Fleet Oil Rationalisation

A mixed commercial fleet was operating vans and light trucks from multiple manufacturers. Over time, different servicing requirements had led to the use of several engine oils with overlapping specifications.

The fleet was holding too many oil grades, increasing storage costs and the risk of incorrect oil being used during servicing.

The initial issue

The fleet used multiple oils with similar viscosity grades but different specifications and approvals. Technicians had to check vehicle details repeatedly, slowing servicing and increasing the chance of mistakes under time pressure.

In some cases, oils were substituted due to availability, creating uncertainty around long term engine protection.

Reviewing vehicle requirements

Each vehicle type was reviewed against manufacturer engine oil specifications. This included viscosity, performance standards, and required approvals.

The review showed that several vehicles could safely use the same approved engine oil without compromising protection or compliance.

Reducing oil types

The number of engine oils held on site was reduced by selecting a smaller range of correctly approved products that covered the majority of the fleet.

Clear labelling and storage changes were introduced to make oil identification straightforward during servicing.

The outcome

Servicing became faster and more consistent. The risk of incorrect oil use was reduced, and stock management became simpler.

Engines continued to operate within manufacturer specifications, while storage costs and product confusion were reduced.

Key takeaway

For mixed vehicle fleets, engine oil rationalisation can improve efficiency without sacrificing protection. The key is reviewing specifications properly and reducing oil types only where manufacturer requirements allow.