Whether you use your van for business or leisure, it’s never a good time if it decides to break down. Not only can this cost your business money, as a result of downtime, but it can also be costly to repair or replace problem components when they fail. The best thing? Know what can go wrong and prevent it from happening. Staying ahead of the game can save time and money, which is especially important if you rely on your van to make a living. In this article, we’re going to go through the causes of van breakdown, alongside some pointers to prevent them in the first place. So, let’s dive right in:
Battery failure
Battery-related issues are among the most common causes of vehicle breakdowns. Van batteries can lose charge over time, especially during cold weather, long periods of inactivity or when electrical systems are left running while the engine is off. There are other causes, also, such as: old or worn-out batteries, leaving lights or accessories on, corroded battery terminals, faulty alternators preventing proper charging and extreme temperatures. So, what’s the best way to prevent battery failure and mitigate van breakdown? Let’s have a look:
- Test your battery regularly, especially before winter
- Replace batteries in accordance with manufacturer recommendations
- Keep battery terminals clean and free from corrosion
- Avoid leaving lights, radios or charging devices running when the engine is off
- Have the charging system inspected during routine servicing
Flat or damaged tyres
Tyre problems are another major reason that contributes to van breakdown. This is because commercial vans are often required to carry heavy loads and travel long distances. As a result of this, it puts additional, considerable strain on the tyres, causing them to wear out far more quickly than on regular-use vehicles, like domestic cars and motorbikes.
Some common causes of this include: underinflation or overinflation, worn tread, punctures from road debris, overloading the vehicle and poor wheel alignment. However, don’t panic, because there are some preventive measures you can take to avoid van breakdowns, such as:
- Checking tyre pressure at least once a month
- Inspecting tyres for cuts, cracks or embedded objects
- Replacing tyres before the tread depth reaches the legal minimum
- Rotating tyres regularly to ensure even wear
- Avoid exceeding the van’s maximum load capacity
Overheated engine
An overheating engine can cause extreme, irreparable damage if the issue isn’t addressed properly and in good time. Not only can it cause van breakdown, but it could even render the van useless, writing it off in the process. This is normally because engine replacements are so costly.
Cooling system failures are often responsible in this case, as it’s not maintaining the temperature balance needed to keep the engine operating smoothly and safely. There are some common reasons for engine overheating, including: low coolant levels, faulty radiator, coolant leaks, broken water pumps and malfunctioning thermostat.
But don’t worry, because there are some quick and simple ways to prevent overheated engines. But if it does overheat and requires repair, then VanServ can help you. Our highly-trained, fully-qualified team of technicians are able to meticulously and effectively carry out van engine repairs. Here are some preventative measures, however:
- Check coolant levels regularly
- Look for signs of leaks under the vehicle
- Have the cooling system inspected during servicing
- Replace worn hoses and cooling components where necessary
- Never ignore rising temperature gauge readings
Problems with the electrical system
Modern vans rely heavily on electrical systems to manage everything from engine performance to safety features. Faulty wiring or failed components can lead to breakdowns and starting issues, eventually. There are some common causes of electrical system faults when it comes to commercial vehicles, such as: damaged wiring, blown fuses, faulty sensors, alternator failure and starter motor issues. The way in which you can prevent those problems to mitiage van breakdown include:
- Addressing dashboard warning lights as soon as they appear
- Scheduling regular diagnostic checks
- Repairing damaged wiring as soon as problems are detected
- Avoiding amateur modifications that may affect the electrical system
- Ensuring electrical components are inspected during routine maintenance
Fuel system issues
Problems with the van’s fuel system can cause the vehicle to break down. This is because if the van experiences issues with the fuel system, it prevents the engine from receiving the fuel it needs to operate in an efficient manner.
There are many common causes for this, including: contaminated fuel, blocked fuel filters, failing fuel pumps, water contamination in fuel and running out of fuel. The best way to prevent fuel system issues that can cause vehicle breakdowns includes:
- Using reputable fuel stations
- Replacing fuel filters according to service schedules
- Keeping fuel levels above one-quarter of a tank whenever possible
- Avoiding strong fuel for extended periods
- Investigate any signs of poor engine performance promptly
Failed brake system
Brake-related problems may not always result in a complete breakdown. However, they can make a van unsafe to drive, and it will subsequently require immediate attention. The reasons for this are as follows: worn brake pads, damaged brake discs, brake fluid leaks, faulty brake callipers and contaminated brake fluid. The best way to prevent these issues from occurring? Let’s have a look:
- Listen for unusual noises when braking
- Having brakes inspected regularly
- Repalcing won components promptly
- Monitor brake fluid levels
- Never ignore changes in braking performance
Clutch & transmission problems
One of the most common causes of van breakdown involves issues with the clutch and/or transmission. This is especially the case for vans that spend a significant amount of time in stop-start traffic or that are required to constantly carry heavy loads back and forth to different jobs. It’s this that places additional stress on the clutch and transmission systems. The cause? It’s often down to worn clutch plates, low transmission fluid, gearbox wear, aggressive driving habits and excessive towing or overloading (as already discussed). While we know what it is that’s causing the damage, there are some ways to prevent van breakdown as a result of clutch and/or transmission problems, including:
- Avoid riding the clutch pedal
- Change transmission fluid (in line with the manufacturer’s recommendations)
- Address gear-shifting difficulties early
- Use appropriate gears for driving conditions
- Avoid excessive loads beyond vehicle specifications
- Having your clutch inspected and repaired by the professionals here at VanServ
Poor vehicle maintenance overall
Something that will keep your van or commercial vehicle running smoothly, safely and reliably is to undergo regular van servicing from us here at VanServ. A van service will help your vehicle continue to run in the most cost-effective and fuel-efficient way possible.
This is because a typical van service or van vehicle health check will include the inspection of crucial parts and components, as well as fluid levels. It will also include oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacements and more.
Find out more about our van servicing near you and how we can help to keep your van running reliably. Further to this, to prevent your commercial vehicle from failing as a result of poor vehicle maintenance, you should look to do the following:
- Undergo a van service regularly
- Follow the manufacturer’s service intervals
- Check essential fluids regularly
- Replace worn components before they fail
- Work with qualified technicians
- Maintain detailed service records
Seasonal factors affecting van performance & contributing to van breakdowns
As with most mechanical things, whether it be a van, a car, a motorbike or even a motorised bike, it can be negatively affected by the changing weather and extreme high and low temperatures. With this in mind, the changing seasons can bring their own challenges for van owners.
For instance, winter weather can cause battery failures, frozen fluids, reduced trye grip and difficult starting conditions. However, summer temperatures can cause overheated engines, increased tyre pressure and strain on the cooling system. As such, make sure your commercial vehicle is prepared for the changing weather and temperatures as we go through the seasons.
If in doubt, get advice from one of our qualified, competent technicians here at VanServ. We have a wealth of van experience, from air-con and remapping to engine repairs and gearbox replacements, and everything in between. We can always be relied upon for all of your van needs, no matter how complex they may be.
If you would like further information about how our team here at VanServ can help to prevent van breakdown, then get in touch with a member of our friendly, knowledgeable team today – we’re always on hand to help.