be for your type of truck.
Even newer models equipped with air dryers can accumulate moisture in the air tanks over time. It is important to still drain tanks regularly to prevent corrosion, freezing, and contamination in the brake system.
If applicable to the brake system of your truck, check brake fluid levels and inspect the color of the fluid. Dirty or discolored fluid could indicate moisture buildup or contamination, and levels should be lower than your truck’s requirements.
Inspect brake pads, shoes, drums, and rotors regularly for wear, cracks, uneven surfaces, or anything out of the ordinary. Worn brake components reduce stopping ability and place stress on the rest of the system.
Slack adjusters help maintain proper brake force. If they are improperly adjusted, it can lead to uneven braking, poor stopping performance, and failed inspections.
Make sure that brake lights, ABS indicators, and other dashboard warning systems are functioning correctly before your departure.
Preventative Maintenance
Routine preventative maintenance is one of the most effective ways to reduce costly downtime and keep your Peterbilt operating efficiently.
Scheduling regular professional inspections allows technicians to identify wear before it becomes a major issue.
This should include more in-depth versions of your regular self-inspections:
Ignoring small warning signs, such as weird squeaking noises, delayed braking, pulling to one side, or fluctuating air pressure, can quickly turn into expensive repairs and unsafe driving conditions.
Driving Habits to Extend Brake Life
Many drivers know to avoid aggressive or excessive braking, especially on steep descents, but brake management is even more critical in a semi-truck.
Riding the brakes downhill can quickly generate excessive heat, causing brakes to wear, reduce stopping power, and cause more damage. Good driving habits can dramatically reduce brake wear and improve overall truck performance.
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These habits will not only improve safety but also extend the lifespan of brake systems, reduce maintenance costs, and improve fuel efficiency.
Takeaways
When it comes to Peterbilt truck safety, reliable brake performance is non-negotiable.
Daily vehicle brake inspections can often be looked at like a suggestion, but for semi-trucks, it’s a requirement. Driving properly, regularly inspecting by yourself, and going to a professional for maintenance when needed all ensure safety, operational efficiency, saving costs, and reducing downtime.
Peterbilt Truck Parts & Equipment in Sparks, Nevada, is dedicated to excellence, carrying superior products and advanced technology, ensuring employees are up to date on all industry-leading training, and sharing their passion for customer service. Contact Peterbilt HERE for more information regarding your individual truck’s needs.
If you need a truck, but want to avoid the long-term commitment of ownership, leasing can be a smart and strategic alternative. With PacLease through Peterbilt Truck Parts & Equipment, you can get behind the wheel of a Peterbilt truck with ease and confidence.
Whether you’re testing equipment before committing to a purchase, expanding your fleet, or covering seasonal demand, PacLease provides dependable options backed by the Peterbilt name.
Why Leasing Makes Sense
Leasing offers several key advantages for businesses looking to stay efficient and adaptable:
Flexibility
If you’re unsure of your long-term needs or timeline, leasing provides the freedom to adapt. PacLease offers flexible lease terms, including short-term options with the ability to renew. This allows you time to evaluate your fleet strategy while still benefiting from high-quality equipment.
It’s flexibility without sacrificing reliability.
Managing Costs
Leasing can also significantly improve cost control. Instead of a large upfront investment, you’ll have predictable monthly payments that are easier to budget.
Driving a newer Peterbilt also means better fuel efficiency and improved reliability, which lowers your cost per mile. Additionally, PacLease offers full-service maintenance, eliminating the cost of unexpected repair bills. PacLease also offers built-in customization options, saving you from additional third-party costs.
Over time, this consistency in expenses can make a meaningful difference in your business, especially if you’re operating multiple vehicles.
Staying Up-to-Date with New Equipment
Leasing gives you the advantage of using newer, modern Peterbilt trucks, equipped with the latest safety features and performance technology. These newer Peterbilt models are designed for greater fuel efficiency and driver comfort, helping improve overall operational performance.
Keeping your fleet current isn’t just about the image. It directly impacts productivity, driver satisfaction, and overall operational efficiency.
Reducing Downtime
Downtime can be costly in more ways than one. With PacLease, you benefit from well-maintained, up-to-date equipment, along with 24/7 roadside assistance and full-service maintenance.
The result? More time on the road and less time dealing with unexpected breakdowns.
Takeaways
If you’re hesitant about ownership or need a flexible solution, leasing is a practical and cost-effective option. With PacLease through Peterbilt, you get consistent reliability, performance, and support.
Peterbilt Truck Parts & Equipment in Sparks, Nevada, is dedicated to excellence, carrying superior products and advanced technology, ensuring employees are up to date on all industry-leading training, and sharing their passion for customer service. Contact Peterbilt HERE for more information on leasing or your individual truck needs.
