Get To Know Your New 15-Foot U-Haul Truck
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Whether it’s your first time behind the wheel of a U-Haul truck or your fifth, it’s important to feel comfortable with your vehicle before hitting the road. The 15-foot U-Haul truck is designed for easy driving and reliable performance, but a little preparation can make your trip smoother and safer.
This guide covers key features of the 15-foot truck, what your dashboard lights mean, and helpful driving and maintenance tips for a worry-free move.
Key Takeaways
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About the 15-Foot U-Haul Truck
The 15-foot U-Haul truck is ideal for moving a one- to two-bedroom home or apartment, which is the equivalent of three U-Box portable moving and storage containers. It’s equipped with a low deck for easier loading, a loading ramp, and seating for up to three adults in the cab.
Key features include:
- Interior dimensions: 15’ x 7’8” x 7’2”
- Max load: 6,385 lbs
- Towing capacity: Up to 10,000 lbs
- Fuel type: Unleaded gasoline
- Miles per gallon: Around 10 mpg (varies with load and terrain)
This truck offers a great balance of cargo space and drivability, making it one of the most popular options for local and long-distance moves.
Dashboard Lights and What They Mean
Understanding the warning and indicator lights on your U-Haul truck will help you respond quickly if something comes up during your drive.
Safety and Maintenance Alerts
1. Low Oil Level Light: If this light turns on and stays on, the engine is low on oil. Stop the vehicle as soon as possible to fill to the correct level.
2. High Beam Indicator: This illuminates when the high beam lights are turned on.
3. Check Engine Light: If this light is flashing, the detected condition is currently in progress. Stop the vehicle when it’s safe to do so, and have it serviced as soon as possible. If this light is solid with no operating concerns, the truck can just be serviced when returned.
4. Airbag: If this light stays on while the vehicle is running, there is a fault in the system. Have the truck’s system serviced as soon as possible.
5. Seat Belt: This illuminates to remind you to fasten your seat belt. A reminder chime will also sound.
6. Traction Control: This light will remain off when traction control is enabled, but it will begin flashing during a traction control event. If this light stays on while the vehicle is running, the traction control system will need to be serviced.
7. Traction Control System Off: This illuminates when the traction control system is turned off, which you can control with a switch on the console.
8. Tow/Haul: This light turns on when the tow/haul feature is enabled. If this light is flashing, have the truck’s system serviced as soon as possible. This may otherwise result in damage to the vehicle’s transmission.
9. Charging System Warning: This light turns on when the battery is not charging properly. There may be a system malfunction if this light stays on while the vehicle is running.
Driving Indicators
10. Tire Pressure: If this light is on, one or more of the vehicle’s tires are underinflated. If this light flashes first and then remains steady, this indicates that there is an issue with the tire pressure monitoring system.
11. Parking Lights: This icon illuminates when you switch on the parking lamps.
Brake System Warnings
12. Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS): If this light stays on or begins flashing while the vehicle is running, then there may be a system malfunction. Have the truck’s system serviced as soon as possible. Normal braking will still be functional unless the Brake System Warning Light is also illuminated.
13. Brake System Warning Light: This light turns on when the parking brake is applied while the vehicle is running. However, if the parking brake is not applied, then this light indicates that the vehicle has a brake fault or a low brake fluid level.
We’ve also labeled the various instruments, indicators, and pedals in the images below for easy reference.
Pre-Trip Safety Checklist
Before you start the engine, take a few minutes to make sure your truck is ready for the road.
Check these essentials:
- Adjust your mirrors and seat for full visibility and comfort.
- Inspect tires for proper inflation and visible damage.
- Confirm all lights and turn signals are working.
- Verify that your cargo is balanced and securely loaded.
- Make sure the fuel cap is on tight.
- Locate key controls, including headlights, windshield wipers, and hazard lights.
Taking care of these simple checks can help prevent delays and ensure a safer trip.
Driving and Parking Tips
Driving a moving truck can feel different from your personal car, especially when fully loaded. Keep these tips in mind:
- Allow extra space when braking and turning — the truck is heavier than it looks.
- Take turns wide to avoid hitting curbs or obstacles.
- Use lower gears when driving downhill or towing a trailer.
- Avoid sudden lane changes, as trucks have larger blind spots.
- Plan your parking; look for drive-through or end-to-end spots to avoid tight situations.
Taking your time and giving yourself extra room on the road will make your drive safer and less stressful. If you experience any issues on the road, the U-Haul App allows you to chat live with a roadside team member or request assistance directly from your phone.
Refueling and Returning
U-Haul 15-foot trucks run on unleaded gasoline. Your rental agreement notes the starting fuel level, so be sure to refill to the same level before returning to avoid refueling charges.
Before you return your truck:
- Clear the cab and cargo area of debris and personal belongings.
- Check that the furniture pads, dolly, or other rental equipment are accounted for.
- Review your return location and hours in the U-Haul app or confirmation email.
Choose U-Haul for Your Next Move
Ready to hit the road? U-Haul makes it easy to move with confidence. From detailed truck guides to 24/7 roadside support, you’ll have everything you need for a smooth moving experience.