How Much Time Are You Wasting on Car Admin?
It’s no secret that modern life is busy — juggling work, family, and social commitments often leaves little room for one crucial thing: your car. And while it might just sit quietly on the drive or in a car park, your car has its own to-do list. MOTs. Servicing. Tyres. Warning lights. Repairs. Paperwork.
If any of that made your stomach drop, you're not alone.
Recent UK reports show that car owners spend up to 565 hours a year worrying about or dealing with car admin — everything from forgotten appointments and confusing dashboards to last-minute MOT panics and missed services. That’s equivalent to more than 23 full days each year spent on motoring logistics. And for many, it’s stressful, expensive, and totally avoidable.
? What Actually Counts as “Car Admin”?
“Car admin” covers all those small but important responsibilities that keep your car safe, legal, and road-ready. You might only notice them when something goes wrong:
✅ Booking your MOT and annual service
✅ Checking your tyres for tread depth and pressure
✅ Topping up oil and coolant
✅ Responding to dashboard warning lights
✅ Scheduling or rescheduling repairs
✅ Replacing wiper blades, bulbs or number plates
✅ Monitoring insurance renewals and tax reminders
✅ Keeping track of service history for resale value
For some, it’s second nature. For others, it’s a mountain of mental tabs.
? Why Is It So Easy to Let Car Admin Slide?
Lack of time: Life doesn’t stop for a warning light.
Overwhelm: It’s not always clear what needs doing — or when.
Fear of cost: Small jobs get delayed in case they turn into big bills.
Bad experiences: Many drivers have had poor customer service in the past.
This admin fatigue often leads to real consequences:
Missed MOT = Fines or invalid insurance
Delayed oil changes = Engine wear
Ignored tyres = Dangerous handling (and MOT failure)
Forgetting coolant = Overheating or breakdowns
We see this at Brede Garage every day: cars coming in only after a breakdown or failure. Most of it could have been prevented with simple, timely action.
? Also read: Love Your Car — Servicing Tips for Longevity
? The True Cost of Car Admin Stress
According to a recent survey, UK drivers not only lose time — they also lose focus, sleep, and money. 1 in 3 say they've had to take time off work due to car trouble that could’ve been avoided. Over half admitted to delaying servicing beyond the recommended interval. And many confessed they don't know how to check basics like oil or tyre pressure.
That’s not a failure. It’s a flaw in the system — car care shouldn't feel like a full-time job.
? How Brede Garage Can Help You Reclaim Your Time
We know you’ve got better things to do than chase reminders and worry about missed MOTs. That’s why we’ve made it easier than ever to stay on top of everything:
✅ Online booking in under 60 seconds: Book here
✅ Clear communication, reminders, and updates
✅ Transparent advice so you know what’s urgent — and what’s not
✅ Maintenance support that fits your schedule, not the other way round
Our expert technicians and front-of-house team help hundreds of East Sussex drivers each year manage their vehicle upkeep — calmly, confidently, and without drama.
? Also read: Driving With Confidence – Diagnostics Made Simple
? Want to Cut Down on Car Admin? Start Here
Here’s what we recommend:
? Mark your MOT renewal date on your calendar. If you had your MOT with us then we will also send you a reminder.
? Set a quarterly reminder to check tyres, oil, and washer fluid
? Keep a folder (digital or paper) for service records
? Find a garage you trust — and let them take care of the rest
? Set a reminder 1 month before your Insurance Renewal date, you'll get the best prices this way. They will increase the closer you get to your renewal date!
At Brede Garage, that’s exactly what we do.
We’re not just here to fix cars. We’re here to give you your time back.
? Book your service or MOT now — and stop letting car admin steal your hours.
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