Three out of four motorists (75%) are worried the cost of running their car will rise in 2026.
December’s Startline Used Car Tracker shows that 52% are concerned about the costs of insurance, 48% of petrol and diesel, 48% of buying a car and 37% of servicing.
Other factors mentioned include repair bills (35%), charging an electric car (24%), motor finance (16%) and tyres (13%).
A variety of causes underpin these anxieties with 46% saying inflation remains an issue, 41% anxious about the state of the economy, 40% concerned their personal finances are under pressure and 26% believing owning a car is becoming more expensive.
Relatively few respondents are unconcerned about rising costs with 13% feeling their personal finances have improved, 12% saying they can run their car without worries, 7% thinking the economy is stable and 5% believing inflation is under control.
Paul Burgess, CEO at Startline Motor Finance, said, “You can really feel in these responses how consumers feel weary and worried after repeatedly being hit by rising costs in recent years. It’s been a tough period for many.
“This sense of strain is particularly evident when it comes to everyday motoring expenses such as insurance, fuel, and servicing—all of which are high on motorists’ lists of concerns following significant price hikes.
“Nearly half of respondents still see inflation as an ongoing issue. However, the official forecast suggests it could fall to near 2% by the end of 2026, so there is hope that the New Year may bring some relief to motorists.”
The Startline Used Car Tracker also asked respondents what would tempt them to change their car in 2026. The results were headed by a good price (61%), strong reliability (50%), a comprehensive warranty (47%), low-cost finance (43%), a faster and easier car buying process (27%), and a high part exchange valuation (20%).
Paul added, “Again, these results underline that people are concerned about their finances. What they largely want from a used car purchase is low costs, reliability and protection from unexpected motoring expenses.”
