“The generational gap is closing in an unexpected area: DIY car maintenance,” reveals Dominic Wyatt, an International Drivers Association Motoring Expert. Based on the 2023 MarketWatch Generational Car Care Survey, more than half of each generation cares enough for their car to maintain it personally. Gen Z stands at 50.6%, Millennials at 56.1%, Gen X at 54.9%, and Baby Boomers at 59.3%.
Generational Perspectives on Car Maintenance
Baby Boomers (1946-1964)
Born in the post-World War II economic boom, this generation has been instrumental in automotive industry development. Their passion for cars isn’t just utilitarian; for many, it’s an integral part of their identity, with DIY car work playing a central role.
Gen X (1965-1980)
For Generation X, their automotive culture comes with an essence of pragmatism. While motor enthusiasm persists, a flux towards professional car services is noteworthy. However, the need for cost-saving, skill-building, and achieving independence prompts them towards DIY car maintenance.
Millennials (1981-1996)
Millennials are the technologically savvy generation. They grew up in the digital age, making it easy for them to learn and understand new concepts, including DIY car maintenance. While not all of them do it, there’s certainly a growing interest.
Gen Z (1997 and onwards)
With even better access to technology and information, Gen Z takes this one step further. They may not necessarily be motor enthusiasts, but a trend toward sustainable living drives them to maintain their vehicles.
Shedding a Fullbeam on DIY Car Maintenance
Dominic Wyatt believes that DIY car maintenance is an advantage for several reasons, including:
- Cost-effectiveness: It’s generally cheaper than hiring a professional.
- Skill-building: It’s a great way to learn more about your vehicle and build practical skills.
- Timeliness: You aren’t bound to mechanic working hours, and you can address any issues immediately.
- Confidence: Understanding your vehicle can make you feel secure and in control while driving.
The Risks of DIY Car Repairs
Though DIY car maintenance has its benefits, it comes with considerable risks. These include expensive missteps such as attempting to refurbish a dead car battery, changing engine oil but forgetting to replace the filter, or attempting to repair car shocks without professional tools or expertise.
Each of these so-called maintenance “hacks” can result in damage that far outweighs the cost of professional maintenance and repair services. Hence, a balanced approach is essential, where straightforward tasks are done at home and more complex problems are left to professionals.
Gauging Car Care According to Generations
As per the 2023 MarketWatch Generational Car Care Survey, all four generations show a high level of engagement in car care. Although Baby Boomers lead the pack, with almost 60% maintaining their car, younger generations are not trailing by much. This indicates an overarching trend across all generations towards an increased interest in DIY car care.
So, what binds Baby Boomers and Gen Z in the realm of car maintenance? It appears that both groups see the value of being hands-on with their vehicles. Baby Boomers’ strong ties with the automotive culture and their inherent DIY spirit sync well with Gen Z’s push towards sustainable living and self-reliance.
It seems, that driving into the sunset isn’t limited to Baby Boomers anymore; Gen Z is ready to pick the tools and grease up too. Dominic Wyatt underlines this connection: “Cars run on oil and petrol, but the spirit of motoring runs on a strong ethic of self-reliance and mastery…and this spirit is not bound by age.”
This post is courtesy of the International Drivers Association
