According to a study by TruckersReport maintenance and repair for trucks and trailers will cost the average owner-operator around $15,000 per year. Looking at that price tag, it’s easy to see why truck owners may want to cut costs wherever possible. But opting for the cheapest truck and trailer repair shop isn’t always the best solution in the long run.
You rely on your heavy-duty vehicle for your livelihood. The better you care for it, the longer it will serve you. That’s why when looking for a truck maintenance and repair provider, you should always look for these qualities.
They Offer Transparent Pricing and Preventative Maintenance
It’s no secret that the trucking industry runs on some narrow margins. So while you should avoid making a decision based on price alone, there are a few financial points that you want to look for.
First, an honest repair shop will pride itself on its transparency. They know what their services are worth, and don’t feel the need to pad their bills with overcharges or hidden expenses.
Second, you should ask about their preventative maintenance plans. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Investing in comprehensive maintenance and upkeep now can save you more expensive repairs and downtime later.
They Provide Quality That You Can Count On
You want an auto mechanic with a reputation that you can count on. Look for positive word-of-mouth within the trucking community. Find out how long a prospect has been in the business and what kind of experience they have.
A good reputation is only worth so much, however. People can be biased toward a service provider for any number of reasons. So to be sure you’re getting top-quality service, you should always opt for an ASE-certified mechanic.
ASE is short for the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence. They’re a non-profit organization that provides certifications for auto professionals. The ASE Blue Seal certification is one of the most prestigious designations in the industry.
An ASE Blue Seal ensures that the professionals in a shop have extensive knowledge of a variety of vehicle systems. They’re also required to continue their education to keep their knowledge up-to-date.
They’re a Shop You Can Build a Lasting Relationship With
While the average lifespan of a trailer truck is about 750,000 miles, they’ve been known to last for much longer. One Florida trucker managed to drive his vehicle for more than 3,000,000 miles over 23 years. So considering how long you could be behind the wheel, you want a service provider that you can build a lasting relationship with.
Building a partnership with your auto repair shop can help you get a long, productive life out of your truck. Over time, your providers will get used to your routines and the unique demands they put on your truck. With that familiarity, they’ll be able to provide you with the best possible maintenance to keep you on the road for longer.
Never Cut Corners When Looking for a Truck and Trailer Repair Shop
The cost of truck repairs is nothing to be taken lightly. But at the same time, you rely on your truck every working day. Opting for low costs over high quality can wind up shortening your vehicle’s lifespan.
That’s why you need a truck and trailer repair shop that can balance those needs and build a strong working relationship with its customers. Express Auto Service has the experience and expertise to answer that call. Reach out to us today or stop by our Fredericksburg location to see how our superior service makes a difference for our customers.