More motorists likely to breakdown this winter

More motorists are failing to service and maintain their vehicles than in previous years – the result is likely to see increased breakdowns on our roads this winter.

An increased number of motorists are driving vehicles without carrying out basic servicing tasks, claims mail order specialist Carparts-direct.co.uk. Thirty-six percent of motorists questioned admitted they had not serviced their vehicle within the recommended time schedule. Sixteen percent had not checked their engine oil, coolant level or tyre pressures in the past 6 months.

As the recession bites, more motorists are running older cars rather than replacing with new. Older vehicles are more likely to breakdown if they are not serviced and maintained. Mark Cornwall of Car Parts Direct said: “Motorists are working on the assumption that if their car is not broken why fix it – and it’s a false economy. Most major repairs and breakdowns happen because basic checks and maintenance are ignored.”

Car Parts Direct is supplying more steering racks and drive shafts than ever, simply because the rubber gaiters that protect these parts are not checked for damage. Early replacement of the gaiters could avoid changing the whole unit. Brake discs are being supplied because drivers fail to replace worn brake pads before the metal of the brake pad damages the brake disc.

Motorists are advised to carry out a few simple safety checks to help avoid a breakdown, expensive repairs or an accident. Vehicles are more likely to break down in freezing cold winter weather. Checking the lights, wiper blades, engine oil, screen wash and antifreeze strength is critical at this time of year. Motorists should also check radiator hoses, drive belts, brake pipes and look for any signs of fluid leaks.

After a flat battery, glow plug failure is the most common reason for diesel vehicles to fail to start. Car Parts Direct has an online video showing how to replace diesel glow plugs. Mark Cornwall said: “Glow plugs are our best selling part to diesel owners – online orders increase ten-fold once the temperature drops to freezing – we send them out on overnight special service delivery.”

Sixty-thousand of the most common car parts likely to be needed to repair any vehicle in winter such as alternators, starter motors, water pumps, radiators, timing belt kits as well as engine service kits are available at carparts-direct.co.uk