For businesses that rely on their fleet of vehicles to transport goods or provide services, keeping those vehicles in good working order is essential. Not only does proper fleet maintenance help ensure that vehicles operate safely and reliably but also helps reduce the total cost of ownership (TCO) by reducing repair costs, extending the life of your vehicles, and minimizing downtime.
According to a report by the U.S. Department of Energy, fleet maintenance expenses account for around 10-20% of a company’s total vehicle operating costs and a study by Fleet Advantage found that fleet vehicles that are properly maintained can achieve a 15-20% reduction in maintenance costs compared to poorly maintained vehicles. Therefore, fleet maintenance is a critical aspect of managing a successful fleet of vehicles.
In this blog post, we’ll explore best practices for fleet maintenance that can help you reduce your TCO and keep your vehicles running smoothly.
- Develop a Preventive Maintenance Schedule:
One of the most important things you can do to keep your fleet in good condition is to develop a preventive maintenance schedule. This should include regular inspections, oil changes, tire rotations, and other routine maintenance tasks. By performing these tasks on a regular basis, you can catch problems before they become major issues and help ensure that your vehicles are always in top condition.
- Use High-Quality Parts and Fluids:
When it comes to fleet maintenance, using high-quality parts and fluids is essential. Cheap parts or fluids may save you money in the short term but they can lead to more frequent breakdowns and repairs in the long run. By investing in high-quality parts and fluids, you can help ensure that your vehicles operate reliably and reduce your overall maintenance costs.
- Invest in the Latest Technology:
Thereafter, fleet maintenance software and telematics can help track and monitor your vehicles’ maintenance needs, including oil changes, tire rotations, and other preventive maintenance requirements. Using technology can help automate maintenance scheduling and reduce downtime while improving the accuracy and timeliness of maintenance records.
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- Train Your Drivers on Maintenance Procedures:
Your drivers play a critical role in keeping your vehicles in good condition. Make sure they are trained on proper maintenance procedures, such as checking fluid levels and tire pressure, and encourage them to report any issues they notice with their vehicles promptly. By involving your drivers in the maintenance process, you can help catch problems early and reduce the risk of breakdowns or accidents.
- Monitor Vehicle Performance and Maintenance History:
To get the most out of your fleet maintenance efforts, it’s essential to monitor vehicle performance and maintenance history. Keep track of when maintenance tasks were performed, how often breakdowns occur, and any other issues that arise. By analyzing this data, you can identify trends and make informed decisions about how to optimize your maintenance program.
In conclusion, a well-maintained fleet can significantly reduce your total cost of ownership (TCO) while increasing efficiency and productivity.
About RENTALL
RENTALL is the broadest, most adaptable and continuously evolving rental platform on the market. No matter your company size, location or business goals, RENTALL delivers improved operations, smart reports, increased bookings and happy customers, all through an easy-to-use interface. Explore our solutions here, or connect with us at +1 888 628 6827 or info@rentallsoftware.com for a consultation.