Kansas, Oklahoma and Texas Tolls

Our IPASS devices do not work on the toll roads for the states above. However, we have a solution. We are in the process of acquiring a K-TAG. This is a device similar to the IPASS but it works in those southern states. To reserve the K-TAG, select IPASS on the requisition and in the remarks field, let us know you want the K-TAG!

Use the Odo, Frodo!

Just a friendly reminder to all of the Hobbits out there. When getting fuel at our fuel island, make sure the mileage entered at the kiosk is from the odometer, not the trip meter. You can tell if it is the trip meter because it will usually have a 1, 2 or an A or B in front of the number. Also remember; please don’t enter the tenths of a mile. Our key pad does not have decimal so the reading looks way off when we try to update our system.

Taking Rental Vehicles Home?

One of the common questions we get from customers who are renting a vehicle is if they can take the vehicle home. In some cases, that is fine. If your home is on a straight line from the University to your eventual destination, then you can take the vehicle home. For example; if you live in Cedar Rapids and your destination is Waterloo, then it make sense for you to take the vehicle home. However, if you live in Cedar Rapids and your destination Des Moines, then it does not make sense to take the vehicle home. You can call our office with any questions. A good rule of thumb is that if the number of miles for the most efficient routing of your trip from the University to your destination is equal to the miles of the trip if you stop off at home then then it is probably ok.

It’s ALIVE!!!!!

You may be surprised to hear that the most common accident that occurs in University vehicles is our vehicles hitting stationary objects. “That post came out of nowhere!!”. Here are some hints to avoid these completely avoidable accidents:

• Keep your speed low when you are in unfamiliar or congested areas.
• Pay particular attention to the corners of vehicles. You are probably not as familiar with the dimensions of the University vehicle as you are with your own.
• Be extremely careful backing up. You are probably not as used to the blind spots in the University vehicle.
• Take a few minutes when you first get in the vehicle to familiarize yourself with the controls. Know how to turn on the wipers, change the temperature; turn on the headlights, etc.
• Set up your navigation devices and plug in your phone before you start your trip.

Automatic Vehicle Location Devices

Fleet Services offers automatic vehicle location systems for University vehicles. With these systems installed, you can pull up a website to see the exact location of your vehicle. The device monitors actual speed compared to posted speed, and the device can let us know when a maintenance issue may be imminent. Additionally, you can set boundaries on a map and be notified when the vehicle either enters or leaves that boundary. The cost for the unit is about $250 (spread over 2 years) and $19 per month. Call the office if you have any questions.

Honest Mike’s Used Cars

Things are still hopping on our vehicle sales. Starting for auction soon will be a 2014 Dodge Grand Caravan, a 2016 AWD Equinox, a 2008 e-Ride all electric NEV, a 2010 Ford Ranger 4X4 and a 2010 Silverado 1500 4X2.

Fleet Factoid

Do you know how to calculate your Miles per Gallon? Go to the Parking and Transportation Facebook page to find out!!

Fleet Services Info

Manager: Mike Wilson

Phone: (319) 384-0564

Fax: (319) 335-5865

Hours: 7:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Monday-Friday

Fall and spring only: 8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Saturday

Shop Hours: 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday

Shop Phone: (319) 335-5105

Fueling Hours: 24 hours/ 7 days a week

E-mail: Fleet-Services@uiowa.edu

Web Site: Parking and Transportation - Fleet Services

View more newsletters: Fleet Services Newsletters