Bad driver habits increasing fleet SMR costs, Venson finds

Research conducted by Venson Automotive Solutions has found that bad driver habits are increasing fleet servicing maintenance and repair (SMR) costs.

Venson found that 35% of drivers rest their hand on the gear stick while driving, which increases wear on gearbox components.

34% let fuel run low, 23% drive too fast over speed bumps or potholes and 16% said they regularly ride the clutch.

Venson said that driving too fast over potholes accelerates tyre, suspension and steering component wear.

Other driver habits that increase fleet SMR costs included ignoring warning lights or unusual noises, which 15% of drivers admitted to and overloading, which 12% said they have done.

12% of drivers also admitted to braking late.

Lee O’Neill, operations director at Venson Automotive Solutions, said: “Individually, these behaviours may seem minor, but across a fleet they can translate into higher SMR costs, increased downtime and avoidable road safety risks.

“Reinforcing simple best-practice behaviours, such as avoiding clutch riding, maintaining fuel levels and responding quickly to warning lights, can have a measurable impact on cost control and vehicle availability.