FAQ
Repair Shop | Towing | Road Service | PMP Inspection | Emissions | Hydraulics | Tires | A/C | Generators | Diesel Engines | Electronics / ECM
Frequently Asked Questions: Heavy Truck Repair Shop in Mirabel
Is your truck losing power, is your transmission acting up or does an electrical problem keep coming back? At our Mirabel shop, we handle maintenance, diagnostics and repairs for heavy trucks and commercial vehicles. We find the cause of the problem so we can recommend the right repairs.
What types of trucks do you repair?
We work on heavy trucks, highway tractors and a range of medium-duty commercial vehicles. This includes Kenworth, Peterbilt, Freightliner, Western Star, International, Volvo, Mack, Hino and Isuzu. The truck's make, engine and the work required allow us to confirm whether we can take on the job.
What work can you do in the shop?
We perform maintenance and repairs on engines, transmissions, brakes, suspension, steering, electrical systems and air systems. We also handle electronic diagnostics, emissions systems, hydraulics and air conditioning. The work is planned based on the vehicle's condition and the diagnostic results.
Do you work on Cummins, Detroit and PACCAR engines?
Yes. We service Cummins ISX, X15 and L9, Detroit DD13, DD15 and DD16, as well as PACCAR MX-11 and MX-13 engines. We also work on several Caterpillar, Volvo, Mack, Hino and Isuzu engines. Give us the engine model or the truck's VIN so we can narrow down your request.
My truck is losing power. Can you find out why?
Yes. We start with the symptoms, the active codes and the operating data. The cause may be related to the fuel system, air intake, turbo, engine, emissions system or electronics. These checks guide the repair before any parts are replaced.
Can you diagnose an intermittent electrical fault?
Yes. A truck that starts one day and won't start the next may require several checks. We inspect power supplies, grounds, connectors, wiring and communication networks. A clear description of the conditions under which the fault occurs helps us reproduce it.
Do you offer fleet maintenance?
Yes. We can schedule maintenance and repairs with carriers and fleet managers. The goal is to identify problems, prioritize the work and take into account how the vehicles are used. Mobile service calls can also complement the work done in the shop.
If my truck can't be driven, can you still take care of it?
Contact us with its location and a description of the breakdown. We can determine whether an on-site diagnosis is appropriate or whether heavy-duty towing is required. When the repair calls for more extensive disassembly, the vehicle can be brought to our Mirabel garage.
Tell us what your truck is doing and send us its VIN.
We'll point you toward a shop appointment or an on-site service call.
Your Questions: Heavy-Duty Towing in Mirabel and on the North Shore
Is your truck stranded and unable to continue on its way? MT Service Routier offers heavy truck towing and mechanical roadside assistance. Depending on the situation, we can assess the breakdown on site or move the vehicle to our shop or to an agreed-upon destination.
What vehicles can you tow?
We handle heavy trucks, highway tractors and various commercial vehicles. The choice of equipment depends on the vehicle's weight, dimensions, configuration and condition. This information allows us to confirm the type of service required before heading out.
Can you tow a tractor with its semi-trailer?
That depends on the combination's configuration, the load and the conditions on site. Let us know whether the tractor is hooked up, whether the trailer is loaded and whether part of the combination can be moved separately. We then assess the method and equipment required.
What areas do you cover for heavy towing?
We serve Mirabel and the North Shore, including Saint-Jérôme, Blainville, Boisbriand and Saint-Eustache. For Laval, Montréal or another destination, contact us with the exact location so we can confirm the service and the transport arrangements.
Can you repair the truck before towing it?
When the location and the breakdown allow it, yes. Our diesel mechanics can check whether an on-site repair is possible. If the truck can safely get back on the road after the repair, towing may be avoided. For a major breakdown, we arrange to have it moved instead.
Can you tow directly to your shop?
Yes. We can bring the truck to our Mirabel shop to continue the diagnosis and carry out the repair. Another destination can also be arranged during the call. This lets us plan the next steps as soon as we take charge of the vehicle.
Can a truck with locked brakes be towed?
