When times are tough, many car owners look for ways to cut back on spending. One of the first things to go can be routine car maintenance. It’s easy to delay an oil change or ignore a warning light, especially when the car seems to be running fine. However, skipping small, affordable services almost always leads to bigger, more expensive repairs later.
If you do need replacement parts, APD offers a full range of car service and maintenance parts with free UK delivery on orders over £30.
Why People Delay Car Maintenance
Budget concerns – Putting off maintenance can feel like saving money in the short term.
“If it’s not broke, don’t fix it” mentality – Many assume cars only need attention when something fails.
In fact, automotive industry data suggests that nearly half of UK drivers admit to delaying or avoiding servicing to cut costs. Yet, this short-term saving strategy often backfires.
Common Car Maintenance Items People Skip — and the Risks
| Service | What Happens If You Skip It | Potential Cost Difference |
| Oil Change (£60–£120) | Engine sludge, wear, eventual failure | Engine replacement: £2,500–£6,000 |
| Brake Pad Replacement (£120–£250) | Worn pads damage rotors/callipers | Full brake system repair: £800–£1,200 |
| Transmission Fluid Change (£150–£250) | Slipping gears, overheating | Transmission rebuild: £1,500–£3,000 |
| Coolant & Fluids (£60–£120) | Overheating, blown head gasket | Engine rebuild: £1,500–£4,000 |
| Tire Rotation/Alignment (£40–£80) | Uneven wear, poor handling | New tyres: £400–£800 |
Keep on top of the basics with APD’s engine oils and lubricants, brake pads and discs, and car coolant and antifreeze to avoid bigger bills.
The Financial Impact
Preventive maintenance → small, scheduled, and predictable expenses.
Unplanned breakdowns → larger bills, emergency repairs, towing fees.
Resale value → a poorly serviced car can lose market value much faster.
Why Skipping Car Maintenance Actually Costs More
Lost time – Breakdowns can leave you stranded, missing work or family commitments.
Safety risks – Worn brakes, tires, or neglected steering maintenance can increase the chances of accidents.
Insurance complications – If an accident is linked to poor maintenance, insurers may challenge claims.
How to Stay on Top of Car Maintenance Without Breaking the Bank
Prioritise the essentials – Oil changes, brake checks, and fluid top-ups should never be skipped.
Follow your owner’s manual – The manufacturer’s service schedule is your best guide.
Budget smartly – Create a small “car care fund” to cover routine upkeep.
Shop around – Look for bundled service packages, seasonal offers, or local garage promotions.
To make it easier, APD stocks everything from filters to spark plugs and car batteries — helping you stay road-ready without overspending.
FAQs About Skipping Car Maintenance
What happens if I miss an oil change?
Missing one oil change isn’t likely to destroy your engine, but repeated neglect causes sludge build-up, poor lubrication, and eventual engine failure — a repair costing thousands compared to a £60–£120 service. You can find the right engine oils for your vehicle at APD.
Is it really dangerous to delay brake pad replacement?
Yes. Worn pads increase stopping distances and can damage discs and callipers, making repairs three to four times more expensive — and putting your safety at risk. Browse APD’s brake parts range for replacements.
Does skipping maintenance affect car insurance?
Indirectly, yes. If poor maintenance contributes to an accident, insurers may dispute or reduce claims. Keeping your car roadworthy is your responsibility.
How does neglecting maintenance affect resale value?
A car without a full or recent service history usually sells for less. Buyers see it as a risk, and dealers may reduce trade-in offers.
What’s the cheapest way to keep up with services?
Stick to essentials (oil, brakes, fluids), follow the owner’s manual schedule, and set aside a monthly car care fund. Bundled service deals or independent garages can also save money.
Can I do basic maintenance myself?
Yes, simple tasks like checking fluid levels, replacing air filters, or topping up coolant can be DIY-friendly. But major services should always be carried out by a qualified mechanic.
Buy Car Service Parts from APD Car Parts
At APD, we make it simple to keep your car running smoothly without breaking the bank. Whether you need to replace a battery, a headlight bulb, or are looking for routine service essentials like engine oils, filters, or brake parts, we’ve got you covered.
Just enter your reg on our site, and we’ll filter parts that are compatible with your vehicle. Plus, with free mainland UK delivery on orders over £30 and over 80 years in the automotive trade, you can trust APD to deliver quality, reliability, and excellent value every time.
Explore our full range of service and maintenance parts today.