Managing a fleet of cars can be stressful, especially for business owners in Nigeria. Between Lagos traffic, potholed roads, and the occasional fuel scarcity, it’s a miracle our vehicles keep running! But with some simple habits, you can keep your vehicles running smoothly, avoid costly repairs, and ensure your business keeps moving. Here are five easy ways to extend vehicle lifespan ensure they run smoothly.
1. Stick to a Preventive Maintenance Schedule
Preventive maintenance is like regular check-ups at the doctor. Just as you visit the doctor to catch health issues early, sticking to a maintenance routine will extend vehicle lifespan and reduce the chance of major problems.
For instance, make sure to change the oil every 5,000 kilometres or as recommended by your vehicle manufacturer. You should also check the brakes, tires, and other key parts frequently. Encourage your drivers to report any strange sounds or warning lights immediately. The sooner you address an issue, the less likely it will become a costly repair.
For more detailed insights, refer to our article on Essential Vehicle Maintenance Tips To Prevent Road Accidents.
2. Keep Your Vehicles Clean, Inside and Out
A clean vehicle is a happy vehicle! Dirt and grime can cause rust, especially in Nigeria’s rainy season. Regularly washing your vehicles helps prevent corrosion. Ensure to wash the undercarriage too, as it collects dirt that can cause damage. Studies show that vehicles exposed to rust can incur maintenance costs up to 25% higher than well-maintained ones. Keeping your vehicles clean can save you money in the long run.
Inside the vehicle, keeping it clean improves driver comfort and reduces wear on seats and controls. For example, if your drivers regularly eat in the vehicle, providing them with trash bags can help keep the interior tidy.
3. Train Drivers on Best Practices
Driver behaviour is key to extending vehicle lifespan.. Teach them to drive smoothly and avoid harsh braking or rapid acceleration. For instance, instead of slamming the brakes, they should ease off the accelerator gradually. This will help save fuel and reduce wear on the vehicle.
You might consider organising workshops to educate your drivers on safe and fuel-efficient driving techniques. This not only extends the life of your vehicles but can also improve your fuel economy by as much as 20%.
4. Monitor Tire Health and Alignment Regularly
Tires are like the shoes of your vehicles; they need proper care. Always check the tire pressure and ensure they are inflated correctly. Under-inflated tires wear out faster and can lead to accidents. Rotate your tires every 8,000 kilometres to ensure even wear.
Also, pay attention to wheel alignment. If your vehicle pulls to one side, it may be time for an alignment check. This helps your tires last longer and ensures safer driving. For more information on potential steering issues, check out our article on Reasons Your Vehicle Steering Vibrates During Acceleration And Simple Solutions.
5. Use High-Quality Parts for Repairs and Replacements
The parts you use for repairs significantly affect your ability to extend vehicle lifespan. When it comes to repairs, always opt for quality parts. Using cheaper parts may seem like a good idea initially, but they often fail sooner and lead to more costs down the road. Stick to reputable brands or OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts whenever possible.
For instance, if your vehicle needs a new brake pad, consider investing in high-quality pads that may cost a little more but will last longer and perform better.
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Managing a fleet requires having the right vehicles to keep operations smooth. Everything Motors Fleet Acquisition Service offers solutions tailored to meet business needs. From operational to commercial vehicles, a wide range of options is available to suit specific requirements.
Foreign-used vehicles are also provided to ensure reliability and cost-effectiveness. Starting with quality vehicles helps reduce maintenance expenses and keeps operations running efficiently.
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Final Thoughts
Taking care of your vehicles is crucial for their longevity. Regular maintenance, clean vehicles, trained drivers, proper tire care, and using quality parts can all help extend the life of your fleet. By adopting these simple practices, you can minimise downtime and maximise your investment.
Remember, a well-maintained vehicle is not just about saving money; it’s also about ensuring safety on the roads. When you’re ready to expand your fleet, consider Everything Motors for tailored vehicle solutions that meet your business needs.
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