Welsh drivers putting themselves at risk to avoid repair costs RAC says
The RAC says some motorists are delaying MOTs and not replacing worn tyres because of the cost.
A growing number of drivers are putting off essential car repairs because of the rising cost of keeping their vehicles on the road.
New figures from the RAC suggest one in ten motorists have either avoided getting an MOT or continued driving without replacing worn tyres.
The problem appears to be particularly common among younger drivers. A quarter of motorists under 25 say they have delayed repairs or replacing tyres because of the cost, compared with just 5% of drivers aged 65 and over.
Across all age groups, 3% admit to deliberately avoiding an MOT, while 7% say they have driven on tyres they knew needed replacing.
Tyres are considered illegal if their tread falls below the legal minimum of 1.6mm.
The RAC says around 10,000 motorists were given penalty points last year for driving vehicles considered unroadworthy because of problems including defective brakes, tyres and steering.
Meanwhile, 60% of drivers say the cost of maintaining or repairing their car has risen over the past year.
Almost a third are now concerned about how much it costs to keep their vehicle running, up from 25% last year.
The RAC says rising fuel prices are adding further pressure, with a tank of petrol now costing around £89, compared with £74 a year ago. For diesel drivers, the average has risen from £79 to £100.
The RAC says drivers can use mobile mechanics to have some servicing and repairs carried out at home or work, while payment options can also help spread the cost.