Car owners 'cutting back on maintenance'

By Tom Farley, Mon 21 Dec 2009 - Published in Car Insurance

Car insurance customers should not endanger their safety by cutting back on vehicle repairs and maintenance, according to experts.

Research from Post Office Car Insurance found 48 per cent of drivers have reduced essential car maintenance in a bid to save money during the recession, although 28 per cent could have cut back to the extent that it damages their safety.

The poll revealed that 29 per cent have delayed their car service in the last 12 months, despite being advised to have this carried out every 10,000 to 12,000 miles.

Furthermore, 20 per cent have asked a friend to fix problems or attempted to solve them on their own, while 11 per cent have fitted cheap or second-hand tyres.

Richard Pennant-Jones, head of car insurance at the Post Office, said: "With heavy snow forecast in parts of the UK, car owners who have tried to save a few pounds in recent months by ignoring warning lights or failing to get their car serviced are putting themselves and others at risk."

Recently, the Institute of Advanced Motorists pointed out that motorists should adjust their driving style for winter conditions to improve safety.

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