Forklifts are among the hardest-working machines in any warehouse, factory, construction site, or distribution centre. Like any piece of equipment, regular servicing is essential to keep your forklift operating safely, efficiently, and reliably. One of the most common questions we hear at Dench Forklifts is: “How often should my forklift be serviced?” The answer depends on the type of forklift, how many hours it operates, and the environment it works in. However, as a general rule, most forklifts should be serviced every 200–250 operating hours. Why Regular Forklift Servicing Matters A forklift is a significant investment, and regular maintenance helps protect that investment. Routine servicing can: Reduce the risk of unexpected breakdowns Improve operator safety Extend the lifespan of the machine Lower long-term repair costs Maintain lifting performance and efficiency Minimise costly downtime Many major repairs start as small issues that could have been identified during a routine service. Understanding Forklift Service Intervals Most manufacturers recommend servicing forklifts at regular operating hour intervals. Daily Checks Operators should perform a basic pre-start inspection before each shift. This includes checking: Tyres Fluid levels Fork condition Lights and warning devices Hydraulic hoses Battery condition (for electric forklifts) Identifying issues early can prevent larger problems from developing. Minor Service – Every 200–250 Hours This is the most common service interval for forklifts. A typical minor service may include: Engine oil and filter changes Hydraulic system inspection Greasing moving components Checking brakes and steering Battery and charging system checks Inspection of mast and chains General safety inspection Major Service – Every 1,000 Hours A major service is more comprehensive and may include: Replacement of additional filters and fluids Detailed hydraulic system inspection Brake servicing Drive system checks Mast wear measurements Load testing where required Different Forklift Types Have Different Requirements Electric Forklifts Electric forklifts generally have fewer moving parts than internal combustion models, but they still require regular servicing. Key maintenance areas include: Battery condition and charging systems Electrical connections Drive motors Hydraulic systems Tyres and brakes Battery maintenance is particularly important, as battery replacement can be one of the most significant ownership costs. LPG Forklifts LPG forklifts require regular attention to: Spark plugs Fuel systems Engine oil Cooling systems Air filters Regular servicing helps maintain fuel efficiency and engine performance. Diesel Forklifts Diesel forklifts are often used in demanding environments and require ongoing maintenance of: Fuel systems Engine oil and filters Cooling systems Emissions components Hydraulic systems Machines operating in dusty environments may require more frequent servicing. Signs Your Forklift May Be Overdue for Service If you notice any of the following, it may be time to book a service: Hydraulic oil leaks Slow lifting performance Unusual engine or hydraulic noises Excessive exhaust smoke Steering issues Warning lights on the dashboard Increased fuel consumption Difficulty starting If you’ve noticed any of these warning signs, it may be time to book a professional forklift service. Our team provides regular maintenance, repairs, and inspections throughout Canterbury. The Cost of Delaying Maintenance It’s understandable to want to keep a forklift working for as long as possible between services. However, postponing maintenance often costs more in the long run. A worn hydraulic hose, leaking seal, or loose chain may be relatively inexpensive to repair during a scheduled service. If left unchecked, these issues can result in machine downtime, costly repairs, and lost productivity. For many businesses, the cost of an unexpected breakdown far exceeds the cost of preventative maintenance. How Dench Forklifts Can Help At Dench Forklifts, we provide forklift servicing, maintenance, and repairs throughout Canterbury. Whether you operate a single forklift or manage an entire fleet, our experienced technicians can help keep your equipment running safely and reliably. We service electric, LPG, and diesel forklifts and can work with you to establish a maintenance schedule that suits your operation. Our technicians use a digital servicing system that records inspections, maintenance work, and any issues identified during a service. Photos can be attached directly to the report, allowing customers to clearly see any wear, damage, or recommended repairs. Service reports can be emailed immediately after the job is completed and securely stored in the cloud. This provides a complete maintenance history for each machine and makes it easy to access records for asset management, maintenance planning, or health and safety audits in the future. If you’re unsure when your forklift was last serviced, or you’d like to arrange a maintenance inspection, get in contact with Dench Forklifts today. Regular servicing isn’t just about preventing breakdowns—it’s about maximising the life, safety, and performance of your forklift investment.
