Australian Motorists Sacrifice Car Maintenance to Save Money, Creating Safety Concerns
Cash-strapped Australian drivers are increasingly delaying or abandoning essential vehicle services in an effort to save money, a risky trend that safety experts are urgently trying to halt. A comprehensive survey conducted by Canstar, involving more than 2,700 car owners across the nation, reveals that 49 percent have either postponed a mechanic visit or skipped it entirely over the past twelve months due to mounting financial pressures.
Widespread Deferral of Critical Maintenance
The survey findings highlight alarming patterns in vehicle upkeep neglect. One quarter of respondents admitted to putting off necessary maintenance items such as new tyres and brake pads, while an equal proportion have delayed or ignored repairs for minor damage including cracked windscreens and body dents. Peter Khoury, spokesperson for the National Roads and Motorists’ Association (NRMA), expressed understanding but concern, stating, "We completely sympathise with motorists. Cost of living pressures are a big issue and many are looking to save money. We just don’t want them to sacrifice safety. We want people in the safest car possible and that means getting your car serviced by an expert."
Insurance Reductions and Broader Financial Impacts
Beyond maintenance delays, the financial strain is prompting other significant changes in driver behaviour. Twenty-one percent of surveyed individuals reported reducing or cancelling non-compulsory car insurance policies, while 17 percent have shelved plans to purchase a new vehicle. To further trim expenses, nearly one in five drivers have either downgraded the quality of petrol they use or limited their time on the road. A small but notable five percent have sold their car without replacing it, reflecting the severity of economic challenges.
Regional and Generational Variations in Cost-Cutting
The pressure to reduce car-related spending is not evenly distributed. Drivers in Western Australia and Victoria feel the pinch most acutely, with 60 percent of residents in these states cutting back on vehicle expenses over the past year. Generational differences are also stark: 69 percent of Gen Z drivers have tightened their belts, compared to 67 percent of millennials, 60 percent of Gen X, and 42 percent of baby boomers.
Rising Transport Costs and Policy Implications
Data released by the Australian Automobile Association (AAA) in November underscores the growing financial burden of vehicle ownership. A typical Australian household now allocates 15.8 percent of its weekly income to transport costs, equating to approximately $450 on car loan payments, fuel, registration, insurance, and other expenses. This marks a significant increase from the $309 spent five years ago. Michael Bradley, AAA managing director, emphasised the need for governmental awareness, stating, "Governments at all levels must consider these cost pressures when formulating policy."
Insurance Risks and Safety Consequences
Sally Tindall, Canstar’s Data Insights Director, warned that neglecting car servicing not only jeopardises safety but can also lead to severe financial repercussions. Regular maintenance is critical for identifying potential issues, preventing larger future costs, extending vehicle lifespan, and preserving resale value. More importantly, Tindall highlighted that failing to maintain a roadworthy vehicle can impact insurance claims. "When you take out comprehensive insurance, the insurer expects you to keep your car in a roadworthy condition. This means replacing worn tyres and brakes, fixing defective lights, addressing rust and resolving any mechanical or electrical issues. If it’s not, then your provider could potentially deny your claim if it contributed to the accident," she explained.
Expert Recommendations for Maintenance and Cost-Saving
Khoury advised that service frequency should follow manufacturer guidelines, but urged drivers to seek immediate checks if they suspect any issues, especially before embarking on long road trips. To help motorists manage expenses without compromising safety, Tindall offered several practical tips:
- Obtain multiple quotes for significant repairs to ensure competitive pricing.
- Utilise insurance policy perks, such as discounts on tyres and batteries offered by some providers.
- Regularly check tyre pressure to improve fuel efficiency and safety.
- Use fuel apps to locate the best prices at petrol stations.
- Shop around for car insurance at every renewal period rather than auto-renewing, as loyalty can sometimes lead to higher premiums.
By adopting these strategies, drivers can better balance financial constraints with the imperative of maintaining safe, reliable vehicles.
