Rising costs push 1 in 4 Australians risk voiding insurance

Neglecting routine maintenance could lead to consequences at the event of a claim.

Rising living costs have led nearly one in four Australian motorists to delay or skip essential car maintenance, which could risk voiding any car insurance claims, according to a new study by Compare the Market.

“If it is found that your vehicle, prior to the accident, was not roadworthy, your insurer could potentially deny a claim – potentially leaving you thousands out-of-pocket to pay for your own repairs and repairs of a third party if you are found to be at fault,” Compare the Market’s executive general manager of General Insurance, Adrian Taylor, warned.

The survey of more than 1,000 Australians found that 19% are servicing their vehicles less frequently, whilst 4% have stopped servicing and cleaning them altogether. 

An additional 22% reported washing their cars less often due to financial constraints.

Compare the Market’s executive general manager of General Insurance, Adrian Taylor, cautioned that neglecting routine maintenance could have financial consequences, particularly in the event of an insurance claim.

With cost-of-living pressures mounting, more drivers may be forced to cut back on servicing.

However, Taylor stressed that skipping maintenance is a risk that could ultimately lead to higher expenses if mechanical failures or accidents occur.