The cost of living crisis has prompted nearly half of consumers to reconsider the way they approach vehicle maintenance and servicing.

Forty-eight per cent of the 4,269 car owners polled for the forthcoming Bumper Automotive Aftersales Report 2024/25 said they have adjusted their habits due to increased financial pressures.

The majority (90%) plan to keep their cars longer, reflecting a shift towards more cost-conscious decision-making.

Over half (51%) said they were exploring independent garages for more affordable servicing, while more than a third (38%) are choosing not to authorise advisory repairs, prioritising essential over non-urgent work. 

A significant minority (15%) reported skipping vehicle servicing because of costs. 

“The findings reveal a largely proactive approach to vehicle maintenance. However, the cost of living crisis has prompted shifts in consumer behaviour, with a significant portion of car owners looking for more affordable options, delaying non-essential repairs and using financial assistance to spread their servicing costs,” said James Jackson, Co-Founder and CEO of Bumper.

“Trust, cost and quality remain central to consumer decision-making, benefitting dealers nimble enough to adapt their aftersales propositions to the changing needs of their customers,” said Jackson.

The full Bumper UK Automotive Aftersales Report 2024/25 will be published shortly.