The automotive sector is facing a worrying trend of vehicle owners postponing essential repairs in the face of escalating costs of living. **Rising costs and safety risks**
56% of garages surveyed have reported observing an increase in customers postponing vehicle repairs as households struggle with the costs of living. This trend is having serious consequences, as drivers risk significant financial losses and compromised safety. * A staggering £5,400 charge can be incurred if a £94 car repair is ignored, potentially leading to’much more serious’ issues further down the line. * Engine replacements, which cost around £5,400, carry a higher bill. * 79% of garages reported that the most commonly delayed maintenance is replacing the engine timing belt at manufacturer-recommended intervals.
| Repair | Cost | Recommended Interval |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Timing Belt Replacement | £600 | Manufacturer-recommended interval |
| Engine Oil and Filter Replacement | £150 | Manufacturer-recommended interval |
**The importance of planning ahead**
Bill Fennell, Chief Ombudsman and Managing Director of The Motor Ombudsman, has issued a warning to motorists, emphasizing the risks of neglecting vehicle maintenance. “Our research has shown that vehicle maintenance can be left behind to make short-term savings, only to result in significant long-term costs and safety risks.”
* Neglecting any repairs can lead to long-term damage to vehicles. * Delaying maintenance may result in breaking the law, compromising safety, and putting others at risk. * Planning ahead to budget for any unforeseen expenses is vital to avoid these consequences. A key driver of this trend is the perception that delaying repairs will save motorists money in the short term. However, this can prove to be a false economy, as the costs of neglecting maintenance can escalate quickly. “The car is still usable, and the problem is not immediately visible,” says Rebecca Pullan, Managing Director at The Motor Ombudsman-accredited Carmaster Garage in Harrogate, North Yorkshire. “This can make it tempting to continue driving and delay incurring any repair bills. However, it’s essential to remember that this approach can lead to costly and potentially hazardous consequences.”
“The most critical aspect is to visit a garage as soon as you identify something may be wrong,” adds Pullan. “This may seem like an added expense, but it’s crucial to ensure the safety of yourself, your vehicle, and others on the road.”
In conclusion, the trend of postponing essential repairs is having serious consequences for drivers and the automotive sector as a whole. It’s essential to prioritize vehicle maintenance, plan ahead, and budget for any unforeseen expenses to avoid the risks associated with neglecting repairs. The Motor Ombudsman is urging motorists to take proactive steps to maintain their vehicles, prioritizing their safety and the safety of others on the road. By doing so, they can avoid the significant financial losses and compromised safety risks associated with neglecting repairs.