Just like our bodies, cars need care and attention to stay healthy. Skipping car maintenance can leave minor issues unattended, which can significantly affect the car’s performance. For the sake of saving a little money, you might end up with a bigger problem. Poorly maintained cars are harder to control, making them unroadworthy. Let’s take a look at the consequences of skipping car servicing.

What Happens If You Don’t Maintain Your Car?

1. Reduced Safety

The safety systems of your car, such as brakes, steering and suspension, need to be in top-notch condition if you want to drive safely. These systems are thoroughly checked during regular car servicing. If you keep driving with broken brake pads, the chances of a road accident increase significantly. Faulty brakes greatly increase the stopping distance, and so you might not be able to avoid collisions even after pressing the brake during an emergency. During Car Servicing Hemel Hempstead, many critical car components are repaired and replaced, making your car safe to drive.

2. Poor Performance and Higher Running Costs

Driving a car that is not serviced well not only consumes excessive fuel but also drains your energy. Clogged air filters, dirty oil, worn spark plugs and other neglected parts make it harder for the engine to work efficiently, which reduces the fuel efficiency. Moreover, the tyre condition and wheel alignment also go unnoticed if the car is not regularly serviced. This can increase the rolling resistance, causing the car to burn more fuel while driving. Apart from this, you put your life at risk when you are driving a car that has poor tyre condition. Tyre tread depth and tyre pressure should always be within the legal limit; these are checked during car servicing. Even faulty steering and suspension can increase the risk of road accidents. So, if you want your vehicle to perform at its best, then never skip your car servicing schedule.

4. Unexpected Breakdowns

One of the worst situations you can be in while driving is if your car suddenly breaks down in the middle of nowhere. Breakdowns often happen due to damaged parts, faulty batteries or engine failure. Such situations can be avoided through regular car servicing. By maintaining your car regularly, you can have peace of mind knowing it’s in good condition and that the chances of a breakdown are low.

5. Lower Resale Value

If you ever want to sell your car, maintenance history matters a lot. Potential buyers want to ensure that the vehicle they are going to own is well-maintained and has been cared for. If you can present the car servicing records to them, there’s a better chance of selling it at a higher price. On the other hand, a poorly maintained car can be harder to sell, even if it runs fine. Buyers may assume there may be some hidden problems in the car, so they might refuse to buy or may offer you much less for the car.

6. Shorter Vehicle Lifespan

There is no denying the fact that well-maintained vehicles have an extended lifespan. Neglecting regular car servicing can shorten a vehicle’s life. Worn-out parts put more pressure on the critical components of the car, making it harder for them to last long. Skipping your car maintenance may seem like saving money, but the truth is it will cost you more in the future.

When Should I Service My Car?

Given below are some of the warning signs that your car needs servicing. Take a look at them.

• You must have your car checked if you see that any of the dashboard lights, such as the check engine, brake, or oil pressure, are on.
• If you suspect that your car is taking a longer distance to stop after pressing the brake. Spongy brakes often indicate there is air in the brake lines. So, do not delay taking your car to the service centre.
• Even with less driving, if you have to go to the petrol pump quite frequently for refuelling, then you should get your car checked. This sudden decline in mileage is a sign that your engine isn't functioning properly.
• While you're driving, if you notice unusual noises or vibrations, it may be a sign of a mechanical problem.
• A poor starter motor, weak battery, faulty engine or ignition problems can make it difficult for you to start your car smoothly.
• You should immediately take your car for servicing if you notice blue, white or black smoke coming out of your car, as this could be a sign of coolant leaks, oil problems or fuel system problems.

Conclusion

If you want to drive with peace of mind, getting your car serviced regularly is an absolute must. Do not wait for something to go wrong before taking your car for servicing. Skipping regular servicing means compromising your safety. It should not be treated as optional but mandatory. So, if your MOT Hemel Hempstead or car servicing is due, get it done immediately.