If your business runs work trucks or vans, your drivers are your best early warning system. A quick walkaround at the start of each day takes about five minutes and can catch small problems before they turn into a vehicle sitting in the shop for a week.
Start with the tires. Look for any that seem low, and check for cuts, bulges or nails in the tread. A low tire on a loaded work truck wears quickly and can fail on the highway.
Next, check the lights. Have someone stand outside while the driver tests the headlights, brake lights, turn signals and any warning or work lights. A burned-out bulb is a cheap fix, but it can lead to a ticket or a rear-end collision.
Then look underneath and around the vehicle. Fresh spots on the ground under where it was parked can point to an oil, coolant or brake fluid leak. Pay attention to anything hanging lower than usual, like an exhaust pipe or a loose shield.
Inside the cab, the driver should glance at the dashboard after starting up. Any warning light that stays on is worth reporting the same day. The same goes for anything that feels different while driving, like a soft brake pedal, a new noise or the vehicle pulling to one side.
The last step is the most important. Make it easy for drivers to report what they find and make sure someone follows up. A simple form or a group text works fine. Problems that get written down get fixed.
Fleet repair and service is one of our specialties at Home Town Auto Care. We work with local businesses to keep commercial vehicles on a regular maintenance schedule and get them back on the road quickly when something comes up. Call Home Town Auto Care at (615) 656-8461 or stop by 108 Confederate Dr in Franklin, Monday through Friday from 7 to 5.
