Maintenance costs increased in 2009 due to higher cost of replacement tires, PM oil changes, and labor rates. Preventive maintenance (PM) expenses experienced a double-digit increase in 2009. Average per-tire costs are up 6 percent over the past three years, while tire costs on a per-vehicle basis are up over 40 percent for the same time period because of extended cycling.

By utilizing the GPS Insight fleet tracking system, you will reduce these costs by extending the time in between servicing your vehicles. The GPS Insight optimized routing feature easily allows you to determine wasteful trips and to guarantee your drivers are taking the most efficient route. GPS Insight also knows your vehicles’ odometer readings, and will alert you to upcoming/overdue maintenance based on your exact schedule. When combining these two features, you will help to ensure your vehicles last longer and require maintenance less frequently, which saves you money.

The following charts depict the average total maintenance spend per unit per month and per mile. Total maintenance costs include: tires, maintenance repairs (un-scheduled services such as brakes, suspension, engine, transmission, electrical and other), and preventive maintenance for passenger cars.

*Source: GE Capital Fleet Services - Automotive Fleet, March 2010