As temperatures rise, ensuring your fleet is prepared for summer conditions is crucial for maintaining efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness. The heat can take a toll on various vehicle components, making preventative maintenance essential.
Here’s a comprehensive guide on what to check, how to check it, and why timely maintenance is beneficial.
Check and Service the Cooling System
What to Check
- Radiator and coolant levels
- Hoses and belts for cracks or leaks
- Thermostat functionality
- Water pump condition
- Cooling fans and their electrical connections
How to Check
- Inspect the coolant reservoir and top up with the correct mixture of antifreeze and water if needed.
- Look for visible leaks or worn-out hoses.
- Use a temperature gauge to ensure the cooling system is functioning properly.
- Flush and replace old coolant if it’s been more than 24,000 miles or two years.
Benefits
- Prevents engine overheating, which can cause severe damage.
- Extends the lifespan of engine components.
- Enhances fuel efficiency.
Inspect and Replace Tires
What to Check
- Tire tread depth
- Air pressure (including spare tire)
- Sidewall integrity for cracks or bulges
- Alignment and balancing
How to Check
- Use a tread depth gauge to ensure tires meet the minimum legal depth.
- Check and adjust tire pressure according to the manufacturer’s specifications.
- Perform visual inspections for cracks or unusual wear patterns.
- Schedule alignment and balancing checks to ensure even tire wear.
Benefits
- Reduces the risk of blowouts in hot weather.
- Improves fuel economy.
- Enhances vehicle handling and safety.
Examine the Air Conditioning System
What to Check
- Refrigerant levels
- Compressor and condenser function
- Air filters for dirt or blockages
- Blower motor efficiency
How to Check
- Run the AC and check for cool airflow; if not cool enough, have the refrigerant checked and refilled.
- Clean or replace cabin air filters.
- Inspect belts and electrical connections for any damage.
Benefits
- Keeps drivers comfortable, reducing fatigue.
- Prevents costly mid-season AC failures.
- Enhances air quality inside the vehicle.
Assess Fluid Levels and Change Where Necessary
What to Check
- Engine oil
- Transmission fluid
- Brake fluid
- Power steering fluid
- Windshield washer fluid
How to Check
- Use dipsticks to check fluid levels and consistency.
- Look for leaks under the vehicle.
- Change fluids according to manufacturer guidelines if dirty or below recommended levels.
Benefits
- Reduces the risk of engine and transmission overheating.
- Maintains smooth vehicle operation.
- Enhances braking performance.
Test the Battery and Electrical System
What to Check
- Battery terminals for corrosion
- Battery charge and voltage
- Alternator and starter motor
- Electrical wiring and fuses
How to Check
- Clean battery terminals and tighten connections.
- Use a mustimeter to test voltage (should be around 12.6V when the vehicle is off and 13.7–14.7V when running).
- Ensure headlights, brake lights, and interior electronics work properly.
Benefits
- Avoids unexpected battery failures.
- Prevents electrical system malfunctions.
- Ensures smooth start-ups and vehicle reliability.
Inspect the Brakes
What to Check
- Brake pads and rotors for wear
- Brake fluid condition
- Handbrake effectiveness
- Brake lines for leaks or corrosion
How to Check
- Measure brake pad thickness (should be at least 3mm or more).
- Press the brake pedal to test responsiveness.
- Have a professional inspect the brake system if needed.
Benefits
- Enhances safety by preventing brake failure.
- Reduces stopping distances in emergency situations.
- Protects other components from premature wear.
Keep Emergency Kits Stocked
What to Include
- First-aid kit
- Flashlights and extra batteries
- Jumper cables
- Basic tools and spare fuses
- Water and non-perishable snacks
- Sunshades and cooling towels
How to Check
- Regularly inspect emergency kits for expired or missing items.
- Ensure all drivers know where kits are located.
Benefits
- Prepares drivers for unexpected breakdowns or emergencies.
- Ensures quick resolution of minor roadside issues.
- Increases driver safety and comfort.
Be Prepared This Summer
Proper summer preparation of your fleet not only enhances safety but also optimises fleet performance and reduces maintenance costs.
By proactively checking cooling systems, tires, fluids, batteries, brakes, and emergency kits, you can ensure smooth operation throughout the hot months. Implementing these steps will minimise downtime, increase fuel efficiency, and keep your fleet running efficiently all summer long.
