{"id":2872,"date":"2021-05-21T22:25:52","date_gmt":"2021-05-21T19:25:52","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.utires.com\/articles\/?p=2872"},"modified":"2025-04-25T13:14:07","modified_gmt":"2025-04-25T10:14:07","slug":"car-maintenance-confessions","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.utires.com\/articles\/car-maintenance-confessions\/","title":{"rendered":"Car Maintenance Confessions: The Cost of Auto Service Procrastination"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<link rel=\"preconnect\" href=\"https:\/\/fonts.gstatic.com\">\n<link href=\"https:\/\/fonts.googleapis.com\/css2?family=PT+Sans:ital,wght@0,400;0,600;0,700;0,800;1,400&#038;display=swap\" rel=\"stylesheet\">\n\n    <div class=\"lc-full-width lc-header-bg-gradient\">\n        <div class=\"landing-content container\">\n            <div class=\"lc-header lc-padding-bottom-70 lc-oil-landing-header\">\n                <div class=\"lc-header-info-box lc-padding-right-70\">\n                    <div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_69_1 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title ez-toc-toggle\" style=\"cursor:pointer\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 eztoc-toggle-hide-by-default' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.utires.com\/articles\/car-maintenance-confessions\/#Car_maintenance_confessions\" title=\"Car maintenance confessions\">Car maintenance confessions<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-2' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.utires.com\/articles\/car-maintenance-confessions\/#The_10_Most_Delayed_Car_Maintenance_Tasks\" title=\"The 10 Most Delayed Car Maintenance Tasks\">The 10 Most Delayed Car Maintenance Tasks<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.utires.com\/articles\/car-maintenance-confessions\/#6_Reasons_People_Avoid_the_Mechanic\" title=\"6 Reasons People Avoid the Mechanic\">6 Reasons People Avoid the Mechanic<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.utires.com\/articles\/car-maintenance-confessions\/#The_High_Cost_of_Delayed_Car_Maintenance\" title=\"The High Cost of Delayed Car Maintenance\">The High Cost of Delayed Car Maintenance<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.utires.com\/articles\/car-maintenance-confessions\/#1_The_most-ignored_car_problem_Cracked_windshields\" title=\"#1 The most-ignored car problem? Cracked windshields\">#1 The most-ignored car problem? Cracked windshields<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.utires.com\/articles\/car-maintenance-confessions\/#Why_ignoring_a_cracked_windshield_is_bad\" title=\"Why ignoring a cracked windshield is bad\">Why ignoring a cracked windshield is bad<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.utires.com\/articles\/car-maintenance-confessions\/#How_much_it_can_cost\" title=\"How much it can cost\">How much it can cost<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.utires.com\/articles\/car-maintenance-confessions\/#2_Out_of_line_Driving_with_wheels_needing_alignment\" title=\"#2 Out of line: Driving with wheels needing alignment\">#2 Out of line: Driving with wheels needing alignment<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.utires.com\/articles\/car-maintenance-confessions\/#Why_driving_with_misaligned_wheels_is_bad\" title=\"Why driving with misaligned wheels is bad\">Why driving with misaligned wheels is bad<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.utires.com\/articles\/car-maintenance-confessions\/#How_much_it_can_cost-2\" title=\"How much it can cost\">How much it can cost<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.utires.com\/articles\/car-maintenance-confessions\/#3_Dirty_driving_Not_getting_regular_oil_changes\" title=\"#3 Dirty driving: Not getting regular oil changes\">#3 Dirty driving: Not getting regular oil changes<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.utires.com\/articles\/car-maintenance-confessions\/#Why_postponing_oil_changes_is_bad\" title=\"Why postponing oil changes is bad\">Why postponing oil changes is bad<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/www.utires.com\/articles\/car-maintenance-confessions\/#How_much_it_can_cost-3\" title=\"How much it can cost\">How much it can cost<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/www.utires.com\/articles\/car-maintenance-confessions\/#4_Tired_tread_Letting_car_tires_get_bald_or_worn_out\" title=\"#4 Tired tread: Letting car tires get bald or worn out\">#4 Tired tread: Letting car tires get bald or worn out<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/www.utires.com\/articles\/car-maintenance-confessions\/#Why_driving_with_worn_tires_is_bad\" title=\"Why driving with worn tires is bad\">Why driving with worn tires is bad<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/www.utires.com\/articles\/car-maintenance-confessions\/#How_much_it_can_cost-4\" title=\"How much it can cost\">How much it can cost<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/www.utires.com\/articles\/car-maintenance-confessions\/#5_Its_probably_nothing_Ignoring_the_%E2%80%9Ccheck_engine%E2%80%9D_light\" title=\"#5 It\u2019s probably nothing: Ignoring the \u201ccheck engine\u201d light\">#5 It\u2019s probably nothing: Ignoring the \u201ccheck engine\u201d light<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/www.utires.com\/articles\/car-maintenance-confessions\/#Why_ignoring_the_%E2%80%9Ccheck_engine%E2%80%9D_light_is_bad\" title=\"Why ignoring the \u201ccheck engine\u201d light is bad\">Why ignoring the \u201ccheck engine\u201d light is bad<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/www.utires.com\/articles\/car-maintenance-confessions\/#How_much_it_can_cost-5\" title=\"How much it can cost\">How much it can cost<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/www.utires.com\/articles\/car-maintenance-confessions\/#6_Cant_stop_wont_stop_Responding_slowly_to_sluggish_brakes\" title=\"#6 Can\u2019t stop, won\u2019t stop: Responding slowly to sluggish brakes\">#6 Can\u2019t stop, won\u2019t stop: Responding slowly to sluggish brakes<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/www.utires.com\/articles\/car-maintenance-confessions\/#Why_driving_with_sluggish_brakes_is_bad\" title=\"Why driving with sluggish brakes is bad\">Why driving with sluggish brakes is bad<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/www.utires.com\/articles\/car-maintenance-confessions\/#How_much_it_can_cost-6\" title=\"How much it can cost\">How much it can cost<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/www.utires.com\/articles\/car-maintenance-confessions\/#7_Squeaks_rattles_and_groans_Ignoring_unusual_car_noises\" title=\"#7 Squeaks, rattles, and groans: Ignoring unusual car noises\">#7 Squeaks, rattles, and groans: Ignoring unusual car noises<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/www.utires.com\/articles\/car-maintenance-confessions\/#Why_ignoring_car_noises_is_bad\" title=\"Why ignoring car noises is bad\">Why ignoring car noises is bad<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-25\" href=\"https:\/\/www.utires.com\/articles\/car-maintenance-confessions\/#How_much_it_can_cost-7\" title=\"How much it can cost\">How much it can cost<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-26\" href=\"https:\/\/www.utires.com\/articles\/car-maintenance-confessions\/#8_Going_going_going_flat_Driving_with_a_slow_leak_in_a_tire\" title=\"#8 Going, going, going flat: Driving with a slow leak in a tire\">#8 Going, going, going flat: Driving with a slow leak in a tire<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-27\" href=\"https:\/\/www.utires.com\/articles\/car-maintenance-confessions\/#Why_driving_with_a_slow_leak_is_bad\" title=\"Why driving with a slow leak is bad\">Why driving with a slow leak is bad<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-28\" href=\"https:\/\/www.utires.com\/articles\/car-maintenance-confessions\/#How_much_it_can_cost-8\" title=\"How much it can cost\">How much it can cost<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-29\" href=\"https:\/\/www.utires.com\/articles\/car-maintenance-confessions\/#9_Murky_motoring_Running_out_of_windshield_washer_fluid\" title=\"#9 Murky motoring: Running out of windshield washer fluid\">#9 Murky motoring: Running out of windshield washer fluid<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-30\" href=\"https:\/\/www.utires.com\/articles\/car-maintenance-confessions\/#Why_driving_without_windshield_washer_fluid_is_bad\" title=\"Why driving without windshield washer fluid is bad\">Why driving without windshield washer fluid is bad<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-31\" href=\"https:\/\/www.utires.com\/articles\/car-maintenance-confessions\/#How_much_it_can_cost-9\" title=\"How much it can cost\">How much it can cost<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-32\" href=\"https:\/\/www.utires.com\/articles\/car-maintenance-confessions\/#10_Padiddle_Driving_with_a_burned-out_headlight\" title=\"#10 Padiddle! Driving with a burned-out headlight\">#10 Padiddle! Driving with a burned-out headlight<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-33\" href=\"https:\/\/www.utires.com\/articles\/car-maintenance-confessions\/#Why_driving_with_a_headlight_out_is_bad\" title=\"Why driving with a headlight out is bad\">Why driving with a headlight out is bad<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-34\" href=\"https:\/\/www.utires.com\/articles\/car-maintenance-confessions\/#How_much_it_can_cost-10\" title=\"How much it can cost\">How much it can cost<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-35\" href=\"https:\/\/www.utires.com\/articles\/car-maintenance-confessions\/#Conclusion\" title=\"Conclusion\">Conclusion<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-36\" href=\"https:\/\/www.utires.com\/articles\/car-maintenance-confessions\/#Methodology\" title=\"Methodology\">Methodology<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-37\" href=\"https:\/\/www.utires.com\/articles\/car-maintenance-confessions\/#Fair_Use\" title=\"Fair Use\">Fair Use<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h1 class=\"bolder-text lc-red\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Car_maintenance_confessions\"><\/span>Car maintenance confessions<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h1>\n                    <div class=\"lc-header-info-description lc-margin-45-0 bolder-text\">\n                        <p>Which car care tasks do Americans neglect most \u2014 and how much can those delays cost?