Half of All Kiwi Drivers Failing To Keep Engine Oil in Check

Half of All Kiwi Drivers Failing To Keep Engine Oil in Check

Around half of all New Zealanders are driving around with either dangerously low or dirty oil in their engine.

VTNZ Chief Executive, Mr Walsh, says VTNZ inspectors are finding around half of all vehicles have an issue with oil. “An alarming number of cars are coming through with very little oil, or with very dirty oil, which over time can ruin engines completely. The life span of the car is therefore significantly reduced.

“We’re also seeing a lot of cars with no oil on the dipstick whatsoever, meaning those engines are not far away from seizing, causing the owner a very costly repair,” he said.

Nearly a quarter of vehicles also had low tyre pressure, which, in a time of rising petrol prices, was a simple way to improve their vehicle’s fuel efficiency.

Mr Walsh says low tyre pressure can have dangerous consequences as it means less control on the road. “It also impacts the wallet at the petrol pump as cars with low tyre pressure run with lower fuel efficiency. With petrol prices rising, this is a really simple way for motorist to ensure they are getting the best economy from their vehicles.”

“A lot of Kiwis will be taking to the roads this summer – whether to visit the relatives or for a classic Kiwi road trip. It’s really worth checking these things before you go, it will not only save you money, but it’s also important for your safety and the safety of your family.”

A simple check through VTNZ’s WoF+Check-Up service would ensure drivers can avoid these issues, and other basic vehicle maintenance problems, as well as the associated costs and safety risks.

A WoF+ Check-Up is great value at only $20 extra on top of a standard Warrant of Fitness inspection and means that, in addition to the safety test, vehicle inspectors undertake 14 additional checks on things such as oil and water levels, tyre pressure, and battery and engine noise.

Mr Walsh said: “WoF+Check-Up is about doing those things that used to happen on petrol forecourts, and then a little bit more. At a time when many households are under financial pressure, we believe the additional service could avoid a very expensive repair bill.”

The WoF+ service was rolled out to more than 80 VTNZ testing stations in March 2010. Since then around 1300 drivers have been taking up the offer every week.

About VTNZ
VTNZ started its life in 1994 as a State Owned Enterprise following a review of the Ministry of Transport. The company was privatised in 1999 and purchased by the Motor Trade Association. New Zealand now has 86 bright orange testing stations carrying out more than 1.3m safety inspections every year. A recent survey found 81% of VTNZ’s customers liked the convenience of getting WoF without an appointment, and 75% liked receiving independent unbiased advice without a hard sell. Visit www.vtnz.co.nz for more information.

ENDS

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