General News
14 August, 2025
Vehicle servicing set aside
NEW RACQ research has revealed nearly one in three (32 per cent) Queenslanders are postponing essential car maintenance due to ongoing cost-of-living pressures.
Among those who deferred these important tasks, 80 per cent missed their routine car service and 40 per cent delayed getting their tyres replaced.
The research found that more than half (57 per cent) of respondents stated that delaying these tasks increased the likelihood of breakdowns or accidents.
The data comes as RACQ’s roadside assistance fleet responded to 736,924 calls for help in 2024-25, including 327,840 callouts for battery-related issues, 23,786 for vehicles lockouts, 74,840 for flat tyres and 6450 from those who had run out of fuel.
RACQ deputy group chief executive officer Glenn Toms said in the last financial year patrols helped 91 per cent of motorists get back on the road in an average response time of 35 minutes.
“For 100 years we’ve been there for Queenslanders when and where they need us,” he said.
“However, we understand cost-of-living pressures are impacting household budgets and keeping up with car maintenance can often fall to the wayside.
“While our fleet of more than 750 patrols is ready to assist motorists 24/7, being aware of early warning signs can reduce your risk of an unplanned breakdown.”
The survey also revealed one in four (25 per cent) Queenslanders were not confident in spotting early warning signs that their vehicle may require maintenance.
“Taking the time to review your car manual to ensure you’re across what the different warning lights mean is really important,” he said.
“Other tasks you can easily do at home include checking your tyre tread depth, monitoring your oil and fluid levels, ensuring your lights are working properly and making sure your wiper blades are working efficiently.” Mr Toms also stressed the benefits of regular battery checks as modern vehicles rely more on technology systems, with patrols recording a 20 per cent increase in battery-related call-outs.
The number of RACQ call-outs in the Cairns region totalled 22,708 in 2024-25.
