EMPLOYERS, drivers and garages need to improve communication during routine maintenance work to avoid potentially dangerous mistakes.

Fleet operators have raised concerns that drivers are not being kept informed by garages if requested maintenance has not been carried out because of delays.

Instead, drivers may leave the forecourt assuming problems with the car have been corrected, potentially putting themselves in danger.

The main cause of the problem is when drivers pick up vehicles after a garage has closed, members of the Association of Car Fleet Operators’ London West meeting heard.

According to one member, a driver picked up a car following its MoT believing it had passed. In fact, the car had failed, but the notice was sent to the driver’s leasing company and the driver was not informed.

He only became aware of the problem when he was stopped for a traffic infringement and asked to produce his documents.

Members also heard the same problems could happen if parts were not available and the car was handed back to the driver.

One fleet manager said: ‘With growing numbers of vehicles being kept for more than three years by fleets, the MoT issue is an important one. Garages should at least leave a note for the driver so he or she is aware if any requested work has not been carried out.’