FLEETS failing to check oil levels are adding to the UK's £300 million annual bill for engine repairs.

Research has shown that poor engine maintenance accounts for one in 20 of an estimated 7.2 million breakdowns every year and car care product provider, Comma Oil, has launched a 'Do You Dip?' campaign in a bid to tackle the problem.

A Comma Oil spokesman said: 'Checking oil is still relatively simple. Motorists who rely on the oil light to alert them to the need to refill, or wait for the vehicle to be serviced are risking damage to their engine, a possible breakdown and in some cases a replacement engine being required.'

Research completed by Warranty Direct on behalf of Comma Oil has shown that the average cost of replacing an engine is £2,780, but could be as high as £10,000 on luxury sports models.

As vehicles also now have longer service intervals, it is vital that fleet drivers regularly check oil levels.

A spokesman at Warranty Direct said: 'While high service intervals may be good for the motorist, relying on the oil being checked during a service could be fatal for the health of your car and your wallet.'

  • Subscribe to Fleet News.
  • Get the news delivered to your desktop