Top 5 Maintenance Tips for Buses in India 2025

Buses in India play a vital role in the transportation system, serving as the backbone for public and private travel across the country. They are essential for long-distance travel, city commutes, school transport, and even inter-state connectivity. Brands like Tata Motors, Ashok Leyland, and Volvo offer some of the best buses in India, known for their durability, fuel efficiency, and advanced features.

Top 5 Bus Manufacturing Companies in India

Here are the top 5 Bus Manufacturing Companies in India
1. Tata Motors
Tata Motors, with a market capitalization of USD 35 billion and a product portfolio that includes sedans, SUVs, buses, trucks, and defence vehicles, is the world's largest automobile manufacturer. It is a well-known and renowned electric bus manufacturer in India.

2. Ashok Leyland

Ashok Leyland produces high-quality commercial vehicles. It is India's second-largest commercial vehicle producer. It is also the world's fourth-largest bus manufacturer. The company makes buses for a variety of markets. Ashok Leyland started its initial journey with the brand name Ashok Motors, but later it was replaced with Ashok Leyland. The company is headquartered in Chennai, India, and is fully owned by Hinduja Group. It manufactures buses, trucks, engines, defence, and many other vehicles.

3. Eicher Motors Inc.

Eicher Motors Ltd was founded in 1948. The company produces high-quality buses. It also manufactures a variety of different vehicles. It does so in collaboration with the Volvo Group. They are referred to together as VE Commercial Vehicles (VECV).

4. BharatBenz

BharatBenz produces high-quality contemporary buses. Bharat Benz has launched more than 7 buses from the 170 horsepower to 240 horsepower category. This bus brand in India has introduced school buses to the public and staff transportation buses for buyers.

5. Volvo Buses

Volvo buses are associated with luxury and comfort. Volvo Bus Corporation is a Volvo subsidiary. Volvo is a well-known Swedish automobile manufacturer. It is the world's largest bus maker. Volvo buses are the most popular in the transportation industry.

Top Electric Bus Manufacturers in India

Here is the Top Electric Bus Manufacturers in India 2025:

• Switch Mobility
• Tata Motors
• Olectra Greentech
• ​JBM Auto​
• PMI Electro Mobility
• Erisha Mobility
• BYD Auto
• Volvo Group
• Ashok Leyland
• Eka Mobility

Also Read: Electric Three-Wheeler Maintenance Guide

Top 5 Tips for Maintenance for Buses in India

Here’s Top 5 Maintenance Tips for Buses in India 2025:

1. Regularly Check Fluid Levels

The engine is the heart of any bus, and ensuring it is in top working condition is critical. Regular engine checkups should include monitoring oil levels, checking for leaks, and replacing filters when needed. In India, where the weather can be extreme, especially in summer and monsoon, it is essential to keep an eye on the engine's cooling system. The high temperatures in many parts of the country put a strain on the engine, and over time, this can lead to overheating or engine failure if not checked regularly.

Engine Oil: Make sure to check and change the engine oil as per the manufacturer’s instructions. Engine oil helps to lubricate the engine’s moving parts, reducing wear and preventing overheating. Always keep a spare bottle of oil in your bus, just in case.

Coolant: Check the coolant level to keep the engine from overheating. Look for any leaks and add the right type of coolant, as mentioned in the vehicle manual, if needed.

Brake Fluid: Brake fluid is essential for the braking system to work properly. Check the fluid level regularly and top up when needed. If you notice a big drop in the fluid, get the system checked for leaks. Since a bus is large, brake safety is very important.

2. Inspect Tyres Regularly

Tyre Pressure: Maintaining the right tyre pressure is crucial for safety and fuel efficiency. Check the tyre pressure at least once a month and before long trips. It also helps to extend the tyre's lifespan.

Tyre Tread: Check the tread depth to make sure your tyres have enough grip on the road. Replace tyres that are worn down to the minimum tread depth recommended by the manufacturer or the legal limit. Uneven tyre wear could mean there’s an issue with the alignment or suspension that needs fixing.

3. Brake System Maintenance

The braking system in a bus is one of the most crucial safety components. As we know, the high volume of passengers transported daily, especially in crowded urban settings, ensuring the brakes are in perfect working order cannot be overemphasized. In India, buses face challenging traffic conditions and frequent stops, putting immense strain on the braking system. Routine brake checks are a must to prevent accidents and ensure driver and passenger safety.

Brake Pads and Discs: Inspecting the brake pads and discs should be a part of your regular maintenance checks. Replace them when necessary to ensure your braking system works well. Squeaking or grinding sounds may mean the brake pads are worn and need to be replaced immediately.

Brake Lines: Check the brake lines for any signs of wear, corrosion, or leaks. Properly maintained brake lines are important for a reliable and responsive braking system in your bus.

4. Lighting and Electrical System

The electrical system in a bus includes the battery, lights, indicators, and other crucial electronic components. In India’s hot and humid climate, buses face frequent challenges with their electrical systems, especially batteries, which can deteriorate faster due to high temperatures.

Lights: Regularly check all exterior and interior lights to make sure they are working properly. Replace any burnt-out bulbs right away to maintain visibility and safety on your bus. Test all lights, including headlights, tail lights, and indicators.

Electrical System: Inspect the electrical system of the bus, including wiring and fuses, for any issues. Fix any electrical problems immediately to avoid further damage. The bus battery should be regularly checked for corrosion and the condition of terminals. Ensuring that the battery is fully charged and clean will help in avoiding unexpected breakdowns. You should also check the alternator for proper function, as it plays a significant role in charging the battery.

5. Battery Care

Battery Terminals: Make sure the battery terminals are clean, tight, and free from corrosion. Corroded terminals can lead to poor electrical connections and starting issues.

Battery Charge: Check the battery charge regularly to ensure it's holding power properly. Replace the battery if it shows signs of failing, such as difficulty starting the bus or dimming lights. If your bus is left standing for long periods or only used for short trips, regularly top up the battery, disconnect it, and keep a set of jump leads in the vehicle.

Also Read: Discover Why Electric Rickshaws Are Smart Investments in India

CMV360 Says

Keeping buses well-maintained is important for safety and smooth operation. Regular checks on fluids, tyres, brakes, and the electrical system can prevent breakdowns and costly repairs. Since buses in India face rough roads and heavy use, proper maintenance can keep them running longer and more efficiently. Bus owners and operators should follow a routine service plan to ensure passengers travel safely and comfortably.