Advantages Of Car Maintenance to Car Insurance

Failing to make a simple oil check once a month could cost motorists £100s every year in car insurance premiums.

This week marks National Oil Check Week and a survey by car insurance provider RIAS has revealed that half of all over 50 motorists in the UK do not regularly check the level of oil in their car, putting their vehicle at risk.

The average engine rebuild costs £3,500 and so vehicle maintenance is a fundamental part of owning and running a car no matter how much it may seem like an arduous task you could do without. Anyone thinking that their car insurance will cover them if their engine suffers any problems may have to think again.

For example, drivers with a third party or third party fire and theft policy do not have cover for their own vehicle if an accident occurs – these policies only cover damage to third party vehicles. However, even comprehensive car insurance policyholders may not be covered if an accident occurs as a result of the driver’s own negligence towards the upkeep of the car. You should check your policy to see under what circumstances your car insurer will pay out.

Having the peace of mind that your vehicle is in good condition and therefore less likely to do something unexpected should be motivation enough for drivers. However, as money talks then perhaps the thought of losing a car insurance no-claims bonus or having to fork out for a large voluntary excess will make drivers think twice before leaving some basic vehicle checks for another day.

Ideally vehicles should be checked before every journey, but clearly that isn’t always practical. However, try and set aside at least one day a month for a vehicle maintenance check that includes oil, water, wiper blades, brake fluid and tyre treads. It could save lives.

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