Keeping municipal vehicles well-maintained is critical for ensuring they operate safely and reliably to serve the community. Regular preventive maintenance helps extend the life of the vehicles, improve fuel efficiency, and avoid costly repairs down the line. Municipalities in Massachusetts should implement a thorough maintenance checklist to keep their fleet in top shape.
What’s on Our Checklist?
A good municipal vehicle maintenance checklist includes a number of key items. Fluids are one of the most important things to monitor. This includes regularly checking and changing the oil, transmission fluid, coolant, power steering fluid, and brake fluid. It's also crucial to keep tires properly inflated, measure tread depth, and rotate the tires every 5,000-7,000 miles for even wear. Municipalities in New Hampshire should also make sure to replace air filters according to the manufacturer's recommendations, usually every 15,000-30,000 miles.
Brakes are another critical safety item that should be high on any vehicle maintenance checklist. Inspect the brake system for wear and replace brake pads if they are getting low. Throughout New England, potholes and winter weather can take a toll on shocks and struts, so it's wise to have the suspension inspected too. Belts and hoses should be checked for cracks, fraying or leaks.
Headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals are all essential for vehicle visibility and need to be kept in good working order. Replace any burnt out bulbs promptly. Windshield wipers also play an important role in safety, especially during storms that often hit Connecticut. If wipers are streak, replace the blades.
Batteries should be tested to make sure they are holding a charge and have clean terminals. Weak batteries should be replaced. Many auto service centers like McGovern Municipal HQ can test batteries, alternators and starters to identify any issues before they lead to a breakdown.
Schedule an Appointment Today
Staying on top of scheduled maintenance with a checklist will keep municipal vehicles running their best. It improves reliability, extends operating life, and prevents avoidable repair costs. Be diligent about maintaining your municipal fleet so you can provide uninterrupted community services in a safe and efficient manner.
