Skoda Ireland's Motoring Costs Insight report reveals that most Irish motorists are expecting the cost of running a car to increase in 2013. The survey also shows that the amount of money spent on motoring costs differs greatly between different age groups.
Of those surveyed, over half expect fuel prices to rise between 10-15 per cent at the pumps in 2013; with only 16 per cent predicting a fall. Results show that more than half of motorists over the age of 45 will fill their tanks when buying fuel; compared to just 20 per cent of those aged 18-24. Forecourt loyalty cardholders made up just over 25 per cent of those surveyed; with a surprising 60 per cent of those saying the cards make little or no difference to the cost of fuel.
Additional spending in garage forecourts has also taken a hit; with a quarter of motorists admitting to buying nothing else when filling up, and 20 per cent of those who do spending less than €2.50.
When it comes to servicing, almost a third of motorists objected to paying for an annual service; and of those who are willing to pay, more than a quarter wanted to simply spend as little as possible. Interestingly, it also came to light that 75 per cent of those aged over 45 serviced their cars annually; as opposed to those between 18-24 where over a quarter admitted to only doing so when they remembered. In contrast, a high 80 per cent of motorists are happy to spend more on better quality tyres that last longer than budget brands.
In line with insurance premium increases, 59 per cent of Irish motorists have no breakdown cover; while most of those who do, have it included in their insurance package.
"Irish motorists are now more cost conscious than ever," says Raymond Leddy, Head of Marketing at Skoda Ireland. "Our survey shows that older drivers will shop around to find cheaper fuel; but worryingly, younger motorists are more likely to neglect vehicle maintenance and tyre condition."