10/16/2026
As cars get older, inspection lists can get longer. The TÜV Report 2026 found that 21.5% of inspected cars in Germany had significant or dangerous defects, while the average car age there reached 10.6 years. It’s a useful reminder to prioritize repairs, not a reason to panic.
Start with anything that could affect safety or make the car unreliable: brakes, tires, steering, suspension, or fluid leaks. Have the issue diagnosed, understand why it needs attention, and ask what could happen if it’s delayed.
Other confirmed repairs may be planned and budgeted for, depending on their condition and the vehicle’s needs. The key is knowing what’s urgent and what can reasonably wait.
With 25+ years in automotive repair, I believe in diagnosing first and explaining the findings clearly. If your car has a growing repair list, contact me and we can sort through the priorities together.