The Rise of Gen Z: Setting New Trends in Aussie Car Culture

Australians are being forced to scale back their spending across the board and some are running the gauntlet in alarming ways.

Australians are postponing car maintenance. Picture: istock image

Australians are putting off vital car maintenance as the cost of living crisis deepens, according to a new survey of motorists.

One in three motorists are postponing regular service and maintenance, with many neglecting replacing their tyres, the survey by insurance company Youi has found.

Youi’s Car Care and Costs Report, based on insights from over 2,000 Australians, found that more than half those surveyed avoided regularly servicing due to the costs involved.

Another third of drivers said they didn’t drive frequently enough to necessitate regular servicing.

Younger drivers are more diligent with maintenance. Picture: iStock image

Head of Product at Youi, Marni Jackson, said a quarter of Aussies had been forced to cut costs on their cars in the past 12 months.

“Our research shows many Aussies are reducing their spending behaviour this year compared with data from as recently as last year,” she said.

Jackson said car maintenance and care was the first expense to be scratched.

Australians are delaying necessary car maintenance due to rising cost of living. Picture: iStock image

Maintenance: Gen Z leading by Example

The survey found different approaches to car maintenance based on age.

Surprisingly Gen Z motorists were more likely than most to stick to regular servicing – nearly half of them reported diligently adhering to bi-annual servicing schedules, compared to the national average of only 38 per cent.

Younger drivers are likely to be more diligent about servicing their car. Photo: Jonathan Ng

Customisation Craze: Personalising the Driving Experience

Beyond oil changes and tire rotations, Gen Z has a keen interest in customising their cars, from intricate sound systems to performance upgrades such as exhaust enhancements.

More than a third report they have modified their car’s sound or entertainment system.

Older age groups are more likely to prioritise practical enhancements such as roof racks, bumpers or tow bars.