One in Four Drivers Neglecting Routine Auto Maintenance

AAA survey reveals motorists skipping necessary services due to the economic climate

BUFFALO, N.Y. - A new survey out today has AAA Car Care Plus warning motorists about the dangers of skipping vital automotive maintenance services. One quarter of drivers surveyed admitted to neglecting maintenance and repair on their vehicles in the past 12 months due to the economic climate. The survey also found that more than half said they are holding onto an older vehicle because they do not want the financial burden of a new one.

"Foregoing regular maintenance, especially on an older vehicle, can greatly increase the likelihood of a costly repair," said Mike Zyglis, Director of AAA Car Care Plus. "In today's climate, it's important to keep your car properly maintained to ensure optimal performance and drivability."

Additional results of the survey revealed that one in four American drivers could not pay for a car repair of $2,000 if faced with one today; one in eight would be unable to pay for a repair bill of $1,000.

"It's important for drivers to not only continue to maintain their vehicles, but also have a financial emergency plan in place should they be faced with a sudden unexpected auto repair bill," said Zyglis.

According to the survey, 38 percent of motorists could pay for a $2,000 repair bill with funds in a savings account, while 20 percent would pay with their credit card; 11 percent said they would have to borrow money from their friends, family, retirement or home equity. Slightly more reported being able to pay for a $1,000 repair bill with 46 percent using savings and 22 percent using a credit card; 14 percent would look to borrow.

As a member service, AAA Car Care Plus has designed a money-saving annual maintenance plan to help defray the cost of regular, preventative maintenance. For $99 per year, the AAA Car Care Plus Annual Maintenance Plan includes three standard oil changes, one New York State inspection, one standard engine air filter, nitrogen tire inflation service, tire rotation, unlimited battery and charging system checks, and unlimited wheels off brake and lining checks. Average pricing for all services separately is $186.72, a significant savings of nearly $90.00 per year.

Members who take advantage of the Annual Maintenance Plan also save 20 percent off all fuel savings services throughout the year, 20 percent off two or four wheel alignment, and 10 percent off any vehicle repair. Additionally, members will receive a free computerized scan of their brakes, alignment and suspension with each visit from the acclaimed Hunter B-400 AAA Safety Scanner. To schedule an appointment visit www.AAA.com/carcareplus.

AAA Car Care Plus provides full service maintenance and repair for members and non-members by AAA-trained and expert ASE-certified technicians in two locations, 2131 Eggert Road in Amherst and 8120 Main Street in Clarence.

As Upstate New York's largest member services organization, AAA provides nearly 880,000 members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive related services. Since its founding in 1900, AAA has been a leading advocate for the safety and security of all travelers. Visit AAA at www.AAA.com.

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