The Hidden Costs of Skipping Car Maintenance
Putting off routine service may save money today, but it could lead to breakdowns, safety risks, and repair bills costing thousands later
Skipping routine car maintenance may seem harmless, especially when your vehicle still runs fine. But what experts call “deferred maintenance,” or delaying scheduled service and needed repairs, can quietly lead to reduced fuel economy, expensive breakdowns, safety risks, and even major engine damage. Skipping or postponing required repairs can be even more problematic, and small issues often become far more costly repairs when ignored for too long.
Take, for example, a car that developed a barely noticeable skip at idle, which triggered the Check Engine light. After nine months of the driver ignoring the problem, the car began running poorly, prompting the need for service. The diagnosis: A single spark plug had failed.
Unfortunately, the failed plug allowed unburned gasoline to reach the catalytic converter, destroying this costly emissions-control part. Delaying the replacement of a $5 spark plug ended up costing the owner more than $1,900.
In another case, ignoring a minor coolant leak at a hose fitting for months led to the sudden failure of that component. The resulting loss of coolant caused $6,000 in engine damage.
These are just two examples that highlight the risks and costs of deferred maintenance. Here are a few other problems it can cause.
Loss of fuel economy
Poorly maintained cars burn more fuel. That may not seem important when fuel is relatively inexpensive, but when gasoline and diesel costs rise, it becomes a real issue.
Loss of vehicle life
While putting off maintenance usually does not cause immediate problems, it can shorten a vehicle’s life expectancy. By how much is hard to say.
While people once assumed that 100,000 miles was about all you could expect from a car, today many vehicles run smoothly and dependably for 200,000, 300,000, or even more miles. They achieve this because they are properly maintained, and problems are addressed promptly. Owners who stop servicing their cars at 100,000 miles because they question how much longer the vehicle will last may be giving up half of its useful life.
Safety risks
Postponing or ignoring scheduled inspections of the many parts related to safety can put your family and other motorists at risk. A failure of any of these critical components could lead to a crash, resulting in injuries, property damage, and legal liability.
Take brakes as an example. Skipping inspections could mean missing a brake issue that may not be noticeable during everyday driving but could reduce your ability to stop or control the car in an emergency. Undetected exhaust system leaks can allow carbon monoxide to enter the passenger compartment, while even a minor oil or fuel leak could lead to a vehicle fire.
In addition, a well-maintained car is less likely to break down and leave you stranded. Breaking down on the highway can be especially dangerous, with other vehicles passing at high speed just inches away from your car.
Loss of warranty coverage
If the car is still under warranty, skipping maintenance can have a significant financial impact. Automakers typically require proof that all recommended maintenance has been performed on time before they will cover major repairs. Even minor lapses have led some manufacturers to deny coverage for failed systems, leaving the vehicle owner responsible for thousands of dollars in repair costs.
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Deferred maintenance comes with real risks. Staying current with maintenance and repairs can save money and time while extending the useful life of your vehicle. It can also enhance your safety and help preserve the resale value of your vehicle.