<\/p>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n                <div class=\"lc-header-banner\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/banner.svg\" alt=\"\">\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"landing-content container\">\n        <div class=\"lc-content-oil\">\n            <div class=\"lc-content-text-content\">\n                <p class=\"lc-padding-bottom-15 lc-margin-top-0\">We get it: You\u2019re busy. And taking your car in for maintenance or repairs isn\u2019t fun. For some people, it\u2019s right up there with going to the dentist. <span class=\"bolder-text\">You\u2019re definitely not alone if you\u2019ve neglected things like changing your oil or replacing your tires \u2014 as we discovered in our survey of 1,200 American car owners.<\/span><\/p>\n\n                <p class=\"lc-padding-bottom-15\">But letting car maintenance slide is a risky proposition. Days can turn into weeks or even months, potentially jeopardizing your safety, shortening the life span of your car, and leading to much more serious and costly repairs.<\/p>\n            \n                <p class=\"lc-padding-bottom-15\">We surveyed drivers nationwide to uncover which car maintenance tasks they\u2019re most likely to postpone, how long the delays last, and the reasons behind them. We also crunched the numbers to reveal the potential costs of neglecting routine upkeep. Read on to discover what we found:\n                <\/p>\n                \n                <ul class=\"lc-skipping-maintenance\">\n                    <li class=\"bolder-text\"><a href=\"#lc-1\"><span>The 10 Most Delayed Car Maintenance Tasks<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n                    <li class=\"bolder-text\"><a href=\"#lc-2\"><span>6 Reasons People Avoid the Mechanic<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n                    <li class=\"bolder-text\"><a href=\"#lc-3\"><span>The High Cost of Delayed Car Maintenance<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n                    <li class=\"bolder-text\"><a href=\"#lc-4\"><span>#1 The most-ignored car problem? Cracked windshields<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n                    <li class=\"bolder-text\"><a href=\"#lc-5\"><span>#2 Out of line: Driving with wheels needing alignment<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n                    <li class=\"bolder-text\"><a href=\"#lc-6\"><span>#3 Dirty Driving: Not getting regular oil changes<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n                    <li class=\"bolder-text\"><a href=\"#lc-7\"><span>#4 Tire tread: Letting car tires get bald or worn out<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n                    <li class=\"bolder-text\"><a href=\"#lc-8\"><span>#5 It\u2019s probably nothing: Ignoring the \u201ccheck engine light\u201d<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n                    <li class=\"bolder-text\"><a href=\"#lc-9\"><span>#6 Can\u2019t stop, won\u2019t stop: Responding slowly to sluggish brakes<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n                    <li class=\"bolder-text\"><a href=\"#lc-10\"><span>#7 Squeaks, rattles, and groans: Ignoring unusual car noises<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n                    <li class=\"bolder-text\"><a href=\"#lc-11\"><span>#8 Going, going, going flat: Driving with a slow leak in a tire<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n                    <li class=\"bolder-text\"><a href=\"#lc-12\"><span>#9 Murky motoring: Running out of windshield washer fluid<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n                    <li class=\"bolder-text\"><a href=\"#lc-13\"><span>#10 Paddidle! Driving with a burned-out headlight<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n                    <li class=\"bolder-text\"><a href=\"#lc-14\"><span>Conclusion<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n                    <li class=\"bolder-text\"><a href=\"#lc-15\"><span>Methodology<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n                <\/ul>\n            <\/div>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"lc-full-width lc-padding-top-bottom\" id=\"lc-1\">\n        <div class=\"landing-content container\">\n            <div class=\"lc-content-oil\">\n                <h2 class=\"bolder-text lc-red lc-margin-top-0\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_10_Most_Delayed_Car_Maintenance_Tasks\"><\/span>The 10 Most Delayed Car Maintenance Tasks<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n                <div class=\"lc-content-text-content\">\n                    <p class=\"lc-padding-bottom-30\">Overall, Americans give themselves pretty high marks for how well they keep up with vehicle maintenance. In our survey of 1,200 car owners, <span class=\"bolder-text\">74.7% rated themselves \u201cgood\u201d or \u201cexcellent\u201d when asked how diligent they are about vehicle maintenance.<\/span> Fewer than 4% rated themselves \u201cpretty bad\u201d or \u201cterrible\u201d at taking care of their vehicles. This was the breakdown:<\/p>\n\n                    <div class=\"lc-graf\">\n                        <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lc-desctop\" src=\"\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/g1.svg\" alt=\"\">\n                        <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lc-mobile\" src=\"\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/g1m.svg\" alt=\"\">\n                    <\/div>\n\n                    <p class=\"lc-padding-top-30 lc-padding-bottom-15\">But when we probed deeper, a whopping <span class=\"bolder-text\">91.8% of car owners admitted they\u2019ve put off a car care task longer than they should.<\/span> In many cases, the delays were less than a week long, but a surprising number of drivers have gone 30 days or more with wheels out of alignment, slow leaks in their tires, whining brakes, and more.<\/p>\n\n                    <div class=\"lc-graf\">\n                        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/g2.jpg\" alt=\"\">\n                    <\/div>\n\n                    <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">The most commonly ignored problem was a <span class=\"bolder-text\">cracked windshield<\/span>, with 42.4% of car owners admitting that they\u2019ve waited 30 days or longer \u2014 watching as spidery cracks slowly spread \u2014 before repairing or replacing the glass.<\/p>\n                    <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">About 1 in 3 drivers admitted <span class=\"bolder-text\">postponing wheel alignments<\/span> (35.3%) or <span class=\"bolder-text\">oil changes<\/span> (31%) for more than 30 days. More than a quarter of car owners admitted driving with <span class=\"bolder-text\">bald or worn-out tires<\/span> (27.3%), disregarding the <span class=\"bolder-text\">check engine light<\/span> (26.4%), or ignoring <span class=\"bolder-text\">sluggish brakes<\/span> (25.9%) for a month or longer.<\/p>\n                    <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">Other items in the top 10 included overlooking a <span class=\"bolder-text\">noise from the engine or wheels<\/span> (24.4%), a <span class=\"bolder-text\">slow leak in a tire<\/span> (22.7%), an <span class=\"bolder-text\">empty windshield fluid reservoir<\/span> (21.9%), or a <span class=\"bolder-text\">broken headlight<\/span> (16.2%) for a month or more.<\/p>\n                    <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0 lc-margin-bottom-0\">We\u2019ll get into each of those in more depth in a moment \u2014 including how much it can end up costing if you delay each task. But given how risky it can be to procrastinate on car matters, we wanted to understand why people put off important repairs.