THE RAC has called on the managers of small fleets to invest more in the service and maintenance of their vehicles, after research showed these were the worst culprits for breakdowns. The organisation claims that small fleets are 75% more likely to suffer vehicle breakdowns due to the higher average age of their cars and vans.

An analysis of call-outs has shown that the average age of small fleets' vehicles that require assistance is five years compared to four years or less for two-thirds of all fleet breakdowns attended by RAC patrols. RAC Business Services found that companies running five or fewer vehicles have a 58% call-out rate compared to 33% for 250-plus vehicle fleets.

Mark Ace, RAC national fleet manager, said: ''Breakdown cover, preferably protecting drivers at home as well as at the roadside, makes sound business sense but is no substitute for a strict policy of regular vehicle maintenance and servicing in line with the manufacturer's recommendations - halving the chances of breakdowns.'