The survey of 2,000 UK drivers with cars over 10 years old revealed 57 per cent will keep their car for longer due to worries about the current financial situation.
However, running an older car has, in some cases, caused some motorists financial anguish, with 10 per cent claiming some repair bills have run into the thousands .
While nearly one in 10 aren’t sure how much their ageing car has set them back.
And 21 per cent reckon they’ve spent more on repairs in any given year than they think their entire car is actually worth.
But 64 per cent said unexpected car repair bills cause them stress, while 44 per cent had experienced two or more surprise bills over the last 12 months.
Almost a third (31 per cent) have had a bill of £400 or more in the past year for an unanticipated but essential maintenance item, while 10 per cent have had a single bill of £1,000 or more.
When their beloved old banger conked out, 35 per cent admitted to taking it out on the car itself, by giving the door a boot or whacking the steering wheel.
It also emerged 43 per cent suspect it may be more economical to buy and run a newer car, than keep maintaining their older one.
Choosing the best finance option
Mark Carpenter, CEO at nearly new vehicle retailer Motorpoint, which commissioned the research, said: “It’s important when budgeting for a new car to consider maintenance costs, which will be required throughout its life.
“In the current climate, many motorists will look to weigh up the pros of hanging on to an older car, which they may own outright, with financing a newer one that may meet their needs for additional space, lower emissions, improved economy, and safety equipment.
“For those with a vehicle that has become unpredictable, or
