For many people, riding the bus to a destination is the norm. They live in areas where driving themselves is either not possible or simply too much hassle.  As a result, when they go to the bus stop, they expect there to be a ride ready on schedule.  If the transportation isn’t there, tempers rise and bad reviews follow. This is definitely not how any company wants to be remembered!

If you own a fleet of buses- be it for city transportation, shuttling from the airport to a hotel, or used by vacationers- your bus fleet must always be ready to go when your passengers are. Sure, there will be occasional minor setbacks, but with intentional maintenance and inspections, you can be sure your buses are ready to go.

Maintenance Tips for Keeping Your Bus Fleet Running

Daily inspections –

As a bus transportation company, you are only as good as your bus fleet is operational. Be sure your drivers take time each day to give a thorough inspection of their bus(es). You may want to create an inspection list to make it easier. Some items to have on the list include:

• • Inspecting the body for any damage
  • Seeing that all turn signals and horn are working
  • Tightening any loose screws of railings, handles, moldings, etc.
  • Windows are opening/closing
  • Lights inside the bus work
  • Bus floors and seats are clean
  • That nothing is blocking the driver’s line of sight
  • Top off any fluids
  • Check tires- pressure, wear and tear, leaks, etc.

If your bus drivers are not required to perform engine-based checks, then you will need to have an on-site mechanic who will do inspections of that nature.

Professional inspections –

If you do not have a professional mechanic on staff, then you will need to keep up with the engine, transmission, tires, and other tasks connected to keeping your buses ready to go. Keep a logbook of when each bus was inspected and include notations of any maintenance tasks or repairs that were done.

Keep What’s Needed On-Hand –

From simple items like replacement bulbs for the buses’ interior to extra screws for the molding, easy maintenance saves time. If you have a mechanic on-site, make their tasks easier by having frequently used items readily available. You can buy fluids such as lubricants, fuel injectors, cleaners, and synthetic oil in bulk from AMSOIL through Buy Great Oil. This site also has air filters, oil filters, and other products to ensure your bus fleet is in prime working order. Other items to keep readily available are windshield wiper fluid, brake pads, reflectors, and if used, spark plugs.

Be Current –

At the beginning of each month, take a few minutes to check the paperwork for each of your buses. Note any upcoming inspections needed, that insurance is up to date and that any warranties or new purchase paperwork are filed correctly. You don’t want to sideline a bus because of a piece of paper.

Bus maintenance is not something to overlook if you want to be successful. Being intentional in maintenance jobs, record keeping, and doing frequent inspections are all important parts of running a bus transportation company. Do your part behind the scenes so your buses are always ready when needed.