Has the coronavirus outbreak impacted your fleet operation’s budget? As you try to cut costs, you may be forced to hold off on buying new fleet vehicles.
If replacing your current assets is not in the budget this year, use these tips to extend the lifespan of your existing vehicles.
Every vehicle and each make and model are different. To ensure you are properly maintaining your assets, read the user’s manuals for each vehicle. Keep these on-hand so you have them to reference when your vehicles need repairs, as not using the right fluids or tools on the assets can shorten their lifespans.
How your drivers operate the vehicles can impact the assets’ lifespans. Observe your drivers’ techniques and try to pinpoint bad habits before they effect the vehicles. For example, if a driver is aggressively accelerating, suddenly breaking, or idling the asset for longer than necessary, it can cause wear and tear on the vehicles. It is also important to note if drivers are using any dangerous techniques, like distracted driving. Using a telematics solution can help detect these driving behaviors.
One of the best ways to keep your vehicles running properly longer is staying updated on the asset’s preventative maintenance. During PM, technicians should check the vehicle’s fluids, inspect the components, examine the outside of the vehicle for any damage, ensure the tires are properly inflated, check the air filters, and more. Checking these items can keep the vehicle running longer.
Driving a vehicle on underinflated or worn tires can cause wear and tear on the asset. Inspect the tires regularly to ensure they are fit to be driven on.
Installing fleet management software can help operations track their vehicles’ preventative maintenance, fuel usage, tires, repairs, warranties and more. Having this information in the system – and available instantly to all shop employees – can ensure the assets are being properly maintained, and can help flag issues before they become larger, requiring costly repairs. Keeping all of the vehicle’s information in the software solution can also help operations determine the total cost of ownership of a vehicle. This can help shops decide when the asset should be replaced.
To learn how RTA Fleet Management Software can help you track your vehicles, contact us today to schedule a demo or start a free trial!