Top Common Commercial Truck Mechanical Problems Drivers Face & How to Prevent Them
As a driver and operator of a commercial truck, mechanical failures mean frustration, wasted time, and falling behind on delivery schedules. Add the high costs of repairs to the mix, and a single issue can cause a substantial financial loss.
Knowing the top 10 most common commercial truck mechanical problems assists you to recognize dangerous warning signs and prioritize preventive maintenance on affected parts. When a mechanical failure is unavoidable, a warranty can help you get back on the road faster — and with less money lost.
The 10 Most Common Commercial Truck Mechanical Problems
From brakes to tires and engines to electrical, find out which 10 mechanical issues frequently have an impact on truckers. Continue reading to check out our commercial truck maintenance tips to keep you safe on the road.
1. Commercial Truck Brake Problems
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), brake problems are one of the leading contributors to large truck crashes in the US. Brakes are already under pressure in every vehicle. In a semi-truck, that pressure is ramped up significantly by heavy loads.
Any number of issues can cause brakes to give out under the pressure, including:
- Worn brake pads
- Corroded brake lines
- Faulty master cylinder
- Leaking brake caliper
- Inadequate maintenance
- Improper driving practices, such as frequent hard braking
- Tires that have excessive wear or inadequate air pressure
- Overheating of the brake system
- Brakes being out of adjustment
If you notice leaking brake fluid, squeaking brakes, or difficulty slowing down smoothly, it may be a sign of a worsening brake issue. Ignoring worn brakes can lead to full brake failure, which can cause serious road accidents. Prioritize regular checks and maintenance on your brake system — including brake fluid, brake calipers, and pads — to prevent failure.
2. Commercial Truck Tire Blowouts
Overloading your truck, using poor-quality tires, or overinflating or underinflating your tires can all lead to tire problems. These issues can cause unstable road movements or a jerky feeling while you’re steering. Other tire-related issues, like wheel bearing degradation, can further reduce control. At worst, a tire might puncture or blow out, delaying your journey and risking accidents.
To avoid problems, regularly rotate your tires, replace worn ones, and adjust tire pressure. If an issue does come up, keeping plenty of spares on hand means you're prepared for a quick fix.
3. Oil Leaks
Leaking oil might not be noticeable at first but, in the long run, it can cause lasting damage. Without enough oil, parts don’t have enough lubrication, creating friction between truck parts that can lead to failure. As with many common mechanical issues, an oil leak can be caught and fixed early with preventive maintenance.
4. Commercial Truck Transmission Problems
Transmission failure can leave you and your truck stranded on the side of the road. But what causes your transmission to fail? Causes may include overloading, poor weight distribution, and insufficient maintenance which can lead to your transmission wearing down over time.
If you run into difficulty shifting gears, hear unusual humming or clicking noises, or notice a slight burning smell, your transmission might be the culprit. Fluid leaks under your vehicle can also be a sign of a transmission problem. Regularly inspect transmission fluid, filters, and belts, and replace them as needed to avoid being sidelined by transmission failure.
5. Commercial Truck Engine Problems
Blown gaskets, leaks, and overheating can all cause your engine to stall, forcing you to pull over for the foreseeable future. If you run into engine issues on the road, put safety first. Try to pull over as far as possible and put out flares or warning markers behind your truck to alert other drivers and avoid accidents.
Again, regular maintenance can help you avoid these issues. Make sure to check for wear and leaks consistently, and address anything out of the ordinary immediately.
6. Commercial Truck Overheating Issues
All kinds of systems can overheat in your truck, from your brakes to your engine and beyond. Extended brake usage without adequate rest can cause brake failure through overheating. Engine overheating can be caused by leaking coolant, faulty thermometers, or old radiators.
Pre-trip inspections and routine maintenance can help you identify potential overheating factors before you hit the road, preventing you from blocking traffic or having to pull over. If overheating occurs, a mobile repair technician may be necessary—expensive without a covering warranty.
7. Steering and Suspension Break Downs
We don’t need to tell you that not being able to steer your truck is a bad thing. When your steering goes bad, either from inadequate maintenance, wear from driving behaviors like sudden turns or lane changes, or extensive stress from heavy loads, your chance of getting in an accident skyrockets.
Suspension issues, signaled by clicking sounds or feeling shaking in your truck, can also be dangerous. When a suspension issue first pops up, the ball joint on one side of your truck will start to wear out, making for quite the bumpy ride.
Either one of these issues creates the perfect set of circumstances for longer stopping distances, erratic driving, and potential accidents. As we’ve mentioned for all of the items on this list so far, preventative commercial truck maintenance makes a huge difference in preventing these issues before they cause worse damage.
8. Commercial Truck Electrical Problems
If you suspect electrical issues, look out for flickering or flashing lights, clicking noises (especially when trying to start your truck), or the inability to start your vehicle. After noticing any of these symptoms, you’ll probably need to replace old electrical components with new ones to keep road readiness. Otherwise, you may not be able to get going on your next route.
Also, if your exterior lights fail, your truck won’t be safe to drive in the rain or dark. Defective fuses, relays, or modules, excessive resistance in the circuit, faulty wiring, or damaged bulbs can all cause lighting issues, reducing visibility for you and the drivers around you.
Electrical problems often originate in your alternator, starter motor, or battery. Make sure to be alert for the warning signs and inspect your truck regularly to prevent these costly issues when you’re in a rush.
9. An Exhausted Exhaust System
A healthy exhaust is not only good for you, your truck, and the environment, it also keeps you in compliance with FMCSA regulations and aids you in avoiding DOT violations. Avoid breakdowns by regularly replacing cabin air filters and other exhaust system parts. Also, ensure your own comfort by keeping an eye on any particles making their way into the truck interior while driving, which can affect both driver health and vehicle performance.
10. A Broken Clutch
Your clutch can give out with regular wear over time, with extra wear because you’ve been hard on it, or from a combination of the two. Extend your clutch's life by practicing safe driving habits and only use it according to manufacturer recommendations. Otherwise, your truck might jerk, stall, or lose power, making driving it unsafe.
How a Warranty Can Help
Commercial truck repair costs are no joke — Trucker’s Report estimates an expected cost of $15,000 annually, plus an extra $4,000 for tires(!). Avoid facing these costs alone with an extended truck warranty, which can help cover these issues, save you time and money, and protect your livelihood.
Different types of truck warranty coverage can have your back when specific parts break, for up to five years or 100,000 miles. You can get a powertrain warranty which typically lasts longer and covers issues with your engine, transmission, and drivetrain components. Alternatively, you can get a bumper-to-bumper warranty that covers more components but has shorter-term coverage. Either way, find the warranty that fits your needs at America’s Trucking Warranty (ATW).
Protect Your Truck With America's Trucking Warranty
If you’re searching for a semi-truck warranty, look no further than America’s Trucking Warranty. ATW offers extended warranties that include roadside assistance and mobile mechanic coverage, making sure you can get help whenever and wherever you need it for a fraction of the cost.
Whether you’re looking for a medium duty or heavy-duty commercial truck warranty, we’ve got you covered. Learn more about America’s Trucking Warranty’s plans, and reach out for a customized free quote today.
