Van Repair and Maintenance Guide

 05/12/23

It’s no secret that van maintenance can often feel like an awkward expense. However, keeping your van in good nick is essential to making your driving experience as efficient and safe as possible.  

Not only are maintenance and van repairs essential for upholding safety standards, but they also key to maximizing long-term value and efficiency. So, whether you’re driving a large 3.5 tonne van or a more compact city model, staying on top of maintenance should be a priority. 

We’ve put together a comprehensive guide to van repairs and maintenance, including the top 6 checks you can do and why vehicle servicing is so important for van owners.  


Check tyres

Looking after your tyres is one of the most important aspects of maintenance for van drivers. As vans tend to be larger and heavier than cars, and are often carrying heavy loads, there is a greater demand on van tyres. They’re therefore more likely to wear faster and suffer from external damage. 

Make sure you regularly inspect your tyres for:

  • Tread depth – The legal tread depth limit in the UK is 1.6mm, but we recommend having your van tyres replaced once the depth reaches 3mm.
  • Sidewall damage – Look for any kind of damage to the sidewall of the tyre, including scratches, cuts or bulges.
  • Tyre pressure – Ensure your tyres are inflated to the tyre pressure level recommended by the manufacturer.

If you think you’re in need of a new set of tyres, check out our recommendations for the best van tyres by season. 

 

Test your brakes

As we all know, the braking system is absolutely crucial for driving safety. However, over time, brake components can wear and become faulty. 
 

brake check

Make sure to check your foot and parking brakes regularly. If you notice any abnormalities, book your van in for a brake inspection with a professional mechanic. 

 

Keep an eye on your lights 

No matter what kind of vehicle you’re driving, keeping your lights in order is essential. You should regularly check all your lights, including the head lights, full beams, brake lights and reverse lights, by turning them on and walking around your van. 

If a car bulb goes in any of your lights, you should be alerted via a dashboard warning light, but regular checks will ensure you don’t miss anything. 

 

Keep the fluids topped up

It’s important for all drivers to keep an eye on vehicle fluids. The most important of these is engine oil, which keeps the moving parts of an engine lubricated. 

Check your van handbook or manual to familiarise yourself with how often your manufacturer recommends having the oil changed. You can also read our blog to learn more about which engine oil your vehicle needs
 

ATS Euromaster technician performing oil change

Other fluids, like coolant, power steering fluid and brake fluid, also need to be topped up regularly. This can be done during a servicing appointment. 

 

Take care of the battery 

Depending on what you use your van for, it might be the case that you leave it for extended periods without driving it. This can often cause the battery to drain. 

A dead battery is never ideal, so familiarise yourself with signs of a dying battery and give in an inspection every now and then. In particular, check that it’s securely properly and all the cables are damage-free. 

 

Keep on top of cleaning 

Cleaning your van may seem like more of a chore than a maintenance priority, but a dirty van can lead to various problems. Failing to clean your van regularly can lead to rust developing, which can cause more serious problems down the line. It will also help keep you aware of any dents, scratches or dinks you haven’t noticed.

 

Van servicing and repairs

The easiest way to keep on top of your van maintenance is with regular servicing appointments. Like car servicing, van servicing involves a thorough investigation of your vehicle to check that it’s running as safely, smoothly and efficiently as possible. It also includes top ups and replacements of certain components, like engine oil and coolant, as necessary. 

Generally, it’s recommended to have a full service at least once annually. If you have a considerably high mileage, over 12,000 miles per year, it’s advisable to have an interim service every 6 months. This will boost efficiency and ensure all your fluids are topped up.  

ATS offer vehicle servicing for vans with highly experienced local mechanics. You can choose from an interim, full or major service, based on your mileage and individual needs. Visit our vehicle servicing page today for more information on how much a van service costs and how to book at your local centre today
 

ATS Euromaster Technician serving customer

At ATS, we also provide various services for common van repairs, from puncture repairs to brake inspections to engine diagnostics. Whether you’re in need of specialist van repairs or general maintenance, you can be sure to get the most out of your van with ATS. 

Van Maintenance FAQs

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How do I know when my van needs an oil change?