Drivers are putting off vital car safety checks to help save money as they battle the cost of living crisis – with younger drivers most likely to skip on important maintenance.
That’s according to the findings of a new survey, carried out by IAM RoadSmart.
The survey shows that more than three quarters (79%) of respondents aged 18-34 have delayed key vehicle checks to save money.
Almost one third (28%) of drivers in this age category have held off their annual car service due to the cost of living crisis, while 30% have 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.
But the issue stretches beyond younger drivers. The survey also found that 15% of all respondents said their annual car service is on the backburner thanks to the rise in living costs, with 11% avoiding paying out for necessary tyre changes.
Neil Greig, director of policy and research at IAM RoadSmart, said: “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.
“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.”
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