The Importance of Vehicle Maintenance and the Effect It Has on Driving Safely Vehicle maintenance is often viewed as a routine responsibility; it is an inconvenience at worst, and a way to prolong a car's life at best. But beyond fuel economy and reliability, there is a more critical reason to stay on top of vehicle upkeep: safety . A well-maintained vehicle is far less likely to experience mechanical failures that can lead to accidents, injuries, or even fatalities. 1. Braki