Regular Services 'Could Save You Money In The Long Run'

 People who fail to look after their cars properly could end up facing big repair bills or even a motor insurance claim, Motor Codes has suggested. According to the group, although money is tight for some motorists at the moment, skipping a vehicle's annual check up is a false economy.

The organisation said the cost of an average, basic car service is about £125, but added shelling out for repairs after neglecting a motor can be much more expensive. Motor Codes stated it was even more important for owners of used vehicles to ensure they looked after their wheels.

While the number of cars on the road hasn't changed, recent figures from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders show the new car market has fallen. Motorists are hanging on to their car for longer, making it even more important to maintain a regular service programme, avoiding costly repair work and maintaining the residual value of the car - a regular service history will support your car's value when you come to sell it in the future.

The modern motor car is safer, greener and more reliable than ever before but an annual health check is a must to keep your car in top condition.

A Motor Codes director commented: "If you don't carry out scheduled maintenance or fail to have repairs carried out promptly, you could eventually end up paying more."

Motor Codes Ltd was established by the Motor Industry to act as the self regulatory body for the automotive sector and is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). Motor Codes is responsible for operating three automotive codes, the Motor Industry Code of Practice for New Cars, the Motor Industry Code of Practice for Service and Repair and the Motor Industry Code of Practice for Vehicle Warranty Products.

Meanwhile, a new code of practice for UK garages was launched in the summer to improve the level of service received by customers.

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