our Annual Tire Sale is back!

July 1 - 31

The Service Company's annual semi truck tire sale is back! All tires in all sizes are on sale for the month of July. Including drive tires, steer tires, trailer tires, and lift axle tires. We also install tires! Come by our shop to see what's available.

Learn More

April 21, 2023

Common Issues That Can Be Identified Through 18-Wheeler Truck Diagnostics

Across the United States, nearly two million truck drivers move more than ten billion tons of goods every year. It is safe to say that millions of businesses across the country rely on fleets of 18-wheelers to be on the road. 

Preventive maintenance is the key to recognizing potential problems before they can cause disruption and minimizing fleet downtime. As the majority of overland freight in this country relies on timely departures and deliveries, truck drivers and fleet managers need to ensure their vehicles stay on the road. 

Over the past few years, computer-based diagnostics has become an essential tool to help manage maintenance and keep the industry running smoothly. 

What are 18-Wheeler Diagnostics?

Cast your mind back just a couple of decades ago or so and being a great 18-wheeler mechanic meant relying on years of experience as well as solid training. In addition, some of the best mechanics had a kind of uncanny feel for the fleet they looked after. 

Whilst these qualities continue to be sought-after in 18-wheeler engineers, today’s mechanics can rely on powerful truck diagnostics. Rather than having to take the vehicle apart to get to the source of common problems, engineers connect a laptop or other computer to the 18-wheeler’s electronic control units (ECUs). 

The computer runs through a series of detailed checks of the truck’s systems and components. If it finds something out of the ordinary, the engineers receive an error code pointing them toward a solution. The diagnostic tool will not only provide the code as a number but, in most cases, will also interpret it. As a result, mechanics and engineers can shortcut the lengthy process of fault-finding and move straight to fixing the issue.

Which Issues Can Diagnostics Help Identify?

Diagnostics can help identify a wide range of problems with your fleet, including:

  • Engine problems
  • Brake system issues
  • Transmission problems
  • Exhaust system concerns
  • Fuel injection abnormalities
  • Airflow and coolant disruptions
  • Problems with the ignition system
  • Throttle issues

Diagnostic tests can be run on the spot, but fleet managers can also use the data gathered by the vehicle’s ECUs to analyze performance over time. Doing this regularly allows managers to spot any deviation from normal values early, potentially even before a fault light is triggered. 

Once parameters have left the range that is considered acceptable for a given brand of truck, diagnostics deliver an error code. Depending on the nature of the problem, most error codes point to the area of the problem but may not identify, for example, the exact gasket. That is where engineers and experience continue to be invaluable. 

An 18-wheeler’s anti-lock brake system (ABS) is among the most common systems to be tested during diagnostic checks. Granted, larger issues with the system will result in a dashboard warning light on most trucks. However, running diagnostic tests allows you to catch issues before they become critical. As a result, repairs tend to be less arduous and downtime can be minimized effectively. 

For most fleet managers and truck owners, electrical failures and engine faults are next on their list of testing priorities. These tests can do more than find issues that need to be repaired. They can also highlight inefficiencies in the way the engine is running. Identifying and rectifying those inefficiencies keeps your fleet on the road and contributes to cost savings for fuel, lubricants, and other consumables. 

How Fleet Managers Benefit

18-wheeler diagnostics can make the difference between a trucking business making a profit and growing or struggling to survive. Here are some of the ways how truck diagnostics contribute to the bottom line of a business:

  • Reducing the time needed to identify faults
  • Freeing up engineers’ time to repair faults
  • Reducing overall maintenance costs because problems are found early and fast
  • Making preventive maintenance schedules convenient and easy to adhere to

Whilst diagnostic tools can’t replace experienced technicians, they can significantly reduce the time engineers spend trying to identify the problem. Even highlighting the area that needs attention rather than the exact problem saves hours of maintenance time. Rather than being out of circulation, trucks remain on the road, allowing their owners to deliver on time. 

