UK drivers admit they’re too scared to have their car fixed at the garage for 1 reason

Britsh motorists have revealed why they are nervous to take their cars to the garage, with some doing DIY repairs to avoid the process entirely. One in four drivers (27%) admit to avoiding a necessary car repair due to anxiety around going to the garage, according to new data from Turo and YouGov. Research from the Nationwide Vehicle Contracts revealed the "educational barrier" as a reason why drivers fear or have anxiety when it comes to visiting the garage.

Over 30% of people Google what’s wrong with their vehicle to avoid going to the garage, and 20% of drivers have asked a loved one to book their car service or MOT due to anxiety over doing it themselves. Turo's managing director Rory Brimmer explained that avoiding going to the garage could end up making whatever's wrong with the car worse.

He said: "Our Index shows drivers often delay repairs due to the fear of unclear costs, a lack of transparency that turns what should be a straightforward task into a source of stress.

"It’s understandable; nobody wants to face a bill they weren’t expecting. But deferring repairs can make things worse, both financially and from a safety perspective."

The research also found a surprise return to DIY car maintenance, with 26% of motorists aged 18-49 now working on their own cars to avoid service and garage costs.

RAC data found that millennials are particularly likely to take on car work themselves, with over a quarter saying they would do it to save money.

London Turo host Elisha Francis offered handy tips to ensure drivers go to reliable garages, avoiding the nasty shock of a pricey bill.

She said: "I recommend doing your own research into the common issues so you know what to expect, and checking out where has good reviews.

"One tip is to get the cost up front and check if it is likely to change, then you can shop around rather than being presented with the bill at the end."