The aging domestic vehicle fleet is a growing problem

Europ Assistance recently conducted a comprehensive, representative survey on the car use and vehicle insurance habits of Hungarians. The research finds that nearly three-quarters (72%) of the 18-69-year-old population own a car in their household, and every fifth person owns more than one vehicle. According to the survey, 49 percent of domestic cars are at least 16 years old, 34 percent are 6-15 years old, and only every sixth car is younger: 1-5 years old. The findings are in line with data published by the Hungarian Central Statistical Office (KSH), which shows that the average age of passenger cars in Hungary will have reached 16.2 years in 2024. The research also shows that more than half (57%) of Hungarian drivers make domestic trips longer than 100 kilometers at least every quarter, and every third car owner does so at least once a month. Another third of the population drives within the country 1-3 times a year, and only one in five drivers never or less than twice a year travel such a distance.

Awareness must be raised – there are risk-reducing solutions

One ​​of the sad consequences of the aging vehicle fleet is that breakdowns occur more frequently, thus increasing the risk that car owners will suddenly have to reach deep into their pockets if a breakdown or bodywork damage occurs. Despite this, 53 percent of drivers do not have any assistance or CASCO insurance, which provide financial assistance in unexpected situations.

Whether it is a new vehicle or one that is several years old, an unexpected breakdown can occur at any time. Battery problems or electrical faults can often occur, coolant leaks or lack thereof, timing chain breakage, and even a flat tire can cause serious problems. In the case of more modern cars, software and sensor errors can occur.