We first need to know the cause of the lock-up and the condition of the wheels, air system and transmission. A vehicle that doesn't roll freely may require preparation or additional equipment. Mention this situation when you call so we can assess the job.
What information do I need to provide when requesting a tow?
Give us the exact location, the truck's make and model, the type of breakdown and the desired destination. Let us know if there is a trailer, a load, locked wheels or access constraints. A few photos can also help us prepare.
Do you offer towing for fleets?
Yes. Carriers can contact us about a disabled vehicle and arrange for it to be handled. Depending on the need, we can combine mechanical roadside assistance, towing and shop repairs. Arrangements are made based on the vehicle, its location and the work required.
Truck broken down?
Send us your location, the vehicle's configuration and the desired destination so we can arrange the tow.
FAQ: Mobile Road Service for Trucks and Trailers
A truck that won't start, an air leak or a disabled trailer can bring an entire workday to a halt. Our mobile units travel to the roadside, to transport yards and to businesses to diagnose the problem and carry out the repairs that can be done on site.
What areas does your mobile service cover?
Our mobile service covers Mirabel and several areas of the North Shore, including Saint-Jérôme, Blainville, Boisbriand, Sainte-Thérèse and Saint-Eustache. We also take requests in Laval and in some parts of Montréal. Give us your location so we can confirm availability and travel.
What breakdowns can you repair on site?
We handle starting, electrical, air system, brake, suspension, tire and hydraulic problems, among others. Many engine and emissions diagnostics can also be started on site. Whether the repair can be done depends on the breakdown, the parts required and the access conditions.
Can you connect a diagnostic tool at the roadside?
Yes. We can read fault codes, view live data and run the tests available for the vehicle. This is useful for a check engine light, a loss of power, a DEF problem or an engine that won't start. The data helps us focus our checks.
Do you also repair semi-trailers?
Yes. Our road service covers many trailer problems, including tires, lighting, wiring, brakes, air leaks and suspension. Depending on the equipment installed, we can also assess certain hydraulic problems. Tell us the type of trailer and the symptoms when you call.
Can you come to our yard instead of the highway?
Yes. A mobile service call can take place in a transport yard, on a job site or at your business. This can save you from moving a vehicle for a diagnosis or repair that can be done on site. However, we need appropriate access and working space.
What should I prepare before the technician arrives?
Send us your location, the VIN if you have it and a description of the problem. Mention any warning lights, displayed codes and recent repairs. Also let us know about any access constraints or hazards on site. This information helps us bring the right tools and parts.
What happens if the repair can't be done on site?
We explain what we found and the work required. If the breakdown requires major disassembly or shop equipment, we can plan the next steps at the garage. Heavy towing can be arranged when the vehicle can't be moved under its own power.
Call us with the vehicle's location and the symptoms
We'll work with you to determine the right mobile service for the situation.
Frequently Asked Questions: PMP Inspection and Preventive Maintenance in Mirabel
Regular maintenance helps catch defects before they cause a breakdown or take a vehicle out of service. MT Service Routier handles inspections and preventive maintenance for trucks and trailers, as well as the repairs that follow. We schedule the work based on your vehicles and how they're used.
What is the PMP (preventive maintenance program)?
The PMP is a maintenance program that can be recognized by the SAAQ for the vehicles enrolled in it. It calls for documented inspections and maintenance at set intervals. Applying it also involves tracking repairs and keeping vehicle records.
Is a PMP inspection the same as a SAAQ mechanical inspection?
The two are separate processes. A recognized PMP may allow enrolled vehicles to be exempted from the mandatory periodic mechanical inspection, subject to the applicable conditions. Regular maintenance does not automatically provide this exemption. The status of the program and of the vehicle must be checked.
Which components are checked during maintenance?
The inspection covers the components that apply to the vehicle, including brakes, steering, suspension, tires, lighting and frame components. The checks and measurements allow us to identify defects and determine the necessary corrections. The scope of the maintenance takes into account the vehicle and the applicable requirements.
How often should our trucks be inspected?
The frequency depends on the vehicle, how it's used and the applicable program. We can schedule appointments based on your fleet information and the deadlines you need to meet. The manufacturer's maintenance recommendations must also be considered, as they may call for additional service.
