Straight Talk from One Truck to Another

We’ve all seen the catchy phrases and bold colors—black and yellow signs screaming for your attention. But let’s set that aside for a minute. No marketing tricks, no shiny lures—just real-world advice from someone who works these Charleston roads every day.

Here’s the honest truth:

If your truck breaks down after 4 PM on a weekday and you’re thinking about calling a mobile service—don’t waste your money. Most parts distributors close by 5. With Charleston traffic (and Heaven help us if it’s rained for 5 minutes), odds are slim any tech will get what they need in time. Best case? You get charged a diagnostic fee. Worst case? They charge you again to come back later. Not fair, not cool.

Let’s talk big repairs—radiators, compressors, and the like. A mobile service can confirm the problem, but when it comes to the repair itself? You might be better off in a proper shop. Why? Because big jobs need the right tools, equipment, and sometimes a lift. Without those, things can get rushed. Parts can get mishandled. And when something goes wrong after the fact? That tech might be long gone, and you’re the one left on the hook—frustrated, far from home, and staring down another delay.

Now, about parts. Here's a tip that’ll save you big: call the parts supplier yourself. Give them your VIN, ask for pricing and availability. This keeps you in the driver’s seat. The industry standard markup on parts is 40–60%. Some companies go higher than that without blinking. We think that’s outrageous. You deserve transparency. You also deserve to keep your warranty—something you might not get if a mobile service buys the part for you without telling you where it came from.

And don't forget: reviews matter. Before you call any mobile tech, read up on them. Have your location, VIN, and a few photos ready to go. Most big parts suppliers let you check prices with your VIN online. Do it. You’ll know the real cost of that part before anyone tries to upcharge you for it.

Here's another nugget most folks don’t know: call-out rates vary wildly—anywhere from $100 to over $200 an hour, sometimes more if you're beyond a mileage limit or calling after hours. Ask for a full quote in writing before a tech shows up. That quote should include everything—dispatch, mileage, after-hours fees, and more. It’s not pushy. It’s smart.

Charleston’s got great shops and honest techs. But it’s also got plenty of folks who’ll take you for a ride. Don’t fall for it.