Research finds 10% of drivers admit postponing vehicle upkeep

One in 10 UK drivers (10%) admit to driving illegally by skipping an MOT or failing to replace worn tyres, according to new RAC research.

The findings raise concerns that financial pressures are prompting some motorists to postpone essential vehicle maintenance, potentially increasing the risk to themselves and other road users.

Younger drivers appear to be particularly affected. A quarter (25%) of motorists under 25 say they have delayed necessary repairs or tyre replacements because of the cost, compared with 21% of those aged 25 to 44 and just 5% of drivers aged 65 and over.

Across all age groups, 3% say they have deliberately avoided getting their vehicle’s MOT, despite the test being a legal requirement for most vehicles more than three years old.

A further 7% admit they have not replaced worn tyres. Tyres with tread below the legal minimum of 1.6mm are illegal and can seriously compromise vehicle safety.

The RAC says the findings come as motorists face rising vehicle maintenance and repair bills. Three in five drivers (60%) say these costs have increased over the past 12 months.

Almost a third (32%) are now worried about the cost of maintaining their vehicle, up sharply from 25% a year ago.

Higher fuel prices are adding to the pressure on household budgets. According to the RAC, filling a petrol tank now costs around £89, compared with £74 a year ago, while a tank of diesel costs approximately £100, up from £79.

The RAC warns that postponing maintenance can have consequences beyond the immediate financial cost.

Simon Williams, RAC head of policy, said: “It’s concerning that so many drivers appear to be risking breaking the law by not having a valid MOT or driving on bald tyres.

“With the average repair bill climbing to almost £700, it’s little wonder that so many people are finding it difficult to make ends meet. But kicking the can down the road and delaying repairs to your vehicle or putting them off altogether is a false economy.

“Often, it makes the problem worse, which can lead to a more expensive bill down the line.”

He added that postponing essential repairs could leave a vehicle unsafe and illegal to drive, with worn tyres posing a particular risk.

“Bald tyres drastically increase the risk of a collision as they increase stopping distances, and are at greater risk of unexpected blowouts,” Mr Williams said.

The RAC also cites enforcement data showing that around 10,000 drivers received penalty points last year for using unroadworthy vehicles with defective brakes, tyres, steering or other faults.

The motoring organisation says drivers struggling with repair bills could consider mobile servicing and repair options, allowing some work to be carried out at home or in the workplace.

The findings underline the importance of keeping vehicles roadworthy, even when household finances are stretched, as worn tyres, defective brakes and other mechanical faults can increase the risk of collisions.