New research from Warrantywise suggests a generational shift in how UK motorists approach car maintenance, with younger drivers now the most likely to tackle repairs themselves.
According to a OnePoll survey of 2,000 UK motorists, 15 per cent of drivers aged 18–24 said they usually fix vehicle problems on their own, more than double the national average of 6 per cent.
By contrast, just 3 per cent of over-65s said they would attempt a repair, with 59 per cent preferring to leave it to someone else.
The findings come as winter brings the usual challenges of cold starts, dead batteries, and slippery roads, a time when driver confidence in handling mechanical issues often drops.
Gender also plays a part, with 77 per cent of women admitting they’re not comfortable changing a tyre, compared to 65 per cent who say they normally rely on someone else to fix their car.
Why it Matters
Younger drivers’ growing confidence in tackling repairs themselves comes at a time when AI, online tutorials, and social media ‘how-to’ content are reshaping how motorists learn about vehicle maintenance.
This generation isn’t relying on the now older ‘Google mechanic’ approach, they’re turning to AI chat tools, short-form video guides, and interactive platforms for instant answers and confidence boosts. While most still turn to professionals for complex work, these new learning habits mean garages are now dealing with better-informed, more inquisitive customers.
For independent workshops, the opportunity lies in embracing this curiosity, engaging with young motorists online, sharing trustworthy insights, and positioning the business as the expert voice amid a flood of online information. Those who do will not only earn trust but also stay relevant in a fast-evolving, digitally influenced customer landscape.
Antony Diggins, Managing Director at Warrantywise, said: “Winter is the hardest season for cars, cold starts, dead batteries, and slippery conditions all take their toll.
“But with modern vehicles packed full of sensors, computers, and hybrid components, even a small issue can require specialist tools or software to diagnose.
“Our research shows that most UK drivers, especially older motorists and female drivers, simply don’t feel equipped to handle these repairs themselves.”
With the average car on UK roads now over 10 years old, this new wave of hands-on younger drivers could be helping to slow the decline in DIY confidence seen in older generations.
However, as vehicle technology continues to advance, their willingness to “give it a go” may increasingly depend on access to the right tools, training, and trustworthy technical information.
Do you see more young drivers trying DIY repairs, inspired by social influencers? If the DIY generation is here, what does it mean for independent garages? Share your comments below.
