Why you should not delay servicing your car

We are all living with an increase in our daily costs. From amenity bills to food, everything seems to be getting more expensive. This could encourage us to make unwise decisions on how and when we spend our precious finances, perhaps overlooking something that could cost more in the future.

One such expenditure is annual car servicing and maintenance. Despite our cars often being our main source of transport for work and thus an indirect source of income, by delaying your car or van servicing, this could result in poor reliability and safety of your vehicle. But worse, if left unchecked could cause larger problems and further financial burden.

Here at Underwoods Motoring we have compiled the main reasons to keep on top of your vehicle maintenance:

Increased Repair Costs​

A small issue left unchecked could escalate into a major problem if it is not addressed in good time. For example, by neglecting a necessary oil change, this could lead to considerable engine damage, potentially incurring a far more expensive repair bill, or in worst case scenario a full engine replacement. Now that will certainly be costly, and could even cause your vehicle to be written off entirely.

When a part gets worn out, it will can cause damage to other components and parts that surround it or are associated to them. As an example, a brake pad that is faulty can damage the brake rotor, which will lead to costly repairs.

Decreased Vehicle Performance​

By regularly servicing your vehicle in line with the manufacturers recommendations, you will ensure your vehicle is running efficiently. Should you delay maintenance, the fuel efficiency will be hampered, the acceleration may become sluggish, and the vehicles performance overall will reduce.​

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Safety Hazards​

Safety is a big concern for vehicles that have not been maintained, especially the brakes, suspension and tyres. A worn-out brake pad for example will considerably increase the physical stopping distances, putting the driver at risk of an accident. Thus causing further expense with many insurance premiums incurring an excess charge for any claims.

Should a steering or suspension part fail, the control of the vehicle will be impaired, especially when sharply cornering or on rough or uneven road conditions.

Breakdown​

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Reduced Resale Value

If a car or van has a poor record of maintenance with annualised servicing missed, it will significantly lower the value of the vehicle. Used vehicle buyers are more likely to avoid purchasing any vehicle that has not been well maintained, as would suggest the potential for hidden issues that could be costly to repair or make the vehicle unreliable.

Shortened Lifespan

By regularly maintaining your vehicle in line with manufacturers recommendations you are much more likely to extend the life of your car. By neglecting repairs you will encourage premature wear on important components, potentially reducing your vehicle’s lifespan.

Environmental Impact

Higher emissions and lower fuel efficiency are more likely when a vehicle is not properly maintained, thus contributing towards greater environmental pollution. By regularly servicing your car it will perform more efficiently and be cleaner for the environment.

Parts

Unfortunately, due to various global issues, spare parts are becoming harder to come by, with delays even for Authorised Repairers like Underwoods. By regularly maintaining your vehicle you will be less likely to require non-stock parts, as all the necessary components will have been updated or addressed.

So the Underwoods recommendation is always adhere to manufacturers schedule for servicing and maintenance and to trust in your local specialist garage for advice. We look forward to seeing you soon.

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