Fuel price drives car changes

Energy bill rises could result in a safety risk for motorists as a fifth of drivers say they plan to cut back on car maintenance, a study reveals.

This month’s Startline Used Car Tracker shows that 77% believe the rise in gas and electricity prices would impact on whether they can afford their car, with 18% putting off replacing tyres and 22% delaying having their vehicle serviced.

Paul Burgess, chief executive officer at Startline Motor Finance, said: “The research shows the huge pressure the fuel cap increase would bring to personal finances, and how it is likely to affect whether people can afford to simply keep their cars safe.

“Routine maintenance and replacing worn tyres are basics when it comes to making sure your car is fit to use – for you and other road users.”

Other measures that those questioned would adopt to cut costs include shopping around for cheaper fuel (47%), using their car less (42%), replacing their car with one that is more economical (34%) and finding a cheaper place to have their car serviced (12%).

Burgess added: “Petrol and diesel prices are starting to fall but it is interesting that more than a third of people are looking to change their car for one with lower costs.

“That suggests we could see increased activity in the used car sector. Also, if people plan to move into more economical cars, higher demand will inevitably drive up the price for these vehicles.”