<\/p>\n                    \n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"landing-content container\" id=\"lc-2\">\n        <div class=\"lc-content-oil\">\n            <h2 class=\"bolder-text lc-red lc-margin-top-0\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"6_Reasons_People_Avoid_the_Mechanic\"><\/span>6 Reasons People Avoid the Mechanic<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n            <div class=\"lc-content-text-content\">\n                <p class=\"lc-padding-bottom-30 lc-margin-bottom-0\">People gave us a variety of reasons why they let things slide. <\/p>\n\n                <div class=\"lc-graf\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/g3.jpg\" alt=\"\">\n                <\/div>\n\n                <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">The biggest factors were <span class=\"bolder-text\">being too busy<\/span> (54.3%), being <span class=\"bolder-text\">unable to afford it<\/span> (52.2%), thinking the <span class=\"bolder-text\">problem was not urgent<\/span> (34%), the length of <span class=\"bolder-text\">time the repair might take<\/span> (29.3%), <span class=\"bolder-text\">anxiety around car-related issues<\/span> (17.8%), and <span class=\"bolder-text\">distrust of mechanics<\/span> (13.4%).<\/p>\n\n                <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">Interestingly, <span class=\"bolder-text\">anxiety<\/span> and <span class=\"bolder-text\">distrust of mechanics<\/span> were slightly more of an issue for <span class=\"bolder-text\">men<\/span> than women:<\/p>\n\n                <ul class=\"lc-content-list\">\n                    <li>18.4% of men said they delay car maintenance because of anxiety around automotive matters, compared with 16.9% of women.<\/li>\n                    <li>14.3% of men said they distrust mechanics, compared with 11.8% of women.<\/li>\n                <\/ul>\n\n                <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">Also, <span class=\"bolder-text\">younger people<\/span> feel more <span class=\"bolder-text\">anxiety<\/span> and <span class=\"bolder-text\">distrust<\/span> around automotive tasks than older people.<\/p>\n\n                <ul class=\"lc-content-list\">\n                    <li>23.8% of people in their 20s said they have delayed repairs because of anxiety, compared with 8.9% of people in their 60s.<\/li>\n                    <li>15.4% of car owners in their 20s said they distrust mechanics, compared with 12.7% of people in their 60s.<\/li>\n                <\/ul>\n\n                <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">A 37-year-old man from Florida said:<\/p>\n                \n                <div class=\"lc-comment-box\">\n                    <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0 lc-comment\">My first car was a Mustang and every time I brought the thing in, they told me it would cost $700 to repair. It was odd. Every time, without fail, they found something wrong enough with the car to come up with a $700 bill. I haven&#8217;t really trusted mechanics since then.<\/p>\n                <\/div>\n\n                <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">A 50-year-old woman from Oregon told us a second opinion recently saved her from a big bill.<\/p>\n                \n                <div class=\"lc-comment-box\">\n                    <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0 lc-comment lc-margin-bottom-0\">Last week, I was shocked to get a $1900 estimate for what I&#8217;d thought was a leaky power steering hose. I had almost decided to go ahead with it, but last minute, took it for a second opinion. The guy fixed it for $190. Thank God for second opinions!<\/p>\n                <\/div>\n\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"lc-full-width lc-padding-top-bottom\" id=\"lc-3\">\n        <div class=\"landing-content container\">\n            <div class=\"lc-content-oil\">\n                <h2 class=\"bolder-text lc-red lc-margin-top-0\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_High_Cost_of_Delayed_Car_Maintenance\"><\/span>The High Cost of Delayed Car Maintenance<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n                <div class=\"lc-content-text-content\">\n                    <p class=\"lc-padding-bottom-15 lc-margin-top-0\">Whatever the reason, neglecting car maintenance can be costly. <span class=\"bolder-text\">Based on our analysis of actual car owner behavior, we calculated that delaying maintenance or repairs costs the average American driver an extra $1,193 over their vehicle\u2019s life span.<\/span> This figure is based on the rates of respondents ignoring an issue for 90 days or more, and the midpoint of the cost difference between prompt and delayed action.<\/p>\n                    <p class=\"lc-padding-bottom-15\">Obviously, not all car owners delay the same tasks for the same length of time. Those who deal with all car problems promptly would have no excess costs as a result of ignoring warning signs. Those who delay multiple problems might have extremely high delay-related bills. This figure represents the average of all drivers\u2019 estimated delay-exacerbated costs.<\/p>\n\n                    <div class=\"lc-graf\">\n                        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/g4.jpg\" alt=\"\">\n                    <\/div>\n\n                    <p class=\"lc-padding-bottom-15\">Many people would struggle to pay that amount if it happened in a single event. Our survey found that once the cost of a repair crosses the $1,000 threshold, fewer than half of American car owners can pull together enough money to get their car fixed.<\/p>\n\n                    <div class=\"lc-graf\">\n                        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/g5.jpg\" alt=\"\">\n                    <\/div>\n\n                    <p class=\"lc-margin-bottom-0\">Let\u2019s look more closely at the specific car maintenance tasks that U.S. car owners admit to neglecting.<\/p>\n\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"landing-content container\"  id=\"lc-4\">\n        <div class=\"lc-content-oil\">\n            <h2 class=\"bolder-text lc-red lc-margin-top-0\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_The_most-ignored_car_problem_Cracked_windshields\"><\/span>#1 The most-ignored car problem? Cracked windshields<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n            <div class=\"lc-content-text-content\">\n                <p class=\"lc-padding-bottom-15 lc-margin-top-0\">Our survey found that windshield cracks were by far the most neglected car maintenance issue, with 26.7% of drivers admitting having ignored one for more than three months.<\/p>\n\n                <div class=\"lc-graf\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/g6.jpg\" alt=\"\">\n                <\/div>\n\n                <h3 class=\"lc-paragraph-title bolder-text\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_ignoring_a_cracked_windshield_is_bad\"><\/span><span class=\"lc-border-bottom\">Why ignoring a cracked windshield is bad<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n                <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">Cracked windshields may not seem like a big deal, but the chips and spidery fractures caused by road debris are more than a cosmetic problem. As they spread, they can <span class=\"bolder-text\">limit visibility and weaken the structural integrity of your car<\/span>, putting you at much <a class=\"lc-text-link\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.insurancejournal.com\/services\/newswire\/2003\/05\/01\/41550.htm\" rel=\"noopener\">greater risk of injury<\/a> during a collision or rollover accident.<\/p>\n\n                <h3 class=\"lc-paragraph-title bolder-text\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_much_it_can_cost\"><\/span><span class=\"lc-border-bottom\">How much it can cost <\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n                <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">Many insurance policies cover glass repairs or replacement with no deductible, but if yours doesn\u2019t, here\u2019s what you can expect: If you catch a crack or chip early, it might be suitable for repair. Chips smaller than a quarter and cracks shorter than a dollar bill can often be patched. Generally, the smaller the blemish is, the cheaper it is to repair. Without insurance, <span class=\"bolder-text\">glass repair typically runs between $60 and $125.<\/span><\/p>\n\n                <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">Windshield replacement costs vary by location, make and model of the vehicle, and the type of glass used. In <a class=\"lc-text-link\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.aaa.com\/autorepair\/articles\/windshield-repair-and-replacement\" rel=\"noopener\">one study of average repair costs<\/a> in 16 U.S. cities, a <span class=\"bolder-text\">replacement windshield for a Honda Accord cost $250 to $300<\/span>, while one for a <span class=\"bolder-text\">BMW X6 ranged from $350 to $450.