Wicklow People

Almost 70% of motorists do not get car checked in between services

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A SURVEY of 300 motorists in Ireland has revealed that almost seven out of ten don’t have their vehicle checked in-between scheduled services or NCTs unless a fault has developed.

The survey, carried out by First Stop Tyre and Car Services suggests that some motorists don’t have their car checked for up to a twoyear period and because of this, motorists may be missing out on significan­t benefits by ignoring regular car checks.

First Stop say that checking and maintenanc­e between service intervals and mandatory checks is of most benefit to motorists with high mileage but can be of benefit to all.

By having their vehicle checked regularly, motorists can avail of several benefits including: ensuring the vehicle is roadworthy and able to respond in an optimal way in the event of an emergency. It allows for the detection of faults before they develop into something more serious and costly. It also ensures the most efficient performanc­e of the vehicle, reducing wear and tear on parts and meaning it runs in a more environmen­tally friendly manner.

‘Motorists who get their cars checked regularly by a profession­al service outlet in-between services and mandatory tests can avail of several benefits as well as save money,’ said Niall O’Kelly, Technical and Training Manager at First Stop Tyre and Car Services.

‘The most important aspect is the safety benefit. Hidden defects which develop in a car may only become apparent in an emergency situation when a motorist tries to stop suddenly or carry out an avoidance manoeuvre,’ said Mr O’Kelly.

Many profession­al tyre and service outlets will provide you with a safety report on your car with no obligation to purchase. Fiat Ireland are offering a choice of three exceptiona­l 181 offers available to customers until the end of January.

Customers trading in a Euro 1 to Euro 4 car (petrol or diesel) will be able to avail of scrappage bonuses of up to €5,000 on selected FIAT models. The scrappage bonuses available by model are; Fiat Punto €1,500

Fiat 500 €2,000

Fiat 500X €3,000

Fiat Tipo €3,500

Fiat 500L €4,000

Fiat 124 Spider €5,000

Customers that do not qualify for the FIAT Scrappage bonuses will be able to avail of either low rate finance or cash savings offers, with 0% APR Personal Contract Plan (PCP) & Hire Purchase (HP) available across selected FIAT 500, FIAT 500X, FIAT TIPO, FIAT 500L and FIAT 124 Spider models or cash savings of up to €3,000 available across the FIAT range.

As well as the choice of retail offers Fiat also has a wide range of vehicles available with 13 different model lines; from the city car offerings of the Panda, Qubo, Punto and iconic 500 (available as hatchback & convertibl­e), to Fiat’s c-segment Tipo family (Hatchback, saloon & estate), the popular SUV segment is covered by the 500X, whilst the 500L, 500L Living and Doblo are perfect for those looking for a roomy family friendly vehicle.

Customers looking for a roadster with pure driving should look no further than Fiat’s final model the 124 Spider.

Paul Hunt, Managing Director FCA Ireland, said: ‘Our 181 offers have been designed to ensure we offer all customers real value for money, regardless of their preferred purchase mechanism and model choice.

‘Our scrappage offers will help us take the worst polluting cars off the road while giving customers the benefit of driving cars with lower emissions and improved fuel economy. Whilst the choice of low rate finance offers, from 0% APR, or cash discounts will provide customers with clear and transparen­t savings.’

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