6:36 am, August 4, 2014
WITH the improving economy and positive messages coming from both the new and used car sectors, it is easy to forget that not everybody is basking in the feel-good factor. Many households remain on tight budgets.
Earlier this year, BCA published research amongst motorists that revealed that more than 70 per cent of motorists worry most about the cost of motoring and, in particular, the price of fuel. Now new research published by BCA has revealed that motorists have been rolling up their sleeves and getting their hands dirty with basic car maintenance jobs, rather than spending stretched household funds on seeking the assistance of a garage or mechanic.
While earlier generations of motorists would have had no qualms about getting their head under the bonnet and dealing with car maintenance themselves, this has been a diminishing trend in recent years. However, BCA’s new research suggests that for some tasks, drivers have reverted back to a ‘do-it-yourself’ attitude.
Ninety-six per cent of drivers surveyed by BCA said that they would top up their oil themselves, with 93 per cent saying they would change their windscreen wiper blades or top up their anti-freeze. Eighty-three per cent wouldn’t be deterred from dealing with a flat battery.
It is good to see that car owners are keeping on top of basic maintenance, as neglecting these important tasks can have all sorts of ramifications.
However, does it suggest there is a need for dealers to promote a ‘cheap and cheerful’ servicing package to entice the DIYers back to the fold? With an ageing vehicle parc, there could be an increasing demand from motorists for dealer servicing… if the price is right.
