letterfly

Unnecessary Parts Replaced – Problem Not Fixed

Unnecessary Parts Replaced – Problem Not Fixed

While traveling through Georgia, I brought my 2000 Freightliner Century to Deaton Truck & Tire Service in Adairsville because of intermittent power steering failure. Over the phone, Joey diagnosed it as a failing power steering pump and gearbox. Both expensive parts were replaced — but the original problem remained.

After leaving the shop, a trusted mechanic in Dothan, Alabama, discovered the real issue: a seized telescoping steering column, a common Freightliner problem that was easily fixed with cleaning and lubrication.

Had proper diagnostic steps been taken (such as pressure-testing the pump or inspecting the column), the costly and unnecessary replacement of the pump and gearbox could have been avoided. The oversight left me with a large repair bill and no resolution.

I respect hardworking truck technicians, but this experience revealed a serious lack of diagnostic accuracy and attention to detail. Independent operators like me depend on fair and competent service — and this visit was both disappointing and expensive.

— Dave “Letterfly” Knoderer, Plant City, FL