Millennials more likely repair cars than boomers

Online marketplace eBay research revealed that more than a quarter of millennials in the UK would undertake their own vehicle repairs to save on costs rather than paying a professional garage. In contrast, just 18 per cent of baby boomers are willing to get their hands dirty — they’re more likely to opt for help from their local workshop.

Contrary to popular opinion, Gen Z is seemingly willing to get its hands dirty, with more than 23 per cent of 17-24 year old respondents inclined to undertake minor car repairs.

Windscreen wipers are one of the easiest items to fix, with more than half of customers prepared to fit them at home. Sales on eBay for 2022 reflected this, with the online retailer selling enough wipers to stretch more than 485km, if laid end to end.

Broken or smashed door mirrors, car seats, floor mats, carpet, and battery-related issues also featured highly in this study.

period, independent repair shops perform 70 per cent of repairs. This vibrant industry and the consumer choice that it creates is being threatened by automotive manufacturers that block access to wirelessly transmitted vehicle repair and maintenance data.”

According to Paul Smith, head of testing at Consumer NZ, recent Australian regulation seeking the right to repair was passed after years of lobbying to try and “force manufacturers to make repair info, diagnostics, tools and parts available to independent repairers. In Australia it came off the back of an ACCC investigation that showed the manufacturers were making huge profits on repair and servicing compared to selling the cars, and they were shutting out independents.”

The AAAA echoes that sentiment: “Without the convenience and choice of independent parts and repair, especially in suburban and rural communities, consumers will have limited access to affordable vehicle service and repair. These restrictions can have catastrophic effects on local economies and the well-being and safety of millions that rely on vehicle transportation daily.”

As far as Consumer NZ knows, there is nothing specific to ensure the ‘Right to Repair’ of cars going on in New Zealand but advocates here are calling for a broader ‘Right to Repair’ applicable to more products.