The age of the UK’s vehicle fleet is on the rise — and so are the costs of keeping those vehicles on the road. According to recent findings shared by Fleet News and ATS Euromaster, fleets with vehicles over four years old are facing a 24% increase in service, maintenance and repair (SMR) costs compared to newer models.
But what’s behind the rise, and what can fleet operators do about it? Let’s dig into what’s driving up costs, and how Fleet Service GB’s approach — including the FSGB Garage Network and the Stop and Think campaign — can help businesses keep control of maintenance spend.
Why Are SMR Costs Rising?
Ageing vehicles = higher maintenance costs
Simply put, as vehicles age, they cost more to maintain. Older vehicles suffer more wear and tear, meaning they’re more likely to need repairs and replacement parts.
Fleet News reports that this trend is becoming a real challenge for UK businesses, especially with supply chain pressures and longer wait times for parts. Some repair lead times are stretching out because older parts are harder to find — which means longer downtime and even more cost for fleets.
More downtime, less productivity
Data from Epyx also shows that both average downtime and workshop waiting times have increased. That means vehicles are off the road longer, affecting productivity and service delivery. The 2025 Arval Mobility Observatory backs this up, showing a jump in the number of fleets struggling with vehicle unavailability — from 18% to 24% in just one year.
What This Means for Fleet Managers
These cost increases aren’t just about repairs — they affect every part of a fleet operation. When vehicles are off the road longer, the knock-on effect hits drivers, customers, and cashflow.
To tackle this, businesses need to take a proactive, preventative approach to maintenance rather than waiting for breakdowns to happen. Regular inspections, driver awareness, and efficient workshop management can all make a difference.
How Fleet Service GB Can Help
The FSGB Garage Network
Fleet Service GB’s Garage Network offers a trusted, fully integrated maintenance solution designed to help fleets cut downtime and control costs. With nationwide coverage and carefully selected partners, every garage in the network follows consistent standards for quality, transparency, and efficiency.
By using the FSGB Garage Network, fleets benefit from:
- Faster turnaround times
- Centralised management and reporting
- Guaranteed quality control
- Consistent pricing across the UK
This joined-up approach gives fleet operators greater visibility and control over their maintenance spend — something that’s becoming essential as SMR costs continue to rise.
Supporting Change Through the “Stop and Think” Campaign
Fleet Service GB’s Stop and Think campaign is raising awareness about the risks of driving for work — one of the most dangerous everyday tasks employees face. With more than ten people losing their lives each week while driving for work, the campaign calls for a shift towards safer, more mindful driving habits.
It encourages everyone involved in fleet operations to pause, assess, and act safely — whether that’s before a journey, approving a repair, or managing a team on the road.
The campaign shares:
- Real examples from the FSGB Garage Network showing worn or damaged parts spotted during routine servicing.
- Expert advice and best-practice tips to help drivers and managers reduce risk.
- Simple, practical reminders to make safety part of everyday fleet culture.
Fleet Service GB believes that road safety isn’t just a legal duty — it’s a moral responsibility. By taking a moment to stop and think, fleets can prevent avoidable incidents, cut costs, and help keep everyone safe on the road.
FAQs About Rising SMR Costs and Fleet Service GB
What does SMR mean in fleet management?
SMR stands for Service, Maintenance, and Repair. It covers all the work needed to keep fleet vehicles safe, legal, and roadworthy — from routine servicing to unexpected repairs.
Why are SMR costs increasing in the UK?
Rising SMR costs are mainly due to older vehicles staying in service longer. Parts for older models are harder to source, and repair times are taking longer. Inflation and supply chain issues have also added pressure.
How can fleets reduce their SMR costs?
Fleets can lower costs by:
- Adopting preventative maintenance schedules
- Using trusted garage networks like Fleet Service GB’s Garage Network
- Training drivers to spot early signs of vehicle issues
- Monitoring performance through fleet management systems
What is Fleet Service GB?
Fleet Service GB (FSGB) is the UK’s only fully integrated fleet and driver management solution, offering maintenance, compliance, risk management, and driver support services under one roof.
How does Fleet Service GB’s Garage Network work?
FSGB’s Garage Network connects fleets to approved, independent garages nationwide. Each one follows the same high standards for pricing, service quality, and data reporting — ensuring total transparency and efficiency.
What is the “Stop and Think” campaign?
The Stop and Think campaign is Fleet Service GB’s initiative designed to help drivers and managers make safer, smarter choices. By encouraging people to pause and assess risks, the campaign aims to cut down on incidents, reduce costs, and promote responsible fleet behaviour.
Final Thoughts
With the average age of UK fleet vehicles climbing and SMR costs following suit, now’s the time to rethink fleet maintenance strategies. Preventative care, driver awareness, and smarter repair partnerships are key to staying ahead.
By working with Fleet Service GB and taking advantage of the Garage Network and Stop and Think campaign, fleet operators can reduce downtime, control costs, and keep their vehicles performing at their best — whatever their age.