Engineers benefit by being able to use their time more efficiently. Diagnostics reduce hours of fault-finding to minutes in many cases, allowing engineers to concentrate on fixing the problem as opposed to finding it. 

Diagnostic tools can also significantly cut the cost of 18-wheeler repairs because problems are found early. By the time the engine light on the dashboard of a truck lights up, the underlying problem has often gone from a small issue to a more significant one. As a consequence, fixing the issue is more costly than it would have been with an earlier diagnosis. 

Cost savings also apply to staff time. Spending hours trying to identify potential faults on a truck is simply not the best use of your team’s time when a machine could diagnose (or at least narrow down) the fault reliably in less time. 

As a fleet manager, you can redirect your engineers’ time to other tasks that can’t be completed by a machine whilst diagnostics tools lay the groundwork for potential repairs. Plus, diagnostics can be run by less experienced team members, too, freeing up your senior staff’s time and training newer recruits. 

Truck diagnostics make it easier to put in place and adhere to preventive maintenance schedules. Because diagnostics are comparatively fast, these checks don’t require hours or even days of downtime. Instead, they allow you to keep your fleet in top shape and on the road at the same time. 

Final Thoughts

18-wheeler diagnostics have changed the way the industry approaches maintenance. Rather than relying on engineers alone, diagnostic tools significantly contribute toward efficient and fast maintenance, both preventively and when faults have been found. The technology complements the knowledge and experience of highly-qualified engineers to the benefit of trucking companies around the country. 

Similar posts

Heavy-Duty Truck Repair Shop

Finding A Heavy-Duty Truck Repair Shop That’s Right For You

When your business depends on a fleet of heavy-duty trucks, choosing the right repair shop is essential. Find one that understands your vehicles, is reliable, and provides excellent service. Here are key questions to ask and why The Service Company in Greenville, Ohio is a perfect fit.

Role of Counterboring in Heavy-Duty Truck Engine Repair

The Role of Counterboring in Heavy-Duty Truck Engine Repair

For reliable cylinder head counterboring services, contact The Service Company. We specialize in resolving liner protrusion and damaged block issues. Visit our website or call us to schedule an appointment.

Heavy-Duty Trailer Chassis Repair Service

The Benefits Of Using A Professional Heavy-Duty Trailer Chassis Repair Service

Discover the benefits of hiring a professional for repairing your heavy-duty trailer chassis. Learn how worn chassis parts can impact truck performance and how professional mechanics can use specialized techniques to restore them. Ensure your truck is brought back to its original functionality through proper repairs. Read on to understand the advantages of entrusting your heavy-duty trailer chassis repairs to experts.

Peterbilt Model 579

The Peterbilt Model 579 - Is It The New Benchmark For 2022?

Peterbilt's new Model 579 truck has undergone a significant redesign, incorporating driver and fleet feedback. It features a sleek, aerodynamic front end, improved rear-view mirrors, and enhanced comfort and productivity elements inside the cab. The truck's fuel efficiency has been boosted up to 7% with new aerodynamic features. The Model 579 is a significant improvement from its predecessors and represents a major step forward for Peterbilt.

18-Wheeler Truck Diagnostics

Common Issues That Can Be Identified Through 18-Wheeler Truck Diagnostics

Preventive maintenance is the key to recognizing potential problems before they can cause disruption and minimizing fleet downtime. As the majority of overland freight in this country relies on timely departures and deliveries, truck drivers and fleet managers need to ensure their vehicles stay on the road.

Heavy Duty Trucks Maintenance in Winters

7 Preventive Maintenance Tips For Winters - Heavy Duty Trucks

Preventive maintenance is critical to keeping your fleet on the road throughout the year. Spotting and resolving problems early helps minimize associated costs and downtime for your fleet. Here are our top tips for efficient winter maintenance for heavy-duty trucks. 

Truck Engine Overhaul

5 Signs That You Need To Overhaul Your Truck Engine

Using an older truck is not necessarily a disadvantage, but it does mean that you need to look out for signs indicating a need for maintenance. Engine problems are among the biggest potential issues heavy-duty truckers could be facing. To spot potential issues early, look out for these five signs that may indicate your engine needs an overhaul. 

