UK: One in five drivers skip MOTs and repairs to save cash

One in five UK drivers under 44 has confessed to skipping essential car maintenance to save money, according to the RAC’s latest Report on Motoring. The study reveals that cost-of-living pressures are pushing some motorists into risky territory, with younger drivers leading the charge.

Among the automotive acrobatics being performed to keep wallets intact: dodging the legally required MOT and letting tyres wear down to near-slick status. While this budgetary brinkmanship might seem like a quick win, experts warn it could lead to safety hazards and financial facepalms.

Under-25s, in particular, appear to be driving on the wild side. A full 36 per cent of these drivers admitted to delaying repairs or outright skipping routine servicing. It’s a worrying trend considering that the MOT isn’t just a bureaucratic hurdle – it’s designed to ensure vehicles are roadworthy.

MOT news:

MOT mayhem: One in five British cars fails crucial test

MOT fallout: UK drivers delay repairs, opt for DIY solutions

This isn’t just a young person’s game, though. Across all age groups, one in ten drivers has rolled the dice on tyre and MOT neglect. Meanwhile, 19 per cent of respondents admitted they’ve put off car repairs altogether, potentially trading minor expenses now for major wallet damage later.

And damaged wallets are already a reality for many. A whopping 59 per cent of drivers had to cough up for unexpected repairs in the past year, with the average bill hitting a jaw-dropping £617. For some, this was manageable; for others – especially the under-25s – it was a financial smack in the face. Nearly half of younger drivers (45 per cent) reported struggling to cover repair costs, compared to a more stoic 25 per cent of over-65s.

The RAC’s report highlights a grim reality for drivers trying to balance rising living costs with car ownership. While skipping routine maintenance might feel like a clever way to save, experts warn it could backfire dramatically. Ignored issues can snowball into costly breakdowns or even accidents, leaving drivers paying far more in the long run – or worse, jeopardising safety.

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“Safety on our roads is paramount. The MOT is a legal requirement for good reason: skipping it jeopardises the safety of all road users, including the driver. Tyres are a vehicle’s only contact with the road, so it’s vital they are in good condition and have plenty of tread – anyone who drives with poor tread or substandard tyres risks being involved in a collision," RAC breakdown spokesperson Simon Williams commented.

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