Owning a vehicle does not come without a great deal of responsibility.
One of the most fundamental responsibilities to have is understanding basic fleet maintenance on the vehicle so it works at its optimum level. Regular maintenance is vital for your operating efficiency and the lifespan of your vehicle.
While basic vehicle maintenance may be easy to understand, it is not necessarily easy to act on. To discover our guide to basic fleet maintenance, read the list below.
Checking and Maintaining Fluids
Checking and maintaining fluids is an essential part of fleet truck maintenance. The engine oil should be checked at least once a month and should be changed every 3,000 miles or as recommended by the manufacturer. Make sure to refer to your owner’s manual for the type of oil and filter made for your fleet vehicles.
Check the levels of the transmission, brake, and power steering fluids every month and change them when the manufacturer says to. Coolant should be inspected and flushed or refilled as needed. It’s important to use the correct type of coolant, as different types of vehicles have different coolant requirements.
Other fluids that should be monitored include fuel, windshield washer, water, and antifreeze. Maintaining your fleet on a regular schedule, like checking and replacing fluids, can make it last longer and save you money in the long run.
Installing the Right Tire Pressure
Installing the right tire pressure is a key factor in fleet care, as it ensures vehicles stay in service and are safe to drive. Every tire should be inspected routinely. Looking for signs of wear that can include cracking, bulging, and uneven tread wear.
When inspecting, it’s important to check for the correct tire pressure. Setting too high or low tire pressure can lead to unnecessary premature tire wear. This, in turn, can cause irregular tire wear and potential tire failure.
Tire pressure should be adjusted according to your customized manufacturer specifications. Pressure is best monitored daily by a trained service technician. Setting the right tire pressure and doing thorough inspections can help keep your fleet running at its best.
Get the Maintenance Equipment You Need
Having the right maintenance equipment is essential for efficient fleet operations. Some of the items needed for basic fleet maintenance are an air pressure gauge, a tire repair kit, and a wheel chock. You also need an engine oil dipstick, a set of sockets, and a torque wrench.
Additionally, to better track any potential issues and complete repairs, have copies of vehicle manuals, a buffer, and a polish kit. Include a detailing brush as well as detailing cloth, several rags, and light lubricants. Keeping your fleet of vehicles in top condition will help ensure that they perform optimally and reduce downtime.
Having the proper tools and skills to perform maintenance will help keep your fleet running smoothly, also, with minimal downtime. Consider interior and exterior fleet detailing for a more efficient and effective fleet operation.
Fleet Maintenance You Should Keep In Mind
Overall, a basic fleet maintenance guide can help your business save money and increase safety on the road. With a good understanding of maintenance, you can ensure that vehicles are properly taken care of and running their best.
With that in mind, you can then take steps to make sure that your fleet is always running optimally. Get started today!
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