New data has revealed that owners of Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs) are facing significantly higher running costs, with many unaware of the substantial financial burden.
The Hidden Cost of SUV Ownership
An extensive analysis by the online car repair service ClickMechanic has exposed a stark financial reality for SUV drivers. The study, which examined over 110,000 quotes, found that repair and maintenance bills for these larger vehicles are often hundreds of pounds more expensive than for smaller cars.
Andrew Jervis, CEO and Co-founder of ClickMechanic, explained that these extra costs accumulate rapidly. "Drivers are feeling the squeeze from every angle right now, but SUV owners are unknowingly taking an even bigger financial hit," he told the Express.
"Our data shows that some repair jobs can cost up to a third extra compared to smaller cars, and that can really start to stack up fast at a time when household budgets are already under pressure," Jervis added.
Delaying Repairs Can Lead to Greater Danger and Expense
The financial strain is leading to a worrying trend, with more motorists postponing essential work. Jervis warned that deferring critical maintenance on components like suspension, alternators, or timing belts is a false economy.
"Putting off work... can turn a manageable bill into something far more expensive and potentially dangerous," he stated. His advice to drivers is clear: when choosing a car, it is vital to research and understand the long-term cost of keeping it on the road.
This sentiment is echoed by motoring organisations. Paul Coward, chief executive of the RAC’s service, maintenance and repair division, highlighted the widespread dread of unexpected repair bills, particularly for the estimated third of drivers who struggle to cover such costs.
"What’s more, we know from long-term RAC research that eight-in-10 people depend on their cars, so any time a vehicle is off the road it can cause huge problems," Coward said.
Seeking Solutions and Stressing Prevention
In response to these challenges, services like the RAC Mobile Mechanics are growing. This service allows repairs to be completed at a customer's home or workplace, with the cost known upfront and options to spread payments over three instalments using Klarna.
Both experts ultimately stress that prevention is better than cure. Coward delivered a clear message: "A well-maintained vehicle is far less likely to break down and result in costly unexpected repairs. Servicing it regularly is key, as well as ensuring any advisories in the MOT are addressed before they become illegal or go wrong."
The analysis serves as a crucial reminder for UK motorists to look beyond the showroom price and fuel economy, and to factor in the often-overlooked expense of maintenance over a vehicle's lifetime.
