Introduction. A study of the fleet of fire trucks was conducted. The absence of a direct dependence of the operating time of a fire truck on its service life is confirmed on the basis of the analysis. A matrix of conditions for making a decision on the need to replace a fire truck is formed, taking into account the standard purpose of the fire truck, its service life, the actual technical condition described by the corresponding category of technical condition, as well as the date of termination of its release. A criterion for the need to replace a fire truck has been developed, as well as an algorithm for making a decision on the need to replace a fire truck in conditions of limited funding. Goals and objectives. The purpose of the article is to develop an algorithm for making a decision about the need to replace a fire truck. This goal allows us to solve the problem of justifying the need to replace the sample in the course of ensuring a given level of readiness of fire and rescue units. Methods. Methods of mathematical statistics, the theory of the importance of criteria, technical and economic analysis, mathematical modeling and system analysis were used to achieve the goal and solve the problems of the study. Results and discussion. A criterion for the need to replace a fire truck is developed, on the basis of which a block diagram of the algorithm for making a decision on the need to replace a sample is formed. Conclusion. The results obtained in the course of the work can be used in the development of programs (plans) for re-equipping fire and rescue units with modern fire trucks. Keywords: the criterion of the need for replacement, fire trucks, category by technical condition, service life