If you’re dealing with hydraulic issues in your semi-truck, you might wonder if it's safe to drive to the repair shop. The short answer is yes, as long as the problem doesn’t pose a significant safety risk or put your truck out of service. However, it’s crucial to understand what kinds of issues you can drive with and when it’s best to avoid the road altogether.
What is “Out of Service” Status?
If your truck fails a Department of Transportation (DOT) inspection due to a serious safety violation, it could be placed “out of service.” This designation means that it’s illegal to drive the vehicle until the issue is fixed. Hydraulic problems related to brakes, steering, or other critical systems can result in an out-of-service status. If this happens, driving your truck could not only be unsafe but also result in fines and penalties.
For less critical hydraulic issues, such as minor leaks or seal damage, driving to the shop is usually permitted, as long as the problem doesn’t impact key safety components.
Hydraulic Issues You Can Drive With
Not all hydraulic problems are severe enough to keep your truck off the road. Some minor issues—such as small leaks in hoses, slight wear in wet kits, or less urgent repairs to PTO systems—are generally safe to drive with. At EGO Hydraulics, we commonly service hydraulic systems in wet kits and automatic systems in Volvo trucks. Trucks with these minor problems can usually make it to the shop without putting the driver at risk.
Here are some hydraulic issues you can typically drive with (for the short-term):
- Minor leaks in hydraulic hoses
- Slight seal damage that doesn't affect key components
- Worn or aging wet kits that still function properly
However, it’s important to remain cautious on your way to our shop. Even smaller leaks should be repaired as soon as you notice, as they can worsen over time.
More > How We Repair Wet Kits on Semi Trucks
When Driving is Unsafe
There are some hydraulic issues that make driving your truck hazardous. For example, if you’re experiencing major leaks that affect your truck’s braking or steering systems, it’s crucial to avoid driving. A DOT inspection might result in your truck being placed out of service for these types of problems. In such cases, the safest option is to arrange for your truck to be towed to the repair shop instead.
Hydraulic problems related to brakes, steering, or suspension should never be ignored. Driving under these conditions is not only dangerous but can also lead to serious accidents or costly fines.
Common Hydraulic Repairs at EGO Hydraulics
At EGO Hydraulics, we specialize in repairing a wide range of hydraulic issues for semi-trucks, including wet kits, PTO systems, and hydraulic hoses. Whether your truck is experiencing minor leaks or needs a more complex repair for an automatic hydraulic system, our experienced team can get your truck back in working order. We know how important it is to minimize downtime and get you back on the road quickly and safely.
Our services include troubleshooting hydraulic components, replacing worn-out parts, and ensuring your truck meets DOT standards.
What to Do If You Need Repairs
If your truck is safe to drive and not placed out of service, you can bring it to EGO Hydraulics for a fast and efficient repair. However, if you’re unsure whether driving is safe, it’s always best to err on the side of caution. Call/text us to discuss your truck’s condition, and we’ll help you determine the best course of action.
We’re proud to offer reliable hydraulic repairs in the Tampa area, keeping your truck running smoothly and safely. Visit us today for any hydraulic issues, and we’ll get you back on the road in no time.
