DIY & DIFM car repairs and maintenance work

Introducing BBE Automotive’s New Study: “DIY & DIFM car repairs and maintenance work – Where Desire Meets Reality”

BBE Automotive’s proudly presents its latest study, diving deep into the world of DIY & DIFM car repairs and maintenance. With insights from 2,000 car drivers in Germany, this comprehensive report explores the motivations, challenges, and evolving trends shaping the DIY automotive landscape. Whether you’re a car owner, workshop, or industry professional, this study sheds light on the untapped potential and growing dynamics of the market.

Key Insights:

1. The DIY Spectrum: A World of Contrasts

The desire to repair one’s own car remains strong. Many drivers view DIY as a way to save money or find personal satisfaction in hands-on work. However, not everyone who dreams of DIY can make it a reality.

• Around 12% of drivers avoid garages but lack third-party help, forming the core group of DIY potential.
• Another 12% avoid garages by relying on friends or acquaintances for assistance.
• Yet, despite this interest, less than 10% of all car maintenance is done as DIY—between 6-8%, according to the survey.

This gap between aspiration and action highlights the challenges facing car owners who want to repair their vehicles themselves.

2. DIY Behavior and Its Impact on Car Owners

Past experiences with DIY repairs significantly influence current behavior. Drivers who’ve had positive outcomes—such as a successful oil change or brake replacement—often continue with small-scale tasks. But for others, challenges like incorrect parts or failed fixes lead to greater reliance on professional services. This dual impact creates clear segments within the market, from confident DIYers to those who opt for workshops without hesitation.

3. Characteristics of the DIY Groups

The study categorizes car owners into distinct groups based on their approach to maintenance:

• The Confident Fixers: Experienced individuals who handle a variety of tasks independently.
• The Helper-Dependent: Those who depend on friends or family for expertise and tools.
• The Curious Beginners: Eager but lacking the skills to take on repairs themselves.
• The Workshop-Goers: Drivers who prefer the convenience and reliability of garages.

Each group presents unique opportunities for businesses looking to target the DIY or aftermarket segments effectively.

 4. Pain Points: Why DIY Falls Short

The study identifies key barriers stopping drivers from embracing DIY:

• Lack of Tools: Many repairs require specialized equipment that is costly or impractical for occasional use.
• Knowledge Gaps: Diagnosing problems and finding correct parts can overwhelm even the most eager DIYers.
• Time Constraints: Repair work requires dedication, and many drivers simply don’t have the time.
• Fear of Mistakes: Concerns about causing further damage often lead drivers to seek professional help.

These challenges push the majority of drivers—around 75%—to rely directly on garages, even if they would prefer a DIY solution.

5. The Reality of DIY in the Maintenance Market

While nearly one in four drivers show a DIY inclination, only 6-8% of actual repair work is carried out in a DIY manner. Over 90% of car maintenance tasks are handled by professional garages. The findings emphasize that while the desire to avoid garages is strong, the ability to do so is often limited by resources, skills, or practical constraints.

 6. Install It For Me” (IIFM): Bridging DIY and Professional Help

The study highlights a growing trend that offers a middle ground between full DIY and professional services: Install It For Me. Drivers purchase parts online and then partner with workshops for installation.

This model is particularly well-established in the tire market, where customers can purchase tires online and have them delivered directly to a fitting partner. Other parts are beginning to follow this trend, though integration is less advanced. Nearly 20% of DIY-inclined drivers now use this approach, blending cost-efficiency with professional expertise.

7. Online Portals: A Vital Resource

Online platforms are playing an increasingly important role in the DIY and IIFM landscape. From sourcing parts to finding tutorials or nearby workshops, they provide crucial support to car owners. However, the study reveals that awareness and usage of these platforms vary widely, showing potential for growth as more drivers discover their benefits.