How Outdated Thinking is Costing Fleet Managers Thousands
Are You Falling for These Costly Fleet Maintenance Myths?
Fleet maintenance should be simple, right? Keep your trucks running, fix things when they break, and avoid unnecessary expenses.
But what if everything you’ve been told about fleet maintenance is wrong?
Many fleet managers still believe outdated myths that cost them thousands in avoidable repairs, fuel waste, and lost business. Today, we’re busting the seven biggest myths and showing you how the top-performing fleets stay ahead.
Related: How BFS Fleet Service Saves Fleets Time & Money
1. Myth: “If a Truck is Running Fine, It Doesn’t Need Maintenance”
The Reality: Most major breakdowns start as small, unnoticed issues that slowly get worse.
A truck might be running fine today, but under the hood, parts could be wearing down, fluids running low, or components operating under strain.
What happens when you ignore minor issues?
- A $50 oil change turns into a $10,000 engine replacement.
- A slightly worn brake pad leads to a total rotor failure.
- A low coolant level overheats the engine, cracking the radiator.
Related: Schedule Preventative Maintenance Before It’s Too Late
2. Myth: “It’s Cheaper to Fix a Truck When It Breaks Than to Pay for Routine Maintenance”
The Reality: Reactive maintenance is 5X more expensive than preventative maintenance.
When a truck unexpectedly breaks down, you’re not just paying for repairs:
- Emergency labor costs (more expensive than scheduled maintenance)
- Towing fees (which add up fast)
- Lost revenue from an out-of-service truck
- Potential penalties for late deliveries
A predictable maintenance schedule lets you control costs—instead of getting hit with surprise expenses.
Related: How BFS Fleet Service Helps Fleets Avoid Costly Repairs
3. Myth: “DOT Inspections Are Just About Passing the Test”
The Reality: DOT compliance isn’t just about avoiding fines—it’s about protecting your fleet, your drivers, and your reputation.
Failing a DOT inspection can mean:
- Your truck gets pulled from service immediately
- Your fleet gets flagged as “high risk” (leading to higher insurance rates)
- Lawsuits and liability if poor maintenance leads to an accident
Smart fleet managers don’t wait for an inspection to scramble—they keep their vehicles inspection-ready year-round.
Related: How BFS Fleet Service Ensures DOT Compliance
4. Myth: “All Oil Changes Are the Same”
The Reality: The wrong oil can destroy an engine—costing you $20,000+ in repairs.
Using the wrong oil viscosity or skipping oil changes entirely leads to:
- Higher engine wear (shortening the truck’s lifespan)
- Increased fuel consumption (lower MPG means higher costs)
- Risk of overheating and engine sludge buildup
A fleet-optimized oil change ensures your trucks run longer, burn less fuel, and avoid major breakdowns.
Related: Fleet Oil Change & Engine Protection Services
5. Myth: “Tires Only Need to Be Replaced When They Look Worn”
The Reality: Tires lose efficiency long before they show major wear.
Most fleet managers only replace tires when the tread is visibly worn—but by that point, they’ve already:
- Increased stopping distances (higher accident risk)
- Decreased fuel efficiency (underinflated tires burn more fuel)
- Put stress on the suspension system (leading to additional repairs)
Top fleets track tire pressure, alignment, and tread depth regularly to maximize efficiency and safety.
Related: Tire Inspections & Fleet Optimization
6. Myth: “New Trucks Don’t Need Maintenance”
The Reality: Even brand-new trucks need regular checkups to stay in peak condition.
A truck that’s only a few months old can still:
- Develop early engine issues if fluids aren’t checked
- Suffer alignment problems from road conditions
- Lose efficiency due to improper tire pressure
Skipping early maintenance shortens a truck’s lifespan and leads to costly repairs down the road.
Related: How to Keep Your Fleet in Top Shape from Day One
7. Myth: “Preventative Maintenance is Just a Fancy Term for Extra Costs”
The Reality: Preventative maintenance is the #1 way to save money in fleet operations.
- Fewer breakdowns = lower repair costs
- Better fuel efficiency = thousands saved per year
- Longer truck lifespan = reduced replacement costs
Related: Join BFS Fleet Service’s Preventative Maintenance Program
Final Thoughts: Stop Falling for Fleet Maintenance Myths
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