Rain or shine, sleet or snow, your fleet needs to ready to roll all year round. Preventative maintenance and keeping up on regularly servicing your company trucks, vans and vehicles is the best way to your fleet running at full force.
Obviously, as issues with vehicles occur they need to be taken care of as soon as possible. However, even if there isn’t anything overtly wrong, a regular check-up on each of your vehicles can let you get out ahead of any issues before they occur.
Whether you perform these checks internally or by a professional, a quarterly check on your vehicles and key components are highly recommended. Here are some crucial areas to have checked.
Brakes
Worn out brakes can be a big safety risk for not only your drivers but other drivers they share the road with. Take the time to have the tires removed so you can get a good look at your brake disks and pads for signs of wear and tear. This is particularly important if you’ve noticed any squealing or peculiar noises when applying pressure to your brakes.
Tires
A new set of tires can last you quite a while, but that doesn’t mean you don’t need to check them. Especially during the winter and rainy months of the year, having plenty of tread on your tires is important to keep you from slipping and sliding across the road. Tires should have at least 2/32” of depth. If the tread is dipping below that mark, it’s time to consider a new set.
Oil Change
A good rule for oil changes has always been every 3,000 miles or every three months. Depending on the frequency and volume at which your vehicles are out and about, your quarterly check could be a great time to have your oil changed. At the very least, use this opportunity to check your oil levels and top yourself off if needed.
Battery
Your battery is the heart of your vehicle and helps keep you on the road. Like your tires, a new battery can last you quite a while. But, depending on frequency and volume of vehicle use, that can change things. Checking your battery’s voltage to make sure it is still putting out the required energy is a safe habit and can help you avoid a nasty surprise.
Lights
If your vehicles are out at night, it’s important to make sure you are properly able to light the roads. Check your headlights and taillights for damage and do a take time to clean them if needed. You should also check your turn signals as well.
Wiper Blades
We’ve all been in a vehicle with bad wiper blades – it stinks! In most cases, whether you are clearing rain, snow or dirt, bad wiper blades only make your visibility worse. A typical set of wiper blades will last you around six months, so use your quarterly check to see if you are in need of replacements. Wiper blades are an important part of your vehicle and can be replaced easily and cheaply.
Fluids and Leaks
Oil, windshield fluid, transmission fluid and brake fluid are essential fluids for your vehicles. During your quarterly inspection, check your fluid levels and top them off as needed. While you are doing this, also check for any fluid leaks from your vehicle. Small leaks are manageable, but larger, more significant leaks should be addressed.
Need service or want a set of professional eyes on your next inspection? Raben Tire can service your vehicle fleets and get them ready to hit the roads all year long.