Can you repair the defects found during the inspection?
Yes. We can handle brake, suspension, steering and lighting repairs, along with many other corrections. We explain the problems we found so the work can be organized. Some defects require immediate repair before the vehicle can be put back into service.
Can you keep track of multiple trucks and trailers?
Yes. We can organize service for multiple vehicles and keep track of their deadlines. Grouping inspections, maintenance and repairs makes it easier to plan downtime. Contact us with the list of units and how they're used so we can determine your needs.
Send us the list of your trucks and trailers along with your program deadlines.
We'll schedule the necessary inspections and work.
FAQ:
DPF, DEF, SCR and EGR Diagnostics for Heavy Trucks
Is your truck constantly asking for a regen, showing a DEF fault or limiting its power? We diagnose emissions systems to understand what's causing the problem. A DPF or SCR code alone isn't enough to determine which part needs to be replaced.
Why is my truck in limp mode or derate?
The ECM may limit power when it detects certain engine or emissions faults. The DPF, the DEF/SCR system, sensors and other components may be involved. We check the codes and data to identify the system responsible for the restriction.
Can you perform a forced DPF regeneration?
Yes, when the system's condition and the required conditions allow it. We first check the active faults and the relevant data. If the regeneration is refused, stops partway or shows abnormal temperatures, we need to understand why before restarting it.
My truck regens often. Does that mean the DPF is plugged?
No. We need to look at the soot load, differential pressure, temperatures and engine operation. A combustion, air intake, EGR or dosing problem can also disrupt the system. Replacing the filter without correcting the cause may allow the problem to come back.
What's the difference between a regeneration and a DPF cleaning?
Regeneration uses heat to burn off accumulated soot. It doesn't remove the ash that builds up in the filter over time. Depending on its condition, the DPF may therefore need proper cleaning or replacement. The diagnosis determines the appropriate service.
Can you find the cause of a DEF problem?
Yes. Depending on the application, we check system faults, pressure data, dosing, sensors and wiring. An SCR conversion or NOx sensor code requires an analysis of how the system is operating. The repair depends on the test results.
Will clearing the codes remove a 5 mph derate?
Clearing the codes doesn't fix the fault. Depending on the system, getting the truck back in service may require a repair, validation tests or a procedure specified by the manufacturer. We aim to correct the cause of the limitation rather than simply clear the message on the display.
Do you work on Cummins, Detroit and PACCAR systems?
Yes. We work on several configurations, including Cummins ISX/X15, Detroit DD13/DD15/DD16 and PACCAR MX-11/MX-13, as well as certain Volvo, Mack, Hino and Isuzu applications. The engine model and its emissions generation are important in choosing the right diagnostic procedures.
Can the diagnosis start at our location?
Yes. Many electronic checks can be carried out by our mobile service. Depending on the fault and the work required, the next steps can be done on site or at our Mirabel shop. Removing emissions components may require additional resources.
Send us the displayed codes, the symptoms and the engine model.
We'll prepare the diagnosis of your emissions system.
Your Questions About Hydraulic Repair for Trucks and Equipment
A leaking hose, a cylinder that drifts down or equipment that's lacking power? We work on the hydraulic systems of trucks and various types of equipment. The diagnosis determines whether the problem comes from a leak, a control, a valve, a cylinder or the pump.
What hydraulic problems do you handle?
We work on leaks, hoses, fittings, pumps, valves and cylinders, among others. We can also assess a loss of pressure, irregular movement or equipment that no longer responds. Whether we can take on the job depends on the system installed and access to the components.
Can you replace a burst hydraulic hose?
Yes. The hose, fittings, operating pressure and routing must be identified before it's replaced. We also check what may have caused the failure, such as rubbing, improper installation or mechanical stress. This helps prevent the new hose from being damaged in the same spot.
My equipment is lacking power. Is it the pump?
Not necessarily. An internal leak, a valve, a restriction, a control problem or the condition of the oil can also reduce the available force. We check the operation and, when required, the pressures and flow depending on the system. These measurements allow us to pinpoint the repair.
Does a cylinder that drifts down on its own need to be replaced?
