Rising Car Maintenance Costs Prompt Downgrades in Russia
Over the past year, a sizable portion of Russian drivers have tightened their belts when it comes to car upkeep. Analysts from IC Rosgosstrakh and the Autocode service for verifying and selecting used cars found that 31% of respondents reported a 15-20% increase in maintenance and repair expenses. An additional 29% said their spending rose by 25-30%. These shifts reflect broader price pressures and tighter budgets among vehicle owners, suggesting that many households are prioritizing essential upkeep while seeking ways to stretch every ruble further.
Beyond the numbers on maintenance bills, the data also reveals a mindset shift: roughly one third of respondents admitted that they had not previously focused on saving on repairs or maintenance but have started doing so in the wake of rising costs. The impulse to cut back is clear, and it appears to be shaping how people plan for routine care and unexpected fixes alike.
Saving on spare parts has become more than a cost-saving tactic; it is a practical response to two converging realities. First, price increases make even common parts feel expensive. Second, supply challenges complicate access to some original, manufacturer-made components. In several cases, delivery delays stretch into months, forcing owners to rethink their maintenance schedules and stockpiling habits. This has pushed drivers toward more proactive sourcing and budgeting for parts, as well as considering alternatives that balance reliability with affordability.
When Russians look for ways to reduce the burden of ongoing vehicle ownership, a few common strategies stand out. Many opt to limit driving over long distances, with 14% dialing back on in-car travel. A larger group, 23%, reduce daily usage, turning to other modes of transport for routine trips. A notable portion, 43%, take on the repairs themselves, and 46% manage the car’s upkeep with a hands-on approach that minimizes professional service visits. In a similar vein, nearly half, 49%, choose cheaper consumables as a straightforward way to trim costs. Finally, about half delay minor body repairs, opting to address cosmetic issues later when more time and money allow. Taken together, these habits show a broad shift toward self-reliance and budget-conscious decision-making amid economic pressure.
Another trend seen in the data is the search for more affordable insurance options. About a third of Russian drivers report they are looking for cheaper OSAGO policies, indicating that the financial squeeze extends to risk protection and the way drivers balance ongoing costs with coverage needs. As car owners adjust to higher bills in maintenance and parts, the broader calculus of vehicle ownership continues to evolve, with affordability driving both behavior and choices about how to protect a car and keep it roadworthy.
Source: Auto Code. Photo: Depositphotos