Lane Powell, chief operations officer of Peterbilt Truck Parts and Equipment, shares why now is the best time to modernize your fleet. With the extension of 100% bonus depreciation now in effect through 2026 under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), Northern Nevada businesses may have a narrow but significant window to modernize while capturing substantial tax advantages.
This is a fantastic opportunity for companies reliant on transportation, and they should all take advantage because:
Read the full article here.
At Peterbilt Truck Parts & Equipment, community is a large part of who we are. That being said, we’re honored to serve as host for Nevada Kids Foundation’s 5th Annual Poker and Bingo Tournament.
On Saturday, February 25, Nevada Kids Foundation’s Poker and Bingo Tournament is back at Peterbilt Truck Parts & Equipment for its 5th year. We are proud to host this event every year, and love to see so many members of our community come out and support this wonderful organization.
The evening will be filled with laughter, friendly competition, and connection as guests enjoy poker, bingo, and great food. Whether you’re sitting down at the poker table, cheering during bingo, or simply enjoying the atmosphere and supporting the cause, everyone 21 and older is welcome.
Prices range from $40 spectator tickets (includes dinner and 2 drink tickets) to $100 Poker Player tickets (includes dinner, 2 drink tickets, 2 raffle tickets, and starting poker chips). Sponsorships are also available.
Event details:
When: Saturday, February 28, 2026
Time: Doors open at 5:00 p.m.; Games begin at 6:00 p.m.
Where: Peterbilt Truck Parts & Equipment, 2272 Larkin Circle, Sparks, Nevada
We are so honored to be a part of this inspirational event, and we hope to see you there!
Reserve your player entry and sponsorship: https://www.nevadakidsfoundation.org/events
We’re proud to announce that Lane Powell, Chief Operations Officer of Peterbilt Truck Parts & Equipment and Silver State International, is featured in the latest edition of Smart Money magazine. His editorial, “Why Now Is the Time to Invest in New Business Vehicles,” offers valuable insights for business owners and fleet managers as 2025 comes to a close.
In his piece, Lane explores why Q4 2025 presents a unique opportunity to strengthen your fleet both operationally and financially. With continued uncertainty in the regulatory landscape and evolving business demands, Lane explains how strategic investments made before year-end can offer significant advantages.
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) extended a 100% bonus depreciation deduction for qualifying business assets acquired and placed in service before the end of 2025. That means businesses that purchase and begin using new vehicles before December 31 can deduct the full cost on their 2025 taxes — a major incentive for those considering an upgrade.
Beyond tax benefits, new trucks and equipment bring long-term value. With advanced safety systems, fuel-efficient engines, and full warranty coverage, they help reduce downtime, minimize maintenance costs, and improve driver safety. For larger fleets, those gains compound through better logistics, lower insurance rates, and more predictable operating costs.
Lane emphasizes the importance of lead time and compliance when adding vehicles to your fleet. Custom orders or specialized configurations can take weeks or months to deliver, and vehicles must be fully operational — not just purchased — before year-end to qualify for the tax deduction. Planning ahead ensures you’re ready for DOT compliance, registration, and integration into your operations.
A final piece of advice from Lane: Don’t go it alone. Work closely with your tax advisor, dealership, and fleet specialists to make sure your purchase aligns with your company’s needs and long-term goals.
Lane’s Smart Money feature highlights his deep understanding of the balance between financial strategy and fleet performance, offering readers practical steps to navigate the evolving business and tax landscape of 2025.
Read Lane Powell’s full editorial in Smart Money magazine here.
This past Saturday, Peterbilt Truck Parts & Equipment was proud to be part of the Nevada Day Parade 2025 in Carson City! With one of our trucks rolling down Carson Street, it was an exciting opportunity to celebrate Nevada’s heritage, community spirit, and the drivers who keep our state moving.
The parade brought together families, local businesses, and residents for a day full of pride, tradition, and fun. Our truck, decorated in the “Wild Wild West” theme, caught plenty of attention, and we loved seeing so many people cheer as it passed by. Events like these allow us to connect with the community we serve every day, from professional drivers to fleet operators, small businesses, and everyone in between.
At Peterbilt Truck Parts & Equipment, we’re committed to supporting the Nevada trucking community with reliable parts, expert service, and resources that keep trucks running strong. Participating in local events (like the Nevada Day Parade) is just one way we celebrate the people and machines that make transportation possible.
A huge thank you to everyone who waved, cheered, and showed their Nevada pride! Your support means a lot to us, and we’re looking forward to more community events in the future.
