Following inspections of 140 fleet vehicles, the RAC found that 90% had one or more faults that would have caused a breakdown, led to repairs, or put the driver on the wrong side of the law.

The average age of the vehicles was just under two and a half years, with an average mileage of 44,000.

“Some fleets are failing to conduct adequate routine maintenance checks on vehicles, with some checking their vehicles only once a year,” said Alan Kennedy, corporate partnership manager for RAC Inspections.

Worn tyres and faulty brakes and steering were common problems.

“Companies should look carefully at whether procedures and policies are in place to adequately maintain a vehicle,” he said.

“Regular vehicle inspections are imperative.”