If you either own or use a fleet of vehicles, their maintenance should be one of the top priorities: you have to make sure that vehicles are kept in a roadworthy condition at all times and that they are safe for vehicle users, passengers, other road users and pedestrians.
Far from being solely a “must-do” legal obligation—and this is particularly addressed to those who tend to treat maintenance reactively—maintaining your vehicles reduces the risks of incurring unplanned downtime, of them being impounded or suffering delays because of roadside inspections, which can all damage your business.
What then are the other business benefits you can get out of regularly maintaining your vehicles, and why should fleet maintenance be your primary focus?
#1 - Global cost reduction. Overall fleet costs can only decrease if you consistently practice maintenance as vehicles are less likely to suffer problems and consume fuel, and are obviously less subject to mechanical issues if you are regularly servicing.
#2 - Operating cost reduction. If fewer vehicles incur breakdowns or these happen less frequently, you will lower operating and replacement costs—something that may need to be calculated in when resources are stretched and you need to comply with deadlines and assignments—there is also a better chance for your business to grow if your fleet is operating at maximum capacity.
#3 - Improved fuel consumption. Vehicles kept in good shape are generally more fuel efficient.
#4 - Customer satisfaction. Consistent on-time deliveries can be reached only if your vehicles are properly maintained—and they have less risk of being pulled over for inspections.
#5 - Higher vehicle value. Though depreciation is always a factor, keeping vehicles in a roadworthy condition can only protect their integrity and enhance their residual value.
#6 - Reduced risks of long roadside checks. If your vehicles are regularly maintained, roadside checks won’t take as long and you won’t incur the risk of downtime due to failed compliance.
#7 - Improved working environment. Increasing the safety of your drivers will always be regarded as a plus and can only make them feel more secure in their job, and they are more likely to be in compliance with traffic laws.