One in Five Drivers Are Skipping MOTs—The Alarming Findings from the RAC
How far would you go to save money? For a surprising number of UK drivers, the answer includes skipping essential car maintenance. According to the RAC’s 2024 Report on Motoring, one in five drivers under 44 admits to driving a car without an MOT or ignoring dangerously worn tyres in a bid to save money.
While it might seem like an easy way to cut costs, the consequences of these decisions are anything but minor.
Shocking Insights from the RAC Report
The MOT isn’t just a legal requirement; it’s a vital safety check that ensures your car is fit for the road. Yet, the RAC found that 10% of drivers of all ages admit they’ve avoided MOTs or neglected to replace tyres when needed. Among drivers under 25, the figure is even higher, with 36% delaying repairs or skipping servicing altogether.
These choices come with serious risks:
- Increased Accident Potential: Worn tyres can drastically reduce braking performance, particularly in bad weather.
- Breakdowns: Neglected maintenance is one of the leading causes of breakdowns, often resulting in hefty repair bills.
- Legal Penalties: Driving without an MOT can result in fines of up to £1,000 and points on your license.
Cutting Costs, But at What Price?
With the rising cost of living, it’s understandable that drivers are feeling the pressure. In fact, 74% of motorists in the RAC report say car servicing costs have risen over the past year. For many, this has led to tough choices, such as delaying repairs or skipping servicing altogether.
But what seems like a short-term saving can quickly turn into a financial nightmare. The RAC reports that 59% of drivers faced unexpected repair bills last year, with an average cost of £617. Younger drivers, in particular, are struggling: nearly half (45%) of under-25s admit they would struggle to cover a repair bill of £500.
Skipping Maintenance: A Dangerous Gamble
Delaying essential maintenance might seem harmless, but it increases the risk of accidents, breakdowns, and expensive repairs. For example:
- Worn tyres are a major contributor to accidents, especially in wet or icy conditions.
- Delaying servicing allows minor issues to escalate into critical failures, such as engine damage or brake problems.
And it’s not just financial stress at stake. Avoiding routine maintenance endangers your safety, your passengers, and everyone else on the road.
Stay Safe Without Breaking the Bank
Thankfully, staying on top of car maintenance doesn’t have to be unaffordable. Services like MotorEasy help drivers manage their maintenance needs without the financial strain:
- MOTs Made Easy: Schedule your MOT ahead of time and get reminders so you never miss a test.
- Affordable Tyre Replacements: Ensure your car stays safe and legal with competitive prices on tyres.
- Flexible Servicing Options: Spread the cost of routine maintenance, so you don’t face a sudden financial hit.
Don’t Let Shortcuts Cost You More
The RAC’s 2024 Report on Motoring offers a sobering reminder of the risks of skipping essential car maintenance. While financial pressures are real, the costs of avoiding an MOT or tyre replacement can be far greater—both in terms of money and safety.
Don’t become another statistic. With tools like MotorEasy, you can stay compliant, keep your car safe, and manage maintenance costs more effectively. Remember, when it comes to your car, cutting corners is never worth the risk.
