What Are the Most Common Repairs for Class 8 Trucks?
When you're clocking serious miles behind the wheel of a Class 8 truck, breakdowns aren't a matter of "if", they’re a matter of "when." These 33,000+ lb machines haul everything from heavy machinery to fresh produce. But their size and stamina come with a price: wear and tear that can put you on the side of I-15 faster than you can say "check engine light."
That’s why we’ve asked our team what the most common repairs for Class 8 trucks are.
1. Brake System Repairs
Brake issues are among the most frequent repairs we see for heavy-duty trucks. With the sheer weight they carry, especially on Nevada's steep grades, brakes take a serious beating.
Unlike light vehicles that use hydraulic brakes, Class 8 trucks rely on compressed air brake systems—a complex setup involving air compressors, slack adjusters, service chambers, and more.
Common Brake Repairs
- Slack adjuster replacement
- S-cam wear
- Brake shoe and drum resurfacing or replacement
- Air line leaks or freeze-ups
- Faulty air dryers allowing moisture buildup
Symptoms like poor stopping power, squealing, or pulling to one side shouldn’t be ignored. At 80,000 pounds, delayed braking can be deadly.
2. Diesel Engine Troubles
Diesel engines are rugged but far from invincible. Whether it’s Cummins, Detroit, or PACCAR, problems often stem from fuel system issues, EGR valve failures, or oil pressure drops.
Frequent Engine Repairs
- Fuel injector replacement
- Turbocharger failures
- Glow plug malfunction
- Oil pump failure
- Cooling system repairs due to cracked hoses or bad water pumps
White smoke, power loss, or burning oil are red flags. North Las Vegas heat is brutal on engines, and overheating can escalate quickly.
3. Transmission Failures
Transmission problems are no joke, especially when hauling up mountainous Nevada terrain. Whether manual, automated manual, or automatic, issues like gear slipping or overheating are inevitable.
Most Common Transmission Fixes
- Clutch adjustments or replacements (manual)
- Transmission fluid flushes or leak repairs
- ECU reprogramming (AMTs)
- Torque converter failures
Sluggish acceleration or gears refusing to engage are signs to visit the shop before a minor issue becomes a full rebuild.
4. Suspension and Steering Component Wear
Nevada highways aren’t always kind. Years of bouncing over potholes and rail crossings wreak havoc on suspension systems.
Common Suspension Repairs
- Replacing leaf spring hangers or cracked springs
- Airbag repairs or compressor issues
- Shock absorber replacement
- Worn kingpins or tie rods
Bouncy rides, leaning, or steering play are early warning signs of bigger problems.
5. After-Treatment System Failures (DPF, SCR, EGR)
Emissions systems keep the air clean but are notorious for causing downtime.
Typical After-Treatment Problems
- Clogged DPF needing forced regeneration
- EGR cooler failure
- DEF dosing pump issues
- SCR catalyst degradation
Warning lights, poor fuel economy, or limp mode are common symptoms—especially in extreme heat.
6. Cooling System Failures
Overheating is a Class 8 trucker’s nightmare. The cooling system works overtime under the Mojave sun.
Common Cooling System Issues
- Cracked radiator tanks or hoses
- Failed fan clutch
- Plugged radiator fins
- Faulty water pump
- Low coolant due to leaks
If your temperature gauge climbs, pull over. Overheating can cause catastrophic engine damage.
7. Electrical and Charging System Issues
Modern Class 8 trucks rely heavily on electronics. Electrical failures can halt your route instantly.
Common Electrical Repairs
- Starter motor or alternator failure
- Shorted wiring harnesses
- Sensor replacements (NOx, DPF, etc.)
- Battery and cable corrosion
Slow starts, dead batteries, or multiple warning lights are signs of electrical trouble.
8. Wheel-End Repairs and Bearing Failures
Wheel bearings keep your wheels spinning smoothly. When they fail, heat builds fast—sometimes enough to seize the wheel assembly.
Signs and Fixes
- Overheating wheel hubs
- Loud grinding or screeching
- Bearing repacking or replacement
- Axle seal leaks
Left untreated, a failed bearing can weld itself to the spindle, requiring full hub replacement.
Conclusion: Know What to Expect, Stay Ready
Class 8 trucks are workhorses, but even the toughest rigs need care. Brake systems, engines, transmissions, cooling components, and emissions equipment make up the majority of repairs.
Whether you're running freight across I-15 or navigating stop-and-go routes near Las Vegas, staying ahead of these issues keeps your wheels rolling and your load on time.
Need help staying ahead of the curve? Don’t wait until you're sidelined. Schedule your next inspection or maintenance check today!