Fleet operators urged to prioritise driver training in 2026 to reduce vehicle wear and tear challenges
Everyday driving habits are adding unnecessary pressure to fleet Service, Maintenance and Repair (SMR) budgets, accelerating vehicle wear and increasing downtime, according to new research from Venson Automotive Solutions.
A survey of motorists found that drivers regularly engage in behaviours that increase mechanical stress on their vehicle and take unnecessary road safety risks.
Drivers admitted to the following:
- 35% resting their hand on the gear stick whilst driving
- 34% let fuel run low
- 23% driving over speed bumps or potholes too fast
- 16% riding the clutch
- 15% of drivers ignore dashboard warning lights or unusual noises
- 12% overload their vehicles
- 12% brake late
The most commonly reported habit is resting a hand on the gearstick, cited by 35% of drivers. While often overlooked, this practice places continuous pressure on gearbox components and increases the risk of premature wear or failure, leading to avoidable repair costs and downtime.
Low fuel running is another significant issue, admitted by 34% of drivers. Drivers aged 35–44 are the most likely to run vehicles close to empty (44%), compared with 29% of those aged 18–24. For fleet drivers switching between vehicles, unfamiliar fuel gauges and reliance on range-to-empty displays can heighten the risk of misjudgement. Keeping fuel levels higher reduces emergency refuelling incidents and associated safety risks when breaking down at the roadside.
Road condition damage is also a growing concern. Almost a quarter of drivers (23%) say they drive too fast over potholes or speed bumps, accelerating wear to tyres, suspension and steering components, an issue compounded by the poor condition of many UK roads. Poor clutch control is another costly behaviour, with 16% of drivers saying they regularly ride the clutch.
Lee O’Neill, Operations Director at Venson Automotive Solutions, commented: “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. Targeted driver education and ongoing reinforcement of consistent driving standards can help fleet operators reduce driver induced SMR recharges and improve road safety for all.”