Looking after your vehicle

While leasing a QFleet vehicle, your organisation is responsible to ensure the vehicle is serviced regularly, kept clean, in good condition and safe. Any damage the vehicle sustains must be immediately inspected. If the damage is affecting the safe operation of the vehicle, it should not be driven.

The following information provides useful advice on how you can minimise damage and reduce end-of-lease vehicle costs

You should perform a pre-start vehicle inspection before driving to ensure the vehicle isn’t damaged and is safe to use. If any damage is identified—or you have any safety concerns—report it to your fleet manager and seek confirmation that the vehicle is safe to drive.

If you’re unsure how to perform a pre-start vehicle inspection, follow the pre-start checklist steps below.

  • No evidence of fluid leaks on the ground where the vehicle is parked
  • All indicators, headlights and taillights work (i.e. one damaged light makes the vehicle unsafe)
  • Horn works
  • There’s no panel damage
  • There are no obvious warning lights prompting you to check a potential issue (e.g. tyre pressure, brakes)
  • Fuel levels are good (e.g. the vehicle’s fuel isn’t near empty or on empty). If the vehicle is an EV check the:
    • charge levels
    • ensure you have an EV charging card
    • check the EV’s boot for a portable EV charger
  • Wipers and washers work
  • Check the tyres to ensure:
    • no flat or damaged tyres
    • in good condition (e.g. lots of tread left and no visible side wall damage)
  • Ensure you have a fuel card
  • Check the glovebox to see if the owner's handbook is there.

It is important to service the vehicle regularly as per the manufacturer's recommendations. Regular servicing ensures the vehicle is operating correctly and safely.

It is also advisable to check the vehicle’s service date sticker. If the vehicle is overdue for service, contact your fleet manager.

Prior to fitting any exterior or interior accessories to a QFleet vehicle, you are required to contact QFleet for written approval. This will ensure the vehicle complies with WHS, vehicle and warranty compliance standards, and remains a safe workplace.

Follow these recommendations to care for the interior of the vehicle:

  • Treat vehicle interiors with respect—repairing damage to interiors is expensive and time consuming.
  • Read the vehicle owner's handbook and fully understand all interior controls and functions.
  • If spillages occur, ensure they are cleaned as soon as possible.
  • Do not smoke in the vehicle (this is a Queensland Government policy).
  • Ensure that cargo, chemicals and dangerous goods are secured appropriately in accordance with legislation. These should be carried in the boot or cargo area—not in the seating area.
  • Where possible, do not install any interior fittings to the vehicle that require screw holes in dash panels or the console (i.e. mobile phone holders).

Further interior care advice can be found in the vehicle owner's handbook.

Follow these recommendations to care for the exterior of the vehicle.

  • Exercise care when parking close to gutters and in confined spaces.
  • Regularly check the vehicle tyre pressure. Refer to the vehicle owner's handbook for the recommended pressures in the front, rear and spare tyres, or check the tyre placard (this is usually on the driver’s side door post).
  • Do not drive on deflated, worn or damaged tyres. Have the tyre(s) replaced as soon as possible.
  • If your vehicle is damaged, report it as soon as possible.
  • Avoid parking the vehicle where bird and bat droppings are prevalent. If affected, wash immediately to prevent paintwork damage.
  • Keep the vehicle clean externally, especially windows and lights. When washing is required, adhere to any local water restrictions and relevant government policy. If appropriate, take the vehicle to a commercial car wash.

Further exterior care advice can be found in the vehicle owner's handbook.