1 in 3 drivers skips car maintenance, repairs

1 in 3 drivers skips car maintenance, repairs

More than one-third of American consumers have skipped or delayed service or repairs that were recommended by a mechanic or specified by the factory maintenance schedule, according to an American Automobile Association (AAA) survey. AAAês certified auto repair shops estimated that drivers can save an average of $100 per visit by properly maintaining their vehicle.

In 2014, AAA responded to more than 29 million calls for roadside assistance, with the majority because of battery failure, flat tires or key locked inside the vehicle.

–While problems with batteries, tires and keys are the most common reasons that members call AAA for help, there are more than 12 million calls each year related to engine trouble, fuel problems and other mechanical mishaps,” said John Nielsen, AAAês managing director of Automotive Engineering and Repair.

For instance, although most modern vehicles are equipped with low-fuel lights, AAA provided gasoline delivery to more than half a million vehicles last year. And AAA towed more than 13,000 vehicles to repair facilities because members incorrectly fueled their gas-powered vehicle with diesel or vice-versa.