Critical Shifts:
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Widespread Deferred Maintenance: 25% of drivers nationwide—and at least 1 in 4 across 38 states—are behind on essential manufacturer-recommended vehicle services.
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Geographic Peaks: Mississippi leads the country with 31% of its drivers overdue on car upkeep, followed closely by Virginia, Texas, Alabama, and Georgia (27% each).
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Cost & Safety Risks: Skipping routine care like oil changes, brake service, and tire rotations exposes drivers to safety hazards and leads to expensive repair bills later.
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One in four drivers nationwide are behind on recommended vehicle maintenance, according to CARFAX data.
In 38 states, at least one in four drivers are behind on recommended maintenance. Mississippi has the highest percentage at 31%, followed by Virginia, Texas, Alabama and Georgia. New York, California, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts and Arizona are also among the states where roughly one in four drivers are behind.
Manufacturer-recommended maintenance is designed to help keep vehicles running safely and reliably while helping drivers avoid potentially costly problems down the road. Recommended services can include tire rotations, oil changes, air filter replacements, brake service, transmission and brake fluid changes, and more.
“Keeping up with recommended maintenance is one of the best ways drivers can protect themselves, their families, and their investment,” said Paul Nadjarian, CARFAX’s chief product officer. “Our free CARFAX Car Care helps take the guesswork out of vehicle ownership by giving drivers timely reminders about upcoming maintenance, recalls, and other important vehicle updates.”
States With the Most Drivers Behind on Recommended Maintenance:
1. Mississippi – 31%
2. Virginia – 27%
3. Texas – 27%
4. Alabama – 27%
5. Georgia – 27%
6. South Carolina – 26%
7. Kentucky – 26%
8. Arkansas – 26%
9. Arizona – 26%
10. New York – 26%
