Gage Burlingame of Gem State Diesel says truck owners should consider all the ownership costs before buying a new or used diesel truck. "When you buy a new diesel truck, you'll have some areas where you'll pay less and some where you'll pay more. Insurance, for example, might cost you more, and you're probably going to have a monthly note to pay. On the flip side, your fuel economy could increase dramatically, and if your current truck spends a lot of time in the shop, you'll save by buying a more reliable truck."

"Another thing to consider is what you have as a trade-in offer. Bringing a well-maintained truck to the dealership gives you a far more valuable bargaining chip than one that's in need of repairs." He recommends scheduling a maintenance visit and overall assessment before driving to the dealership. "You want to get the best trade value you can, and dealerships look beyond whether you've kept your truck clean on the outside. They'll check the oil, inspect the engine, look at your diesel fuel injection system and more. It's worth going to a diesel maintenance center in Boise before you hit the dealer's lot."

Burlingame suggests that not all diesel owners need to buy new to get what they want. "If you want peak performance, you may be ready for a new truck, but if you're generally happy with your current truck and just want to amp up its fuel economy or towing capacity, you have options." He advises truck owners to look into after-market improvements that could give their vehicles a boost. "New common rail injectors to improve fuel economy or a gooseneck hitch to make hauling heavy payloads easier are a single-visit upgrade at your local diesel repair center."

Whether you're ready to buy new or just upgrade the truck you have, getting your truck ready for summer starts with a maintenance visit. "Diesel engines run hot, so prepare for warmer weather with an oil change and an overall inspection."