10 Secrets This Truck Mechanic Wants You to Know

Every truck mechanic has some secrets they’ll never tell – but there’s 10 they’d actually really love for you to be aware of. Below, we’ve shared the secrets that mechanics wish more people knew.

#1. Truck Mechanics Love Maintenance Questions

Sometimes, customers worry that they’ll annoy their truck mechanic with questions about maintenance. The opposite is true at M&L! Our techs love to answer your questions about how to best care for your vehicle. Our guys are very passionate about trucks, and are always happy to talk about them with you!

#2. Clean Trash Out of Your Vehicle Before Appointment

Our mechanics would like to kindly request that you clean your trucks out before your appointment. While it’s not necessary, it helps us access every component of your truck easily (and reduces odors). It doesn’t have to be spotless, but trash-free trucks are greatly preferred and appreciated by our techs. Thank you!
Close-up image of diesel and DEF inlets, located perilously close to each other. Know which is which.

#3. Where to Add DEF

Another secret our truck mechanics wish customers knew was where to put their DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid). The fill port is the one with a blue cap that reads DEF and is usually located near the fuel port. The exact location will depend on your make and model, but be sure you’re not putting the wrong fluids in the wrong port, as it can have disastrous effects! Ask our mechanics and they’d be happy to show you which one is for DEF.

#4. Cheap Parts Can Cost More in the Long Run

Truck mechanics worldwide are in agreement about this one: cheap parts will usually cost you more in the long run. Choosing low quality parts or services might seem appealing for the up-front cost, but ultimately, you could be doing damage to your truck or worse – compromising your safety. Feel free to ask out parts department for recommendations!

Close-up image of clean truck mechanic tools, laying on a work bench.

#5. The Cost of Truck Mechanic Tools

Truck mechanics wished more people knew how costly their tools are. A good set of diesel mechanic tools can cost $4,000 – $15,000! 

#6. Number of Tools Needed

Beyond the cost, truck mechanics also want you to know just how many tools are needed. Besides the standard set with wrenches, ratchets, and sockets, there’s also diagnostic tools, cranes, lifts, jacks, and more. Truly, the equipment needed to service any truck in any scenario is quite robust!

#7. Cost of Truck Mechanic Training

With all the grease and grime, a lot of people forget that truck mechanics are actually trained professionals. Most complete a post-secondary education lasting between 6 months to 2 years, and it can cost up to $50,000 in tuition and fees.

Close-up image of an engine a truck mechanic might work on.

#8. Complexity of Modern Vehicles

Due to strict emission regulations and sophisticated components, engine design has gotten much more intricate in recent years. In addition, there’s many new electronic components that used to be mechanical. All of these updates improve fuel economy, but can create a more complicated job for our techs.

#9. Warning Sounds of Impending Problems

Our mechanics wished more customers knew not to delay service when you hear warning sounds. Unexpected sounds can be indicative of anything from a small problem to a really big one. Rattling, shaking, knocking, scraping, squeaking, squealing, hissing, and roaring can all be signs of a major problem with your truck – please get those checked out as soon as possible to avoid further damage!

#10. Big Don's Birthday!

The infamous Mr. Donald Benton is a staple in our shop. He gets a lot of kudos for his work on a daily basis, but that’s simply not enough. We wish the whole world knew his birthday so that he can feel extra special every year! It’s October 7, so if you happen to have an appointment on that day, be sure to wish Don a very happy birthday!

Okay, the last one is admittedly a little silly – but the others are tips that our mechanics really would love our customers to know! We hope it gives you a greater appreciation for your truck mechanic. Dying to know a few more secrets? Give us a call!

Picture of Meet Parts Department Lead, Brian Renshaw
Meet Parts Department Lead, Brian Renshaw

Brian is the head of our Federalsburg location's parts department. His first car was a 1989 Mazda 626 and his favorite tool is a cordless drill.