A method for creating a maintenance algorithm for a fleet of vehicles, with which maintenance information can be collected and displayed in each vehicle of the fleet. In the fleet vehicles, sensor data that are indicative of a stress on components in the vehicles are used to derive stress variables. The ascertained stress variables are stored in the vehicles for a predetermined period and, if a wear-related event occurs, wear variables that characterize a wear-related event are additionally ascertained. The stress variables and the wear variables are transmitted to a central location or station, in which the previous maintenance algorithm is checked with the use of the stress and wear variables, and, if applicable, an improved maintenance algorithm can be derived. The maintenance algorithm serves in establishing and indicating a time when the vehicle should be serviced.