The number of motorists hit with unexpected car repair bills has risen sharply in the past year, with 65% of drivers facing an unplanned cost, according to new research from the RAC.
That figure is up from 59% last year, highlighting growing pressure on household budgets as living costs continue to squeeze drivers across the UK.
The average repair bill now stands at £650, an increase of £33 compared with 2024.
The rising costs are leaving many motorists struggling to cope: three-quarters of those surveyed said they would find it difficult to pay for an unexpected repair, while 39% admitted they would struggle to afford a bill of up to £500.
More than half (54%) said a surprise cost between £501 and £1,000 would also be hard to manage.
Young drivers are feeling the pressure most acutely. Nearly 57% of under-25s said they would find it difficult to pay a repair bill of up to £500, up from 50% last year. But the issue extends across age groups.
Among drivers aged 45 to 64, the proportion who would struggle with a £500 bill has risen to 40%, while among those aged 65 or over it has increased to 30%.
Tyres remain the most common cause of unforeseen expense, with 54% of motorists paying for an unexpected tyre replacement or repair in the past year.
Brake repairs (26%), suspension issues (18%), 12-volt battery problems (17%) and faulty exterior lights (16%) also feature prominently. Drivers of older vehicles are at the greatest risk: 74% of owners with cars aged over ten years faced an unexpected repair, compared with 65% overall.
With the average UK vehicle age now at a record 10 years, this trend is expected to continue.
Worryingly, the rising cost of maintenance is pushing some motorists to cut back on essential servicing.
The RAC found that 12% of drivers are now servicing their vehicles less frequently to save money, while 5% have stopped servicing altogether and rely solely on the annual MOT to identify issues.
This trend, while financially motivated, increases the likelihood of breakdowns, higher long-term repair costs and potential safety risks.
RAC mobile servicing and repairs team leader Nick Mullender said many drivers were being caught out by the growing cost of repairs. “With the average cost of an unexpected repair rising to £650 this year, it’s little wonder that so many people are finding it difficult to meet the costs as that’s a bill no one wants,” he said.
He warns that delaying routine servicing often results in more expensive repairs further down the line. He also pointed to longer garage lead times, which can leave drivers without their car for extended periods.
Why it Matters
For independent garages, the findings underline both the economic pressure facing customers and the essential role workshops play in keeping vehicles safe and roadworthy.
With drivers increasingly anxious about costs, clear communication, transparent pricing and strong advice around preventative maintenance will be crucial. As the UK’s ageing car parc continues to grow, independent workshops remain central to helping motorists manage essential repairs while maintaining safety and reliability.
