Fleet Vehicle Maintenance | Reduce Fleet Downtime
Fleet Downtime Costs You More Than You Think – Here’s How to Reduce It
When a business relies on fleet vehicles, downtime can be costly. Whether it means workers cannot get to the job site or materials sit waiting to be delivered, your bottom line takes a hit when fleet vehicles are sidelined. The good news is that many causes of downtime can be avoided with proper fleet vehicle maintenance. Your fleet is the backbone of your business, so it is crucial to reduce fleet downtime to maximize efficiency. Tire Source Neighborhood Car Care provides the services you need to keep your fleet on the road. Here are some fleet vehicle maintenance tips to cut back on downtime.
Prioritize Routine Oil Changes
Regularly changing the oil in your fleet of vehicles is one of the most important maintenance tasks. Fleet vehicles cover many miles each day, and over time, this heavy use starts to thicken the oil due to contaminants and heat exposure. When oil is thick and dirty, it cannot easily lubricate the moving parts inside the engine, leading to premature wear and tear from increased friction. Clean oil helps to dissipate heat away from engine components to prevent overheating on the road. If you go too long without changing the oil, sludge buildup can occur. Not only does this make the engine work harder, but it can eventually lead to engine failure over time. Filters are also addressed during the oil change service to ensure dirt and debris are collected in the filter before entering the engine block. Take proper care of your fleet engines by scheduling routine oil changes. Tire Source Neighborhood Car Care can help you determine the correct oil change intervals for your fleet.
Pay Attention to Brakes
The braking system is a vital safety feature of a fleet vehicle, and it is imperative that it remains in working order. Brakes start to wear down over time thanks to the friction that is created each time the brake pedal is pushed. When brakes are worn, it puts stress on other parts of the braking system, which leads to costly repairs. Stay ahead of fleet downtime and keep drivers safe by scheduling brake service for your fleet. During brake service, brake pads or shoes will be replaced, along with hoses, sensors or the master cylinder, if needed. Brake fluids will also be flushed and refilled to aid in proper lubrication of the components. If you notice a high-pitched squeal when pressing the brake pedal, a scratching or grinding noise when not braking or vibration during the course of stopping, it is important to have your brakes checked right away. Immediate inspection and brake service will not only prevent unplanned downtime but also protect driver safety.
Check Battery Life
A reliable battery is essential for fleet vehicles, particularly for businesses relying on timely arrivals at job sites. A dead battery can leave employees stranded, cause delays and disrupt operational schedules. Have the battery checked in your fleet of vehicles to make sure they are ready to start each and every time. Hot and cold weather can put a strain on battery life, so it is good practice to check your battery before the start of summer and winter. If the battery is already weak, it will have a hard time starting in harsh weather. Never be late due to a dead battery when you proactively schedule battery checks as part of your fleet maintenance schedule.
Schedule Fleet Vehicle Maintenance Today
Minimize downtime and maximize efficiency by regularly maintaining your fleet. Tire Source Neighborhood Car Care is your trusted partner for fleet maintenance services. In addition to costly repairs, extended downtime can take a serious hit to your bottom line. Stay ahead of downtime by asking about our fleet maintenance programs to ensure your vehicles are in top condition.