RACV is urging motorists not to postpone essential vehicle repairs or maintenance in an attempt to save money, warning that delays can lead to significant safety risks and higher costs in the long run.
In 2024, the top reason for an RACV Emergency Roadside Assist call-out was battery-related issues, with 295,338 calls. This was followed by wheels and tyres (107,916) and electrical-related issues (50,993).
RACV General Manager Motoring Products Jeff Ames said that neglecting car maintenance or issues that arise can result in breakdowns and expensive repairs, potentially keeping your car off the road for extended periods.
"We know that cost of living issues are impacting families across Victoria in different, challenging ways, but RACV often sees first-hand that putting off seemingly small issues can be costly in more ways than one," Mr Ames said.
"Delaying essential car repairs may seem like a cost-saving measure, but motorists could expose themselves to issues that are both unsafe and expensive to fix."
Key maintenance tasks that should not be deferred include:
- Oil change: Poor or low engine oil can result in engine damage, including stretched timing chains, which can result in major engine failure. Check your owner's handbook for the ideal way to check and replace your oil or engage your local service centre. Many modern cars have an oil change or oil pressure light that illuminates when there's a problem – so if you see the light, it's time to change the oil.
- Coolant issues: Persistent coolant issues and leaks may be a sign of a serious mechanical issue and are best left to a mechanic to investigate immediately. Coolant should be brightly coloured (green, yellow, orange or pink, depending on the type). If it looks brown, rusty or murky, it's time for a change. An engine that frequently overheats is also a strong sign that your coolant is no longer effectively doing its job.
- Suspension: If your tyres or ride comfort are deteriorating, there may be an issue with your suspension or shock absorbers. Address this promptly to avoid ongoing and costly problems.
- Spark plugs and ignition coils: Spark plugs can impact everything from your fuel efficiency to engine performance, making them an essential engine component. With a petrol car, you will also have ignition coils, which can break down over time. These usually present as a misfire, and/or the engine light will illuminate.
RACV encourages all motorists to adhere to their vehicle's servicing schedule and consult with qualified mechanics to address any issues promptly.
Investing in regular maintenance not only improves vehicle and road safety but also prevents more significant costs down the track.
