Van Maintenance Tips for Tradespeople and Small Businesses

For tradespeople and small businesses, the van isn't just a vehicle — it's the tool that generates income. A reliable van means reliable business. Yet many sole traders and small operators neglect van maintenance until something breaks, costing far more in emergency repairs and lost earnings.

Service Intervals for Vans

Light commercial vehicles (vans) typically have more demanding service schedules than equivalent cars — shorter oil change intervals and more frequent checks because they carry heavier loads and cover higher mileage. Follow the manufacturer's schedule in the handbook, and use commercial-grade oils where specified.

Daily Driver Checks

• Check oil level weekly or before long trips — vans work hard and can consume oil faster than cars
• Check tyre pressures monthly — van tyre pressures vary significantly with load. Under-inflated tyres on a loaded van wear rapidly and increase fuel consumption
• Test all lights before long runs — a defective brake light or indicator is a fixed-penalty waiting to happen
• Check loading area security — shifting loads can damage the vehicle and affect handling

The MOT for Vans

Light commercial vehicles up to 3,000kg require an annual MOT from 3 years old. Heavier LCVs over 3,500kg require more frequent testing. Prepare for the MOT with a pre-test inspection to maximise your first-time pass rate and avoid the downtime of a retest.

Protecting Your Investment

A well-maintained van holds its value better at resale. Keep a full service history, address recalls promptly, and don't defer maintenance. If your van has covered 100,000 miles without a timing belt change, that's not a badge of honour — it's a ticking time bomb.

PKA Automotive specialises in light commercial vehicle servicing in Keighley. We carry commercial-grade oils and parts for all major van makes, and can work around your schedule to minimise downtime.