Research by Aviva has highlighted the strong connection Brits have with their current and previous cars, with one in eight reportedly feeling emotionally attached to their motor.
This attachment could in part be reflected by the length of car ownership. According to Aviva quote data, a quarter (25%) of drivers have owned their car for five years or more.
In fact, an Aviva survey of 4,000 people, revealed 6% of UK households said the longest time they’ve held onto a car is 16 years or more, which is said to be more than the average length of time people stay in their homes at 13.9 years.
The research also showed 13% would rather repair their vehicle than replace it, even if the cost of repairs exceeded the price of buying a new one. This figure rose to 18% among drivers aged 24 or under, making them the age group most likely to spend on repairs over a replacement.
When looking at why Brits are reluctant to part with an old car, the research revealed this could in part be driven by sentimentality. Nearly one in five car owners surveyed (19%) said their car reminded them of important life moments, while another 19% considered their vehicle part of the family, suggesting for many, a car is far more than just a form of transport.
One in seven car owners (14%) said they felt emotionally attached to one or more of their current or previous cars, and 15% found it hard to give up an old car. More than three quarters (78%) of Brits said a car had been a part of major life events.
Nearly a quarter (23%) said they still think about their first car, while 7% have revealed a nostalgic side by buying a similar vehicle to their first. Over one in 10 (11%) car owners had repurchased the same make and model as a previous car, while a further 7% still had a keepsake from a previous vehicle, such as an old keyring or car accessory.
Young people seemed to have the strongest attachment to their cars, with almost one in five (19%) 25-34 year-olds and 17% of 16-24 year-olds being most emotionally attached to a current or previous car.
Martin Smith, Aviva’s Motor Claims Manager, said: “Our findings highlight just how much sentimental value our cars hold—they’re not just vehicles, but places where we create lasting memories. That’s why it’s so important to regularly maintain your vehicle and make sure you have the right level of insurance protection in place for your needs.
“Policies vary across insurers, depending on the level of cover you opt for. For example, some insurers will make sure that you and your passengers are taken to your onward destination in the event of an accident, as well as taking your car to be fixed by an approved repairer – giving you peace of mind.
“Other valuable add-ons for some drivers might include courtesy car cover, ensuring you have a replacement vehicle if your car is out of action. Regularly reviewing your policy helps ensure you have the right cover for the journeys that matter most.”
