Logo
Opening Hours
Mon-Fri 8 am-5:30 pm

Deferred Car Maintenance Can Lead to a Crash

Deferred Car Maintenance Can Lead to a Crash

February 1, 2022

Posted on February 1, 2022

When you think of common reasons for car accidents you probably think of people driving under the influence or someone driving recklessly or at high speeds. Distractions are another big reason for car accidents, and smart phones are only adding to that problem. But did you know that deferred car maintenance can also be a reason for a car crash? According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), about 45,000 car accidents each year are caused by a vehicle malfunction, most often a result of poor or neglected maintenance. It is your responsibility to get your vehicle checked out regularly, just like it is to get your health physical each year.

So, what do you think is the most dangerous car maintenance issue to ignore? According to Craig Swapp, one of Utah’s top personal injury attorneys, it’s worn out or improperly inflated tires. He sees accident victims all the time and stresses the importance of tire checks if you want to stay safe on the roads. The NHTSA estimates that of those 45,000 yearly accidents mentioned above, about 35% of them are a result of bad tires. To keep your tires in tip-top shape, make sure you have them filled to the correct PSI (this should be found in your owner’s manual), check your tire pressure each month (most newer vehicles have a sensor and will alert you if one is low, but it’s still good to check manually), get your tires assessed if they’re older than four or five years, and check the tread on the tires each season or about every three months. If any of those suggestions sound daunting to you, don’t worry. Come in to our shop and we’ll help you out.

Another major cause of vehicle accidents related to deferred maintenance has to do with the engine oil. Oil changes are vital to keeping your car running smoothly. The gears and parts in your vehicle can’t run smoothly if your oil is too low or gritty. Engine failure on the road leads to disaster, and the best way to prevent this possibility is to get your engine checked and your oil changed regularly. For most vehicles, oil changes should take place abut every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. But if you see what looks like smoke from your exhaust or hear engine noises pop up, don’t turn up your radio to block out the noise. Bring in your ride as soon as possible.

Other major issues with vehicles that can cause a car accident include worn out breaks, neglected or broken wipers (you have to see to drive!), burnt-out lights, and defective or faulty parts. Safety on the road goes far beyond driving alert, responsive, and with caution. Even the safest drivers are at the mercy of a properly working vehicle. Keeping up on the health of your car will save you money and keep you safe. For any questions related to your vehicle, stop in to Transmission City & Automotive Specialists in Sandy, serving the community honestly and effectively since 1977.

Share This Post: 
chevron-up-circle