Drivers ignore faults to save cash

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Motorists are risking accidents and spiralling maintenance bills by ignoring mechanical faults, new research has suggested.

The investigation by esure car insurance found that a third of motorists (33%) think they save money on repairs by simply ignoring problems, while 8% would only have the problem fixed if they were unable to drive the vehicle at all.

Of the 1,000 drivers surveyed, a massive 72% said they didn’t know what the warning lights on their dashboard meant.

Esure pointed out that ignoring even minor faults could prove to be a costly mistake.

As well as leading to higher garage bills in future, the fault could ultimately mean your car is a danger to you and other road users.

One fault which many drivers consider to be a minor one is low tyre pressure, or worn tyres.

But if you don’t correct tyre pressures or check tread depth regularly, you will be paying an average of £45 per replacement tyre.

So, to avoid hefty maintenance or repair bills in future, spend a few minutes each week checking your vehicle and if you notice any problems, follow them up.

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(Summer car maintenance check)

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