Maintenance & Upkeep of an Expedition Vehicle: What You Need To Know

(The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly)

Owning an expedition vehicle is a dream come true for a lot of people and for good reason. You get the freedom to go anywhere, stay off-grid for weeks, and experience the world on your own terms. But what many don’t talk about is what happens after the build is done, the part where real ownership begins: maintenance and upkeep.

Here at ACME Overland, we’ve built and maintained a lot of trucks, and we’ve seen it all: the good, the bad, and yes, the ugly. Here’s what you need to know before (and after) you take your rig out into the wild.

The Good: Built to Last

Expedition trucks are designed for durability. When you invest in a quality build and the right chassis, you’re setting yourself up for years of adventure. Most of our clients are pleasantly surprised by how little they need to fix compared to smaller vans or RVs. With proper materials, smart design, and regular checks, these vehicles can handle thousands of miles of tough terrain without complaint.

The best part? Once you know your truck, you’ll start to understand its quirks like what noises are normal, what feels off, and how to keep everything running smoothly. That level of connection is part of what makes ownership so rewarding.

The Bad: Regular Maintenance is Non-Negotiable

Even the most capable expedition truck isn’t immune to wear and tear. Regular maintenance is essential. Think fluid changes, filter replacements, and checking seals, bolts, and electrical connections.

The reality is: things shake loose. Off-road travel puts a lot of stress on every component. Dust gets into everything, water finds its way where you least expect it, and tires take a beating.

Setting up a simple maintenance schedule (especially right after big trips) helps prevent small issues from becoming expensive ones. Trust us, catching that loose bolt early is a lot easier (and cheaper) than dealing with a cracked frame mount down the line.

The Ugly: When Things Go Wrong

Let’s be honest — at some point, something will go wrong. It might be a bad sensor, a cracked hose, or a power system that decides to act up in the middle of nowhere.

The key is preparation. Know your vehicle. Carry basic tools and spare parts. Familiarize yourself with your electrical and water systems. And most importantly, don’t panic. A little knowledge (and the right gear) goes a long way.

Many of our clients actually grow to love this part, it’s part of the adventure. Fixing your rig in the middle of the desert or on a mountain pass might sound stressful, but those are the stories you’ll tell for years.

Final Thoughts

Owning an expedition vehicle isn’t like owning a car or an RV. It’s a lifestyle. There’s pride in knowing how to take care of your truck, in keeping it reliable through all conditions, and in being self-sufficient no matter where you roam.

So if you’re dreaming of a custom build or you’ve just driven your first one off the lot, enjoy the ride. Stay on top of your maintenance, learn your systems, and remember: the good far outweighs the bad (and even the ugly).