The Shocking Truth Behind RST Diesel Performance Reviews: 5 Critical Allegations Customers Are Making

As of December 2025, RST Diesel Performance LLC, based in Plymouth, Indiana, is facing a severe wave of public scrutiny and customer complaints, painting a dramatically negative picture of the company's operations and service reliability. The overall sentiment from dozens of online reviews is overwhelmingly negative, with serious allegations ranging from incomplete work and poor communication to financial misconduct and the unauthorized use of customer parts. This deep dive into the latest reviews and public records aims to provide a comprehensive, up-to-date look at the controversies surrounding this diesel repair and performance shop. The company's reputation has been significantly impacted by these public complaints, particularly within the passionate diesel truck community where word-of-mouth and online forums carry substantial weight. For any diesel truck owner considering a major repair or performance upgrade, understanding the scope of these allegations is absolutely critical before entrusting their vehicle to the shop.

RST Diesel Performance: Company and Owner Profile

RST Diesel Performance LLC is a company specializing in diesel truck repair and performance parts, particularly for Ford Powerstroke engines. The business has been the subject of intense online discussion and media coverage due to numerous customer disputes.

• Company Name: RST Diesel Performance LLC
• Location: Plymouth, Indiana, US
• Primary Service: Diesel Repair and Performance Tuning
• Key Figure/Owner: Mr. Tristan Reed
• Online Rating: 2.2 Stars (Based on 68 reviews as of late 2024/2025 data)
• BBB Status: Not BBB Accredited
• Allegations Focus: Financial misconduct, incomplete work, poor communication, and unauthorized use of customer property

The 5 Most Serious Allegations in RST Diesel Performance Reviews

The vast majority of negative reviews and public commentary surrounding RST Diesel Performance centers on a handful of recurring, severe issues. These are not minor complaints about scheduling, but specific, high-stakes allegations that have led to significant financial and emotional distress for customers.

1. Allegations of Financial Misconduct and "Scamming"

The most damaging and frequently cited complaint is the allegation that the owner, Tristan Reed, has a pattern of taking money from customers and then failing to perform the agreed-upon work. Customers report paying substantial amounts—often thousands of dollars—for parts and labor upfront, only to have their trucks sit untouched for months or even years. The core of the complaint is that funds were allegedly accepted without the corresponding service being rendered, leading many to label the situation as a "scam" within online forums.

2. Incomplete Work and Missing Vehicles/Parts

A major point of contention is the reported failure to complete repairs, even after significant payments were made. One highly publicized case involved a customer who allegedly paid $25,000 for repairs, only for their truck to go missing for months, leading to a situation described as a truck repossession. Furthermore, there are serious claims that vehicles left for repair were allegedly cannibalized, with parts being removed and used on other projects without the original customer's knowledge or consent. This unauthorized swapping or removal of components represents a profound breach of trust and property rights.

3. Extremely Low Customer Ratings and BBB Status

The company's published online ratings are a clear indicator of widespread customer dissatisfaction. With a 2.2-star rating across dozens of reviews, the data suggests a systemic problem with service delivery. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) profile also notes that RST Diesel Performance is "Not BBB Accredited," a status that often raises a red flag for consumers seeking a reputable and accountable business. These metrics serve as a quantifiable warning sign for potential clients researching the shop.

4. Poor Communication and Lack of Accountability

A common thread across numerous complaints is the complete breakdown of communication once a vehicle was dropped off and payment was made. Customers frequently report being unable to get updates on their truck's status, with phone calls and emails allegedly going unanswered for extended periods. This lack of transparency exacerbated the frustration over the stalled or incomplete repairs. For high-performance diesel work, where custom parts and complex diagnostics are involved, clear and consistent communication is an industry standard that, according to reviews, was severely lacking.

5. Association with High-Profile Diesel Community Controversy

The controversy gained significant traction and visibility through its connection to high-profile figures within the diesel and automotive social media sphere. When a situation is discussed and amplified by large-audience content creators, the allegations reach a much wider audience, solidifying the negative public perception. This exposure brought the local business dispute into the national spotlight, dramatically increasing the search volume and curiosity surrounding the company's activities.

What Should Diesel Owners Consider?

The diesel performance industry thrives on trust, especially when dealing with complex and expensive engines like the 6.0 Powerstroke, 6.4 Powerstroke, or Duramax platforms. These engines require specialized knowledge, quality parts, and meticulous installation. When researching a shop for critical services such as injector replacement, turbocharger upgrades, or custom tuning, due diligence is paramount.

Key Takeaways for Prospective Customers

When evaluating a diesel performance shop, especially one with a controversial public profile, potential customers should focus on several crucial factors to mitigate risk:

• Check Multiple Platforms: Do not rely on a single review source. Check Google, Yelp, Facebook, and forums like Reddit and specific diesel truck enthusiast sites. Look for consistency in complaints.
• Verify Accreditation: Look for BBB accreditation and a history of resolving complaints. While not a guarantee, it shows a commitment to a third-party standard.
• Demand a Contract: Insist on a detailed, written contract that specifies the exact work to be done, the total cost (including parts and labor), and a clear timeline for completion. This is your legal protection.
• Avoid Large Upfront Payments: Be cautious about shops that require 100% payment upfront for labor. A deposit for parts is common, but labor payment should ideally be tied to milestones or completion.
• Research the Owner/Principals: In the diesel community, the reputation of the owner often reflects the reputation of the shop. Search for the owner's name, such as "Tristan Reed controversy," to find any related public records or news reports.

The information available on RST Diesel Performance, based on numerous customer complaints and public reports, strongly suggests a high-risk environment for consumers. While every business is entitled to address and resolve complaints, the volume and severity of the allegations regarding financial issues, incomplete work, and missing property demand extreme caution from anyone considering their services. Always prioritize shops with verifiable track records, high-quality diesel performance parts, and a long history of positive customer service and ethical business practices. The future of RST Diesel Performance will likely depend on its ability to address these serious public and legal concerns.