5 Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Repair Shop

Finding a trustworthy truck repair shop isn’t just about convenience—it’s about keeping your rig on the road and avoiding costly downtime. A poor choice can lead to misdiagnosed issues, unnecessary repairs, and even safety hazards. Unfortunately, many truck owners and fleet managers make simple but costly mistakes when selecting a shop. To help you avoid a headache down the road, here are five common mistakes to steer clear of when choosing a truck and trailer repair shop.

1. Focusing Only on Price Instead of Value

Everyone wants to save money, but when it comes to truck repairs, cheaper isn’t always better. Some shops offer low rates but cut corners with inexperienced mechanics, subpar parts, or rushed repairs. Others might lure customers in with low estimates, only to hit them with hidden fees once the job is underway.

Instead of shopping based on price alone, consider the value you’re getting for your money. While it may cost a bit more upfront, a high-quality repair done right the first time will save you from repeat visits and expensive breakdowns later. A reputable repair shop will provide:

• Experienced, certified technicians who specialize in heavy-duty trucks.
• High-quality parts that meet or exceed OEM standards.
• Warranty coverage on both parts and labor.
• Transparent pricing with no surprise charges.

2. Overlooking Certifications and Experience

Not all repair shops are created equal. A general repair shop may claim they can fix heavy-duty trucks, but without the right training, tools, and experience, they could end up doing more harm than good. An experienced shop will understand the complexities of diesel engines, transmissions, aftertreatment systems, and air brakes, ensuring your repairs are done correctly.

Before trusting a shop with your rig, check for industry certifications and qualifications. Look for:

• ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certifications – Proof that the mechanics have specialized training.
• OEM or dealer-authorized service centers – Shops trained to work on specific truck brands.
• Years of experience in heavy-duty truck and trailer repair – A long track record is often a sign of reliability.

3. Ignoring Customer Reviews and Reputation

In today’s digital age, a shop’s reputation is easier to check than ever before. Yet, many truck owners skip this step and end up regretting it later. Online reviews and word-of-mouth recommendations can provide valuable insight into a repair shop’s reliability, professionalism, and customer service. If a shop has multiple negative reviews about sloppy work, rude staff, or dishonest pricing, it’s best to take your business elsewhere.

When researching a shop, take the time to:

• Read online reviews on Google, Yelp, and Facebook. Look for consistent patterns—if multiple reviews mention long wait times or poor communication, that’s a red flag.
• Ask other truckers or fleet managers for recommendations. Industry professionals know which shops are reputable and which ones to avoid.
• Check the shop’s Better Business Bureau rating. A high rating indicates good business practices and customer satisfaction.

4. Failing to Ask About Shop Capabilities

Not all truck repair shops offer the same level of service. Some specialize in diesel engine overhauls, while others focus on trailer repairs or electrical diagnostics. Walking into a shop without knowing their capabilities could result in wasted time, especially if they don’t have the tools or expertise for your specific issue. Choosing a shop with the right capabilities and equipment will ensure faster turnaround times and fewer delays.

Before choosing a shop, ask about:

• Diagnostic tools and equipment: Modern trucks require advanced ECU diagnostics, DPF regeneration, and telematics troubleshooting.
• Repair services offered: Some shops handle everything, while others only do specific work like brakes, suspension, or aftertreatment systems.
• Roadside assistance and mobile repairs: If you need emergency service, find out if the shop offers mobile truck repairs.
• Parts availability: Does the shop stock common filters, belts, and sensors, or will you have to wait days for parts to arrive?

5. Not Asking About Turnaround Time and Communication

A well-run shop understands that time is money, and getting your truck back on the road quickly is a priority. However not all shops operate efficiently—some have long wait times, poor scheduling, or lack clear communication about repair progress. A shop that values transparency and communication will keep you informed every step of the way, helping you plan accordingly.

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To avoid unnecessary downtime, ask the shop:

• How long will the repair take? A good shop provides an estimated timeframe and keeps you updated if delays occur.
• Do you offer priority service for fleet customers? If you run a fleet, some shops offer faster turnaround for repeat customers.
• How will you communicate updates? Will they call, text, or email updates on your truck’s status? A shop that ghosts you when your truck is in the bay is a major red flag.

Choose the Right Shop, Avoid Costly Mistakes

Picking the right truck repair shop is one of the most important decisions for keeping your rig in top shape. By avoiding these five common mistakes—focusing only on price, overlooking certifications, ignoring reviews, failing to check shop capabilities, and neglecting turnaround time—you can ensure you’re getting high-quality service from a trustworthy repair facility.

At B&B Truck & Trailer Repair in Colona, IL, we take pride in offering expert repairs, transparent pricing, and fast turnaround times to keep your fleet running strong. Need a reliable repair shop? Give us a call today! To learn more about the industry, read our article on signs your semi-trailer needs attention.