Repair costs rise 7% as drivers delay repair decisions, finds FixMyCar report
Making Tracks Report 2025 reveals opportunities for garages through insights into pricing, consumer trust, and high-value repair trends
The cost of car repairs continues to climb, while drivers remain price-conscious, according to FixMyCar’s Making Tracks Report 2025.
Based on thousands of repair quotes and completed jobs processed through FixMyCar’s nationwide network, the report provides an unbiased snapshot of the auto repair market and the changing habits of UK drivers. The 2025 edition highlights how economic pressures, shifting attitudes toward EVs, and evolving consumer priorities are shaping garage operations.
Key findings include:
Repair quote values rose 7% year-on-year: Average job values increased by nearly £18, with clutch replacements up by £50 compared to 2024, directly impacting workshop profitability and parts suppliers.
Drivers are taking longer to approve repairs: The proportion of customers accepting quotes within 24 hours has dropped by 2.4%, reflecting greater price sensitivity among customers due to ongoing financial strains.
Petrol and diesel interest is in sharp decline: The number of drivers planning to buy a petrol or diesel vehicle has fallen by 40%, signalling stronger demand for hybrids and EVs, as the looming 2035 ban approaches.
Trust now outweighs price as the deciding factor: Only 29% of drivers prioritise finding the cheapest quote; most value trust, clear pricing and positive online reviews when choosing a garage.
Timing chain repairs deliver the highest returns: More than 13,000 timing chain jobs were completed through FixMyCar in the past year, with an average job value of £1,090 demonstrating opportunity for garages.
Beyond pricing trends, the report highlights how changing consumer expectations are forcing garages to adapt their business models. With fewer drivers prioritising low-cost repairs, reputation and digital visibility have become essential to winning work. FixMyCar’s data indicates that garages with transparent pricing and verified online reviews consistently outperform those without.
“The Making Tracks Report provides a snapshot of what’s really happening across the industry. We’re proud to be able to provide this insight for the aftermarket as a whole and for independent garages looking to grow their business in this tough market,” said CEO at FixMyCar, Amanda Webb. “While the current climate is undoubtedly challenging, the data highlights a clear opportunity: drivers are prioritising trust over price. For garages that invest in building a strong reputation in their local area, this presents a significant competitive advantage.”