Matt Wrankmore, Head of Garage Network at FixMyCar says, “Rising operating costs are forcing businesses to reassess every line of expenditure, including vehicle maintenance. For fleet owners who manage dozens, or even hundreds of company vehicles, the temptation for employees to attempt quick DIY repairs is understandable. It seems like an easy way to avoid downtime and complicated repair processes. But what seems like a quick fix often becomes a long-term liability.”
We call this phenomenon “Bodgeflation” — the unintended consequence of well-meaning but unqualified vehicle repairs.
The Hidden Costs of DIY Repairs
Modern commercial vehicles are sophisticated systems with complex electrical, mechanical, and software components. Yet, many drivers assume that a quick YouTube video is enough to do it themselves.
According to industry data, nearly 58% of professional mechanics have seen an increase in vehicles arriving with failed DIY attempts that require significant rework. These aren’t just minor mishaps — they often involve improper parts, misdiagnosed issues, and safety-critical oversights.
For fleet owners, this trend is especially concerning, as even one out-of-service vehicle on the road disrupts operations and impacts the bottom line. Even worse, a poorly executed repair can void warranties, cause extra strain on related systems, create safety risks for the driver as well as others on the road, and lead to higher administrative burdens and costs from rerouting deliveries or replacing the vehicle.
The truth is, what seems like a shortcut is usually too good to be true, especially since the majority of the time, the vehicle ends up in the shop even longer than it would have if it had been serviced properly the first time.
Educate Before You Delegate: Driver Training Is Essential
Fleet owners need to do more than just discourage risky DIY behaviour. They need to educate drivers on what they can and cannot do themselves. Creating clear maintenance protocols and providing basic training can make all the difference.
Drivers should be encouraged to take responsibility for checking and topping up engine oil, coolant and screenwash, checking their own tyres for tread depth and wear and tear, keeping the vehicle clean and protected from the elements, and lubricating hinges and latches with white lithium grease.
These tasks are low-risk, simple, and valuable for long-term vehicle upkeep. Done regularly, they can reduce wear, improve performance, and even prevent larger issues down the line.
But some repairs should never be attempted without professional expertise, including brake system servicing, electrical diagnostics and rewiring, fuel system issues, engine diagnostics and component replacements, and transmission problems.
When it comes to these complex systems, even a small mistake can sideline a vehicle for days or weeks, not to mention pose serious safety risks.
Teach Drivers to Trust Their Senses — and the Warning Lights
Good instincts matter, but they need to be guided. One of the best things fleet owners can do is train drivers to recognise early warning signs and report them immediately, instead of trying to fix them.
Drivers should be taught to treat strange smells (like burnt rubber or leaking fuel) or odd sounds (such as during acceleration or braking) as red flags. The same goes for dashboard warning lights, unexpected vibrations, or performance changes. In these moments, a trained mechanic is not optional — they’re essential.
The Real Cost of DIY Is Downtime
For fleet operators, the cost of downtime often outweighs the price of a professional repair. When drivers attempt fixes beyond their skill level, it’s not just the vehicle that suffers, it’s the entire logistics chain. Missed deliveries, disrupted schedules and frustrated customers, all of it stems from what was supposed to be a “simple fix”.
That’s why the smartest fleets invest not just in vehicle maintenance, but also in driver education and clear repair protocols. Empowering drivers to handle only safe, simple tasks defers complex repairs to trained professionals. By doing this, fleet owners can reduce risk, control costs, and keep their operations moving smoothly.
In fleet management, speed matters, and part of that means doing things right the first time. Avoid Bodgeflation and protect your fleet by drawing a clear line between DIY and professional repairs.
