Almost half of Australian motorists are putting off car servicing and repairs, with many choosing to live with faults that could compromise safety on the road, new research has found.
A nationally representative survey commissioned by iSelect found 49 per cent of Australians have delayed servicing their vehicle, with air-conditioning problems the most commonly ignored issue. According to the research, 23 per cent of drivers said they were up to three months overdue for servicing, 12 per cent were four to six months late, and 9 per cent reported being more than six months overdue compared with manufacturer recommendations.
The findings suggest cost pressures are shaping decisions about car maintenance, with drivers most likely to overlook issues they consider minor. Problems with air-conditioning or heating systems topped the list, followed by windscreen cracks and broken or damaged side mirrors. Some respondents also admitted to ignoring minor engine issues, damaged wipers, worn tyres, warning lights on the dashboard, and faulty brake lights or headlights.
iSelect comparison expert Sophie Ryan said the willingness to delay repairs was worrying given the potential risks involved.
“Vehicle safety is another victim of cost-of-living and complacency, with an alarming number of Aussies willing to ignore key issues that could affect safely driving on our roads,” she said.
“From a broken air-conditioning system to a cracked windscreen, these issues may seem minor—but they can worsen over time without attention, not to mention likely costing more money to fix.”
Problems with air-conditioning or heating systems topped the list, followed by windscreen cracks and broken or damaged side mirrors. Some respondents also admitted to ignoring minor engine issues, damaged wipers, worn tyres, warning lights on the dashboard, and faulty brake lights or headlights
Ms Ryan warned that skipping routine servicing could have consequences beyond immediate safety concerns.
“It’s not worth sweeping these issues under the rug,” she said.
“What’s more, car manufacturers usually recommend set intervals for regular servicing in order to prevent issues down the line, checking a range of areas including the tyres, fluid levels and the battery.”
She added that failing to follow recommended servicing schedules could have financial implications for motorists.
“It’s an important routine to follow and failing to do so may void your new vehicle warranty,” Ms Ryan said.
“In the event of an accident, if it is identified beforehand that your vehicle was unroadworthy, your insurer could potentially deny a claim as well, so it’s not worth the risk.”
The survey, conducted in December 2025 among 1,010 Australians, points to a growing tension between household budgets and road safety, as drivers weigh short-term savings against longer-term costs and risks. While some faults may appear manageable in the moment, the research suggests delays can compound problems and expose drivers to higher repair bills or insurance disputes later on.
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