Rising Costs Lead to DIY Car Maintenance: Is It Worth the Risk?

As the cost of living continues to rise, more and more car owners are feeling the pinch, leading many to change the way they maintain their vehicles. According to a recent study commissioned by servicing provider mycar, a significant number of Australians are either delaying essential car services or attempting to take on maintenance tasks themselves.

The mycar Mobility Index, a new report designed to explore how Australians are managing their vehicle maintenance amidst financial pressures, sheds light on this growing trend. The study surveyed 2004 vehicle owners and found that 60% have changed their car maintenance habits due to economic constraints. Even more striking, 77% of respondents reported performing some form of car maintenance themselves.

DIY Maintenance: A Growing Trend

The survey reveals that many car owners are extending the intervals between regular services, with 24% admitting to delaying their vehicle’s scheduled maintenance. Additionally, 21% have opted for more affordable services or repairs when necessary. The rise of DIY maintenance is also evident, with 25% of respondents rotating their own tyres, 15% flushing and replacing brake fluid, 19% replacing fuel filters, and 9% inspecting and replacing suspension components.

Interestingly, younger generations seem most comfortable with DIY car maintenance. Gen Z leads the way, with 91% of respondents handling some maintenance tasks themselves, followed by Millennials at 84%, Gen X at 78%, and Boomers at 58%.

However, not all maintenance tasks are simple. The survey found that 17% of respondents had taken on more complex and potentially dangerous tasks, such as brake system maintenance, a practice that could lead to serious safety issues if not done correctly.

The Risks of Skipping Professional Maintenance

While the temptation to save money by doing your own car maintenance is understandable, experts warn that this approach can be risky. Adam Pay, Managing Director of mycar, emphasized the importance of professional servicing, noting that vehicle maintenance should be carried out by trained technicians.

“When it comes to vehicle maintenance, it’s tempting to think you can do it yourself,” Pay said. “But the reality is these tasks require the expertise of trained technicians … while understanding your car is important, the actual maintenance should always be in the hands of experts.”

Cutting Corners on Insurance

The financial strain isn’t just affecting maintenance; it’s also leading car owners to adjust their insurance coverage. Nearly half of all respondents reported making changes to their insurance to save money. A worrying 11% said they had dropped their insurance altogether, while 27% switched to cheaper policies to maintain some level of coverage. 14% of respondents admitted they had missed or struggled to make an insurance payment due to the cost-of-living crisis.

The EV Consideration

As the cost of traditional vehicle maintenance and fuel continues to rise, many Australians are considering electric vehicles (EVs) as a more cost-effective option. 32% of respondents indicated that they would consider purchasing an EV to reduce maintenance and fuel expenses. The rising cost of fuel was also a factor for 40% of respondents when thinking about their next vehicle purchase.

A Growing Concern

The trend of delaying vehicle maintenance due to financial pressures is not new. Earlier this year, an insurance report by Youi found that 35% of respondents were delaying servicing their vehicles. Similarly, a survey by Continental Tyres last year reported that 56% of its participants were postponing car maintenance due to rising living costs.

While it’s clear that financial pressures are leading many Australians to reconsider their approach to car maintenance, it’s important to weigh the risks and potential long-term costs. Delaying or neglecting professional maintenance can lead to more significant issues down the road, ultimately costing more in repairs or compromising safety.

Disclaimer: This blog is not intended as legal or financial advice. Please consult with a professional mechanic or insurance provider for personalized guidance.