<\/span><\/p>\n\n                <div class=\"lc-graf\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/g7.jpg\" alt=\"\">\n                <\/div>\n\n                <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">If you don\u2019t replace your windshield and get into an accident:<\/p>\n\n                <ul class=\"lc-content-list\">\n                    <li>In a front-end collision, cars are designed to absorb impact with crumple zones. As the force moves to the passenger compartment, the curve of the windshield is supposed to reinforce the frame, enable the airbags to function properly, and prevent the windshield from collapsing in on the passengers and the A-pillars from folding inward.<\/li>\n                    <li>In a rollover accident, the strength of the windshield helps to absorb some of the impact and prevent catastrophic roof collapse as well as the injuries that could ensue.<\/li>\n                    <li>If poor visibility via defective windshield was a factor in the accident, you could be found negligent and liable for damages.<\/li>\n                <\/ul>\n\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"lc-full-width lc-padding-top-bottom\"  id=\"lc-5\">\n        <div class=\"landing-content container\">\n            <div class=\"lc-content-oil\">\n                <h2 class=\"bolder-text lc-red lc-margin-top-0\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_Out_of_line_Driving_with_wheels_needing_alignment\"><\/span>#2 Out of line: Driving with wheels needing alignment<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n                <div class=\"lc-content-text-content\">\n                    <p class=\"lc-padding-bottom-15 lc-margin-top-0\">The second most-neglected car maintenance task was getting wheels aligned. One in eight American car owners (12.5%) has driven for more than three months with a misaligned axle.<\/p>\n\n                    <div class=\"lc-graf\">\n                        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/g8.jpg\" alt=\"\">\n                    <\/div>\n\n                    <p class=\"lc-padding-bottom-15\">It doesn\u2019t take much to knock a car\u2019s wheels out of alignment. After bumping over a pothole or curb, you may start to notice your car pulling to one side. It takes more effort to control your steering. There may be some vibration in the steering wheel. Soon your tires start showing uneven wear and might even squeal a bit when you turn.<\/p>\n                    <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">Most car owners we surveyed dealt with poor alignment within 15 to 30 days, but the longer you ignore the problem, the worse it can get. One in five car owners (22.2%) let it slide for two months or longer.<\/p>\n\n                    <h3 class=\"lc-paragraph-title bolder-text\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_driving_with_misaligned_wheels_is_bad\"><\/span><span class=\"lc-border-bottom\">Why driving with misaligned wheels is bad<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n                    <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">Improper alignment will <span class=\"bolder-text\">decrease fuel efficiency<\/span>. Uneven wear <span class=\"bolder-text\">damages tires<\/span> and increases the likelihood of shearing, punctures, and <a class=\"lc-text-link\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.utires.com\/articles\/tire-blowout-statistics\/\" rel=\"noopener\"><span class=\"bolder-text\">blowouts<\/span><\/a> \u2014 which cause an estimated 200 deaths each year in the U.S. The extra stress can <span class=\"bolder-text\">ruin your car\u2019s suspension<\/span>. Difficulty steering can <span class=\"bolder-text\">increase the risk of an accident<\/span>.<\/p>\n\n                    <h3 class=\"lc-paragraph-title bolder-text\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_much_it_can_cost-2\"><\/span><span class=\"lc-border-bottom\">How much it can cost <\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n                    <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">Regular wheel alignments are recommended every 6 to 12 months or 6,000 to 10,000 miles, as needed. The average cost is <a class=\"lc-text-link\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.kbb.com\/wheel-alignment\/\" rel=\"noopener\">$65 to $100<\/a>, depending on the vehicle model and year.<\/p>\n                    <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">Driving with misaligned axles can lead to higher fuel costs (maybe $20-50 a month), having to replace tires prematurely ($360-$600), having to replace the shock absorber and strut assembly (about <a class=\"lc-text-link\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/repairpal.com\/estimator\/suspension-shock-or-strut-assembly-replacement-cost\" rel=\"noopener\">$750<\/a>), as well as other suspension and steering component repairs. And you\u2019ll still need to get the wheels aligned.<\/p>\n\n                    <div class=\"lc-graf\">\n                        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/g9.jpg\" alt=\"\">\n                    <\/div>\n\n                    <p class=\"lc-margin-bottom-0\">If the misalignment leads to a crash, it could result in property damage, bodily injury, and even death. In that case, medical and legal costs could be astronomical.<\/p>\n\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"landing-content container\"  id=\"lc-6\">\n        <div class=\"lc-content-oil\">\n            <h2 class=\"bolder-text lc-red lc-margin-top-0\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_Dirty_driving_Not_getting_regular_oil_changes\"><\/span>#3 Dirty driving: Not getting regular oil changes<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n            <div class=\"lc-content-text-content\">\n                <p class=\"lc-padding-bottom-15 lc-margin-top-0\">Engine oil is arguably the second-most important fluid in your car after fuel. It helps keep your engine running smoothly and prevents overheating. Most vehicles need oil changes every 3,000 to 6,000 miles.<\/p>\n\n                <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">In most cases, an oil change takes less than an hour, but many people still postpone doing it.<\/p>\n\n                <div class=\"lc-graf\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/g10.jpg\" alt=\"\">\n                <\/div>\n\n                <p class=\"lc-padding-bottom-15\">Modern cars usually have a dashboard light that comes on when you\u2019re due for new oil. You also might have a sticker on your windshield with the date and mileage of your last change. Despite those cues, many people delay doing this mundane task.<\/p>\n                <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">The biggest group of car owners (38.3%) reported waiting 7 to 30 days past the recommended time to change their oil. Almost a third (31%) delayed by more than a month.<\/p>\n\n                <h3 class=\"lc-paragraph-title bolder-text\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_postponing_oil_changes_is_bad\"><\/span><span class=\"lc-border-bottom\">Why postponing oil changes is bad<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n                <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">Over time, oil can become thick and sticky. The engine has to work harder, leading to <span class=\"bolder-text\">reduced fuel efficiency, sluggish acceleration, and a rough idle<\/span>. Tiny particles build up and can act as abrasives, <span class=\"bolder-text\">wearing down engine parts<\/span> like crankshaft bearings, camshafts, and gaskets.<\/p>\n                <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">You might notice oil leaks and engine smoke from overheating. In the worst case, you can have a <span class=\"bolder-text\">total engine seizure or failure<\/span>.<\/p>\n\n                <h3 class=\"lc-paragraph-title bolder-text\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_much_it_can_cost-3\"><\/span><span class=\"lc-border-bottom\">How much it can cost <\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n                <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">Oil changes typically cost between <a class=\"lc-text-link\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.kbb.com\/oil-change\/\" rel=\"noopener\">$35 and $75 for conventional oil and $65 to $125 for synthetic oil<\/a>. The type of oil you need will depend on your vehicle model.<\/p>\n                <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">If you go more than 8,000 miles without changing the oil, you could end up also having to replace worn parts \u2014 possibly the valve cover gaskets (<a class=\"lc-text-link\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/repairpal.com\/estimator\/valve-cover-gasket-replacement-cost\" rel=\"noopener\">about $225<\/a>), intake manifold gaskets (about $300), head gaskets (<a class=\"lc-text-link\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/repairpal.com\/estimator\/head-gasket-replacement-cost\" rel=\"noopener\">$1,290-1,560<\/a>), camshafts (about <a class=\"lc-text-link\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/repairpal.com\/estimator\/camshaft-replacement-cost\" rel=\"noopener\">$1,300-1,500<\/a>), and crankshafts (average <a class=\"lc-text-link\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/autoservicecosts.com\/crankshaft-replacement-cost\/\" rel=\"noopener\">$1,642<\/a>), among others.