We need to distinguish an internal cylinder leak from a problem in the valve or the holding circuit. We assess the situation before recommending a repair or replacement. The type of cylinder and the condition of its components determine what work is possible.
Can you work on a job site or in our yard?
Yes, for diagnostics and repairs that can be done on site. We need to be able to access the system and work in proper conditions. If a component must be removed, repaired or inspected more thoroughly, garage work may be required.
Do you work on dump bodies and industrial equipment?
We can work on various hydraulic applications on trucks, trailers and industrial equipment, depending on their configuration. Describe the type of equipment, the function that's no longer responding and the symptoms. Photos of the component and its identification plate are helpful.
Tell us which movement no longer works and where the equipment is located.
Photos of the system will help us prepare for the job.
FAQ: Heavy-Duty Tire Repair and Replacement
A flat tire on a truck or trailer can quickly hold up a delivery. MT Service Routier handles tire problems on heavy vehicles, at the roadside or in your yard. We assess the condition of the tire before determining whether it can be repaired or needs to be replaced.
Can you repair a flat tire at the roadside?
Yes, when the location allows for safe service. The technician must inspect the tire to determine whether the damage can be repaired. A tire that is too damaged or has been run flat may need to be replaced. When you call, tell us the wheel position and the information printed on the tire.
Do you also handle semi-trailer tires?
Yes. Our service covers tires for heavy trucks, tractors and semi-trailers. Give us the size, the number of tires affected and their position on the vehicle. This helps us prepare the equipment and check replacement options.
How do I know if the tire can be repaired?
The location of the damage, its extent and the inside condition of the tire must be assessed. Overall wear and whether the tire was driven on low pressure also matter. A photo can help us prepare, but it doesn't replace an inspection of the tire.
Can you change tires in our yard?
Yes. We can schedule a service call at a carrier's or business's location when the space and access are suitable. For multiple vehicles, send us the sizes and the number of tires to be replaced. We'll check availability and organize the work.
Is uneven wear always caused by the tire?
No. Pressure, alignment, suspension, steering and certain mechanical play can also contribute to wear. If a tire wears quickly or unusually, we can check the possible causes. Replacing only the tire may allow the problem to happen again.
What information should I give you in an emergency?
Send us the exact location of the truck, the tire size and the position of the affected wheel: steer, drive or trailer. Let us know whether the tire is flat, blown out or off the rim. A photo of the markings on the sidewall helps identify the size.
Truck or trailer down because of a tire?
Send us your location and the tire size so we can prepare the service call.
Frequently Asked Questions: Heavy Truck A/C Repair
Is your air conditioning no longer cooling, working on and off or shutting down when the truck is idling? We diagnose air conditioning systems on heavy trucks and commercial vehicles. We check the refrigerant circuit and the system controls to find the cause of the lack of cooling.
Why is my A/C blowing warm air?
A refrigerant leak, the compressor, a restriction or a lack of airflow through the condenser may be the cause. A control or blend door problem in the cab can also change the temperature you feel. We check how the system is operating before deciding on the work.
Do you perform A/C leak detection?
Yes. When the system is losing refrigerant, we look for the source of the leak. Hoses, fittings, the condenser, the evaporator and the compressor are among the components we check. The method used depends on the configuration and the symptoms.
Can you just recharge my system?
A recharge may be part of the service, but it doesn't fix a leak. We first assess why the system is no longer cooling. The amount of refrigerant and the procedure must match the system installed to properly restore the air conditioning.
My compressor won't engage. Is it necessarily faulty?
No. Abnormal pressure, a sensor, a relay, a fuse, the wiring or the control can prevent it from engaging. Depending on the system, we also check the available data and the electrical circuit. This allows us to distinguish a compressor problem from a control problem.
Can you replace an A/C compressor?
Yes. We also assess the condition of the rest of the circuit. An internal failure can leave contaminants that require additional work according to the manufacturer's recommendations. This must be taken into account to restore the system and protect the new compressor.
Do you work on sleeper air conditioning?
Yes, depending on the system installed. A sleeper may use the truck's circuit, an auxiliary system or a stand-alone unit. We first identify the setup to confirm the diagnosis and the work possible. Let us know whether the problem affects the cab, the sleeper or both.
