As the driver of a semi truck, your vehicle is your livelihood. Whether your truck requires a major overhaul or just a few minor repairs, you deserve the peace of mind that comes along with top-notch semi truck repair shop services. But navigating the commercial truck repair landscape is not always easy. With the number of repair providers on the rise, it can be difficult to choose the best repair shop to meet your needs. Below are ten things to look for in a semi truck repair shop.
1) At least a decade of industry experience
There is no substitute for experience in the semi truck repair industry. Entrusting your semi to an inexperienced novice or a fly-by-night repair provider could result in delays and additional expense to correct mistakes. Ideally, the repair provider you choose should possess at least a decade of experience repairing semi trucks of all makes and models.
2) An extensive array of repair services
Finding a repair provider that can handle all of your service and repair needs can help you save money and time on current and future repairs. Seeking a repair provider who offers expertise in all of the following services will help you get back on the road faster and provide a sense of security when future problems arise:
- Diesel engine rebuilds
- Long block engine replacements
- Clutch repairs
- In-frame engine rebuilds
- Transmission repairs
- Complete engine overhauls
- Fuel economy problems
- Differential repairs
3) An impressive parts inventory
When your semi breaks down, one of the worst pieces of news you can receive is the dreaded, “We don’t carry the parts you need and it could take days or weeks for them to arrive.” As you compare service providers, be sure to narrow your search to repair shops that carry a large selection of parts for heavy duty and diesel trucks made by the world’s leading manufacturers. Repair shops that have a dedicated warehouse for parts are good choices.
4) Plenty of service bays
Finding a repair shop with the resources to handle your repairs quickly is essential to getting you back on the road. This means finding a shop with plenty of bays, cranes, and trained repair technicians to handle your repairs. Look for repair shops with at least 10 bays, including several that are reserved for automotive repairs. This will ensure that you are not waiting days or weeks waiting for a bay to open up for repairs to begin.
5) A clean, state of the art facility
When your truck is your livelihood, the last thing you want to do is leave it at a dirty repair shop that lacks the proper tools and equipment to complete your repairs safely. As you compare repair shops, keep your eyes open for clean, well-organized facilities with the following qualities:
- Extensive tool cribs
- 10-ton cranes to accommodate large trucks
- At least one alignment pit
6) Convenient payment options
Every second counts for today’s busy drivers. Finding a repair provider that offers a convenient way for drivers to pay quickly online eliminates the time and expense associated with mailing checks or delivering payment in person. Semi truck repair providers that offer online payment via Paypal are especially good choices because secure payment transactions can be made in a matter of seconds using your favourite mobile device from virtually any location.
7) Towing services
“If you are an owner operator and responsible for your truck, you’ll want to ensure you have a resource to help you find the locations of repair facilities and safe stopping spots on your route, in case of mechanical failure.”
– Smart Trucking
Emergencies are unpredictable and often seem to crop up at the most inconvenient times. When your semi breaks down on the road, it helps to know that you have access to a dependable towing service. Top-notch repair shops recognize this and partner with a trustworthy towing company that will respond swiftly in an emergency.
8) Responsiveness to your needs
As a driver in need of repair services for your truck, you cannot afford to wait hours or days to receive a response. Seeking a repair shop that is easy to reach by phone, in person, via fax, or through an easy online booking process is important. Family-run businesses are often good choices, as they place a high degree of importance on customer service and superior work quality. Before you drop your keys off with a semi truck repair provider, make sure they are committed to meeting your needs swiftly and professionally.
9) An accessible location
Accessibility and a convenient location are essential to a smooth semi repair experience. Finding a semi truck repair shop within close proximity to your home or employer can help minimize delays and transit costs. Look for a repair shop that has the resources to serve clients in the Lakeland area, including Bonnyville, St. Paul, and Cold Lake.
10) Stellar customer reviews
Few things speak to a repair provider’s capabilities more than positive customer reviews. In addition to reviewing testimonials on the repair shop’s website and social media pages, look for Google reviews that are more likely to provide an unbiased assessment of the company’s capabilities and repair services. If you are having difficulty choosing between two or three providers, you can ask for each shop to provide three references of customers who drive the same make or model of truck that you drive. Speaking with an existing customer may help you finalize your decision.
The Bottom Line: Choosing a Semi Truck Repair Shop
Since 2005, Overdrive Heavy Duty Ltd. has been a leader in Canada’s semi truck repair industry. Our state of the art facility was designed with customer convenience in mind. We offer 14 bays, a customized alignment pit, and an impressive tool crib. Additionally, we have a 5,000 square foot truck parts warehouse that is stocked with an extensive array of semi truck parts, which helps us complete your repairs faster. We invite you to contact us to find out how we can help you get back on the road faster. We look forward to becoming your trusted solution for all of your semi-truck repair needs!