Older drivers are being left “anxious and financially stressed” over potential car breakdowns with many forking out for added protection.
New research from the RAC Dealer Network found that elderly motorists were more likely to secure extended warranties, service plans and breakdown cover than younger demographics.
Motorists aged over 55 were among the most interested in the added features to protect their vehicle from costly repairs.
Meanwhile, those between the ages of 18-34 were more concerned with cosmetics with many purchasing tyre and alloy insurance products.
Lee Coomber, RAC client director at Assurant, which partners with the RAC in the aftersales sector, warned older people were generally “more attracted” to safety schemes.
He explained: “It’s especially interesting to look at demand for all dealer products by age.
“People in the two older age categories are attracted to products such as warranties that cover the car and make motoring more easily affordable, while the propensity for alloy wheel and cosmetic damage among younger people shows both a desire to keep their car looking good, and to avoid unexpected expenses in this area.”
It comes after a new poll found that 58 percent of motorists would not have sufficient money to cover a big motoring bill.
Among those, 21 percent of respondents admitted they would rely on their car warranty to cover any issues.
Another 13 percent claimed they would put costs on their credit card or use another lender.
A staggering 10 percent would rely on family or friends with 12 percent completely unsure where they would find the money.
Almost half of all road users polled (47 percent) admitted they would be anxious and stressed by an unexpected £1,000 bill.
This figure is up from just 37 percent the last time respondents were queried back in 2021.
However, just three-quarters of motorists (74 percent) were aware car dealers offer extended warranties with 39 percent likely to take one out on their current model.
Mr Coomber has warned expensive four-figure fees to fix issues were “not uncommon”.
He added: “A £1,000 repair bill for a used car is not uncommon – transmission issues, air conditioning compressors or timing chain failure can easily cost this much – and it’s clear fewer people feel that they would be able to cope with this kind of financial strain.”