<\/p>\n\n                <div class=\"lc-graf\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/g11.jpg\" alt=\"\">\n                <\/div>\n\n                <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">If you still don\u2019t act, eventually thick, dirty oil can result in catastrophic engine failure. <a class=\"lc-text-link\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.familyhandyman.com\/article\/how-much-does-it-cost-to-replace-an-engine\/\" rel=\"noopener\">Replacing the entire engine<\/a> can cost $4,000 to $7,000 or more, plus $1,100 to $1,800 for labor \u2014 more than you\u2019d likely have spent on routine oil changes over the life span of your vehicle.<\/p>\n                <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">A 31-year-old woman from Colorado told us neglecting oil changes was one of her \u201cmost expensive mistakes ever.\u201d She said <\/p>\n\n                <div class=\"lc-comment-box\">\n                    <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0 lc-comment lc-margin-bottom-0\">I ruined a Lexus by blowing the engine when I was younger because I went too long without changing the oil. Ended up having to get a new vehicle.<\/p>\n                <\/div>\n\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"lc-full-width lc-padding-top-bottom\"  id=\"lc-7\">\n        <div class=\"landing-content container\">\n            <div class=\"lc-content-oil\">\n                <h2 class=\"bolder-text lc-red lc-margin-top-0\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_Tired_tread_Letting_car_tires_get_bald_or_worn_out\"><\/span>#4 Tired tread: Letting car tires get bald or worn out <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n                <div class=\"lc-content-text-content\">\n                    <p class=\"lc-padding-bottom-15 lc-margin-top-0\">If you don\u2019t examine the tread on your tires very often, you\u2019re not alone. After all, most of us have other things on our minds when we enter or exit our vehicles \u2014 like getting from Point A to Point B.<\/p>\n                    <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">But tires don\u2019t last forever, and at some point, most car owners realize their tread is worn and they need new tires.<\/p>\n\n                    <div class=\"lc-graf\">\n                        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/g12.jpg\" alt=\"\">\n                    <\/div>\n\n                    <p class=\"lc-padding-bottom-15\">There are two common reactions when car owners discover this problem. One group replaces the tires within 24 hours (18.2%). The other group waits about three weeks (16.7%), rolling the dice that they won\u2019t have a blowout or lose control of their car. A small contingent (8.3%) keeps driving on bald tires for three months or longer.<\/p>\n                    \n                    <h3 class=\"lc-paragraph-title bolder-text\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_driving_with_worn_tires_is_bad\"><\/span><span class=\"lc-border-bottom\">Why driving with worn tires is bad<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n                    <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">Worn tires are thinner and more vulnerable to puncture by sharp items like nails or rupture from excessive heat. <span class=\"bolder-text\">Tire blowouts<\/span> can be dangerous, especially at high speeds. Tire tread provides traction to grip the road, especially in snowy and rainy weather. <span class=\"bolder-text\">Loss of tread can lead to loss of control, hydroplaning, and difficulty braking<\/span>, all of which are <a class=\"lc-text-link\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.utires.com\/articles\/can-low-tire-tread-cause-a-car-accident\/\" rel=\"noopener\">significant risk factors for car accidents<\/a>.<\/p>\n                    <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">A 57-year-old man from New York vividly recounted this experience, from the year after his college graduation.<\/p>\n\n                    <div class=\"lc-comment-box\">\n                        <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0 lc-comment\">I had a tire blow out when I was driving on the highway. I heard WHOOMF! and the car started slewing around.  It was like a missle had hit the car. I pulled onto the shoulder and had to replace the tire all by myself.  I had never done it before. I didn&#8217;t pull off far enough and it felt like everything shook as big trucks sped past me. But I got it done, and I made it to my friend&#8217;s place &#8212; and promptly fell asleep.  And he was mad!<\/p>\n                    <\/div>\n\n                    <h3 class=\"lc-paragraph-title bolder-text\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_much_it_can_cost-4\"><\/span><span class=\"lc-border-bottom\">How much it can cost <\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n                    <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">Tires typically need to be replaced every two years. Purchased new, standard all-season car tires for everyday driving average about <a class=\"lc-text-link\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/cars.costhelper.com\/tires.html\" rel=\"noopener\">$80-$150<\/a> each, depending on size and warranty. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.utires.com\/t\/v-suv-crossover\/\">SUV tires<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.utires.com\/t\/v-light-truck\/\">light truck tires<\/a> are a bit more, averaging <span class=\"bolder-text\">$100-$250 each<\/span>.<\/p>\n                    <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">Quality used tires generally run from $25-$160, <a class=\"lc-text-link\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.utires.com\/articles\/used-tires-cost\/\" rel=\"noopener\">usually 30-50% of the price of a new tire<\/a> of the same model.<\/p>\n                    <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">If you ignore worn tires and they fail while you\u2019re driving, it can damage the wheels and rotors. The average cost for <a class=\"lc-text-link\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/repairpal.com\/estimator\/wheel-replacement-cost\" rel=\"noopener\">wheel replacement<\/a> is between $698 and $710. <a class=\"lc-text-link\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/repairpal.com\/estimator\/wheel-hub-assembly-replacement-cost\" rel=\"noopener\">Wheel hub assembly<\/a> replacement runs between $475 and $504.<\/p>\n\n                    <div class=\"lc-graf\">\n                        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/g13.jpg\" alt=\"\">\n                    <\/div>\n\n                    <p class=\"lc-margin-bottom-0\">And of course, if the tire failure leads to an accident, possible costs include getting a new vehicle, raised insurance premiums, medical costs, and\/or legal fee.<\/p>\n\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"landing-content container\"  id=\"lc-8\">\n        <div class=\"lc-content-oil\">\n            <h2 class=\"bolder-text lc-red lc-margin-top-0\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5_Its_probably_nothing_Ignoring_the_%E2%80%9Ccheck_engine%E2%80%9D_light\"><\/span>#5 It\u2019s probably nothing: Ignoring the \u201ccheck engine\u201d light<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n            <div class=\"lc-content-text-content\">\n                <p class=\"lc-padding-bottom-15 lc-margin-top-0\">For some car owners, dismissing the \u201ccheck engine\u201d light is akin to hitting the snooze button. It\u2019s a feature of the dashboard that, once ignored, becomes easy to tune out.<\/p>\n\n                <div class=\"lc-graf\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/g14.jpg\" alt=\"\">\n                <\/div>\n\n                <p class=\"lc-padding-bottom-15\">A full 15% of U.S. drivers admit disregarding a dashboard warning for more than 3 months. There are a lot of reasons why that\u2019s a bad idea.<\/p>\n\n                <h3 class=\"lc-paragraph-title bolder-text\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_ignoring_the_%E2%80%9Ccheck_engine%E2%80%9D_light_is_bad\"><\/span><span class=\"lc-border-bottom\">Why ignoring the \u201ccheck engine\u201d light is bad<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n                <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">Your car\u2019s check engine light is its only way to communicate that something isn\u2019t working as it should. Unfortunately, it doesn\u2019t usually give you a lot of information.<\/p>\n                <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">The problem might be as minor as a loose gas cap, but it could also be a critical system like the fuel injection, ignition, or emission controls. Many problems worsen over time.<\/span>.