Drivers risk fines of up to £10,000 for ignoring four commonly overlooked car problems, according to a new warning from Yell. The company has identified the engine management light, low tyre pressure, squeaky brakes, and oil warning lights as the most frequently neglected issues, each of which can result in fines of up to £2,500 if left unaddressed.
Engine Management Light: A Common Culprit
Yell reports that searches for terms like “engine management light” and “check engine light” remain among the UK’s most searched car issues. Despite this, 43 per cent of drivers ignore the warning light, and a further 18 per cent suffer a breakdown as a result. Ignoring this light can lead to fines of up to £2,500, three penalty points, and even disqualification from driving.
Low Tyre Pressure: A Safety Hazard
Data from the last five years shows that poorly maintained tyres have contributed to an average of 152 deaths and serious injuries on UK roads annually. Drivers also risk MOT failures and fines of up to £2,500 and three penalty points per illegal tyre if tread depth falls below the legal limit of 1.6 mm.
Squeaky Brakes: Rising Searches
Searches for “how to fix squeaky brakes” have surged by 94 per cent over the last month alone, as drivers embark on longer journeys for summer holidays. Faulty brakes are one of the most common MOT failures in the UK, carrying fines of up to £2,500 and three penalty points, with unlimited fines for commercial vehicles.
Oil Warning Light: Pre-Travel Spike
Searches for “oil warning light” have increased by 70 per cent in the last 30 days, particularly before summer travel periods. Drivers who ignore this dashboard warning could face fines of up to £1,000. Industry specialists warn that failing to act on emissions-related alerts may result in unknowingly driving a non-compliant vehicle, risking additional fines of up to £2,500.
Yell's warning highlights that ignoring these issues could collectively cost drivers up to £10,000 in fines, penalty points, and potential disqualification. Motorists are urged to address these common problems promptly to avoid severe financial and safety consequences.