Can you repair the A/C in our yard?
Some diagnostics and repairs can be done at the customer's location. This depends on the refrigerant, the equipment required and access to the components. Repairs requiring more disassembly or equipment can be carried out at our Mirabel shop.
Do you also check heating and ventilation?
Yes. A cab blower that no longer works, weak airflow or a stuck blend door can make it seem like there's an air conditioning problem. We can check the ventilation, controls and heating depending on the vehicle's configuration.
Tell us whether the problem involves cooling, airflow or the compressor's operation.
We'll schedule the diagnosis of your air conditioning.
Questions About Diesel Generator Maintenance and Repair
A generator that's hard to start, shuts down or no longer runs properly needs to be checked before you can rely on it. MT Service Routier provides diagnostics and mechanical maintenance for diesel generators, depending on their make and configuration, on site or at the shop when the equipment can be moved.
What work do you do on diesel generators?
We perform diesel engine maintenance and diagnose starting, fuel, cooling and operating problems, among others. Filters, fluids, leaks and certain control circuits can be checked depending on the equipment. Give us the make, model and serial number so we can confirm we can take on the job.
My generator won't start. What are the possible causes?
It may be the batteries, the starter, the control circuit, the fuel supply or an active protection. On an electronically controlled engine, codes can help guide the tests. We first determine whether the engine cranks and why it won't start.
Why does my generator shut down after a few minutes?
A protection system may shut down the engine when it detects an abnormal condition. We need to look at the displayed message, the data and the shutdown conditions. The problem may involve cooling, lubrication, fuel supply or controls. The code and the exact moment of the shutdown are useful for the diagnosis.
Can you service a generator at our location?
Yes, depending on site access and the type of work. On-site service can save you from moving the equipment for maintenance or a mechanical diagnosis. We work with you to agree on access conditions and a shutdown period that suits your operations.
Do you maintain standby generators?
We can handle mechanical maintenance for various diesel standby generators, depending on the model. Service is scheduled based on the manufacturer's recommendations, the operating hours and the condition of the equipment. Maintenance must also take into account the periods when the generator needs to remain available.
The engine runs, but the generator isn't producing electricity. Can you help?
We need to distinguish an engine problem from a problem with power generation, regulation or the electrical connection. Send us the model and the displayed messages so we can confirm which checks are possible. Some work on the electrical side or the installation requires a qualified specialist for that part of the job.
What information should I provide when requesting a diagnosis?
The make, model, serial number, operating hours and displayed codes are the most useful. Let us know whether the engine won't start, shuts down or runs without powering the load. Photos of the identification plate and the control panel make it easier to prepare.
Send us your generator's identification plate and a description of the problem so we can confirm the job and schedule the service call.
Frequently Asked Questions: Diesel Engine Repair and Rebuilds in Mirabel
Is your engine burning oil, losing coolant, lacking power or making an unusual noise? We diagnose and repair diesel engines, up to a full rebuild when its condition warrants it. Before recommending a rebuild, we work to understand the source and extent of the damage.
How do I know if my engine needs to be rebuilt?
High oil consumption, excessive crankcase blow-by, a loss of compression or an internal noise can justify testing. Abnormal oil pressure or coolant in the oil also calls for investigation. None of these symptoms alone is enough to write off the engine.
Which diesel engines can you repair?
We work on Cummins ISX, X15 and L9, Detroit DD13/DD15/DD16, PACCAR MX-11/MX-13 and Caterpillar C13/C15 engines, among others. We also take requests for several Volvo, Mack, Hino and Isuzu engines. The exact configuration and the nature of the work allow us to confirm the options.
What's the difference between an engine repair and a rebuild?
A repair may target a specific component, such as a cylinder head, an injector or part of the lubrication system. A rebuild involves a more extensive reconditioning of the internal components. The scope of the work is determined through the necessary tests, disassembly and measurements.
Do you do in-frame rebuilds?
Depending on the engine and the damage, some rebuilds can be done without completely removing the engine from the truck. If the block, crankshaft or other components require work that isn't compatible with this method, engine removal must be considered. We determine the method based on the engine's actual condition.
