Motorists in Wales are putting off essential safety maintenance to their vehicles because of rising costs – a survey has suggested.
A survey of 2,300 motorists found that one-in-three have delayed servicing because of the costs involved and one-in-six have put off changing bald tyres.
Car hire website Carrentals.co.uk questioned drivers across the country on their motoring expenditure and found that 10% had downgraded their insurance from fully comprehensive to third party.
Fifty-five percent of Welsh drivers questioned said they do not get their tyres checked in preparation for winter’s icy conditions, while 81% do not get their brakes checked.
Gareth Robinson, managing director of Carrentals.co.uk, said: “Many people are having to cut back their expenses in the current financial climate, and motoring is one area that can incur hefty costs. Unfortunately it is also one that can directly affect the safety of not just the driver, but other motorists and road users.
“The past couple of winters have seen treacherous conditions on our roads, so drivers should think carefully about what they cut back on. Car maintenance and checks are vital at any time of the year, but particularly in the run up to winter. It’s far better to save money by buying fewer clothes or missing a night out, rather than delaying a service or tyre change, which can result in lives being put at risk.”