Most Common Truck Failures on the Road: Your Engine

Your truck is your business. You rely on your truck to stay on the road and drive many miles to earn your living. 

That is why it is so frustrating when your truck breaks down. It means you are out of work and your valuable contacts might lose trust in you.  

In a perfect world, your truck would never break down. Unfortunately, there are many common reasons for your truck to break down. You need to be aware of those threats and consistently take your truck in for preventative maintenance.  

In this series, we will explore common troubles with semi-trucks and common truck repairs.  

Worried about faulty breaks? Click here to read part one of our common truck repairs series. 

Today, we will take a quick look at the engine and common problems the engine faces that could lead to a breakdown.  

Common Reasons Your Semi-Truck Engine Might Breakdown 

Your truck’s engine is one of the most important parts of your truck. The engine is made up of many components working together, and it only takes one failure for the whole system to collapse.  

Let’s take a look at some of the most common issues that semi-truck engines face.  

Overheating 

A common issue semi-trucks face, overheating can be caused by multiple reasons. For example, your truck may overheat because of a faulty radiator, a clogged thermostat, low coolant levels, a malfunctioning water pump, or other reasons. 

You must take your truck in for regular maintenance and regularly check your coolant levels. Be sure to replace your thermostat as needed, and check your radiator for leaks before long drives.  

Fuel System Problems 

Another reason your engine might fail is fuel system problems. These can range from clogged fuel filters to leaky fuel lines.  

If your truck’s fuel system isn’t working efficiently, it can cause decreased performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and complete engine failure.  

Change your fuel filters regularly and inspect your fuel lines for any leaks. 

Engine Misfire 

Engine misfires are another reason your engine can break down.  

An engine misfire occurs when one or more cylinder in your truck’s engine doesn’t fire properly, causing decreased power and increased emissions.  

Reasons for engine misfires include malfunctioning spark plugs, clogged fuel injectors, worn-out ignition coils, and more.  

Make sure you have your spark plugs, fuel injectors, and ignition coils inspected regularly to avoid engine misfires. 

Engine Knock 

Engine knock is a problem that you will hear before you notice anything else.  

This problem occurs when you hear a knocking or pinging sound when the fuel in your truck’s engine ignites too early.  

This can increase the wear and tear on your engine and reduce fuel efficiency.  

Some causes for engine knock include incorrect octane levels, dirty fuel injectors, and malfunctioning air/fuel ratio sensors.  

To avoid engine knock, always make sure to use the recommended octane level for your truck and make sure your injectors are clean. 

Engine Failure 

Engine failure occurs when your engine shuts down and will not respond. It is a very serious problem that can result in the death of your engine.  

Some reasons for engine failure include long-term poor maintenance, worn-out components, and excessive wear and tear.  

The best thing you can do to reduce the chance of engine failure is to have your engine regularly looked at by an experienced mechanic. Always replace worn-out parts and avoid overloading your engine.  

Your Truck Repairs in Cincinnati at Beamers Piggyback 

Semi-truck problems are all too common. And if your engine is giving you problems, that could spell disaster for your truck as a whole.  

If your truck needs repairs in Cincinnati, take it into Beamers Piggyback.  

We have seen all the common reasons for truck breakdowns and we won’t let the worst happen to you.  

Reach out to Beamers Piggyback today to schedule your preventative maintenance! 

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