Common Powered Access Breakdowns — And How to Avoid Them

Introduction

When powered access equipment goes down, the impact on site can be immediate — delays, missed deadlines, and unexpected costs.

While some breakdowns are unavoidable, many of the most common issues can be prevented with the right checks, maintenance, and parts in place.

In this guide, we’ll cover the most frequent powered access breakdowns and what you can do to keep your machines running reliably.

1. Flat or Worn Tyres

Tyre issues are one of the most common causes of downtime, particularly on scissor lifts and other access platforms used across mixed environments.

Common causes:

• Wear and tear from heavy use
• Incorrect tyre type for the job
• Sharp debris on site

How to avoid it:

• Use the correct tyres for your application (non-marking for indoor, rough terrain for outdoor)
• Inspect tyres regularly for signs of wear or damage
• Replace worn tyres before they fail on site

2. Battery Failure

Battery-related issues are a frequent problem, especially with electric access equipment.

Common causes:

• Poor charging habits
• Ageing batteries
• Lack of routine checks

How to avoid it:

• Follow proper charging cycles (avoid overcharging or running fully flat)
• Carry out regular battery inspections
• Replace batteries before performance drops significantly

3. Faulty Controls or Switches

Unresponsive controls can bring work to a halt and are often overlooked until they fail.

Common causes:

• Wear from frequent use
• Exposure to dust, moisture, or debris
• Loose or damaged connections

How to avoid it:

• Keep control panels clean and protected
• Report minor faults early before they worsen
• Replace worn components as part of routine maintenance

4. Hydraulic Issues

Hydraulic systems are essential for safe and smooth operation, but leaks or pressure issues can quickly take a machine out of service.

Common causes:

• Worn seals or hoses
• Low hydraulic fluid levels
• Lack of regular servicing

How to avoid it:

• Check for visible leaks before use
• Monitor fluid levels regularly
• Service equipment in line with manufacturer recommendations

5. Charger or Power Supply Problems

Sometimes the issue isn’t the machine itself — it’s the charger or power source.

Common causes:

• Faulty or incompatible chargers
• Damaged cables
• Power supply issues on site

How to avoid it:

• Use the correct charger for your equipment
• Inspect cables and connectors regularly
• Replace damaged charging equipment promptly

Reducing Downtime Starts with Preparation

Many of these issues develop gradually and can be avoided with a proactive approach.

Having the right parts available, carrying out routine checks, and addressing small issues early can make a significant difference to uptime on site.

Servicing Your Equipment — Not Just Supplying Parts

While having the right parts on hand is essential, regular servicing plays an equally important role in preventing breakdowns.

Routine maintenance helps identify issues early — before they lead to costly downtime or machine failure on site.

At IPS Ireland, we don’t just supply parts — we also support customers with servicing and maintenance to keep equipment operating safely and efficiently.

How IPS Ireland Can Help

At IPS Ireland, we support customers with both parts supply and servicing, helping to keep powered access equipment running efficiently and safely.

From tyres and batteries to routine maintenance and inspections, our team is here to help reduce downtime and keep your machines working when you need them most.