The cost of uncleanliness revealed

Failure to clean and check cars regularly could be costing British motorists up to an average of £2,000 when they come to sell them.

Car care company Autoglym believes an average of £2,000 is wiped off the value of a new car within a few years purely through a lack of care and maintenance.

Its study – which admittedly carries ulterior motives given that Autoglym sells car care products – says 90% of people agree that a well maintained and clean car will have more value. But, it warns, a quarter admit they don’t take pride in their motor.

The poll found that less than one in five car owners check their oil the recommended once a week, with a quarter admitting they only do it once a year at best.

Similar numbers were recorded in relation to checking water.

Formula One legend Johnny Herbert, who stars in a video guide on car care for Autoglym, said: “Regardless of market depreciation, a car that is kept in tip-top condition can be worth thousands more than one that is not. There’s simply a lack of care and knowledge when it comes to looking after our vehicles, but with the right products and know how we can all save money in the long run – it’s time we all started to take pride in our cars.”

One in five car owners admitted that they continue driving on worn brakes for a couple of weeks or more, while a quarter wait a month to check annoying rattles.

Over 40% will wait more than three months to repair dents or scratches, while one in ten admit they just leave them.

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