Drivers in the UK are putting off vital car safety checks and delaying maintenance to help save money as the cost-of-living crisis continues.
Younger drivers are most likely to skip important maintenance, according to road safety charity IAM RoadSmart. New data, commissioned by the organisation, show that 79% of motorists aged 18-34 have delayed checks to save money.
When it comes to annual car servicing, 28% of drivers under 34 years-old have held off due to the cost-of-living crisis, while 30% have even put off changing their oil. Key tyre checks have also been put on hold, with 30% of younger drivers surveyed also admitting putting off fixing a puncture, and 28% delaying changing tyres with low tread.
Delaying maintenance happening across all ages
It is not just younger drivers who are making difficult and potentially dangerous choices when it comes to vehicle maintenance. IAM Roadsmart found that 15% of drivers of all ages said their annual service is not a priority due to the rise in living costs, with 11% avoiding paying out for necessary tyre changes.
This is especially a concern at the beginning of tyre safety month. Putting off a tyre change, especially if it is required, could lead to extremely dangerous situations on roads.
“Rising living costs are at the front of mind for everyone this year, especially young people, many of whom are likely to be hit the hardest,” commented Neil Greig, Director of Policy and Research at IAM RoadSmart. “So, while this data is not surprising, it is very worrying that drivers are putting off essential repairs. This study shows that drivers are already making difficult choices about what they can and cannot afford, which could negatively impact the environment, their safety and the safety of other road users.
“Servicing doesn’t just look good in a logbook, it’s there for a reason, and can pick up a range of issues which could present safety risks to drivers, if not spotted. It also ensures that your car’s engine is running as efficiently as possible, so ignoring servicing guidelines could cost you more in the long run, in repairs or increased fuel consumption.”
The IAM is urging motorists to consider safety implications of avoiding vital repairs, especially those which could lead to further costs down the line, or worse. Instead, better savings can be made through behavioural changes, such as driving more economically, which will reduce fuel consumption and therefore reduce the need to fill up as much.
Garages can also play a part in highlighting this information to drivers, ensuring they inform as to the dangers of putting off maintenance, or investigating car repair plans to allow drivers to save, or pay, in installments.
IAM Roadsmart survey results
| Which of the following repairs/improvements have you put off/delayed making to your car as a result of the cost-of-living crisis? | ||
| Total | Total (all ages) | 18-34 |
| Service | 15% | 28% |
| Tyre change, e.g. replacing a tyre with low tread | 11% | 28% |
| Tyre repair, e.g. fixing a puncture | 7% | 22% |
| Oil change | 9% | 30% |
| None of these | 61% | 21% |
