Why Should You Always Call A Roadside Repair Service First?

When your rig has an issue that takes it out of commission, you know you're facing one of two possibilities: you'll either need an in-place repair or a tow to the nearest service depot. Heavy-duty tows aren't cheap, so it's often cost-effective to avoid them whenever possible. In-place fixes are even more critical if you're an owner-operator paying out-of-pocket for your breakdown.

But, what happens if you call a mobile repair service and still need a tow? It's easy to overthink the decision and worry that you'll spend more money in the long run by not calling a tow truck first, but this is rarely the case. Before calling up a wrecker, consider these three reasons why a roadside repair service should be your first contact in any breakdown situation.

1. The Law of Averages

Consider the typical breakdowns you might experience while making a run. The majority of them are relatively minor, such as blown-out tires, fluid leaks, or other issues that don't require a long service visit. Roadside service trucks can handle the vast majority of these problems, as well as many more substantial repairs, as long as they don't involve removing the engine or transmission from your tractor.

Even if you eventually find yourself in a situation that a roadside mechanic can't fix, your overall repair costs will average over time. The money you've saved by avoiding a tow for vastly more common minor issues will likely average out versus a one-time expensive for something more serious. Trucking businesses are numbers games, so it pays to take the approach that saves the most money on average.

2. Phone Support

Mobile technicians don't want to waste their time with jobs they can't solve. Most roadside repair companies will do everything to understand your situation before sending a mechanic to your location. As a result, you're less likely to have a company dispatch a roadside repair truck to your position unless they're reasonably confident they can help you get back on the road.

Of course, you'll also have some responsibility in this process. When you contact a roadside repair company, always be prepared to provide detailed information about symptoms, maintenance history, and any other questions they have. These details help them evaluate your situation to determine if their mechanic can help or if you'll need a tow.

3. Faster Turnaround

Perhaps the most significant advantage that comes from roadside repair is the fast turnaround time. Not only do tow trucks take time to arrive, but a service shop may not be able to diagnose and repair your problem immediately. Roadside repair minimizes your downtime, so you can get back on the road much more quickly.

While not every problem is solvable on the roadside, many don't require a visit to a full-service depot. By making a roadside repair service your first call, you'll have the best chance of saving money and staying on schedule.

For more information on roadside semi-truck repair, contact a company near you.