New research indicates that Gen Z and Millennials in the UK are prioritising DIY car maintenance and upgrades above traditional leisure activities such as holidays and nights out.
A survey commissioned by eBay Advertising, involving 1,000 UK car owners, found that younger generations are not only confident in buying and fitting car parts themselves but are also increasingly seeing their vehicles as significant lifestyle investments.
DIY confidence
The survey results highlight a notable generational shift, with 67% of Gen Z and Millennials expressing confidence in both purchasing and installing car parts themselves. This is in contrast to 46% across the entire survey group. Additionally, one third (32%) of the younger respondents reported a sense of pride in maintaining their vehicles, compared to 24% overall.
The findings suggest that, for many young drivers, taking care of their own vehicle goes beyond practicality and enters the realm of personal satisfaction.
Spending priorities
Gen Z and Millennials are also demonstrating a clear willingness to prioritise their vehicles over other forms of discretionary spending. Approximately 42% of younger respondents said they would prefer to invest in their car rather than a luxury holiday, while 42% also stated they would opt for car upgrades over socialising. This compares to 30% of all respondents prioritising cars over holidays or social events.
Furthermore, 41% of Gen Z and Millennials prioritise spending on their vehicles rather than purchasing new tech gadgets, notably higher than the 32% recorded among all respondents.
Online marketplaces
The research points towards a growing reliance on online marketplaces for car-related purchases among younger demographics. Within the last six months, 36% of Gen Z respondents reported buying car parts or related products via platforms such as eBay, compared to 26% of the wider respondent group.
Trust is an important factor influencing these purchasing decisions. For Gen Z car owners, the platform or brand's reputation outweighed price, with 39% identifying trust as their primary reason for choosing where to shop. Advertising continues to play a significant role, with 49% of Gen Z respondents saying they discover new car products and brands through online ads.
Commentary
Billy Mills, Senior Director of Enterprise Seller Development & Brands at eBay, said:
"The popularity of DIY car culture among younger drivers is influencing how car parts and accessories are found and bought, with many researching and purchasing online before fitting items themselves. For sellers and brands, trusted marketplaces and well-targeted ads are key to reaching this audience effectively. By using data-driven insights, they can deliver the right message to the right buyer at the right time - engaging a generation that treats their vehicles as both a practical necessity and a lifestyle statement."
Survey methodology
The research was conducted between 22 August and 26 August 2025, with respondents comprising UK adults aged 17 and above who own a car. Fieldwork was carried out by Censuswide, in accordance with the Market Research Society's guidelines and ESOMAR principles. The research sample aims to represent the broader UK car-owning population.
The data illustrates a shift in spending patterns and priorities among younger UK drivers, revealing a preference for self-sufficiency and investment in their vehicles, with a corresponding impact on related sectors, including retail, technology and leisure.
