MOTORISTS are being urged to keep their cars well maintained after two surveys revealed many are putting off vital checks due to the soaring cost of living.
Findings by industry watchdog The Motor Ombudsman appear to show that millions of UK drivers are considering missing or delaying an annual service.
Meanwhile, major retailer Halfords worryingly found more than one in 10 who had missed getting an MOT said it was because they could not afford it.
The study by The Motor Ombudsman found 71 per cent of motorists don’t have a service plan in place. And, of those, 56 per cent aimed to save cash by ignoring the annual garage once-over.
A third said they planned to miss out on a manufacturer’s scheduled service, while 23 per cent said they would delay it to keep bills down.
Moreover, 68 per cent of the 2000-plus car owners polled said they were looking to make motoring-related savings in a number of ways this year. Unsurprisingly, the high cost of petrol and diesel at the pumps was a major worry for 87 per cent of those quizzed.
Chief ombudsman Bill Fennell said: “Our poll findings are concerning – even in these challenging times, it is important that motorists always keep their vehicles roadworthy and legal.”
Meanwhile, Halfords claims motoring costs have risen 12.7 per cent year-on-year – and its research reveals 12 per cent of British motorists who have missed an MOT did so because they were too cash-strapped.
The retailer’s study also found 45 per cent are worried about the cost of essential car maintenance. Worse still, a quarter admitted to missing an MOT deadline despite 95 per cent knowing when it was due.
The Halfords poll highlighted how drivers are often caught off guard by unanticipated essential costs – notably new tyres (39 per cent), wiper blades (25 per cent) and brakes (20 per cent).
The average spend on upkeeping a car during the last 12 months was £274.40. So now the firm has set up the free-to-join Halfords Motoring Club that helps customers by offering £35 of benefits a year, including £10 off an MOT, a £10 voucher and a free 10-point car check.
Halfords chief customer officer Karen Bellairs said: “We are fully committed to keeping drivers safe and moving by providing affordable car servicing and maintenance options for all.”
Neil Worth, boss of road safety and breakdown group GEM Motoring Assist added: “We know motoring costs have rocketed in recent months.
"But nobody wants to find themselves stranded at the roadside for hours – something that’s more likely to happen if you’re not looking after your car. That’s why we are encouraging drivers to ensure they keep up those all-important maintenance checks.
“This is particularly important for anyone heading off on a much-needed Easter break. It’s hard to predict when a car is going to malfunction but, by taking care of a few basics, you will minimise the risks.
“That’s good news for road safety and for everyone who simply wants a trouble-free journey.”
Tony Rich, former AA Patrol of the Year, agreed, saying: “It’s vital that our cars are kept in a safe and roadworthy condition. Cutting costs on safety items such as MOTs, tyres and brakes can lead to heavy fines at a time when few can afford to pay them.
“Financial outlay for vehicle servicing and maintenance may feel like unnecessary spending when working to a tight budget but, if you rely on your vehicle to get to work or to get the kids to school, it’s money well spent.
“It’s also important to have breakdown cover as it provides peace of mind for your loved ones and can save you money in the long term.”
Chief Superintendent Louise Blakelock said: “Keeping people safe on our roads is a priority for Police Scotland throughout the year and your vehicle must have a valid MOT.
“There are simple checks you can do that can make a difference – such as ensuring your lights are working, your tyres have the correct pressures and sufficient tread, and your windscreen is free from cracks.
“If you have any concerns about the safety or roadworthiness of your vehicle, it’s vital to seek professional advice to ensure the safety of yourself, passengers and other road users.”
