Cost pressure pushing UK motorists to consider independent sector

Over half of UK motorists are considering the independent sector for servicing due to the financial pressure they are under, according to Bumper.

Over half (51%) of the 4,269 car owners polled for the Bumper UK Automotive Aftersales Report 2024/25 said they were exploring independent garages for more affordable servicing, while more than a third (38%) are choosing not to authorise advisory repairs, prioritising essential over non-urgent work.

Bumper works with dealerships to spread the cost of car repairs and servicing with finance.

Just under half (48%) said they have adjusted their habits due to increased financial pressures.

The majority (90%) plan to keep their cars longer, reflecting a shift towards more cost-conscious decision making.

 A significant minority (15%) reported skipping vehicle servicing because of costs.

The research points to the continued perception that it is difficult to shift around franchised dealers being more expensive than the independent sector, which is not necessarily the case.

Service plans and fixed menu pricing, as well as initiatives that target customers with older vehicles are all methods some franchised dealers are already employing to compete with the independent sector.

James Jackson, Bumper co-founder and chief executive, said: "The findings reveal a largely proactive approach to vehicle maintenance.

"However, the cost of living crisis has prompted shifts in consumer behaviour, with a significant portion of car owners looking for more affordable options, delaying non-essential repairs and using financial assistance to spread their servicing costs.

"Trust, cost and quality remain central to consumer decision-making, benefitting dealers nimble enough to adapt their aftersales propositions to the changing needs of their customers."