Peterbilt Truck Repair: Signs Your Peterbilt Truck Needs Suspension Repair

Peterbilt Truck Repair: Signs Your Peterbilt Truck Needs Suspension Repair

The suspension system in a Peterbilt truck increases tire-road contact friction, increases passenger comfort, and provides steering stability. If your suspension is worn or damaged, you may notice the following signs and symptoms. 

What Is The Most Reliable Semi Truck Engine?

What Is The Most Reliable Semi Truck Engine?

Semi-truck models come in a wide variety of features tailored to various applications. But the most important aspects of a truck, whether you are making a short or long trip, are its durability and torque.

Truck Radiator Repair: What Does Cooling System Repair Mean?

Truck Radiator Repair: What Does Cooling System Repair Mean?

Today we’ll be discussing everything you need to know about your truck’s coolant system, including its anatomy, how it all works, and what symptoms to look out for should it start to malfunction. 

6 Indicators That Your Heavy-Duty Truck Needs A Wheel Alignment

6 Indicators That Your Heavy-Duty Truck Needs A Wheel Alignment

In this blog post, we will discuss six common indicators that your heavy-duty truck needs a wheel alignment. Keep reading to learn more!

Kenworth Truck Engine Repair Warnings and Indicators - Ultimate Guide

Kenworth Truck Engine Repair Warnings and Indicators - Ultimate Guide

It’s important for fleet managers and drivers to be able to identify wear and tear when it happens. Catching problems early can save you a lot of money in the long run, and for those who push the boundaries of their preventive maintenance regimen, that know-how is a necessity. Let's examine some of the most typical Kenworth repairs that fleet managers encounter. 

7 Steps To Maximize Truck Efficiency And Reduce Emissions

7 Steps To Maximize Truck Efficiency And Reduce Emissions

There are many ways to make heavy-duty trucks more efficient and reduce their emissions. Here are seven steps that trucking fleets can take to maximize efficiency and reduce their environmental impact.

How To Maximize Heavy-Duty Truck Performance - 7 Tips

How To Maximize Heavy-Duty Truck Performance - 7 Tips

There are several ways in which you can actually improve your truck’s performance as well, rather than maintain its factory power output. Here are seven excellent suggestions to help you enhance and even maximize the performance of your heavy-duty diesel truck. 

5 Tips For Preventing Common Trucking Breakdowns For Your Freightliner Truck

5 Tips For Preventing Common Trucking Breakdowns For Your Freightliner Truck

Through a combination of preventive maintenance and careful inspection, you can ensure your Freightliner truck continues to run at peak performance and efficiency for years to come. To help you undergo this process, we’ve put together a series of steps that if followed, will prevent unexpected breakdowns and save you money. 

PACCAR TX-18, TX-12 & TX-8 Transmissions

PACCAR TX-18, TX-12 & TX-8 Transmissions

PACCAR heavy-duty trucks come along with superior transmission technologies. When you are about to get one of the PACCAR heavy-duty trucks, it is better to have a basic understanding of those transmission options.

4 Things To Consider When Choosing The Right Shop For Your Truck Wheel Balancing and Alignments

4 Things To Consider When Choosing The Right Shop For Your Truck Wheel Balancing and Alignments

You often rely on your heavy-duty truck to travel hundreds of miles every day, and because of this, it’s important to ensure that your wheels are properly balanced. If you don't, you may face unpleasant repercussions. Finding the right diesel repair shop to perform wheel balancing can sometimes prove to be difficult. We've put together a list of 4 things to consider while looking for a wheel balancing service provider.

Paccar MX 13 Turbo - Complete Guide

Paccar MX 13 Turbo - Complete Guide

There are few engines as capable or as fuel-efficient as the Paccar MX 13 turbo engine. Designed specifically for the needs of truckers, this engine is ideal for transporting large loads over long distances.