Venson Automotive Solutions has called on employers to educate grey fleet drivers on correct vehicle care as research indicates vital service, maintenance and repair (SMR) checks are being skipped.

Employers that combine SMR education and robust grey fleet policies can make a huge impact on driver risk management

A recent study by the fleet solutions business found that over a fifth of drivers admitted to skipping safety critical vehicle checks such as tyre tread depth and overall condition, and oil levels, relying instead on their annual MOT or service to pick up any problems.

The survey quizzed motorists on how often they carry out 12 different maintenance checks, and whether they handle them personally, rely on family or friends, or just wait for the annual service/MOT.

Of the 12 checks surveyed, the least likely to be checked by the driver themselves was battery health, checking for corrosion, leaks or loose fittings, with only 27% of motorists inspecting battery health personally.

This was followed by coolant and antifreeze levels, which just 51% felt confident enough to inspect. Conversely, motorists were more proactive with windscreen wipers (64%), washer fluid levels (70%), clean headlamps (67%) and number plate visibility (81%), suggesting a disparity in maintenance knowledge and awareness.

Encouraging routine checks and keeping to regular maintenance schedules can help improve vehicle safety, reduce risks on the road and maximise vehicle uptime.

Lee O’Neill, operations director at Venson, said: “Driver education, whether by a fleet management provider or in-house, is fundamental to effective grey fleet management. Our survey indicates that while many of the simpler SMR tasks such as checking washer levels and number pate visibility are being done regularly by the drivers themselves, tasks like inspecting tyres can easily be neglected.

“By educating drivers on how to carry out all of the routine vehicle inspections, drivers can pick up on small problems before they become big issues.

“Employers that combine this education and have defined policies in place to ensure advance bookings for services and MOT by their grey fleet drivers can really make a huge impact on driver risk management and road safety.”