As lockdown restrictions start to ease off in the UK, drivers are discovering that their cars require essential maintenance due to being out of use for weeks, new research reveals.
Analysis of search trends data conducted by car leasing specialist AMT shows that queries for issues like seized brakes, flat batteries and deflated tyres have increased substantially across the UK since the lockdown began, as most commutes halted due to Covid-19.
The research shows that drivers are concerned about the repercussions of not using their car regularly, as searches for ‘not using car’ have increased by 85.7% since February, while ‘storing car’ and ‘long term car storage’ terms have risen by 81.8% and 40%.
Most drivers are looking to combat seized brakes with searches up by 90.9%, while queries for a 12V car starter have risen by 75%. It seems that car batteries are a prevalent problem for drivers, with searches for ‘flat battery’ (62.9%), ‘car battery’ (46.9%) and ‘jump leads’ (25.6%) also up.
The findings also imply that Brits are having to shell out on new components to restore their car to a good condition, as queries for ‘new car battery’ and ‘car battery online’ have increased by 21.9% and 21.7% respectively.
Increase in common car maintenance queries:
Drivers who aren’t returning to work need to ensure that their cars remain in roadworthy condition to prevent issues later down the line.
AMT’s general manager Ian Wright comments on the findings: “These increased queries around car maintenance should serve as a reminder for all drivers to ensure that their vehicles remain roadworthy, in order to make the transition to commuting as seamless as possible when the time comes.
“Not taking measures to maintain battery health and tyre condition could lead to garages being overwhelmed as the lockdown eases, and may force drivers to resort to public transport to get to work – against government advice. It’s therefore far preferable for drivers to follow simple car maintenance procedures in order to keep things running smoothly.”
To read more about the importance of car maintenance during lockdown, visit: https://www.amtauto.co.uk/blog/how-to-keep-your-car-in-good-working-order-during-lockdown