Worry as drivers are ditching garages to make repairs at home

More than a third of UK motorists would rather fix minor car issues themselves than pay for a professional to do it, new research has revealed.

Unsurprisingly, the key reason is saving money, eBay’s survey has found, even to the point that some avoid dealing with issues altogether.

Along with the 35% who are fixing cars themselves, the study found that 34% of motorists delayed getting MOT advisories fixed last year due to rising living costs, with another 33% stating that they were unable to afford the repairs. As well as this, one-in-10 claimed they didn’t think advisories were important.

eBay has used the research as a push for its new vehicle parts hub, which, as reported last year, sells thousands of genuine parts, both approved and new.

“We have all the items a driver might need to fix MOT advisories, and it’s our goal to make that process as easy as possible,” said eBay’s Vehicle Parts and Accessories boss Arjang Salehi.

However the Independent Garage Association – the largest such body in the UK – raised concern at motorists who are looking to complete repairs themselves.

“Given the current economic conditions, it’s concerning that an increasing number of motorists are postponing essential repairs or trying their hand at DIY fixes,” Stuart James IGA CEO told CAT.

“Attempting repairs without proper training or qualifications poses significant dangers, potentially escalating minor issues into critical defects.

“With household budgets tightening, there’s also the worrying prospect of drivers resorting to acquiring parts themselves. This presents a significant concern, and the IGA emphasises the importance of only obtaining quality-approved parts purchased through reputable garages. Safety critical components are essential in protecting occupants of a vehicle.”

He added: “We urge drivers to engage with professional technicians at reputable garages to address advisory items promptly and avoid putting themselves and others at risk.”