DIY drivers risk MOT failures
New research has found that the cost-of-living crisis is driving many motorists to delay car repairs or carry them out themselves rather than paying for a professional.
According to eBay UK, 35% of drivers would rather carry out minor repairs themselves than go to an established repairer, while 34% have said they put off getting MOT advisories fixed last year to save money, with 34% saying they couldn’t afford the suggested repairs.
Worryingly, 10% said they didn’t think advisories are important, with 22% putting them off for as long as possible.
The most common issues causing MOT failures last year were faulty lights, reflectors and electrical equipment (23%), followed closely by suspension (18%), brake issues (14%) and defective tyres (13%).
Arjang Salehi, category lead – vehicle parts and accessories eBay UK, said: “According to eBay research, 45% of motorists dread the prospect of an MOT more than going to the dentist (34%) and this anxiety is caused by fear of the unknown. What’s the garage going to find and how much is it going to cost to put it right – those are the biggest fears.”
