Diesel Repair Cost Estimates: 5 Questions to Ask Your Mechanic

Diesel repair cost estimates depend on a variety of factors. This makes it almost impossible to give you a price without first diagnosing your truck. However, there are a few questions you can ask your mechanic that should give you a better idea of the ballpark of your diesel repair estimate.

1. What do you think of these symptoms?​

Sharing the symptoms you’ve been experiencing with your truck can give your mechanic a general idea of the problem area. For example, if there is shuddering, it is likely a transmission issue which will have a higher cost. If it’s a rattling sound, it could be just a loose part somewhere which would be a quick, inexpensive fix. Giving your mechanic a general idea of the symptoms can start to give them a picture of your diesel repairs – and how costly they might be.
Image of check engine lights on heavy duty truck dash, which might lead to getting a diesel repair estimate.

2. Do you recommend aftermarket or OEM parts?

Ultimately, this choice will always be up to you, the customer. We can say that aftermarket parts are generally less expensive, but can also be less reliable. OEM (Original Engine Manufacturer) parts generally have the best longevity and warranties, but come at a higher cost. Feel free to ask our experts what they would recommend for any given replacement!

3. How soon can you finish the job?

We can bump your vehicle up in priority, but it does come with an additional cost. If you are dealing with an urgent issue, we are happy to accommodate you, but it might make your diesel repair estimate go up. For the best cost savings, don’t request a rush job. We will still get to your vehicle expediently, but you won’t have those additional high-priority fees.
Image of black 1990s model Peterbilt truck, with black box trailer.

4. Do you have the parts for my specific vehicle?

For owners of older vehicles that are 20+ years old, you may already know the struggles of finding compatible parts. These older trucks can require parts that are hard to track down, or are just downright expensive. Let us know what you’re driving when you call, and we can give you a better idea of the parts situation with that year, make, and model.

5. What is included in my diesel repair estimate?

When you get a diesel repair estimate from M&L, you can be assured that it is complete and accurate. We provide you with the diagnostic information (i.e., what is wrong with your truck), propose solutions, and give you a timeline and a list of parts affected. We will also contact you if we uncover additional issues once we start work. Customers always approve the estimate before we start work, so you’ll know exactly what you’ll pay, up front.

Ready to book a diesel repair estimate? Click the button below to either request a diagnostic appointment via email, or call us directly to speak with a diesel repair specialist.

Picture of Meet M&L Technician, Jay Walls
Meet M&L Technician, Jay Walls

Jay Walls is a technician with many years of experience at M&L. His first car was a pedal car and his favorite tool is an anvil.