Rising repair costs are forcing millions of car owners to delay crucial maintenance, jeopardizing vehicle safety and longevity.
At a Glance
- 29% of American car owners are behind on oil changes
- 44% of car owners are behind on tire rotations
- Delaying maintenance can lead to significant vehicle issues and safety risks
- Repair costs have risen 4.1% annually from 2013 to 2023, outpacing inflation
- Well-maintained vehicles last longer, cost less over time, and have higher resale value
The Alarming Trend of Delayed Maintenance
A concerning trend is emerging in the automotive world as millions of American car owners postpone essential maintenance due to rising repair costs. According to recent reports, 29% of car owners are behind on oil changes, while a staggering 44% have delayed tire rotations. These statistics paint a worrying picture of the state of vehicle maintenance in the country.
The consequences of neglecting routine maintenance can be severe, both in terms of safety and financial impact. Patrick Olsen, an industry expert, warns of the dangers:
“When families go on a road trip or you’re going to visit your kid in college, or even if you’re just going to and from work, when you delay these types of maintenance, you’re putting your car at risk,” Olsen said. “So, oil changes, you know, your engine can seize up or burn oil more quickly.”
It's hard to overstate what a crisis the surge in car insurance and car repair is.
Over 90% of US households own a car.
Vehicle insurance is up +22.2% in the past year –>The largest jump since 1976
Vehicle repair is up +11.6% pic.twitter.com/0wO0LtYmB7
— Heather Long (@byHeatherLong) April 10, 2024
The Rising Cost of Car Repairs
The trend of delaying maintenance is largely driven by the increasing cost of car repairs. Over the past decade, repair costs have risen at an alarming rate, outpacing overall inflation. From 2013 to 2023, repair costs increased by 4.1% annually, compared to a 2.8% increase in the consumer price index. This disparity has only widened since the pandemic, with repair costs surging by about 10% in 2022 alone.
“Customers definitely are getting sticker shock,” says David Goldsmith who owns a repair shop in Brooklyn.
Several factors contribute to this rapid increase in repair costs. Modern vehicles are more complex, featuring advanced systems like turbochargers and all-wheel drive. While these innovations enhance performance and reliability, they also increase the potential for breakdowns and the complexity of repairs. Additionally, the use of lightweight materials like aluminum, while beneficial for fuel efficiency, makes repairs more costly due to their brittle nature and higher replacement costs.
The Long-Term Impact of Maintenance Delays
While the immediate financial pressure of rising repair costs is evident, the long-term consequences of delaying maintenance can be far more severe. Well-maintained vehicles not only last longer but also prove more economical over time. Paul Nadjarian, an industry expert, emphasizes this point:
“Well-maintained vehicles last longer, cost owners less over time, and are worth more when it’s time to sell them.”
The average age of cars on American roads has increased to 12.5 years, highlighting the importance of proper maintenance in extending vehicle lifespan. However, as economic pressures mount, many car owners find themselves in a difficult position. “You can only stretch a rubber band so far until it breaks. I think that’s where the consumer is at this time,” said dealership owner Tom Maoli.
As the automotive industry continues to evolve, with a shift towards electric and digital technologies, the importance of regular maintenance remains paramount. Car owners must weigh the short-term financial relief of delaying maintenance against the long-term costs and safety risks associated with neglecting their vehicles. While the current economic climate presents challenges, prioritizing essential maintenance is crucial for ensuring the safety, longevity, and value of vehicles on American roads.
