Older motorists are just “one repair away from crisis”, with many unable to fund costly garage fees, according to new research commissioned by subscription lender Creditspring.
The study found that 34% of drivers over 55 have nothing set aside for unexpected repair costs affecting their petrol, diesel and electric vehicles. This makes older drivers less prepared than any other age group, a major concern highlighted in the report.
One in five hit by unexpected costs
The research, based on a study of 1,273 UK drivers, said that 20% of drivers over 55 have faced an unexpected cost to keep their car roadworthy. Meanwhile, 15% of drivers over 55 say an unexpected car bill would be difficult to manage, with 33% admitting they would not be able to fix anything above £250.
Despite this, the average cost of car repair can usually reach up to £600, leaving drivers with a considerable shortfall. Instead, 27% of drivers over 55 said they would need to put unexpected bills on credit cards or by taking out a loan.
Repair costs can reach thousands
Tamsin Powell, Consumer Finance Expert at Creditspring, said: “An unexpected repair bill is rarely just about the car. It can mean worrying about whether there is enough left for food, energy, rent or the bills that are already due.
“For households already balancing a tight budget, a fault can leave people feeling they have to choose between keeping the car on the road and protecting everything else. That is why a relatively modest repair bill can feel so disruptive.”
Data from the RAC claimed that the average repair bill stood at £650 in 2025, an increase of £33 from the last year. New tyres, brake discs, cambelts or fuel injector work is likely to set road users back around £600.
However, some unexpected repairs can stretch to the thousands depending on what components break. A new engine can cost as much as £7,000, while gearbox failures are likely to hit as much as £5,000. Electric cars are also at risk, with new batteries costing as much as £3,000 or more to replace.
Planning for the shock
Tamsin added: “You cannot plan for every breakdown. But you can make the shock more manageable by knowing the costs that are coming, putting aside what you can, and getting clear information before making a decision under pressure.”
