69% motorists have changed their motoring activities since the start of 2022 due to the cost of living crisis, a survey from Kwik Fit has revealed.

35% of drivers reduced what they classify as non-essential car journeys. This was more prevalent among petrol and diesel vehicle users, where 40% cut back, as opposed to EV drivers, where just 22% reduced their trips.

21% said they are trying to drive more evenly, with 14% slowing down for all journeys, and 17% doin this for some journeys.

17% of drivers of EVs or hybrids said they left their diesel or petrol car behind this year as a direct result of rising costs. 4% of drivers said they sold their car this year and not replaced it. Drivers under 35 are eight times more likely to make this choice than drivers over 55.
14% of drivers in London made more of their essential journeys by public transport or have car shared. compared to 4% in the more rural areas of the South West and East of England.
11% said they have been working from home even more since January in order to save money on driving costs.

There has been a positive impact on maintenance though. 10% have been regularly checking their tyre pressures, while 11% have emptied their car boot. 3% of drivers say they have removed roof racks, bars or bike racks which they normally keep permanently on their car. (

Commenting on the findings, Kwik Fit Communications Director Roger Griggs said: “The cost of living crisis is impacting many areas of our lives and motoring is no exception. While some drivers are able to cut down on their journeys, many of the journeys motorists make are essential and cannot be made by other means. We would encourage all motorists to make sure their car is running as efficiently as possible and to especially take the measures that cost nothing – ensure that their tyres are at the correct pressure and that the car is not suffering from unnecessary weight in the boot or drag on the roof. Seemingly small measures can have a big impact on fuel consumption and of course, having the correct tyre pressure will also help prolong the life of a tyre by reducing premature wear.”