Whether you’re a long-time Peterbilt driver or just a fan of trucks, stay connected with us for news, events, and more.
This year, Peterbilt Truck Parts & Equipment is honored to step up as a sponsor of Nevada Day 2025, joining in the celebration of our state’s rich history, vibrant culture, and the spirit of community. Nevada Day is a longstanding tradition, and we’re excited to be part of the festivities that bring our communities together.
Nevada Day isn’t just a parade or local event — it’s a moment to reflect on heritage, unity, and the values that drive us forward. Peterbilt’s commitment to Nevada goes beyond trucks and parts. It’s about being part of the fabric of this state, investing in its people, and supporting its future.
By sponsoring Nevada Day, we aim to:
Nevada Day 2025 kicks off on Nov. 1 in Carson City with the “Wild Wild West” parade as a centerpiece. Expect floats, marching bands, historic demonstrations, balloons, and more — all bringing Nevada’s story to life. Peterbilt will have a presence there, showing our support and celebrating alongside Nevada families and businesses. Keep an eye out for one of our trucks in the parade!
As a sponsor, Peterbilt will be there not just as a logo, but as a committed participant — engaging with attendees, sharing our passion for innovation and service, and celebrating what makes Nevada unique. We look forward to seeing you in Carson City, waving from the parade, and sharing in the pride of this special day.
Whether you’re coming to see the floats or just soaking in the festive energy, we hope you’ll stop by and say hello. For updates, parade route info, and more, check out the official Nevada Day website.
Together, let’s make Nevada Day 2025 one to remember.
We’re excited to share that Northern Nevada Business Weekly recently featured Marty Makrdichian, Director of Service at Peterbilt Truck Parts & Equipment in Sparks, for his appointment to the Nevada Kids Foundation Board of Directors.
Marty has been a dedicated supporter of the foundation since its inception in 2021, rallying his Peterbilt team to get involved and helping facilitate the annual Texas Hold ’Em charity poker and bingo tournament hosted at our Sparks location.
This recognition in NNBW shines a light on Marty’s leadership both at work and in the community. His passion for supporting local children reflects the values we live by at Peterbilt—service, commitment, and community impact.
Congratulations, Marty, on this well-deserved recognition!
Read the full NNBW article here.
Our very own Anne Keele, Chief Financial Officer of Peterbilt Truck Parts & Equipment, was honored as one of Nevada Business Magazine’s 2025 Women to Watch on Aug. 6, 2025, in Las Vegas.
Chosen from hundreds of nominations, Anne was recognized for her remarkable career, leadership, and deep commitment to the northern Nevada community.
Anne’s journey with Peterbilt spans over 31 years, beginning at the front desk and growing into her current role overseeing every aspect of the business—from accounts payable to truck sales and inventory control. Her leadership extends far beyond the office; she’s a gifted musician who has performed with the Reno Philharmonic for 20 years and now volunteers with the Reno Pops Orchestra. She also serves as treasurer for the Northern Nevada Rural Concert Initiative, bringing live orchestral music to rural communities and mentoring young musicians.
When asked about her career path, Anne admits it surprises people that she works in trucking:
“Trucks were never on my radar, but I’ve grown to love the industry—its evolving technology, its vital role in our economy, and its constant change.”
Anne’s advice to the next generation of female leaders is as inspiring as her career:
“Trust your voice and value your worth. Lead with authenticity, integrity, and confidence—especially in fields where women are underrepresented. Seek mentors who inspire you and be a mentor yourself.”
We are incredibly proud to see Anne recognized among such an accomplished group of women who are shaping Nevada’s future. Congratulations, Anne, on this well-deserved honor!
Read more about the Women to Watch here.
We’re proud to share that our very own Lane Powell was recently featured in Northern Nevada Business Weekly’s “Smart Money” publication, offering insights into the evolving landscape of the trucking industry—especially in Northern Nevada.
In the article, Lane discusses the critical role our region plays as a shipping and distribution hub and how factors like tariff policies and environmental regulations are reshaping freight demand, pricing, and logistics networks. From supply chain disruptions to CARB (California Air Resources Board) emissions mandates, these forces are having a direct impact on how goods move across the western U.S.—and the trucks that make it possible.
“Trucks transport approximately 72% of all imported goods in the U.S., valued at over $10 trillion annually,” Lane explains. “Even small shifts in policy or demand can have major ripple effects, especially in a region like Northern Nevada that depends on stable freight activity.”
We’re grateful to have Lane’s voice representing Peterbilt Truck Parts & Equipment and helping shine a light on the challenges and opportunities facing our industry.
Read the full article in the July edition of “Smart Money” by NNBW.
