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Hot Wheels: Managing Fleet Vehicles and Driver Safety in High Temperatures

Originally published in Fleet Management Weekly 7/3/24

By Sarah Bechtold, eDriving

As the summer sun blazes, fleet managers face the dual challenge of maintaining vehicle performance while ensuring the well-being of their drivers. High temperatures can wreak havoc on fleet vehicles, leading to increased maintenance demands and potential breakdowns. At the same time, the health and safety of drivers become a priority as they navigate the challenges of extreme heat. Understanding how high temperatures affect fleet vehicles and implementing practical preventative measures and maintenance schedules can keep both vehicles and drivers in optimal condition throughout the summer.

The Impact of High Temperatures on Vehicle Performance and Driver Safety

  • Engine Stress and Overheating: High temperatures put additional stress on vehicle engines, often leading to overheating. Overheating can cause severe damage, such as warped cylinder heads and damaged pistons. This not only hampers vehicle performance but also increases the risk of drivers being stranded in dangerous heat conditions.
  • Battery Life Reduction: The heat accelerates the chemical reactions inside batteries, causing them to overcharge and reducing their lifespan. High temperatures can also cause the electrolyte inside batteries to evaporate, leading to internal damage and a higher likelihood of battery failure. A failed battery can leave drivers stranded, compromising their safety.
  • Tire Degradation: Hot pavement affects tire pressure and integrity. As temperatures rise, so does tire pressure, which can lead to over-inflation, blowouts, or accelerated tread wear. This increases the risk of incidents, endangering both drivers and other road users.
  • Fluid Depletion: Essential fluids, such as coolant, oil, and transmission fluid, are susceptible to evaporation and degradation in high temperatures. Lower fluid levels can lead to inadequate lubrication and cooling, increasing the risk of mechanical failures that could compromise driver safety.
  • Brake Performance: High temperatures can affect brake performance by causing brake fluid to overheat and vaporize, leading to brake fade. Reduced braking power and responsiveness pose significant safety risks, particularly in emergency situations.

Preventative Measures and Maintenance Schedules for Vehicle and Driver Safety

To mitigate the adverse effects of high temperatures on fleet vehicles and ensure driver safety, consider the following preventative measures and maintenance strategies:

  1. Regular Coolant Checks and Maintenance

Ensure the cooling system is in top condition by regularly checking and topping off coolant levels. Flush and replace the coolant according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Inspect hoses and the radiator for leaks or signs of wear and tear. 

  1. Battery Inspection and Maintenance

Check battery terminals for corrosion and ensure they are clean and secure. Test battery voltage and replace batteries that show signs of weakness. Consider using batteries designed for high-temperature environments if your fleet operates in consistently hot climates.

  1. Tire Maintenance

Monitor tire pressure regularly and adjust it to the manufacturer’s recommended levels. Inspect tires for signs of over-inflation, such as bulging or uneven wear. Rotate tires regularly and replace them when tread wear reaches unsafe levels.

  1. Fluid Level Monitoring

Regularly check and maintain appropriate levels of engine oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, and power steering fluid. Use high-quality fluids that are designed to withstand high temperatures and provide optimal performance.

  1. Brake System Maintenance

Inspect brake pads, rotors, and fluid regularly. Replace brake pads and rotors as needed to ensure optimal braking performance. Flush and replace brake fluid at intervals recommended by the manufacturer to prevent overheating and brake fade.

  1. Engine and Transmission Care

Schedule regular engine and transmission inspections to identify potential issues before they become critical. Consider using synthetic oils that offer better high-temperature stability and protection.

  1. Air Conditioning System Checks

Ensure the air conditioning system is functioning correctly to provide a comfortable environment for drivers. Regularly check refrigerant levels and inspect the system for leaks or component wear.


Ensuring Employee Health and Safety with Driver Risk Management Tools

In addition to vehicle maintenance, prioritizing driver health and safety is crucial, especially during extreme heat. Implementing a comprehensive driver risk management program, such as Mentor by eDriving, can significantly enhance safety measures. Mentor by eDriving includes tools like the Driver Vehicle Inspection Report (DVIR) and Driver Event Reporting (DER), which help maintain vehicle safety and monitor driver safety.

  • Vehicle Inspection: Regular vehicle inspections are essential for identifying potential issues before they become serious problems. DVIRs ensure that vehicles are checked daily, helping to prevent breakdowns, and ensuring that all safety features are operational. This proactive approach reduces the likelihood of vehicle-related incidents and keeps drivers safe.
  • Driver Event Reporting: Monitoring and reporting driver behavior is crucial for maintaining safety standards. DER tools help immediately track adverse safety events such as incidents, collisions, near misses, and other driver safety events. By identifying these patterns, fleet managers can provide targeted support to drivers, promoting safer driving practices and reducing the risk of injuries, incidents, and collisions.

Navigating the challenges of summer heat is essential for fleet managers committed to both vehicle performance and driver safety. Proactive maintenance, such as regular inspections and fluid checks, forms the foundation of resilience against the heat’s toll on vehicles. Yet, true fleet resilience goes beyond maintenance schedules; it encompasses driver well-being. Driver risk management programs like Mentor by eDriving, with its robust driver risk management capabilities like vehicle inspection tools and event reporting, empower fleets to monitor and improve driver behavior, ensuring safer roads for everyone. By integrating these tools with comprehensive maintenance protocols, fleet managers can navigate summer’s challenges with confidence, knowing their vehicles are reliable and their drivers are safe.

Safe driving.