10 Fleet Maintenance Tips to Implement This Summer
With Memorial Day around the corner and marking the unofficial start of summer, now is the time to prepare your fleet for the season’s unique operational challenges.
Although summer may seem like a welcome break from winter’s freezing temperatures, snow, and ice, rising temperatures bring new challenges — from increased strain on vehicle components to driver fatigue, weather-related disruptions, and road congestion.
For fleet managers, proactive planning and consistent vehicle upkeep are essential to keeping operations safe and efficient and drivers cool, calm, and collected. By following these summer-specific fleet maintenance tips, you’ll check those boxes and sail smoothly through the heat, thunderstorms, and traffic — lots and lots of traffic.
1. Inspect Cooling Systems
Overheating is a top cause of breakdowns in summer. Avoid costly downtime by regularly inspecting radiators, coolant levels, hoses, and belts to ensure they are good to go. You can also sidestep a breakdown by following coolant best practices. Read our guide on what they are here.
2. Monitor Tire Pressure & Tread
Heat increases tire pressure, which increases the risk of blowouts. Frequently check tire pressure — preferably in the morning when tires are cold or after the vehicle has been parked for several hours. Also examine tread depth and check for uneven wear. Don’t forget a spare.
3. Check Air Conditioning Systems
Poor air quality or improper cooling can affect driver safety, comfort, and productivity. Make sure AC units are functioning correctly and replace filters as needed.
4. Ensure Battery Health
High temperatures accelerate battery fluid evaporation and interior corrosion. Test batteries regularly. If they’re weak, don’t take chances. Replace them before they fail on the road and leave your drivers stranded.
5. Check Brake Systems
Summer heat is no friend to brakes, especially in stop-and-go traffic or long hauls. Inspect pads, rotors, and brake fluid regularly to avoid brake fade or failure. We have a comprehensive guide on brake system guidelines for drivers you can share with your fleet.
6. Keep Drivers Cool and Hydrated
Dizziness, headaches, and rapid pulse are signs of heat exhaustion. To keep drivers hydrated, stock vehicles with water and electrolyte powders that can be mixed with water. Encourage drivers to set hydration reminders on their phones, carry a refillable water bottle to make it easier to track their water intake, and take breaks in shaded areas.
7. Have a Plan for Traffic
Summer is peak season for road construction and an uptick in vacation travel, which can lead to significant traffic congestion. To avoid delays and minimize driver and customer frustration, use telematics to plan smarter routes. By factoring in real-time traffic conditions, road closures, and construction zones, you can map out the safest and most efficient routes and keep your fleet moving forward.
8. Check Emergency Kits
Make sure emergency kits are summer-ready by stocking them with extra water, electrolyte powder mixes to combine with water, sunscreen, and cooling towels. Don’t overlook year-round essentials, including mobile phone chargers, flashlights, jumper cables, and first-aid supplies.
9. Stay on Top of Preventive Maintenance
Because of the intense heat, vehicles work harder in the summer months. Stress and strain on vehicle components are common. Use fleet telematics to keep preventive maintenance scheduling on track, reduce unexpected failures, and keep your operations running safely and smoothly.
Need help getting started? Read our guide on creating an effective maintenance program. Then, track these top maintenance metrics to ensure your fleet’s health throughout the summer.
10. Keep in Touch
A proactive team is a safer and more productive team. Send seasonal tips and checklists to drivers and fleet staff. Encourage — or better, require — reporting of heat-related vehicle or health issues.
By acting on these ten fleet maintenance tips, you can protect your drivers, vehicles, and operations and be productive and efficient throughout the summer season. Proactivity is your best defense against costly downtime, safety risks, and dissatisfied customers. Don’t let heat, traffic, and vehicle strain slow you down. Act on these tips to keep your fleet moving and your drivers and customers happy all summer long.
Want more fleet maintenance tips? Download our infographic for year-round fleet protection.