Winter is bidding goodbyes, and summer is knocking on doors in London. The demand for transportation and delivery increases with the arrival of summer in the UK. However, considering how to maintain fleet for summer for smooth services is essential.
There is no doubt that warm weather is the busiest season for businesses, particularly fleet management. However, the vehicle can break down with colossal demand and multiple travels on long routes, or multiple issues can arise. Therefore, it is essential to prepare fleet for summer for the best services.
As a fleet manager, it is important to ensure vehicle performance and driver safety on roads. A timely repair can save from costly maintenance and long delays in the future.
Fleet Summer Maintenance:
We continuously hear about preparing vehicles for winter, but hardly anyone knows what fleet summer maintenance is. Summer fleet maintenance is a set of preventive measures to prepare the vehicles to meet the high demand for transportation in harsh weather.
The steps are taken to ensure safe driving, avoid delays, and cut costs on hefty maintenance in case of occasional breakdowns.
Why is fleet maintenance important in summer?
Tips to maintain fleet for summers:
Here are a few tips that can be followed to maintain the fleet for summer. Let's have a look!
Inspect Wheels and Check Tyre Pressure:
Hot weather means warmer roads, and long trips can take a toll on the tires. Make sure the relevant staff check the vehicles regularly and inform the fleet managers if they witness any sign of wear and tear.
Hot weather can cause significant accidents and breakdowns, such as when loose pressure tyre bursts and blows are common. Moreover, with low-pressure tires, fuel is consumed more, leading to hefty fuel expenses.
Hot pavement and long trips can take a toll on your tires. Make sure to check your tire pressure regularly and inspect your tires for any signs of wear or damage.
Therefore, it is important to check the wheels regularly. The pressure can be checked after every trip, and thorough maintenance is essential at least every month. The pressure can be checked by a simple tyre pressure gauge.
Likewise, check the tread depth of tyres, and the tread wear down faster in hot weather. Tread ensures the accurate air pressure of tyres for a longer period. Check the tread depth for signs of excessive wear and indications apart from sidewall cracks.
Change Worn Belts:
It is essential to check and replace belts/ serpentine buckles. These components include AC, power steering, alternator, brakes functioning, etc. Check the belts regularly, and if you find any holes, it is important to replace them. However, we also recommend replacing the belts after 60 thousand to 100 thousand miles of driving.
Inspect Cooling System:
Apart from replacing belts, it is essential to keep an eye on the cooling system of all vehicles in your fleet. The primary issue that causes accidents and breaks down is vehicle component heating.
During the inspection, ensure you have checked coolant levels, fans, radiator, belts, and hoses. Ensure you have considered replacing and flushing the coolant if necessary. Make sure nothing is leaking or causing issues with material expansion with higher temperatures.
A malfunctioning cooling system can damage the engine. Therefore, it is recommended to repair or change the cooling system once a year and check its cooling range regularly, particularly in the summer.
Check Fluid levels regularly:
The next step to maintain the fleet for summer is to check and maintain fluid levels regularly. The level of fluids plays a vital role in the longevity and performance of vehicles in the fleet. Therefore, in summer, pay special attention to transmission fluid, engine oil, windshield washer fluid, and brake fluid.
Ensure that fuels are topped up to the advised levels before any long trip. Replace and refill any contaminated or dirty fluid. Generally, changing the oil every 3 to 5 thousand miles is suggested, but it can be done earlier if it is a cargo truck or went on consistent long journeys.
Most importantly, immediately check the vehicle for any leakages and replace or repair the damaged part.
Check Air filters:
Summer means a lot of pollen, dust, and debris on the road, and it often clogs the vehicle's air filters. The clogging damages the efficiency of the engine. Regularly replace air filters for optimal performance and a consistent supply of fresh air. Occasionally, washing and waxing on the vehicle can do the trick and maintain the outer appearance.
Let’s wrap it up:
Maintaining the fleet in summer is easier. All you have to do is regularly check the fluid level, tyre pressures, maintain the coolant system and keep the fleet clean. The fleet maintenance in summer takes little time and is heavy on the pocket. However, neglecting a little damage can cost a lot.