Financial - Drivers 'Should Not Delay' Getting Vehicles Repaired

Money worries are causing drivers to avoid having their vehicle repaired, new research shows.

A study commissioned by esure car insurance indicates that over 23 million motorists put off taking their car to a garage despite being aware that there is a problem with it. A third (33 per cent) of people questioned claim that they do not take action on the faults with their automobile due to an unwillingness to shell out money for repairs, with 31 per cent stating that they simply do not have the time to go to a garage. The figures come as the insurance firm revealed 44 per cent of respondents would rather prioritise their spending on leisure pursuits such as holidays and clothes, rather than getting a known fault with their vehicle sorted out.

Some eight per cent of people questioned report that they will only bother getting their car fixed once it becomes completely unusable. In addition, about three-quarters of drivers were shown to be unaware what all the warning symbols on their dashboard mean.

By delaying getting repairs carried out, however, it is possible that drivers find problems with their vehicle worsening. This may lead them to face a higher service bill, which could result in difficulties with other financial demands such as personal loans, credit and store cards and mortgage costs.

Commenting on the figures, Mike Pickard, head of risk and underwriting for esure, said: "Driving a car with a fault - no matter how small it may be - could potentially increase the likelihood of having an accident or breakdown. Motorists should always think about the internal feel of the car whilst driving as well as any unusual noise they may hear."

Dave Cotterill from KC Auto's added that although drivers may at first have a "relatively minor problem" with their vehicle, in not sorting it out straight away they will only exacerbate their difficulties and gradually become a danger on the road. He went on to state by unnecessarily delaying getting a repair, motorists could also find that fixing the problem will cost them more money.

Further research from the firm indicated that 42 per cent of Welsh drivers claim money problems are the main reason for delaying putting their car into service. On the other hand, Scottish residents appear to be the most conscious about safety as a third of motorists from the region state they get a fault with their car sorted out as soon as possible. Meanwhile, some 37 per cent of women drivers state that they avoid such a trip because of difficulties with money, compared to 29 per cent of men.

Those looking for a competitive way to fund the repair of a car, however, may wish to take out a low-rate loan. In opting for this type of loan, it is possible that motorists can quickly meet such a payment demand and be left with affordable repayments to make each month. A cheap personal loan may also be of assistance to those looking to buy a car. Last year, moneysupermarket reported that taking out a cheap UK loan ahead of a forecourt finance deal could save hundreds of pounds for the people buying one of the new September registration models.