What is a risk of neglecting regular vehicle maintenance?

Neglecting regular vehicle maintenance can lead to serious mechanical failures because routine upkeep is essential for ensuring that all parts of a vehicle operate effectively and safely. Components like the oil, brakes, tires, and engine require periodic checks and replacements to function optimally. When maintenance is overlooked, these components may wear down or fail, leading to costly repairs, sudden breakdowns, or potentially hazardous driving conditions. Inadequate maintenance can also lead to problems that could have been easily resolved if addressed sooner, such as fluid leaks or battery issues, which can escalate into more significant and more expensive repairs over time. Regular maintenance acts as a preventive measure, helping to identify and fix issues before they develop into serious mechanical failures.

Other options present factors that are not true or unlikely outcomes of neglecting maintenance, such as improvements in fuel efficiency or guaranteed better performance, which are generally only achieved through regular upkeep. Similarly, selling a vehicle may become more challenging if it has a history of neglect, as potential buyers often look for well-maintained vehicles for reliability.