<\/p>\n\n                <h3 class=\"lc-paragraph-title bolder-text\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_much_it_can_cost-5\"><\/span><span class=\"lc-border-bottom\">How much it can cost <\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n                <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">There are myriad things that can trigger a check engine signal. One common problem that accounts for <a class=\"lc-text-link\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.edmunds.com\/car-maintenance\/how-to-fix-your-cars-oxygen-sensor.html\" rel=\"noopener\">up to 10%<\/a> of all check engine messages is a faulty oxygen sensor. <a class=\"lc-text-link\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/repairpal.com\/estimator\/oxygen-sensor-replacement-cost\" rel=\"noopener\">Replacing an oxygen sensor<\/a> right away costs about $350.<\/p>\n\n                <div class=\"lc-graf\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/g15.jpg\" alt=\"\">\n                <\/div>\n\n                <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0 lc-margin-bottom-0\">Ignoring that repair can decrease your gas mileage by 40%, cause power loss, and ruin your <a class=\"lc-text-link\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/repairpal.com\/estimator\/catalytic-converter-replacement-cost\" rel=\"noopener\">catalytic converter<\/a>, which costs about $1,700 to replace. <\/p>\n\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"lc-full-width lc-padding-top-bottom\"  id=\"lc-9\">\n        <div class=\"landing-content container\">\n            <div class=\"lc-content-oil\">\n                <h2 class=\"bolder-text lc-red lc-margin-top-0\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"6_Cant_stop_wont_stop_Responding_slowly_to_sluggish_brakes\"><\/span>#6 Can\u2019t stop, won\u2019t stop: Responding slowly to sluggish brakes<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n                <div class=\"lc-content-text-content\">\n                    <p class=\"lc-padding-bottom-15 lc-margin-top-0\">Movies often use brake failure as a plot device, with the main character suddenly finding that the brake pedal doesn\u2019t work. In real life, brakes are far more likely to deteriorate gradually and become less responsive over time as brake shoes and pads wear thin.<\/p>\n                    <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">By the time a driver notices sluggish braking performance, chances are, the components have been eroding for a while.<\/p>\n\n                    <div class=\"lc-graf\">\n                        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/g16.jpg\" alt=\"\">\n                    <\/div>\n\n                    <p class=\"lc-padding-bottom-15\">About a third of car owners (32.4%) spring into action when they notice a brake problem and get it fixed within three days. But a sizeable group (25.9%) lets the situation linger for a month or more. <\/p>\n                    \n                    <h3 class=\"lc-paragraph-title bolder-text\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_driving_with_sluggish_brakes_is_bad\"><\/span><span class=\"lc-border-bottom\">Why driving with sluggish brakes is bad<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n                    <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">Stopping is important. Bad brakes are a huge safety concern, slowing response time and risking collision with vehicles and pedestrians.<\/p>\n                    <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">A 60-year-old man from North Carolina told us<\/p>\n\n                    <div class=\"lc-comment-box\">\n                        <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0 lc-comment\">I once, in my teens, let the brakes get so bad on a car \u2014 a horrendous grinding sound \u2014 that the tire itself caught on fire. Right in front of a Highway Patrol officer.<\/p>\n                    <\/div>\n\n                    <h3 class=\"lc-paragraph-title bolder-text\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_much_it_can_cost-6\"><\/span><span class=\"lc-border-bottom\">How much it can cost <\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n                    <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">Brake shoes and pads should generally be replaced every 25,000- 75,000 miles, depending on the vehicle and your driving habits. It typically costs about $100-150 per axle, depending on vehicle model and year.<\/p>\n                    <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">Failing to replace brake pads promptly can lead to having to replace discs, rotors, calipers, and fluid. That will set you back between <a class=\"lc-text-link\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.autozone.com\/diy\/brakes\/brake-replacement-cost\" rel=\"noopener\">$300 and $800<\/a> per axle on average, but can easily climb above $1,000 depending on the make and model of your car<\/p>\n\n                    <div class=\"lc-graf\">\n                        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/g17.jpg\" alt=\"\">\n                    <\/div>\n\n                    <p class=\"lc-margin-bottom-0\">As we\u2019ve mentioned before, if bad brakes lead to a tragedy, the human and financial cost could be incalculable.<\/p>\n\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"landing-content container\"  id=\"lc-10\">\n        <div class=\"lc-content-oil\">\n            <h2 class=\"bolder-text lc-red lc-margin-top-0\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"7_Squeaks_rattles_and_groans_Ignoring_unusual_car_noises\"><\/span>#7 Squeaks, rattles, and groans: Ignoring unusual car noises<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n            <div class=\"lc-content-text-content\">\n                <p class=\"lc-padding-bottom-15 lc-margin-top-0\">Cars are supposed to purr \u2014 not grind, wheeze, or squeal. But spend a few minutes at a busy intersection and you\u2019re sure to hear the sounds of vehicles in distress.<\/p>\n\n                <div class=\"lc-graf\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/g18.jpg\" alt=\"\">\n                <\/div>\n\n                <p class=\"lc-padding-bottom-15\">Most people take it seriously when their vehicle starts making weird or alarming noises, with 41.5% getting it into a mechanic within three days. But not everyone is as diligent. Nearly a quarter of car owners (24.4%) have ignored car noises for a month or longer.<\/p>\n\n                <h3 class=\"lc-paragraph-title bolder-text\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_ignoring_car_noises_is_bad\"><\/span><span class=\"lc-border-bottom\">Why ignoring car noises is bad<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n                <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">Different <a class=\"lc-text-link\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.geico.com\/living\/driving\/auto\/auto-care\/car-noises\/\" rel=\"noopener\">noises<\/a> can signal different issues. Squealing noises are usually brake-related. (Brake pads have a built-in wear indicator that\u2019s designed to make a high-pitched noise when it comes in contact with the brake rotor.)<\/p>\n                <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\"><\/span>Ticking sounds from the engine often mean the timing belt is starting to fail. Clunking or banging under the hood might be valves, connecting rods, or pistons.<\/p>\n                <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\"><\/span>Popping or clicking sounds when you turn could be the CV joints on your front axle. Howling or singing noises might indicate a fluid leak or bad wheel bearings.<\/p>\n                <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\"><\/span>Most problems that involve noises get worse over time. As expensive as a timely repair might be, it\u2019s a safe bet that procrastinating will raise the price tag as well as the safety risk.<\/p>\n\n                <h3 class=\"lc-paragraph-title bolder-text\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_much_it_can_cost-7\"><\/span><span class=\"lc-border-bottom\">How much it can cost<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n                <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">Many things could be wrong when your car starts making weird noises, but one common scenario is a <span class=\"bolder-text\">bad timing belt<\/span>. The timing belt is a rubber and nylon component that connects the engine&#8217;s camshaft and crankshaft, keeps them in sync, and makes sure each cylinder fires at the appropriate time.<\/p>\n                <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">Timing belts are often replaced as part of scheduled maintenance every 80,000 to 100,000 miles. Having a timing belt replaced before it breaks typically costs between <a class=\"lc-text-link\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/repairpal.com\/estimator\/timing-belt-replacement-cost\" rel=\"noopener\">$576 and $659<\/a>.