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Written by TyreSafe

Friday, 26 June 2009 00:00

Putting Off Servicing ‘Costs Motorists Money’
22 Jun 09

Credit-crunched motorists who have been putting off routine servicing and necessary repairs to cut costs could make much bigger long-term savings by getting the work done, says vehicle servicing network Autosafe.

“Keeping a car or van in good working order is much cheaper, not to mention safer, than waiting for problems to get bigger before taking action,” said Autosafe director Ian James.

He also pointed out that European free competition rules – the block exemption regulations - mean UK motorists are free to get work carried out on their vehicles wherever they want, enabling them to use cheaper alternatives to the service departments of main dealers without affecting warranty or re-sale value.

Autosafe says that delaying routine servicing ultimately hits motorists’ pockets hard. Failure to change the oil and oil filter at the right time can cause wear and tear to engine components, and shorten their life.

The organisation estimates that replacing worn brake pads on schedule will cost the driver around £40 to £80 for high quality parts and labour, depending on the vehicle model, and will help to ensure that the driver can brake safely. In the worst case scenario, leaving them unchanged could spell disaster if the car is unable to stop quickly in an emergency.

If an accident doesn’t happen, brake maintenance could still cost the driver more than three times as much, as the resulting damage to brake disks will mean these also need replacing.

And changing engine coolant at the right time will mean that the engine functions efficiently, and is less likely to overheat.

Ian James said: “A spate of recent research has shown that some motorists are cutting back on motoring costs and delaying necessary work. Other research shows that a high proportion shop around for their service garage, looking for quality of workmanship and value for money².

“Looking for good quality local service garages is an excellent way to save on cost. By doing this, and sticking to the vehicle’s service schedule, motorists will make important savings while also getting the best out of their car or van.”

For more information visit www.autosafe.org

The Facts:

Europcar and YouGov survey – 14 per cent have opted to make cuts to their vehicle maintenance programmes. An Auto Trader report in March 2009 showed that 32 per cent are putting off paying for necessary repairs.

²Survey by Experian Automotive, carried out in January 2009. 47 per cent of motorists would use a local garage rather than their dealer, with younger car owners and women more likely to do so than older drivers and men.

About Autosafe:

Autosafe is a soft franchise of independent vehicle service and mechanical repair centres across the UK, with around 400 members providing high quality services to private motorists and fleet operators of cars and vans.

All members are required to sign up to a Code of Practice designed to ensure a high quality of service and customer care, and Autosafe is working closely with industry bodies to drive up standards of workmanship and service within the UK’s vehicle service and repair industry.

Last Updated ( Saturday, 08 August 2009 10:26 )

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