The Importance of Routine Fleet Maintenance

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At Legacy Auto & Fleet, we understand that keeping your fleet in peak condition is essential for your business. Whether you're managing a handful of vehicles or a full fleet of semi-trucks, routine maintenance is your best defense against costly breakdowns.

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Why is Fleet Maintenance so Important?

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Routine fleet maintenance goes beyond simply following a manufacturer's service recommendations. It's about safeguarding your investment. Vehicles in a fleet are subjected to rigorous operating conditions, long hours on the road, and varying loads.

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Well-maintained vehicles ensure your fleet runs more efficiently. Trucks that are regularly serviced tend to consume less fuel, have fewer mechanical issues, and maintain consistent performance. This results in fewer disruptions and keeps your fleet operational when it matters most. Additionally, regular maintenance helps in identifying minor issues before they escalate into major problems, leading to a more predictable operating budget.

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What are the Most Common Maintenance Tasks?

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Routine maintenance tasks for heavy-duty vehicles typically include oil changes, tire inspections, brake checks, and more specialized tasks like after-treatment system servicing and transmission checks. Each of these tasks plays a vital role in keeping your fleet road-ready.

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Examples:

• Changing the oil and filters regularly ensures your engine remains well-lubricated and free from contaminants. This prolongs the life of your engine and prevents wear on critical components like the crankshaft and bearings.
• Checking and rotating tires, on the other hand, promotes even wear, improves fuel efficiency, and reduces the risk of blowouts.
• Brakes need to be regularly inspected and serviced to ensure that they perform effectively, especially when carrying heavy loads.

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What Should I Inspect During Regular Fleet Maintenance?

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When it comes to maintaining your fleet, each component requires careful inspection. At Legacy Auto & Fleet, we emphasize a holistic approach that covers the entire vehicle, from the engine to the driveline.

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1. Engine and Transmission: Regular oil and fluid changes are crucial, as well as keeping an eye on fluid levels like engine coolant and transmission fluid. Low or dirty fluids can lead to overheating, poor performance, or even catastrophic failure.
2. Braking System: For trucks, brake inspections are non-negotiable. Worn-out brake shoes, misaligned slack adjusters, or air leaks in the system can drastically reduce stopping power, putting both the driver and the cargo at risk.
3. Tires and Suspension: Proper tire pressure and wear should be monitored consistently. Overinflated or underinflated tires affect handling and fuel efficiency. Equally important is inspecting the suspension system for worn shocks and loose or damaged components.
4. After-Treatment Systems: Modern diesel engines are equipped with after-treatment systems like Diesel Particulate Filters (DPF) and Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) catalysts that reduce harmful emissions. Maintaining these systems ensures your fleet remains compliant with environmental regulations and avoids costly fines or repairs.

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How Does Routine Maintenance Reduce Costs?

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Preventive maintenance is an investment that pays dividends by preventing more expensive repairs down the road. Consider this: a well-maintained engine is less likely to overheat, break down, or require a full rebuild. Similarly, replacing worn brake components during routine maintenance can prevent the need for a costly full brake system replacement later on.

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For instance, regular checks on the coolant system can prevent an engine from overheating and causing severe damage that might require costly repairs. In Ohio's varying weather conditions, keeping the coolant system in top shape is essential, as cold winters and hot summers can exacerbate any weaknesses.

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Furthermore, regular maintenance helps maintain your fleet's fuel efficiency. With fuel being one of the most significant operating costs, even a small improvement in fuel efficiency can lead to substantial savings across a fleet of vehicles. Clean oil, properly inflated tires, and well-maintained engines all contribute to improved fuel efficiency, which is vital for your bottom line.

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How Often Should I Schedule Fleet Maintenance?

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The frequency of maintenance depends on several factors, including the age and mileage of your vehicles, the conditions in which they operate, and the manufacturer's recommendations. At Legacy Auto & Fleet, we typically recommend scheduling maintenance at regular intervals based on mileage or time, whichever comes first. For example, oil changes are generally recommended every 5,000 to 10,000 miles, depending on the truck and usage conditions.

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However, it's not just about sticking to a schedule. Some vehicles may need more frequent attention due to harsher driving conditions, such as frequent stop-and-go driving, heavy towing, or driving in extreme weather. Our team at Legacy Auto & Fleet can help you establish a customized maintenance schedule that suits your fleet's specific needs.

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What Happens If I Ignore Routine Maintenance?

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Skipping routine maintenance might save you time or money in the short term, but it will cost you more in the long run. Neglected maintenance leads to higher repair costs, decreased vehicle reliability, and even premature replacement of vehicles. Breakdowns on the road are not only inconvenient but also dangerous and costly in terms of towing and emergency repairs.

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How Can Legacy Auto & Fleet Help?

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At Legacy Auto & Fleet, we specialize in keeping fleets in Ohio running smoothly and efficiently. Our comprehensive maintenance services include routine oil changes and complex diagnostic and repair work. We understand the unique needs of fleet vehicles and offer flexible scheduling to minimize downtime.

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By partnering with Legacy Auto & Fleet, you'll have the peace of mind that comes with knowing your vehicles are being serviced by experienced professionals who are committed to maximizing your fleet's performance and longevity. Let us help you protect your investment and keep your fleet on the road.

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Routine fleet maintenance is not just a necessary task—it's a smart business strategy. Schedule your next maintenance appointment with Legacy Auto & Fleet in Ohio today, and let us help you keep your fleet rolling with confidence.

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