The roads are ever more dangerous because people are repairing/maintaining less often
The market has changed and has created an environment where the costs of buying or leasing vehicles have gone up significantly, but it is also important to identify that the costs of parts, repairs and services have also gone up.
Cars are now by all measures EXPENSIVE and it is forcing good motorists to drive often dangerous vehicles. There are now reports now that up to a third of UK motorists are taking risks with their safety and avoiding key maintenance issues largely due to costs
It gets worse in research if you are a younger driver (18 to 34 year olds) - research shows 43% of young drivers are skipping regular maintenance intervals to save money.
If we compare young to old - elderly drivers are the most confident in keeping their vehicle maintained with 63% being prepared for the motoring services. Final point to the above and possibly most shocking is there are 25% of drivers who will actively get behind a wheel of a vehicle knowing their vehicle needs essential repairs, potentially putting themselves, family and people around them at risk.
So this blog is about the road to safety and savings. This is achieved by focusing on the importance of regular fleet maintenance.
As fleet managers in the UK market, your responsibilities go beyond just keeping vehicles on the road. Your role involves ensuring the safety of drivers and passengers, while also keeping a keen eye on the financial bottom line. Regular fleet maintenance plays a crucial role in achieving both of these objectives, as it enhances safety and significantly reduces overall costs. In this article, we will delve into the reasons why prioritizing vehicle servicing is paramount for fleet managers like you.
Enhanced Safety:
The safety of your drivers and the public should be the highest priority for any fleet manager. Regular maintenance helps identify and address potential issues before they turn into major problems, reducing the risk of accidents and breakdowns.
Consider the following statistics:
Accidents: According to the Department for Transport, faulty vehicles accounted for over 1,500 accidents in the UK in 2020 alone. These accidents resulted in injuries to 239 people and tragically caused 32 fatalities. Regular maintenance, including inspections, brake checks, and tire rotations, can significantly reduce the chances of accidents caused by vehicle malfunctions.
Brake Failure: Brake failure is a leading cause of accidents. The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) reported that brake-related issues were responsible for 18.8% of all vehicle-related MOT failures in the UK in 2020. Routine maintenance ensures that the braking system is regularly inspected and serviced, preventing potential brake failures on the road.
Tire Safety: Properly maintained tires are essential for road safety. The UK government's THINK! road safety campaign highlights that defective or illegal tires contributed to 17% of all road accidents caused by vehicle defects. Regular tire inspections, pressure checks, and tread depth measurements are vital to reduce the risk of accidents due to tire-related issues.
Reduced Costs:
Regular fleet maintenance not only enhances safety but also contributes to significant cost savings over the long run. By investing in preventative maintenance, you can avoid expensive repairs, minimize downtime, and extend the lifespan of your fleet.
Consider the following statistics:
Vehicle Downtime: According to a survey conducted by Fleet News, unplanned vehicle downtime costs UK businesses an average of £847 per day. Regular maintenance helps identify and address potential issues before they cause breakdowns, reducing the frequency and duration of downtime.
Fuel Efficiency: Well-maintained vehicles are more fuel-efficient. The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) estimates that keeping tires properly inflated and engines tuned can improve fuel efficiency by up to 10%. Reduced fuel consumption leads to substantial cost savings over time, especially for larger fleets.
Avoiding Major Repairs: The cost of major vehicle repairs can be substantial, often exceeding the expenses of regular maintenance. According to a survey by Automotive Fleet, neglecting maintenance can result in repair costs up to four times higher than preventative maintenance expenses.
Conclusion:
As a fleet manager in the UK market, regular fleet maintenance should be a non-negotiable aspect of your responsibilities. By prioritizing maintenance, you enhance the safety of your drivers and the public while also reducing overall costs. Preventing accidents, minimizing downtime, improving fuel efficiency, and avoiding major repairs are all tangible benefits of investing in regular fleet maintenance. Embrace the proactive approach, and reap the rewards of safer roads and a healthier bottom line.
References:
Department for Transport - Road accidents and safety statistics: www.gov.uk/government/statistics/reported-road-accidents-in-great-britain
Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) - Annual test (MOT) result statistics: www.gov.uk/government/statistical-data-sets/annual-test-mot-result-statistics
UK Government - THINK! Campaign: www.think.gov.uk
Have you any funny stories of services and repairs?
Here are some common things that are serviced:
Oil, oil filter and air filter
Fluid levels, including:
Anti-freeze
Brake fluid
Power steering fluid
Transmission oil
Battery testing
Spark plugs
Timing and auxiliary drive belts
Suspension
Brake pipes/brake hoses/fuel lines
Brake pads/brake discs
Wheels and tyres
Clutch and clutch components
We are happy and able to offer you vehicle advice. Also whether buying or leasing brand new vehicles or used vehicles we can offer comprehensive packages and service plans that can assist if it is right for you and your business.
Always seek advice and make sure you have the right cover and avoid unnecessary down time.
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