As car repairs become increasingly expensive, millions of motorists in the UK are at risk of facing hefty bills. New data reveals that the average cost of unexpected vehicle repairs is £617 per year, leaving many Britons struggling to keep up with maintenance.
According to recent findings from the RAC, six in ten drivers experience costly repairs each year, and the situation is only set to worsen without proper checks like the MOT test.
This rising burden of car repairs is more than just an inconvenience. It’s a financial strain on many households, particularly as essential vehicle maintenance remains crucial to prevent breakdowns.
The RAC’s report highlights the most common issues that cause unanticipated repair costs, from tyre wear and brake repairs to damage caused by the poor state of the UK’s roads.
Rising Repair Costs Plague UK Drivers
Unexpected car repairs are proving to be a significant financial burden for UK motorists. On average, drivers are paying £617 annually for repairs not anticipated, as revealed by the RAC’s latest data.
The most common culprits include worn tyres, which account for 64% of issues, and brake repairs, which affect 24% of vehicles. The condition of the UK’s roads also plays a role, with potholes contributing to suspension damage and costly repairs.
This mounting cost comes at a time when millions of Britons are bringing their cars in for MOT tests. March and September, in particular, are peak months for MOT services, with drivers seeking to ensure their vehicles meet legal standards.
The lack of regular maintenance checks, such as the MOT, leaves many unaware of looming issues, only for these problems to surface when it’s too late.
Paul Coward, chief executive of the RAC’s service, maintenance, and repair division, noted that many drivers are left with little choice but to face the financial strain of these repairs. “A well-maintained vehicle is far less likely to break down and result in costly unexpected repairs,” Coward emphasised.
These repair costs come at a time when eight in ten people rely on their cars, making unexpected issues a major disruption in their daily lives.
MOT Testing and Its Vital Role in Preventing Repairs
The importance of MOT testing cannot be overstated in avoiding costly vehicle repairs. The RAC’s findings point to the significant impact of regular checks, with a large portion of repairs being preventable. The failure to undergo regular MOT tests puts drivers at risk of having their vehicles fail unexpectedly, leading to expensive repairs that could have been foreseen.
By identifying faults early on through an MOT, drivers can address minor issues before they develop into major, costly problems. The RAC encourages drivers to take proactive steps, including booking repairs through RAC Mobile Mechanics, which offer convenient, in-home services that help to spread the repair costs.
This approach not only eases the financial burden but also helps maintain road safety, preventing potentially dangerous breakdowns.
