Nationwide Survey Shows Widespread Ignorance Of Link Between Car Maintenance And Road Safety
Less than a third of UK motorists spontaneously mention that having working lights is critical to road safety, according to research by MORI1 on behalf of Unipart Group of Companies. For just under a half, the importance of well-maintained tyres does not immediately spring to mind and 20 per cent do not recollect that the upkeep of brakes is crucial. In addition drivers spend on average over one third more on clothes and alcohol than they do on maintaining their cars.
With 25 million cars in the UK, these figures suggest that motorists are not fully aware of the importance of the link between car maintenance and road safety.
The survey was commissioned by Unipart to support the launch of the first stage of its Unipart Car Care Centre (UCCC) Customer Confidence Accreditation programme. The scheme is in response to the recent OFT report into the value and standards of workmanship offered to motorists by service and repair garages.
The poll also found that some 83 per cent of respondents stated that they would have more confidence in garages if they received an accurate up-front price for the work on their vehicle, while 82 per cent said they would feel more comfortable if there was greater evidence of trained mechanics.
To be accredited by the programme, the UCCCs are required to adhere to the Unipart Customer Service Pledge, a commitment that directly answers the key points of the OFT Report by implementing a clear pricing policy, with accurate estimates and guarantees of work quality. They must also demonstrate their commitment by being members of a recognised trade association.
As the Unipart Customer Confidence Accreditation programme insists that member garages are inspected independently twice a year by their trade association on specially defined and approved standards, motorists can be totally confident in taking their vehicles to member garages. These inspections ensure scheme members are meeting their obligations for providing fixed price estimates for jobs, itemised invoices, technical accreditation and the correct facilities.
Summarising the report's findings, Andrew Cornish, managing director, Mechanical Repair Division, Unipart Group of Companies says: "People's lack of understanding of the dangers of poorly maintained cars, low levels of financial commitment and their suspicion of many garages, could lead directly to more accidents on the road.
"MORI's findings bear out the critical need for our new Unipart Customer Confidence Accreditation programme for independent garages, which is enshrined in a charter designed to ensure the UK's largest network of independent garages offers consumers the standards and service they are demanding and deserve."
Technical details
1290 car-owers were interviewed as part of the MORI Omnibus, face-to-face using CAPI, between 29 November and 3 December 2001. Data has been weighted to the known population profile.
