Cost of living pressures forcing one in four Aussies to put off essential car check-ups, new Finder research reveals

Sky News AU

2 days ago

Stringent cost of living pressures are taking their toll as drivers put off critical vehicle maintenance in a threat to those on the road.
This is the revelation from a fresh survey by comparison site Finder where almost one in four respondents - equivalent to about 4.8 million drivers - said they have avoided taking their car in for a check-up.
It comes as budgetary constraints have forced vehicle maintenance down many Aussies' list of fiscal priorities.
The report also showed about 30 per cent of female respondents had put off a check-up compared to about 18 per cent of men.
Finder's insurance expert Taylor Blackburn said these cost of living pressures could ultimately make roads unsafe as the conditions of many vehicles worsen.
'Given the soaring cost of living, many households are finding it harder to prioritise car maintenance,' Mr Blackburn said.
'We're seeing a growing number of vehicles fall into disrepair simply because drivers can't afford to keep them in good condition.
'The danger is real – worn-out cars can quickly become unsafe, putting not just drivers, but everyone on the road at serious risk.'
Car maintenance costs are amongst the largest household expenses after housing costs, Mr Blackburn said.
It comes as rising insurance and fuel have also added to car maintenance costs, alongside the price of a routine check-up.
'Ignoring minor car troubles, like a cracked hose or a dirty filter, might seem like a way to save money now, but these cheap fixes can quickly escalate into expensive repairs if left unaddressed,' he said.
Finder's analysis showed the average car owner pays about $1362 per year for car insurance.
The comparison site said Aussies could reduce expenses by cutting back on driving, staying on top of maintenance, seeking out cheaper fuel, reassessing insurance and driving more fuel efficiently.
The recent survey from Finder comes as the comparison site revealed millions of Aussies do not believe they have will have enough superannuation to comfortably retire.
It showed that 20 per cent of Aussies - equivalent to 4.3 million Aussies - do not believe they will have enough in their super to "get by" in retirement.
Another 10 per cent said their super balance would be too low but would have enough in other investments by the time they retire.