In today’s business world, owning a company vehicle is practically a necessity. Having a car or truck that bears your business name and logo can do wonders for marketing and advertising, not to mention the convenience it offers for business travel. Of course, there are some associated costs — fuel, maintenance, insurance — but when weighed against the benefits, it’s clear that owning a company vehicle is worth the investment.
However, like any other piece of equipment, company vehicles require regular maintenance and occasional repairs. Neglecting to take care of your fleet can lead to costly problems down the road, not to mention the risk of accidents and injuries. To help you keep your company vehicles on the road and in good condition, here are some tips for maintenance and repair:
Have a regular maintenance schedule.
Following a regular maintenance schedule is essential to keeping company cars in good working order. By ensuring that the car is regularly serviced and repaired, businesses can avoid unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs. A regular maintenance schedule also helps to extend the car’s life, saving money in the long run.
In addition, it helps improve company employees’ safety by keeping the car in good condition. This is important not only for the employees who use the car but also for other road users who could be put at risk by a faulty vehicle.
Keep a well-stocked toolbox.
Whether you use your car for work or pleasure, keeping a well-stocked toolbox in the trunk is important. That way, if you ever have a flat tire or need to change a headlight, you’ll be prepared. Keeping a few basic tools in your car will also come in handy if you ever need to make a minor repair, such as tightening a loose screw.
More specific tools, such as overhaul kits for DD15 engines or others, may be required for more major repairs. However, these can be kept at your office or workshop and brought to the car when needed.
No matter how well-maintained your car is, there’s always a chance that it will break down at some point. To minimize the inconvenience and disruption caused by a breakdown, it’s important to be prepared.
Know how to change a tire.
To maintain company cars, it is necessary to know how to change a tire. Flat tires are common and can lead to expensive repairs if not promptly addressed. While many people take their car to a mechanic when they have a flat tire, this is not always possible. Therefore, it is important to know how to change a tire so that you can deal with the problem quickly and efficiently.
The process is relatively simple and only requires a few tools. However, it is important to follow the instructions carefully to avoid damaging the car. Here are the steps:
- Park your car on a flat surface and apply the parking brake.
- Remove the hubcap or wheel cover.
- Loosen the lug nuts using the lug wrench.
- Lift the car and place a jack beneath it.
- Tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern.
- Replace the hubcap or wheel cover.
- Lower the car to the ground.
- Retighten the lug nuts using the lug wrench.
With a little practice, changing a tire can be quick and easy. Consequently, it is an essential skill for anyone.
Regularly check fluid levels and brakes.
Company cars are a common perk of many jobs, but they come with a great deal of responsibility. Company cars are expected to be maintained in good condition and kept clean and presentable. Part of this maintenance includes regularly checking fluid levels and brakes.
Checking fluid levels is important to prevent the engine from overheating, and it should be done at least once a month. Brakes should also be checked on a monthly basis, and you should be aware of any unusual noise or vibration when braking. Taking care of company cars helps ensure that they remain safe and reliable.
Be aware of common problems with different types of vehicles.
As a company car owner, it is important to be aware of common problems that can occur with different types of vehicles. This knowledge will help you to better maintain your car and prevent expensive repairs.
For example, one common problem with cars is engine overheating. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including a low coolant level, a faulty radiator, or a clogged cooling system. Another common issue is flat tires. This can be caused by driving over sharp objects, such as nails or glass, or by simply wearing down the tires over time.
By being aware of these and other common problems, you can take steps to avoid them and keep your company car in good condition.
Owning a company car is definitely a benefit, but it’s also important to remember that it comes with some responsibilities. Make sure you have a regular maintenance schedule and keep a well-stocked toolbox for your vehicle. Know how to change a tire, check fluid levels and brakes, and be aware of common problems with different types of vehicles. If you follow these tips, you’ll be able to avoid costly repairs and keep your company car running smoothly.
