How Commercial Vehicle Technology Is Changing Maintenance Strategies
Keeping up with advances in vehicle tech
“As the technology suite on new equipment continues to advance with additional sensors and more sophisticated onboard capabilities, we can perform preventive maintenance with greater precision based on how each vehicle is being used,” said Chris Hough, vice president of maintenance design and engineering at Penske Truck Leasing.
That shift is affecting everything from inspections and diagnostics to technician training and preventive maintenance planning.
New Technology Requires New Solutions
Vehicle electrical architecture, emissions systems, aftertreatment systems, safety systems and onboard telematics have all become more complex, requiring a different maintenance approach.
“Many inspections now involve both a physical review of components and a data-driven review of fault history, software status, sensor performance and system calibration requirements,” Hough said.
Much of the added complexity comes from advancements in safety technology, which is increasing the number of sensors, wiring and electronic components in commercial vehicles.
“Inspecting these systems for damage, faults and chafed wires is extremely important,” Hough said. “Embedding these checks into normal preventive maintenance procedures helps ensure potential issues are identified early and addressed properly.”
Software has become another component that must be maintained as vehicle systems evolve. “Much like phones and other technology, software updates are required to help ensure equipment operates efficiently. From a diagnostics standpoint, it is difficult to properly repair equipment without the correct diagnostic software and accurate data,” Hough said.
Preparing Before New Equipment Arrives
Staying current with changing technology requires preparation before new vehicles or components are placed into operation.
“Between our maintenance and vehicle supply teams, we stay closely connected with our OEM partners, component manufacturers and industry organizations. This allows us to stay informed about what is coming and helps us shape future changes,” Hough said, adding that preparation is especially important ahead of a new model year or a significant equipment update.
Even with that advanced planning, unforeseen issues can arise once new products are placed into service and operating in real-world conditions. “In those cases, we work closely with the OEMs and provide as much detail as possible, including fault codes, photos when applicable, driver descriptions of the issues they are experiencing and other relevant information,” Hough explained. “This helps the OEMs reduce the time to resolution.”
Hough said ongoing training also helps technicians stay current on new technology. “It starts with understanding what is changing from the current platform to the new platform,” he explained. “Once those changes are clear, we can tailor training to the areas technicians and shop management need most.”
Major changes, such as the recent move to 24-volt and 12-volt electrical platforms, require a more in-depth training approach than simpler updates, such as moving from incandescent headlights to LED headlights. “Focusing on what is different helps technicians and shop management make better decisions when diagnosing issues,” Hough added.
More Maintenance Visibility
Connected-vehicle data and remote diagnostics are also giving maintenance teams earlier visibility into developing problems, potentially reducing unplanned downtime. “The data can help reduce roadside breakdowns and limit disruptions to our customers’ operations,” Hough explained.
Sensor data also allows maintenance teams to improve preventive maintenance planning by monitoring component condition and maximizing component life cycles, which supports both uptime and sustainability by helping technicians avoid premature repairs or replacements.
“Continuous brake pad wear sensors, clutch wear sensors and air filter restriction gauges are examples of advancements that can improve our ability to schedule repairs before a unit enters the shop,” Hough said.
Hough added that continued advances in technology will give fleets and technicians greater insight into component condition before a vehicle enters the shop. This will help maintenance teams prepare for repairs, make better use of scheduled shop time and increase efficiency.