<\/p>\n                <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">Waiting for your timing belt to snap before replacing it raises the cost by a lot. When the belt breaks, the valves and pistons no longer run in sync and collide with each other. This can bend the valve stems, gouge the pistons, crack the connecting rods, and damage the engine\u2019s cylinder walls.<\/p>\n\n                <div class=\"lc-graf\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/g19.jpg\" alt=\"\">\n                <\/div>\n\n                <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0 lc-margin-bottom-0\">In a worst-case scenario, if the timing belt breaks at high speed it can crack the engine block, requiring a complete engine replacement.<\/p>\n\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"lc-full-width lc-padding-top-bottom\"  id=\"lc-11\">\n        <div class=\"landing-content container\">\n            <div class=\"lc-content-oil\">\n                <h2 class=\"bolder-text lc-red lc-margin-top-0\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"8_Going_going_going_flat_Driving_with_a_slow_leak_in_a_tire\"><\/span>#8 Going, going, going flat: Driving with a slow leak in a tire<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n                <div class=\"lc-content-text-content\">\n                    <p class=\"lc-padding-bottom-15 lc-margin-top-0\">There\u2019s a reason most gas stations have air pumps that cost $1 to $1.50 per use. Some car owners would rather keep adding air to a tire with a slow leak than get it plugged or replaced right away.<\/p>\n                    \n                    <div class=\"lc-graf\">\n                        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/g21.jpg\" alt=\"\">\n                    <\/div>\n\n                    <p class=\"lc-padding-bottom-15\">Although 40.3% of car owners fix leaky tires within three days, more than half use temporary fixes like adding more air to delay having to patch or replace them.<\/p>\n                    \n                    <h3 class=\"lc-paragraph-title bolder-text\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_driving_with_a_slow_leak_is_bad\"><\/span><span class=\"lc-border-bottom\">Why driving with a slow leak is bad<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n                    <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">Air pressure is important for tires to function properly. Driving with underinflated tires decreases your fuel efficiency, as your car has to work harder to run. More rubber makes contact with the pavement, causing greater friction and wear and tear, which can lead to tire blowouts.<\/p>\n                    <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">Underinflated tires make steering more difficult, hindering your ability to avoid an accident with quick evasive maneuvers. They also put stress on your car\u2019s suspension, chassis, brakes, and rotors.<\/p>\n\n                    <h3 class=\"lc-paragraph-title bolder-text\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_much_it_can_cost-8\"><\/span><span class=\"lc-border-bottom\">How much it can cost <\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n                    <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">Plugging a simple nail hole generally costs between $10 and $25. Some tire dealers will do it for free if you purchased your tire from them.<\/p>\n                    <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">But continuing to drive on a tire with a slow leak damages the tire and puts greater pressure on the corners of the suspension and chassis.<\/p>\n                    <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">The suspension\u2019s struts and shocks control the entire weight of the vehicle, and a soft tire can cause them to wear out faster. Replacing shocks and struts costs an average of <a class=\"lc-text-link\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/repairpal.com\/estimator\/suspension-shock-or-strut-replacement-cost\" rel=\"noopener\">$766-$816<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n                    <div class=\"lc-graf\">\n                        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/g21.jpg\" alt=\"\">\n                    <\/div>\n\n                    <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">A 26-year-old California man who neglected a slow leak shared: <\/p>\n\n                    <div class=\"lc-comment-box\">\n                        <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0 lc-comment lc-margin-bottom-0\">The tire blew out next to a cemetery and I had to learn how to change a tire for the first time in a cemetery parking lot. But I got to say hi to my late grandmother in the process<\/p>\n                    <\/div>\n\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"landing-content container\"  id=\"lc-12\">\n        <div class=\"lc-content-oil\">\n            <h2 class=\"bolder-text lc-red lc-margin-top-0\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"9_Murky_motoring_Running_out_of_windshield_washer_fluid\"><\/span>#9 Murky motoring: Running out of windshield washer fluid<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n            <div class=\"lc-content-text-content\">\n                <p class=\"lc-padding-bottom-15 lc-margin-top-0\">Windshield wipers are the solution to smeared and grimy windshield glass, but only if there\u2019s fluid in the reservoir tank.<\/p>\n\n                <div class=\"lc-graf\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/g22.jpg\" alt=\"\">\n                <\/div>\n\n                <h3 class=\"lc-paragraph-title bolder-text\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_driving_without_windshield_washer_fluid_is_bad\"><\/span><span class=\"lc-border-bottom\">Why driving without windshield washer fluid is bad<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n                <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">Mud, pollen, bugs, rain, and snow can all obscure a driver\u2019s view \u2014 and the worse your visibility is, the greater your risk of getting into an accident. Low visibility conditions are blamed for <a class=\"lc-text-link\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/ops.fhwa.dot.gov\/weather\/weather_events\/low_visibility.htm\" rel=\"noopener\">38,700 vehicle crashes, 16,300 injuries, and 600 deaths<\/a> each year, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation.<\/p>\n\n                <h3 class=\"lc-paragraph-title bolder-text\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_much_it_can_cost-9\"><\/span><span class=\"lc-border-bottom\">How much it can cost<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n                <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">Topping up the windshield fluid is a courtesy service at most garages. But if you want to <a class=\"lc-text-link\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Add-Windshield-Washer-Fluid-to-Your-Vehicle\" rel=\"noopener\">do it yourself<\/a>, you can pick up a gallon of basic windshield washer fluid at almost any big-box store, gas station, or grocery store for about $2-3. (Deluxe formulas with additives to repel rain or remove bug residue may run closer to $15.) Then just open the hood and look for a reservoir on the right or the left. It should be easy to spot; it will have a plastic cap with a windshield symbol on it.<\/p>\n                <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">A few dollars for windshield fluid is a small price to pay, especially considering the risk of an accident if you can\u2019t clear an obstruction from your view.<\/p>\n\n                <div class=\"lc-graf\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/g23.jpg\" alt=\"\">\n                <\/div>\n\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"lc-full-width lc-padding-top-bottom\"  id=\"lc-13\">\n        <div class=\"landing-content container\">\n            <div class=\"lc-content-oil\">\n                <h2 class=\"bolder-text lc-red lc-margin-top-0\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"10_Padiddle_Driving_with_a_burned-out_headlight\"><\/span>#10 Padiddle! Driving with a burned-out headlight<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n                <div class=\"lc-content-text-content\">\n                    <p class=\"lc-padding-bottom-15 lc-margin-top-0\">You may feel like you can see and drive just fine with one headlight out, but doing so is inadvisable from a safety perspective \u2014 and it\u2019s illegal in most states.<\/p>\n                    \n                    <div class=\"lc-graf\">\n                        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/g24.jpg\" alt=\"\">\n                    <\/div>\n\n                    <h3 class=\"lc-paragraph-title bolder-text\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_driving_with_a_headlight_out_is_bad\"><\/span><span class=\"lc-border-bottom\">Why driving with a headlight out is bad<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n                    <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">Most states have laws requiring headlight use from sunset to sunrise for the simple reason that it\u2019s safer. It\u2019s easier for drivers to see and be seen by others with both lights on. Having a burned-out headlight makes it riskier to drive on roads that aren\u2019t well lit. It also increases the chances of a collision.