Keeping Your Limousine Fleet in Peak Condition

Many clients choose to utilize the services of professional chauffeurs to transport them from location to location. They may enjoy the mystery and appeal of riding in a shiny, sleek limousine that makes other drivers turn their head. They may enjoy the comforts of a professional driver transporting them safely and on time.

If you own a limousine company, maintaining the vehicles is a very important aspect of your business. Performing routine maintenance and preventative care greatly reduces your chance of an unexpected breakdown or costly repair. However, many owners choose to simply run their vehicles to capacity every single day and handle ailments as they come.

If a client is late or forced to call another driver because of a breakdown, chances are they will not utilize your services again. Their chances of recommending your company greatly decreases.

To prevent unexpected breakdowns, be sure to follow these simple rules:

Preventative Maintenance

Routinely checking fluids such as the motor oil, coolant, and transmission fluid is crucial in maintenace. It is a simple task that can be done in a matter of minutes. Yet, if not performed can lead to engine and transmission failures, as well as poor fuel consumption and unexpected breakdowns.

Dual Batteries

Many limousines require two, if not three batteries to properly run multiple components like air conditioning and special lighting. If your limousine is only equipped with one battery, it can quickly be drained. Utilizing multiple batteries with several alternators ensures that all standard and after market accessories work properly, while the car still runs efficiently.

Air Conditioning

Even if you feel the air conditioning is running properly, still have it checked several times over the summer months. You cannot afford to have it malfunction on a hot day with a car full of clients.

Proper Tire Inflation

This is another simple, fast task that is often overlooked. Tires that are not properly inflated may lead to poor fuel consumption and an uneven ride. Tire pressure often changes in extreme temperatures, so it is important to frequently check it.

 

Owner’s Manual

The vehicle owner’s manual will have specific time requirements for scheduled maintenance. By reading and following the factory guidelines, you can help keep your limousine running efficiently. If you purchased a used limousine that didn’t come with a manual, contact the manufacturer.

Routinely checking fluids, brakes, steering, and shocks can help prevent costly repairs and breakdowns. Your clients expect reliability when they utilize your services. Breaking down halfway to an important meeting is not an option for your clients. Riding in the backseat of a bumpy, squeaky car will also frustrate clients.

Be sure to maintain and keep your limousines running efficiently. You should plan to have constant contact with your mechanic. Keep your drivers and clients happy by providing reliable vehicles.

If you are considering selling your limousine company, well maintained vehicles will allow for a better inventory valuation. A buyer will consider how much money will be needed to repair and update your vehicles. When you are ready to obtain a valuation, the years of maintaining and caring for your valuable assets will pay off.

The Tenney Group has been facilitating transactions of transportation businesses for over thirty-five years, specializing in business sales, mergers, acquisitions, and post-transaction services. We have experience dealing with a wide variety of companies in the ground transportation industry, including trucking, freight hauling, ambulance, school bus, and limousine businesses. Contact Spencer Tenney at the Tenney Group for expert assistance when buying or selling a transportation company.