Drivers cut costs by missing services

New research has revealed that one third of drivers have missed an essential vehicle service as a result of the cost-of-living crisis.

According to Volkswagen Financial Services, 43% of 18–34-year-olds said that they were likely to miss vehicle maintenance to ease money concerns.

Meanwhile, the survey also found that only 40% of drivers say they can afford essential services, while 25% said they have driven vehicles that they know need essential maintenance.

These figures are representative of those who drive for work too, and VWFS has warned employers that it is their responsibility to ensure their grey fleet is road-worthy.

James Fields-Davies, head of fleet development at VWFS fleet, said: “As the cost-of-living crisis continues to put additional financial strain on people, making many everyday bills, such as car maintenance costs, a potential source of anxiety, a salary sacrifice car scheme gives businesses a no-cost solution to take control of the safety of their employees – and other road users – when they’re driving for work purposes.

“With mounting costs for both businesses and employees, salary sacrifice can be a win-win solution – at a time when many employees can’t afford to keep up with essential vehicle servicing and maintenance, and when businesses need to offer competitive benefits to stand out in the recruitment market while battling rising costs themselves.”