New Year’s resolutions aren’t just for personal goals or lifestyle changes. If you own a fleet of vehicles, committing to fleet maintenance as a New Year’s resolution is one of the best decisions to make. Proper fleet maintenance is often overlooked or starts well but then drops to a lower priority over the year. Not only can that cause dangerous problems, but you’ll also likely end up spending more than necessary on repairs. Starting early and making maintenance a priority will help make it stick for the entire year.
If you’re in charge of fleet management, here are reasons to make fleet maintenance your New Year’s resolution:
You’ll Get Better Performance for the Vehicle’s Lifespan
No matter the vehicle, a well-maintained fleet vehicle will perform at peak condition for its full lifespan. Regular care and fleet maintenance ensure that each part of the vehicle stays at its best so that its performance output is just as optimal. Some parts, like tires with worn-out treads, will need to be routinely replaced at some point. Regular upkeep lets you know when that change needs to happen to prevent a breakdown. Like breaks or engines, other parts need to be oiled, cleaned, and professionally inspected to keep them in good condition. Good fleet management is focusing on preventative fleet maintenance to avoid premature or unnecessary replacements.
Frequent Fleet Maintenance Saves Money
Think of fleet maintenance as a money-saving tactic and not just a task that needs doing. Those savings don’t only apply when reselling a vehicle, but the maintenance over the years can also mean savings right now.
Worn out brakes, damaged vehicle bodies, or engine failure all come with avoidable costly repairs. The little extra cost that goes into regular upkeep is nothing compared to the expense of replacing an entire vehicle. As for the resale value, any damage or missing parts will drop the value of the vehicle. Buyers will want the parts replaced beforehand, or the cost lowered to accommodate the repairs. Either way, there is a loss in the final sales.Â
Keep Drivers Safe and Happy
The safety and well-being of your drivers are essential if you’re in charge of fleet management. That applies both to current drivers and potential new drivers. For current drivers, a well-maintained vehicle is one that the driver can take pride in and feel safe driving. They know the breaks aren’t going to fail suddenly, or the engine gives out and causes a roadside breakdown. Better driver performance will also reflect well on the company, showing they are a reliable choice. Externally, drivers who see a fleet that keeps its vehicles in good condition will see the company’s values. It shows the company cares about performance, safety and takes pride in its fleet, which will help attract new, permanent drivers.Â
Fleet Management Can Stay Informed
Fleet managers have a lot of responsibility and work to handle on a day-to-day basis. There’s a lot to handle, which makes staying informed such an essential part of the job. Before and after a trip, drivers should do a pre-and post-trip inspection. That helps catch and prevent any major or minor issues from causing problems. Pair this with regular fleet maintenance, and there should be few problems in the fleet.
Keeping management informed of the fleet maintenance gives them a better overview of how the fleet performs or what is lacking. Better management means increased safety, better performance, and safer and happier drivers.Â
Need professional fleet maintenance or just a boost to get started on your New Year’s fleet resolution? Then Motorplex is here to help. Contact us now to book an appointment in Auburn, WA or Spokane, WA!
