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Originally Posted On: https://a1fleetservice.com/top-diesel-truck-repair-issues-truck-drivers-face-and-how-to-prevent-them/
Top Diesel Truck Repair Issues Truck Drivers Face and How to Prevent Them
Parts and technicians for diesel trucks are in short supply. This has increased the cost of repair and maintenance up 12% to $0.196 per mile.
The math for all that maintenance can get staggering.
Multiply that cost per mile by the average 500-600 miles the average driver covers per day. Multiply that by the number of trucks in your fleet and the numbers get even larger.
Read on to learn the common diesel truck issues leading to fleet repair in Houston and how to prevent them.
Common Truck Repair Problems
Most common truck repair problems give off signs before they become serious. That’s why it’s important to know what to look for. You can save yourself a lot of time and money on unnecessary and expensive repairs.
Engine Issues
Diesel engine maintenance tips are invaluable because engine issues are one of the most common and important truck repair problems. They’re also some of the most expensive.
Common problems include:
- Blown gaskets
- Fuel or fluid leaks
- Overheating
- Faulty thermostats
Pay attention to these signs and perform regular repairs and maintenance on your engine. You’ll prevent engine failure and enjoy better performance from your truck.
Fuel System Failures
A clogged fuel filter is one of the most common truck repair problems. Defective fuel pumps and malfunctioning injectors are also common.
They’re not always easy to diagnose. They do give off signs such as:
- Hard starting or failure to start
- Lack of power
- Misfiring
- Sputtering at high speeds
- Black exhaust
Regularly replacing the fuel filter can remove and prevent clogs. Malfunctioning pumps or injectors require immediate care to restore your mileage.
Electrical Entanglements
Electrical problems typically originate from the alternator, starter motor, or battery. They may give off signs such as:
- Flickering or flashing lights
- Clicking noises
- Difficulty starting the engine
Find out which part is causing the issues and replace it. These signs often mean it’s beyond repair.
Oil Overloads
Oil leaks can cause lasting damage throughout your truck. They prevent the proper lubrication from your truck.
Faulty oil does the same. That’s why you need regular changes.
Clutch Conundrums
This is one of the truck maintenance problems that relies primarily on driver behavior.
Practice safe driving habits and use the clutch according to manufacturer recommendations. You’ll reduce wear and tear and prolong its life.
Suspicious Suspensions
Keep an ear out for this maintenance issue. Have you heard any suspicious shaking or clicking noises? These strange sounds both point to problems with the suspension.
You’ll also notice a change in how the truck rides. When the ball joint on one side wears out, prepare for a bumpy ride.
Bungled Brakes
Brake issues are more than a common truck repair problem. They’re also a leading cause of crashes.
Check every part of your brake system, including the:
- Brake pads
- Brake calipers
- Brake fluid
Tangled Tires
Eighteen-wheelers have more tires than typical cars, and they’re put under more stress. That’s why they tend to get worn out sooner.
There are three primary ways to prevent problems with your tires. First, ensure you always have the right tire pressure. Second, replace them when they get old or worn out. Third, bring them in for preventative maintenance and inspections.
Trapped Transmission
A truck’s transmission transfers the power from the engine to the wheels. If it’s not working, you’re not going anywhere.
Damage to the transmission can also damage other components. That leads to more downtime and expensive repairs later.
Providing Preventative Truck Maintenance
Preventative maintenance can’t solve every issue with your trucks. What makes it so valuable is that it can prevent them from happening in the first place.
Inspections
One of the best pieces of fleet maintenance advice is to have every driver give their truck a thorough inspection before every trip. Take a look at all of the most commonly damaged areas of your truck.
Check the compression ratio of your engine. The proper ratio is 20:1.
If the ratio’s too low, you may struggle to steer. If it’s too high, you can experience problems with the engine or fuel injection.
Get professional diagnostic reviews from a diesel mechanic in Houston. They’ll give you more actionable information about how you can make your truck run better.
Oil
Don’t just put any oil into your engine. Check the viscosity. Single-weight oil is better for warmer climates. Multi-viscosity is best for colder climates.
The oil in your engine also begins to oxidize over time if your truck sits for too long. This creates bubbles that can damage your truck’s components. The effect is even worse with high humidity. Houston is one of the most humid cities in Texas.
Follow a consistent oil change schedule. It prevents damage and overheating.
Replacements and Repairs
Your truck breakdown solutions need to work before you actually break down. New, clean parts of one of the best.
Replace the fuel filters and air filters regularly. It allows consistent airflow and prevents damage to the engine.
Replace the glow plugs every 80,000-100,000 miles. Other signs that they may be failing include:
- Excess smoke
- Misfiring engines
- Hard starting
Lead-acid storage batteries lose their active material over time. Check them and replace them before this happens.
Scheduling Service
You also need a schedule for professional fleet repair in Houston.
It’s a more robust form of preventative maintenance. The professionals can spot issues you might have missed that could have required costly repairs later.
It doesn’t even have to take away from your busy schedule. You can get mobile fleet repair. It’s a convenient and effective way to get professional service for common issues.
A mobile diesel mechanic in Houston can come to service any truck that’s having a problem. They’ll get it back on the road as soon as possible.
Finding Fleet Repair in Houston
What are the most common issues that require fleet repair in Houston? They typically involve issues with the engine, fuel system, electrical system, oil, clutch, suspension, brakes, tires, or transmission.
A1 Fleet Service is the best diesel mechanic shop in Houston. We offer in-shop and 24/7 mobile diesel service to fleets of all sizes. Contact us to set up an appointment today.
