A new survey reveals that one in four Americans are postponing essential car maintenance due to elevated gasoline prices. The study, commissioned by The G Law Group and conducted among 2,000 U.S. adults, found that 27 percent have delayed necessary vehicle upkeep, including brake inspections, tire rotations, and routine servicing, because of high fuel costs.
Financial Strain on Drivers
The price of car repairs has also increased, adding to the financial burden on consumers. Simeon Genadiev, Managing Partner at The G Law Group, noted, "When drivers are already stretched thin by the cost of gas, routine maintenance is often the first thing to go, and that has real consequences on the road. We see the results of deferred maintenance in accident cases regularly. What starts as a small issue can quickly become a serious one."
Gas Price Trends
Gas prices have surged since the U.S. strikes on Iran began in late February. The national average for a gallon of unleaded gasoline currently stands at $4.42, according to AAA. While this is a slight decrease from $4.56 last week, it remains significantly higher than the $3.16 recorded a year ago.
Income and Maintenance Delays
Interestingly, income level did not significantly affect the likelihood of delaying maintenance. Those earning between $85,001 and $95,000 were more likely to postpone repairs than those in the $25,001 to $35,000 bracket, indicating that the financial pressure is widespread.
Broader Consumer Sacrifices
Delayed car maintenance is just one of several sacrifices consumers are making as gas prices soar due to the conflict in Iran, which has disrupted oil shipping routes and geopolitical stability. Many shoppers are turning to low-cost groceries and essentials from retailers like Walmart to save money. Walmart reported during its recent earnings call, "While consumers are telling us they're feeling some pressure, sales strength has persisted, and we saw one of our strongest quarters of share gains."
The housing market has also seen a rise in multigenerational homes, indicating that buyers are open to living with relatives to cut costs, according to a May report from Realtor.com. Additionally, beer sales have declined, with a 6.3 percent drop in the four weeks ending May 2, as reported by Nielsen. California experienced the steepest decline at 16 percent, where the average gas price hit $6.08 per gallon on Thursday, per AAA.
Expert Recommendations
Despite the financial strain, experts advise against skipping routine maintenance like oil changes. AAA recommends changing conventional oil every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or six months, and synthetic oil every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or six months. Neglecting oil changes can void vehicle warranties and lead to engine damage. Old oil can form sludge, destroying the engine. While an oil change costs between $30 and $100, replacing an engine can range from $4,500 to rebuild to over $7,000 for a new one, according to Sullivan Tire and Auto Service in Massachusetts.
