#USA #Nashville #Gen Z #Millennials #Hankook Tire

Understanding Young Drivers' Spending Trends in Vehicle Maintenance

The latest findings from the Hankook Tire Gauge Index reveal a significant trend: younger drivers are championing the importance of budgeting for vehicle maintenance. This shift is reflective of changing attitudes toward financial preparedness, particularly among Gen Z and Millennials. The survey indicates that these generations are not just passive consumers; they are strategizing their spending habits when it comes to automotive care.

Financial Preparedness Takes Center Stage

In 2025, one-quarter of the surveyed drivers emphasized their plans to set aside funds specifically for routine maintenance and unexpected repairs. This readiness to invest proactively in vehicle upkeep is particularly pronounced among younger generations. A striking 31% of Gen Z and 29% of Millennials reported that they regularly plan for such costs, outpacing both Gen X and Baby Boomers significantly. Furthermore, a notable fraction of Millennial drivers, 28%, intends to create a maintenance budget for the first time, compared to 16% of their Gen Z counterparts.

This trend highlights a growing awareness of the financial implications associated with automotive ownership and necessitates a more informed approach to vehicle expenses. It appears that younger drivers are keen to break a cycle of reactive spending, which often leads to larger financial burdens down the road.

Anticipating Increased Spending in 2025

As they look ahead, many drivers are bracing for heightened costs related to vehicle care. According to the Index, nearly half of the surveyed population expect to shell out over $500 on regular maintenance in the year to come. Within the younger demographic, spending expectations are even more pronounced; 36% of Gen Z and 28% of Millennials are prepared to spend upwards of $1,000 on crucial services like oil changes.

In terms of unexpected repairs, more than half of the overall drivers surveyed believe they will also face bills exceeding $500 for repairs that catch them off guard. Notably, this figure climbs to 47% among Gen Z respondents and 38% for Millennials, who expect to invest considerable sums on maintenance due to their proactive planning.

When it comes to tire replacements, nearly two-thirds (65%) of all drivers plan to change at least one tire this year, with 54% of those anticipating expenses close to $999. The main reasons behind tire replacement were reported as worn tread (28%) and handling issues (22%), underscoring the critical importance of both safety and vehicle performance.

The Growing Appeal of Vehicle Customization

Furthermore, the survey also identified a burgeoning interest in personalization, with 55% of all drivers intending to allocate funds for aftermarket enhancements in their vehicles. This enthusiasm for customization is especially prevalent among younger drivers, where 37% of Gen Z and 35% of Millennials expect to invest more than $1,000 on modifications such as trendy wheels, interior enhancements, or tech upgrades.

Ultimately, these findings reflect a distinct mindset shift. Younger drivers are keenly aware of the interplay between planned and unplanned vehicle-related expenses, recognizing the importance of proactive vehicle care and budgeting to avert financial surprises.

Preparing for Road Trips

In tandem with their spending habits, young drivers are also actively considering their behavior regarding long-distance travel. The Index defines long-distance trips as those exceeding 500 miles. Interestingly, 30% of all surveyed drivers expressed concerns about mechanical issues under the hood when preparing for such journeys. Additionally, comfort and cost-effectiveness rank as top priorities for nearly half of the respondents when selecting a vehicle for longer trips.

Brooklyn Emery, Brand Communications Manager for Hankook Tire America Corp., commented on these trends: “These findings highlight the importance of balancing planned and unplanned vehicle expenses. With both preventive maintenance and budgeting a priority, drivers are increasingly recognizing the value of investing in vehicle care to avoid costly surprises and ensure safety and performance.”

As Hankook continues to adapt to these evolving consumer attitudes, it reaffirms its commitment to providing innovative tire solutions that cater to the diverse needs of modern drivers, promoting enhanced safety, performance, and personal expression on the road.

The Hankook Gauge Index surveys Americans' opinions and attitudes about vehicle ownership and driving, with the latest survey conducted from December 10 to 14, interviewing 1,123 randomly selected adults aged 18 and older.

About Hankook Tire America Corp.

Hankook Tire America Corp. has emerged as a significant player in the U.S. tire market, actively investing in manufacturing, technology, and marketing to provide high-quality products that prioritize consumer safety and environmental sustainability. Located in Nashville, Tennessee, Hankook Tire markets a comprehensive line of high-performance passenger, light truck, SUV, and medium-duty truck tires, reinforcing its standing as a global leader in tire manufacturing.