Latest Trends in Car Ownership: Costs and Challenges for Japanese Consumers

In a recent survey conducted by 400F, the company behind the financial advisory service OkaneCo, insights into the current state of car ownership in Japan have been revealed. The survey, which involved 477 users of OkaneCo, shed light on the financial implications of purchasing and maintaining a personal vehicle.

Key Findings of the Survey

The results of the survey indicate that approximately 70.9% of respondents own a car, highlighting a significant prevalence of vehicle ownership across different age groups. Notably, the most popular vehicle types include lightweight cars (36.1%) and gasoline vehicles (74.0%). Additionally, 70.4% of respondents purchased their vehicles as new rather than used.

The average purchase cost for a car has been identified as approximately ¥2.68 million (around $18,000). Notably, nearly 40% of respondents admitted to feeling financial anxiety prior to their car purchases. This demographic trend is essential to understand as it indicates a prevalent concern regarding the affordability of vehicles before making such significant investments.

Budget Overruns: A Common Struggle

While the average car price is pegged at ¥2.68 million, a staggering 51.5% of car owners indicated that they exceeded their initial budget when finalizing their purchases. The primary reasons for these overruns include poor estimation of vehicle costs as well as the challenges in estimating ongoing maintenance costs. Approximately 30.6% cited enhancing features or customizations as contributing factors to the increased prices.

Moreover, ongoing costs related to car ownership average around ¥20,000 per month. Among these monthly expenses, the most burdensome is the price of gasoline, which 55.9% of respondents identified as a major financial strain.

Rising Maintenance Costs: The Impact of Economic Changes

When surveyed about changes in vehicle maintenance costs over the past year, an overwhelming 64.8% reported experiencing higher expenses. Many attribute this increase primarily to rising fuel prices and other associated costs. This situation has led to economic challenges for households trying to manage their finances effectively within the constraints of an unpredictable market.

Additionally, the survey explored the external influences on future car purchases, particularly focusing on the potential impact of tariffs imposed during the Trump administration. Approximately 31.7% of respondents expressed that such tariffs could affect their purchasing decisions, compelling some to accelerate buying plans or otherwise delay purchases based on anticipated price increases.

Conclusion: The Ongoing Journey of Car Ownership

This survey provides valuable insights into the financial realities of car ownership among Japanese consumers. With significant numbers of individuals facing budget overruns and rising maintenance costs, the findings emphasize the challenges linked to estimating financial obligations accurately. At 400F, we remain committed to addressing money-related challenges, ensuring assistance is available to families grappling with financial planning, especially concerning car purchases.

As the landscape shifts, understanding these dynamics allows for better preparation and strategic planning for potential consumers. The importance of accurate financial forecasting cannot be overstated, particularly considering the evolving economic environment and its impact on everyday expenses related to car ownership.

Survey Overview

Survey Name: OkaneCo Car Ownership Survey
Method: Online Questionnaire
Duration: May 16, 2025 - May 18, 2025
Respondents: 477 OkaneCo users
* Demographics: Diverse age and income groups represented in the sample,
with age groups evenly distributed from under 30 to over 60, and income levels ranging upward of ¥4 million annually.

With careful evaluation of personal finances, prospective car buyers can navigate the complexities of ownership in today’s economic climate. We remain dedicated to empowering consumers with the knowledge and resources they need to successfully manage their finances and make informed decisions regarding car ownership.