Motorists risk huge safety concerns amid MOT backlogs and delays - 'Really important'
Drivers aged between 45 and 54 are more likely to miss an MOT test
THE MOTOR OMBUDSMAN
One in 10 drivers could be putting themselves and other road users at risk by never getting their car serviced through the annual MOT, according to a new survey.
Research found that a significant portion of motorists are avoiding essential vehicle maintenance, with a further 30 per cent admitting to delaying their car servicing beyond recommended intervals.
Regular servicing is crucial for vehicle safety, ensuring all components are in good working order and reducing the likelihood of breakdowns due to ongoing faults.
The survey revealed stark differences across age groups in vehicle maintenance habits. Young drivers aged 18-24 proved the most diligent, with only eight per cent saying they never service their vehicles.
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Drivers in Northern Ireland are facing long waiting times for MOT tests
PAHowever, those aged 45-54 emerged as the most likely to skip servicing entirely, with 16 per cent - almost double the average - admitting they never take their cars for maintenance.
"The number of people who said they aren't getting their car serviced seemed worryingly high in this survey," said Tom Banks, Go.Compare car insurance spokesperson.
The comparison site's research also revealed that 39 per cent of motorists aren't planning any winter preparation for their vehicles.
A full service history remains crucial for both safety and vehicle value, with Banks noting it can help "through the residual value of the vehicle or purely through not having technical faults that can cause a breakdown or an unexpected repair bill."
He added: "Keeping on top of your car's servicing is really important - if only from a safety perspective."
The findings come amid a wider MOT crisis in Northern Ireland, where motorists are facing average waiting times of up to 72 days for tests.
The National Franchised Dealers Association Northern Ireland (NFDA-NI) expressed deep concern about the backlog, which is affecting both public safety and business operations.
At Belfast's Balmoral Centre, drivers face waits of up to 65 days for an MOT appointment. NFDA Chief Executive Sue Robinson warned that the situation in Northern Ireland has reached crisis point.
She said: "The situation is dire and continues to negatively impact consumers and dealers in equal measure. The persistent, lengthy backlog threatens road safety as prolonged waits for MOT tests only increases the length of vehicle defects developing, risking injury and even death.”
The crisis has been exacerbated by Covid-19 lockdowns and equipment failures, with defective vehicle lifts found in almost all MOT testing centres in late 2019.
Further complications have emerged at the new Hydebank Centre, where testing lanes require reconstruction due to equipment failure.
The NFDA-NI warned public confidence has "reached rock bottom" and is urging the Government to act more quickly to address the longstanding backlog.
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GETTYDespite several invitations, Infrastructure Minister John O'Dowd has yet to meet with automotive retail representatives, the organisation explained. The impact of the MOT crisis is particularly concerning as more drivers keep their vehicles longer due to the cost-of-living crisis.
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