Do it yourself as Auto Additions do not do these
Summer is a prime season for business—but also for breakdowns. High heat, added mileage, and heavier seasonal traffic mean that without the right maintenance, your fleet can go from productive to problematic in a hurry. At Auto Additions, we deliver precision, quality, and reliability through every service, ensuring your vehicles are transformed into their best versions with solutions tailored to your business.
This summer, make vehicle downtime a thing of the past. These expert fleet maintenance services strategies will keep your commercial vans, trucks, and cars running at peak efficiency.
Seasonal Inspections: The First Line of Defense
Preventative maintenance is the foundation of fleet efficiency. When summer hits, components like cooling systems, belts, and batteries face increased strain. Skipping seasonal inspections could mean unexpected failures—and costly downtime.
Key Items to Inspect:
- Radiator and Cooling System
Check coolant levels and test system pressure. A failing thermostat or radiator can quickly lead to engine overheating in summer heat. - Belts and Hoses
High temperatures accelerate rubber degradation. Cracks, frays, and bulges in belts and hoses should be addressed before failure. - Battery Life
Heat increases battery fluid evaporation, which can corrode terminals and shorten battery life. Test and clean all fleet batteries regularly. - Brake System
Frequent braking in summer traffic wears pads and increases the risk of warped rotors. Schedule brake checks every 10,000–15,000 miles.
Pro Tip: Implement a routine fleet inspection schedule every 3,000 to 5,000 miles to reduce reactive repairs and increase vehicle lifespan.
Tire Management: Where Safety Meets Savings
Tires are your fleet’s connection to the road. Proper tire care improves traction, reduces fuel costs, and prevents heat-related blowouts.
Essential Summer Tire Tips:
- Maintain Proper Tire Pressure
Under-inflated tires reduce fuel economy and increase tread wear. Use a digital gauge to check pressure weekly and adjust to manufacturer specs. - Rotate Tires Regularly
Even tire wear extends lifespan and boosts performance. Rotate every 5,000–6,000 miles. - Check Tread Depth
Tread depth should be above 4/32”. In wet summer conditions, shallow treads increase hydroplaning risk. - Inspect for Uneven Wear
Irregular tread wear could signal misalignment or suspension issues—address these promptly to protect your fleet’s bottom line.
For businesses with large vehicle volume or delivery operations, fleet maintenance services near me are essential to keep tire-related costs under control.
HVAC and AC System: Prioritize Driver Comfort and Focus
Cabin temperature isn’t just a comfort issue—it affects driver productivity and safety. Overheated interiors can lead to fatigue, dehydration, and poor decision-making.
HVAC Checklist for Fleets:
- Inspect and Recharge the AC System
Low refrigerant or pressure leaks can cripple performance. A recharge and pressure test keeps your cabins cool under pressure. - Replace Cabin Air Filters
Filters clogged with pollen or dust can block airflow and stress HVAC systems. Replace every 12,000–15,000 miles or sooner in dusty conditions. - Test Blowers and Vent Operation
Broken blowers or malfunctioning vents reduce AC efficiency. Ensure consistent airflow throughout the vehicle.
A cool driver is a focused driver—improving comfort contributes to better decision-making and route performance.
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Stay Ahead with Fluid Management
Fluid degradation is one of the leading causes of summertime vehicle failures. Maintaining correct levels and replacing old fluids can prevent expensive engine and transmission repairs.
Core Fluids to Manage:
- Engine Oil
Use manufacturer-recommended oil types, ideally synthetic for better temperature resistance. Change oil every 3,000–5,000 miles for high-use fleet vehicles. - Coolant/Antifreeze
Flush and replace coolant every 24–36 months. Inspect hoses and reservoir levels every month during summer. - Transmission Fluid
Check for discoloration or burnt odor. Overheated transmissions are costly—routine checks prevent wear from high-temperature stress. - Brake Fluid and Power Steering Fluid
These are often overlooked. Flush and replace based on OEM recommendations to ensure safety and steering control.
Fluid checks are the backbone of reliable fleet maintenance services and should be logged and tracked for each vehicle in your fleet.
Summer-Specific Accessories and Upfits
In addition to core maintenance, upgrading or refreshing your fleet’s accessories can deliver measurable gains in productivity, safety, and employee satisfaction.
Smart Upgrades to Consider This Summer:
- Window Tinting
Reduces interior heat and glare, protecting upholstery and boosting driver comfort. - Remote Starts
Allow vehicles to cool before use, especially helpful for early-morning starts or deliveries. - Fleet Van Shelving and Cargo Systems
Keeps tools and supplies secure and organized. Reduces unloading time and prevents damage. - LED Lighting and Safety Accessories
Increase visibility during early morning or late evening service calls. - Sunroof and Electronics Repairs
Summer storms and extreme temperatures can expose older systems. At Auto Additions, we handle unique repairs that many shops won’t touch.
With quick turnarounds and solid warranties, Auto Additions ensures every fleet addition is built to last.
Why Businesses Trust Auto Additions for Fleet Maintenance
Operating out of Westerville, Ohio, Auto Additions has served Central Ohio with unmatched quality and customer-first service since 1976. We are more than just installers—we are fleet performance partners, focused on:
- Precision installations backed by factory-matching warranties.
- A one-stop shop approach for upfitting, repairs, and upgrades.
- Reliable vendor partnerships and parts sourcing to minimize delays.
- Outstanding customer support through pickup/delivery and flexible scheduling.
Whether you manage a few service vans or dozens of commercial trucks, our Fleet Maintenance Services are tailored to minimize downtime and maximize efficiency.
Optimize Your Fleet with Auto Additions Today
Don’t wait for costly repairs to interrupt your business.
With the right summer maintenance plan and a partner like Auto Additions, your fleet can keep pace with your success all season long.
Schedule a Fleet Assessment Today
Explore Our Fleet Upfitting Services
Learn More About Fleet Repairs and Custom Installs
Let’s get your vehicles summer-ready—because downtime isn’t an option.
FAQs About Summer Fleet Maintenance
What’s the most important fleet maintenance task in summer?
Tire and cooling system inspections top the list. High pavement temperatures increase tire blowout risks, and cooling systems prevent overheating—both are essential for operational safety.
How does Auto Additions support local fleet businesses?
We provide customized maintenance schedules, pickup/delivery service, rapid installations, and repair solutions for hard-to-service systems like sunroofs and electronics—all tailored for Central Ohio business fleets.
Can I get fleet accessories and maintenance done in one visit?
Yes. Our integrated approach means you can bundle maintenance, upgrades, and repairs into a single, streamlined visit—saving time and maximizing vehicle uptime.
Conclusion: Your Summer Fleet Partner in Central Ohio
At Auto Additions, we don’t just service vehicles—we elevate them. Our precision, experience, and commitment to your business means your fleet is in trusted hands. As the temperatures rise, let us help your fleet rise to the challenge—because when your vehicles perform better, so does your bottom line.
