Van drivers warned: Ignoring service lights could leave you uninsured
Posted by: electime 30th March 2026
Tire pressure warning light on car dashboard , Automotive repair concept
A simple dashboard warning light could end up costing van drivers far more than they realise, according to insurance experts.
Research by van insurance experts at Quotezone.co.uk warns that ignoring a service light may not only be dangerous, and lead to expensive repair costs, but could also invalidate insurance.
Insurers could refuse to pay out if an accident is linked to a known fault that had not been addressed, such as worn tyres, faulty brakes or an engine warning light – potentially leaving drivers with thousands in unexpected costs.
With repair prices continuing to soar, some drivers are delaying essential maintenance – a move experts fear could backfire financially, legally and put all road users at risk.
According to the Department for Transport, defective vehicles are currently responsible for around 1,300 collisions each year, approximately 3% of all collisions in Great Britain.
It is a legal requirement under the Road Traffic Act 1988 for motorists to keep their vehicle safe and roadworthy. Driving a vehicle in a dangerous condition can lead to fines of up to £2,500, three penalty points and even a driving ban.
Greg Wilson, van insurance expert and CEO at Quotezone.co.uk said: “Lots of motorists are feeling the squeeze with high costs of servicing, repairs, insurance and now petrol.
“While ignoring or delaying a service light may seem innocent, it could lead to dangerous consequences.
“Unexpected repair costs are an unwelcome surprise to us all, but it’s important to understand why warning lights must be addressed immediately.
“The requirement to keep up to date with repairs and checks will be included in the insurance policy, taking on the policy means drivers agree to maintain the vehicle to a roadworthy standard. Poor van maintenance is a big issue for insurers and leads to many invalidated claims. Not only that, it could result in problems with the law, such as hefty fines and penalty points.
“Keeping a van in a roadworthy condition also includes simple things like checking lightbulbs, and replacing worn out tyres – plus making sure brakes work and all windows and mirrors are clean each and every time it’s driven.”
As a price comparison site, Quotezone helps over 4 million people every year to compare and find savings on their van insurance.
