VACC Survey: One-in-Four Vehicles Fail Basic Safety Check

VICTORIA, AUSTRALIA – July 15, 2009: VACC, the peak Automotive Industry body in Victoria, has revealed one-in-four vehicles, in the State, are unsafe.

24.81 percent of all vehicles tested so far in 2009, by participating VACC repairers, have failed one or more of the five key safety features of a motor vehicle (tyres, lights, brakes, steering and restraints).

Of the 2189 vehicles surveyed in the first six months of the year, 1661 passed and 528 failed VACC’s Five Point Safety Check (see attached tables).

25 percent of the vehicles tested had unsafe tyres.

“These figures are concerning,” VACC Executive Director, David Purchase, said.

“VACC believes not enough focus is put on the importance of vehicle safety. We hear a lot about road safety, but not enough about vehicle safety. We have to do more to encourage motorists to keep their motor vehicle safe.

“Everyone has a duty to ensure that the vehicle he or she is driving is safe. Governments, employers, families and individuals need to appreciate that every time a Victorian gets into a car, they are at risk.

“A simple Five Point Safety Check will reduce that risk. Tyres, lights, brakes, steering and restraints are the key things that need to be tested. The next time you are getting your car serviced, ask your participating VACC repairer, for a free Five Point Safety Check.

“With the winter weather set in and children back to school, now is the time to make sure the vehicle you are driving is safe.

“New or old, your vehicle must be safe. For people who believe they are saving money by not getting their car serviced, they should think again. A properly maintained vehicle can save you money in the long run, as an efficient performing engine saves fuel and wear-and-tear.

“VACC hopes motorists heed this message. We will continue to monitor the figures and hope that when we release the year-end results, there will be evidence that vehicle safety is being taken more seriously,” Mr Purchase said.