Vehicle downtime caused by delays in repairs is increasingly disrupting UK fleets, according to the 2025 Arval Mobility Observatory Barometer.
The number of fleets reporting issues has jumped from 18% to 24%. Factors include limited workshop capacity, a lack of skilled technicians and poor parts availability.
Nearly half of fleets now choose manufacturers based on parts supply, while 44% are investing more time managing service processes.Use of daily rental vehicles is up from 34% to 41% year-on-year, despite being costly.
The number keeping vehicles in service while awaiting repairs has dropped to 30%, as older vehicles raise safety concerns.
Measures like maintaining pool fleets or switching suppliers remain unchanged at 28%. Average vehicle off-road (VOR) time has also risen, with Northern Ireland worst affected at 2.40 days.
Epyx data shows post-pandemic VOR times have lengthened across almost all regions, underlining a persistent challenge for fleet operators.
Minimise Repair Downtime with FleetWise's Top Tips
Introduce/monitor weekly vehicle walk-arounds and checks by fleet drivers. This not only minimises breakdowns and downtime, it enhances your driver-care and CSR profiles.
The following should be checked…
Mileage. Keep all vehicle mileages logged.
Tyre tread depth. Below 3mm should be reported. While 1.6mm is the legal minimum, a tyre's ability to cut through standing water is severely diminished with a tread depth below 3mm.
Tyre condition. Is there any visible damage to the tyres?
Tyre pressures. Low pressures increase wear and fuel consumption, and could be dangerous.
Oil level (either manually, or using the dashboard monitor)
Coolant level (Check the depth in the reservoir under the bonnet)
Washer fluid. Keep topped up with a suitable washer fluid to prevent freezing in winter)
Wipe blades. Check for rubber blade damage. This may prevent the windscreen being cleared properly, and potentially permanently scratch the windscreen
Lights. Do all lights, including headlamps, indicators and fog lights work?
Dash warning lights. Any warning lights that stay on should be investigated immediately by a technician
Cleaning. Windows, mirrors, cameras, light lenses and numberplates should be kept spotless
Hands-free phone holder. Must be installed and functioning properly
Emergency equipment. Are hi-vis vests, warning triangles and gel puncture repair kits in the vehicle?
Several apps are available for carrying out and monitoring weekly vehicle checks, such as FleetCheck Driver.
Introduce telematics to monitor driving styles and behaviours
Poor and erratic driving is one of the biggest factors affecting vehicle condition and reliability. A telematics system delivers in-depth driving data and feedback across a wide range of pre-set criteria. Geotab and Lightfoot, are two Highly-Recommended 2025 Trusted Brands in this sector.
Beat downtime issues – buy the most reliable vehicles
Click here to discover the most reliable vans, according to data from warranty firm Warranty Solutions Group.