<\/p>\n\n                    <h3 class=\"lc-paragraph-title bolder-text\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_much_it_can_cost-10\"><\/span><span class=\"lc-border-bottom\">How much it can cost <\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n                    <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">A basic halogen headlight bulb costs about $10-$20. In many cases, car owners can replace it themselves. However, if the bulb assembly is hard to access and you need help, <a class=\"lc-text-link\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/autoservicecosts.com\/headlight-bulb-replacement-cost\/\" rel=\"noopener\">labor costs<\/a> average about $50 per bulb.<\/p>\n                    <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">If you get pulled over for a burned-out headlamp, it\u2019s possible that the officer will let you go with a warning. But there\u2019s also a significant chance that you\u2019ll get a citation and points on your license. Tickets typically run from $80 to $120, depending on the state.<\/p>\n\n                    <div class=\"lc-graf\">\n                        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/g25.jpg\" alt=\"\">\n                    <\/div>\n\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"landing-content container\"  id=\"lc-14\">\n        <div class=\"lc-content-oil\">\n            <h2 class=\"bolder-text lc-red lc-margin-top-0\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion\"><\/span>Conclusion<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n            <div class=\"lc-content-text-content\">\n                <p class=\"lc-padding-bottom-15 lc-margin-top-0\">When time and money are both tight, it can be tempting to let car maintenance slide \u2014 especially if your vehicle is still operable and driving reasonably well. But delaying seemingly small car care tasks can turn little problems into big, expensive ones. In the worst-case scenario, ignoring car repairs can have deadly consequences.<\/p>\n                <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">There are many affordable ways to prevent the sticker shock of a major repair. Windshields and tires can often be patched, if you catch the problem early enough. You can refill windshield washer fluid yourself for a few dollars, rather than risk being blinded by a mud splatter. Checking reviews is a good way to find a reputable mechanic who won\u2019t overcharge or upsell you. And buying <a class=\"lc-text-link\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.utires.com\/\" rel=\"noopener\">quality used tires<\/a> can be a safe, affordable alternative to paying full price for new ones.<\/p>\n            <\/div>\n\n            <h2 class=\"bolder-text lc-red lc-margin-45-0\"  id=\"lc-15\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Methodology\"><\/span>Methodology<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n            <div class=\"lc-content-text-content\">\n                <p class=\"lc-padding-bottom-15 lc-margin-top-0\">Our study was conducted online. We surveyed 1,207 U.S. residents who have owned a vehicle for at least two years and are primarily responsible for the vehicle\u2019s maintenance. Respondents were 57.7% male and 41.7% female. Seven people (.6%) identified as non-binary.<\/p>\n                <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">Participants ranged in age from 18 to 76, with a median age of 37. They came from 48 states (all but Alaska and Vermont) with a distribution as follows: South, 447 (37.5%); West, 279 (23.4%); Midwest, 240 (20%); Northeast, 229 (19.1%) &#8211; based on <a class=\"lc-text-link\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/nces.ed.gov\/nationsreportcard\/hsts\/tabulations\/regions.asp\" rel=\"noopener\">U.S. Census-defined regions<\/a>.<\/p>\n                <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">The median household income was $50,000 to $75,000 with 39.5% earning less and 35.4% earning more.<\/p>\n                <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">The survey was based on self-reporting, which can have limitations. However, the margin of error was \u00b12.82% with a confidence interval of 95% based on the estimated population of 237.3 million car owners in the U.S.<\/p>\n                <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">Price estimates came from several aggregator websites including RepairPal, AAA, Kelley Blue Book, Edmunds, and AutoServicesCosts.com. The estimates use the MSRP (manufacturer\u2019s suggested retail price) for parts and automotive industry standard labor times and rates. Costs were generally presented as ranges, since many variables can influence actual price, including the make, model, year, condition, and location of the vehicle.<\/p>\n                <p class=\"lc-margin-25-0\">For the \u201cprocrastination price tag\u201d figure, we used the midpoint of the cost difference between prompt and delayed action. For the average total cost of delayed maintenance, we accounted for the probability of each consequence actually happening by multiplying the \u201cprocrastination price tag\u201d by the percent of respondents who ignored each issue for more than 90 days.<\/p>\n            <\/div>\n\n            <h2 class=\"bolder-text lc-red lc-margin-45-0\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Fair_Use\"><\/span>Fair Use<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n            <div class=\"lc-content-text-content\">\n                <p class=\"lc-padding-bottom-15 lc-margin-top-0 lc-margin-bottom-0\">If you are a journalist or blogger interested in covering this project, there\u2019s no need to delay using our research. You\u2019re welcome to reproduce any of the findings or images in this article for noncommercial use. 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vertical;\n    -webkit-box-direction: reverse;\n        -ms-flex-direction: column-reverse;\n            flex-direction: column-reverse;\n  }\n  .lc-content-oil {\n    padding: 20px 0 30px;\n    font-size: 14px;\n    line-height: 150%;\n  }\n  .lc-content-oil h3 {\n    line-height: 150%;\n    font-size: 26px;\n  }\n  .lc-padding-top-30 {\n    padding-top: 10px;\n  }\n  .lc-margin-45-0 {\n    margin: 20px 0;\n  }\n  .lc-skipping-maintenance span {\n    display: inline-block;\n    width: 91%;\n    vertical-align: top;\n  }\n  .lc-comment {\n    padding: 5px 35px;\n  }\n}\n\n@media (max-width: 376px) {\n  .lc-skipping-maintenance span {\n    width: 90%;\n  }\n}\n\n@media (max-width: 321px) {\n  .lc-skipping-maintenance span {\n    width: 88%;\n  }\n}\n<\/style>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Car maintenance confessions Which car care tasks do Americans neglect most &mdash; and how much can those delays cost? We get it: You&rsquo;re busy. And taking your car in for maintenance or repairs isn&rsquo;t fun. For some people, it&rsquo;s right up there with going to the dentist. You&rsquo;re definitely not alone if you&rsquo;ve neglected things [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_lmt_disableupdate":"","_lmt_disable":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-2872","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-general-information"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v23.7 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Car Maintenance Confessions: The Cost of Auto Service Procrastination<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"More than 9 in 10 Americans put off car care tasks longer than they should. 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We calculated the cost of driving with dirty oil, cracked windshields, whining brakes, etc.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.utires.com\/articles\/car-maintenance-confessions\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Tire Reviews, Buying Guide &amp; Interesting Facts - Utires.com\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2021-05-21T19:25:52+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2025-04-25T10:14:07+00:00\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"hrushetskyy\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"hrushetskyy\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"26 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.utires.com\/articles\/car-maintenance-confessions\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.utires.com\/articles\/car-maintenance-confessions\/\",\"name\":\"Car Maintenance Confessions: The Cost of Auto Service Procrastination\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.utires.com\/articles\/#website\"},\"datePublished\":\"2021-05-21T19:25:52+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2025-04-25T10:14:07+00:00\",\"author\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.utires.com\/articles\/#\/schema\/person\/1c3b77b87c2ca712466e7fc48265377a\"},\"description\":\"More than 9 in 10 Americans put off car care tasks longer than they should. 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