The Most Common Semi Truck Repairs
A semi-truck is a powered truck outfitted with one or more semi-trailers, often referred to as “semis.” These trucks can be seen throughout the many lots and roadways of America. They’re used for transporting goods great distances or to nearby clients, and any semi-truck operator is never off the road for long.
Our society’s reliance on the swift transportation of goods means that most people’s semi-trucks endure a lot of wear and tear. It’s essential to stay on top of the repairs and maintenance if you operate a semi-truck. Your clients, your business, and your truck depend on it.
Over the course of this blog post, we at Tri County Truck and Trailer Repair Inc will be going over the most common semi-truck problems and what can be done to correct the issues. If any questions arise after reading this blog post, don’t hesitate to contact us at (352) 233-5768. We’re the truck and trailer professionals you can always count on.
Importance of Semi-Truck Repairs
Before we delve into the world of semi-truck troubles and the best repair approaches, we thought it would be worthwhile to communicate the importance of these repairs and other services.
How often should you bring your vehicle into the shop for maintenance? More often than you think. Semi-trucks are usually on the road a lot more than conventional vehicles, meaning that the vehicle’s components will be put to the test more frequently. Issues that might only produce minor noise in a family vehicle may quickly become more significant problems in a commercial truck.
We recommend bringing your semi-truck into a garage every six months or every 10,000 miles—whichever comes first. As for those instances where you suspect something is wrong with the vehicle, we recommend contacting your local semi-truck repair shop as soon as possible. Neglecting problems for too long can lead to even costlier issues in the future, and no one wants that.
Repairing an Overheating Engine
A semi-truck engine can overheat for a variety of reasons. The most common reason is a blocked air intake or exhaust system. Overheating can also be caused by a lack of oil or water in the engine, faulty cooling systems, or broken parts that cause air to escape the engine.
When an engine overheats, it can cause the truck to stop moving and can even result in a fire. If you notice your truck isn’t running as well as it used to, or if it seems to be overheating more often, it might be time to have the engine checked out. A qualified mechanic can diagnose the problem and recommend the best course of action so that you can embark on long journeys without risking engine failure.
What does the repair process look like for an overheating engine? At our shop, we take a conservative approach to engine repair, ensuring that all parts of the engine are repaired before re-starting the truck. We also use state-of-the-art diagnostics to ensure that our repairs are correct and prevent future problems.
If you’re experiencing an engine overheating, be sure to seek out the most reputable professionals in your region. A little bit of excellence goes a long way. So, don’t wait—call us today for a consultation. We’ll get you back on the road as soon as possible.
Starter Failure in Semi-Trucks
The starter is one of the essential parts of the engine, as it helps to start the vehicle. When a starter fails, it can be difficult or impossible to start the truck. The professionals typically address starter failure in a semi-truck by replacing the unit. If the failure is due to wear and tear, the professionals may also recommend replacing other parts of the engine.
Regardless of the cause, replacing the starter is always a recommended course of action. A relatively straightforward replacement, the best semi-truck repair teams will make quick and easy work of this process.
Brake Repairs
The signs that you might be experiencing brake issues in a semi-truck can vary depending on the type of truck but generally include the following:
- Slowing or stopping suddenly
- Jerky or irregular movements
- Difficulty parking or maneuvering
If you notice any of these signs, it's important to have your truck checked out by a mechanic as soon as possible. Failure to address brake issues can lead to more serious problems down the road and might be risking your safety and that of other drivers around you.
Tire Troubles
The tread on your tires affects how your truck handles, rides, and performs in different conditions. A properly inflated tire will provide cushioning and stability for your truck, while underinflation can cause your truck to shake and lose traction. Regular tire rotations help keep the rubber in good condition and help prevent potholes and other road hazards from damaging your tires.
If you notice any of these symptoms on your tires, schedule a service appointment with a reputable and professional mechanic:
- Your truck feels unsteady when driving over rough terrain or large bumps
- You see cracks or grooves in the tire's surface
- Your truck hesitates when starting or when making sudden turns
- Your truck has trouble braking or accelerating
Signs such as these mean it’s time to bring your truck to a professional for tire services. Thankfully, most mechanics know how to address these common tire issues with ease. It won’t take you long to have your valued truck fully functional and safely on the road again.
Learn More About Semi Truck Repairs Today
We’re more than ambitious amateurs with a lot of knowledge about semi-trucks and trailers. We’re our region’s go-to source for all things related to truck and trailer repairs. With years of experience to our name and a vast storehouse of repair equipment on hand, we’re the around-the-clock repair team you can always count on.
If you’re looking for a reliable team to complete your semi-truck repairs, look no further than Tri County Truck and Trailer Repair Inc. Learn more about truck repairs—and our approach to doing business—by contacting us today at (352) 233-5768.