Motorists over the age of 50 are running up a multi-million-pound repair bill because they are failing to check the levels of oil in their vehicle, according to car insurance specialists RIAS.
In a report that coincides with National Oil Check Week, the firm revealed that 50 per cent of over 50s are not carrying out the practice at least once a month, the figure recommended by experts.
RIAS said that, with the average engine repair cost amounting to nearly £3,500, the 7.5 million over-50s motorists on Britain's roads who do not check their oil levels could face a collective £26 million bill.
Janet Connor, managing director of the car insurance company, said: "Regular car maintenance not only ensures cars run more economically and remain on the road, but also can help motorists to avoid both accidents and financial headaches if something goes wrong."
Swinton recently revealed it had also seen a drop in the number of car insurance claims for minor repairs such as scratches and dents as people try to save money during the recession .