Which parts are inspected during a rebuild?
Depending on the job, we inspect pistons, liners, bearings, connecting rods, the crankshaft, the cylinder head and the block, among others. The lubrication and cooling circuits must also be considered. The parts to be replaced and the machining required depend on the measurements and the damage found.
Does an engine that burns oil always need an overhaul?
No. A leak, the turbo, crankcase ventilation or other problems can contribute to oil consumption. We work to locate the cause before recommending internal work. Testing and inspections allow us to distinguish a targeted repair from the need for a rebuild.
How much does a diesel engine rebuild cost?
The cost depends on the model, the parts required, labour and machining. Some damage can only be confirmed after disassembly. We determine the work based on our findings and explain the factors that affect the estimate before proceeding with the agreed authorization.
How long should I expect the repair to take?
The timeline depends on the scope of the work, parts availability and machining operations. It may change if disassembly reveals additional damage. We discuss the timeline based on the engine and the work selected to help you plan for the truck's downtime.
Is it better to rebuild or replace the engine?
You need to compare the engine's condition, the damage, the cost of the available options and the overall condition of the truck. A rebuild can make sense for a vehicle that still suits your needs. In other cases, a replacement engine may be more appropriate. The diagnosis allows us to make this comparison.
Send us the engine model, its mileage and the symptoms.
We'll schedule the necessary tests before discussing a repair or a rebuild.
FAQ: Heavy Truck Electronic Diagnostics and ECM Programming
An ECM that no longer communicates, an engine that won't start or a replacement module that needs to be configured? We diagnose the electronic systems of heavy trucks and perform the programming operations supported for the vehicle. We check the configuration and the circuits before concluding that a computer needs to be replaced.
What's the difference between diagnosing and programming an ECM?
Diagnostics are used to understand a fault based on codes, data and tests on the vehicle. Programming involves loading software, a calibration or certain parameters into a module. Programming doesn't automatically fix a wiring, power supply or mechanical problem.
My ECM no longer communicates. Is it necessarily faulty?
No. A missing power supply, a bad ground, a damaged connector or a network fault can prevent communication. We check these items before writing off the ECM. In some cases, another module or a section of wiring can disrupt several of the truck's computers.
Can you program a new or used ECM?
That depends on the module, its compatibility and the access available for the manufacturer. We need to check its part number, the engine, the VIN and the expected configuration. A used ECM can't always be reused as is. We confirm which operations are possible before proceeding with installation or programming.
What is a J1939 communication problem?
J1939 is a network used by several of the truck's modules to exchange data. A fault can trigger communication codes, missing information or the inability to reach certain modules. The diagnosis focuses on the wiring, connections and modules on the network.
Do you work on Cummins, Detroit, PACCAR and Caterpillar?
We diagnose several Cummins, Detroit, PACCAR and Caterpillar systems, as well as certain Hino, Isuzu, Volvo and Mack applications. The programming available varies depending on the module generation, the software and the manufacturer's authorizations. The VIN and the module part numbers help us narrow down your request.
Can you check transmission and emissions modules?
Depending on the application, yes. The diagnosis may involve the engine, the transmission or the emissions system modules. We also check the communication between these systems when a fault affects several functions. Whether we can take on the job depends on the type of transmission, the modules and the tools available.
Can you adjust certain truck parameters?
Some parameters can be configured with the proper tools, depending on the manufacturer and access rights. These may include settings related to the vehicle's use or integration. We check the parameter's availability, its compatibility and the applicable requirements before making any changes.
Can you recover a module after a failed programming attempt?
We can assess the recovery options. We need to know the module, the operation performed, the file used and the error message. Depending on its condition, a recovery procedure may be available or additional work may be required. Recovery can't be guaranteed before this assessment.
What information do you need to prepare for the service call?
The VIN, the engine model, the codes and the module part numbers are the most useful. For a replacement or a failed programming attempt, also keep the information from the old module and any messages received. Mention any recent modifications or repairs that could affect the diagnosis.
Send us the VIN, the module part numbers and the displayed messages.
We'll confirm the diagnostic and programming options for your truck.
