Trucks by Design

Trucks by Design, situated at 16645 Canaanville Hills Rd in Athens, OH 45701, positions itself within the Auto Repair Stations category. However, unlike a typical general repair shop, this establishment specializes in **automotive customization and the installation of aftermarket parts and accessories**, particularly for trucks, as its name suggests, but also for other vehicles. Their services extend beyond basic repair to enhancing vehicle functionality, aesthetics, and performance through specialized upgrades. This includes, but is not limited to, suspension modifications, protective liners, and other vehicle-specific accessories.

The environment at Trucks by Design, based on customer accounts, appears to be a workshop focused on vehicle modifications. While specific details about the waiting area or general ambiance are not explicitly mentioned, the nature of the work performed implies a functional garage space. However, one highly critical review suggests that the environment might, at times, lack the meticulousness and care expected when handling customer vehicles, citing instances of "oil smudges," "dings in the wrap," and "cut debris" left behind. This indicates that while they are equipped to handle complex installations, the attention to cleanliness and protection of a client's vehicle during the process might be inconsistent. Conversely, the existence of positive reviews suggests that for many customers, the overall environment is satisfactory and conducive to getting their desired upgrades installed.

The services and goods for sale at Trucks by Design are geared towards vehicle enhancement and customization. Based on the provided reviews, their offerings include:

• **Suspension System Installations:** This is a core competency, specifically mentioned for "Airlift system installed" and "leveling kits to airbags for suspension" and "shocks." This indicates expertise in modifying and upgrading vehicle suspension for various purposes, such as improved ride quality, leveling, or towing capacity. They are even listed as a "certified dealer/installer of Air Ride."
• **Bed Liners:** A practical accessory for trucks, providing protection for the truck bed from scratches, dents, and spills.
• **Other Truck and Automotive Accessories:** The general nature of "many things to my trucks" and "auto parts store" suggests a broader range of accessories that might be available for purchase and installation, catering to both utility and aesthetic upgrades.
• **Installation Services:** Beyond just selling parts, their primary service involves the professional installation of these components, which requires specialized tools and expertise.

The features of Trucks by Design are notably varied, reflecting a mixed bag of customer experiences.

• **Specialized Expertise:** A significant feature is their stated certification as a "dealer/installer of Air Ride," indicating specialized knowledge and training in complex suspension systems. This is a niche area that requires specific skills.
• **Competitive Pricing:** One positive reviewer highlights that they are "very price competitive," which is a strong draw for customers looking for upgrades without overspending.
• **Quick Service (for some projects):** The same positive review praises "quick service" for certain tasks like leveling kits and airbags, suggesting efficiency for straightforward installations.
• **Wide Range of Upgrades:** The ability to handle "many things to my trucks" from "leveling kits to airbags for suspension to bed liners and shocks" indicates a comprehensive offering for truck and vehicle customization.

• **Severe Project Delays:** A major issue is the discrepancy between quoted and actual service times. A 12-hour job reportedly took "more than a week to get my car back," leading to frustration and inconvenience.
• **Poor Communication:** Customers faced "constantly having to call them to get an update on my car," indicating a lack of proactive communication from the shop.
• **Quality of Work and Vehicle Damage:** This is a critical negative feature. The detailed complaint lists "oil smudges all over my brand new headlight housings, dings in the wrap of my car," and, most severely, "front shock towers were cut to absolute shit" with "absolute horrible clunk coming from my rear passenger strut tower." Subsequent professional inspection revealed a "rear strut was not bolted down correctly and the hole was wallowed out." This points to highly questionable workmanship and potential negligence leading to vehicle damage.
• **Lack of Attention to Detail and Rust Prevention:** The failure to clean cut debris and "not coating the bare metal where the cut was" in Ohio's climate demonstrates a serious oversight in critical steps for long-term vehicle integrity and rust prevention.
• **Incomplete Repairs and Lack of Follow-up:** Despite attempts to rectify issues, the problem recurred ("started doing the thumping again"), and the shop reportedly suggested making another appointment instead of immediately addressing a failed repair, leading to the customer seeking service elsewhere. This reflects poor accountability for their work.

Regarding promotional information, Trucks by Design's primary promotion would likely leverage its status as a "certified dealer/installer of Air Ride" and its purported "price competitive and quick service" for truck upgrades. These are strong selling points that would attract customers looking for specific modifications. The positive word-of-mouth for basic installations would contribute to their local reputation. However, the highly detailed negative review, which suggests "subpar work" and expresses embarrassment over the quality of the repair, serves as a significant counter-promotion. This type of review can heavily influence potential customers' decisions, especially in a specialized field where trust in workmanship is paramount. The ability to post pictures (as hinted at by the dissatisfied customer) would further amplify the negative impact. While they might advertise their capabilities and certifications, prospective customers should be aware of the varied experiences reported. For inquiries or to schedule service, customers can reach Trucks by Design at (740) 592-4161 or +1 740-592-4161. Given the conflicting reviews, it would be prudent for new customers to thoroughly discuss the scope of work, expected timelines, and warranties, especially for more complex installations, and perhaps seek independent verification for critical repairs.