Yonder summary June 2026
The June 2026 AA/Yonder Motoring Panel was held between 18 and 24 June 2026 and received 10,611 responses from drivers and AA members.
In this survey
Journey preparations
Before a long summer car journey, more than eight in ten (83%) fill up with a full tank of fuel, while more than three-quarters (78%) check tyre pressure, condition or age and almost three-quarters (74%) check windscreen washer fluid. Around two-thirds (65%) set their route using a route planner and 62% check oil levels. More than half prepare drinks or snacks (56%) and check coolant levels (51%).
Just over two-fifths (42%) check their lights, while 38% clean the inside of their car and 35% clean the outside. Less common preparations include using an atlas (17%), buying breakdown cover (12%) and filling the tank to at least half full (11%). Fewer than one in ten prepare in-car entertainment for young passengers (7%), check fuel prices along the route (6%), ensure their EV is fully charged (5%) or check charging locations in advance (4%).
Summer road trips
Around three in ten respondents planned to drive under 50 miles during each of the main summer periods: 3–9 July (33%), 10–16 July (30%), 17–23 July (29%), 24–30 July (28%), 31 July–6 August (28%), 7–13 August (27%), 14–20 August (27%), 21 August (34%), 22 August (35%), 23 August (35%), 24 August (35%), 25 August (35%), 26 August (35%), 27 August (35%) and 28 August–3 September (27%).
Fewer planned journeys of 51–100 miles, although more than one in ten expected to travel this distance during 3–9 July (16%), 10–16 July (15%), 17–23 July (13%), 24–30 July (13%), 31 July–6 August (13%), 7–13 August (12%) and 14–20 August (11%).
Among those planning summer road travel, almost half (47%) expected at least one trip primarily to visit family, while two-fifths (39%) expected to travel mainly for work and one-third (33%) for shopping. One-quarter (25%) planned a UK holiday, compared with 6% planning a holiday in Europe. Other reasons included a long weekend break (15%), a day trip to another attraction (14%), a coastal day trip (11%), a road trip (11%) and a visit to a garden or DIY centre (11%).
The M25 was the most commonly travelled well-known UK route, driven by seven in ten (71%). Around one-third had driven the Jurassic Coast from Swanage to Lyme Regis (33%), the Atlantic Highway from Barnstaple to Newquay (32%) and the Gower Peninsula (30%). Around one-quarter had driven Thetford to King’s Lynn (26%), Danby to York across the moors (25%) and the Northumberland 250 (23%). Fewer had driven the North Coast 500 (18%), Bishop’s Waltham to Winchester (14%) and the Giant’s Causeway coastal route (11%).
Enjoyment among those who had travelled each route was high for the Giant’s Causeway coastal route (96%), North Coast 500 (95%), Gower Peninsula (92%), Northumberland 250 (92%), Danby to York (92%), Jurassic Coast (91%) and Atlantic Highway (87%). Around three-quarters enjoyed Thetford to King’s Lynn (73%) and Bishop’s Waltham to Winchester (73%). By contrast, 12% of those who had travelled the M25 were positive about the experience.
Devon (11%) and the Lake District (11%) were the most common destinations respondents planned to visit by car, campervan or motorbike this year, followed by Cornwall (10%), other areas in England (10%), London (10%), the Yorkshire Dales (9%) and other seaside resorts in England (9%). Other destinations included another UK city (8%), the Cotswolds (7%), York (7%), the Peak District (7%), Somerset (6%), the Highlands and islands (6%), the New Forest (6%), somewhere else in Wales (6%) and Edinburgh (6%). Smaller proportions planned to drive to Manchester (5%), Bath (4%), Bristol (4%), Glasgow (4%), Oxford (4%), Liverpool (4%) or Cambridge (4%). Three in ten (31%) were not planning to drive anywhere in the UK on holiday this year.
When asked how far they would drive one way to discover somewhere new for a day out, one in ten (10%) said 31–59 minutes, two-fifths (40%) said one to two hours and over one-quarter (28%) said two to three hours. One in ten (11%) would travel three to four hours and 6% more than four hours.
Chinese cars
When asked about owning a car made by a Chinese manufacturer, around one-third (32%) did not know what their view was. Almost one-quarter (24%) would consider purchasing one, while two-fifths (42%) would not, including 16% who said they would never buy one.
Half (50%) were unsure whether Chinese cars were less safe than well-established brands; 11% agreed they were less safe and 12% disagreed. The same proportion (50%) were unsure whether standard Chinese models offer more than traditional competitors, while more than one in five (22%) agreed they do and 7% disagreed.
Almost half (49%) were unsure whether their data would be handled more securely by Chinese brands, while 48% disagreed that all car manufacturers are the same regardless of nationality. Two in five (45%) believed Chinese cars tend to be more affordable than established brands, although 38% did not know.
Almost half (46%) were unsure whether established brands offer a stronger service, maintenance and repair network, while around one-third (32%) believed they do. Nearly half (47%) agreed that competition between Chinese and established brands is good for consumers, compared with around one in ten (11%) who disagreed. One-quarter (26%) believed established brands produce better-quality vehicles, while 7% disagreed.
Three in ten (30%) agreed that established manufacturers need to do more to convince them when replacing their car because Chinese-made vehicles are attractive. Just over one in five (22%) disagreed, one-quarter (25%) were neutral and 23% were uncertain.
Tyre age
Around one-third (34%) had driven a classic vehicle, just over one-quarter (28%) a motorcycle and around one in six (16%) a motorhome. Smaller proportions had driven a horsebox (4%), car transporter (3%) or catering vehicle (1%).
For towing, around one in six (17%) had towed a caravan and 13% a camping trailer. Fewer had towed a horse trailer (6%), horsebox (4%), car transporter (4%), classic vehicle (4%), motorhome (2%), motorcycle (2%) or catering vehicle (2%). Across the vehicles and trailers tested, between 71% and 96% said they had not driven or towed them.
Three in five (60%) expected to find a tyre’s build date somewhere on the tyre itself. One in ten (10%) expected it to be checked as part of an MOT, while 7% would rely on a garage, 5% would search online, 3% would check the vehicle handbook and 2% would check service records. Around one in ten (11%) did not know.
Men were more likely than women to expect to find the build date on the tyre itself (68% versus 45%). Women were more likely to expect it to be checked during an MOT (14% versus 8%) and to say they did not know (16% versus 9%).
After taking the survey, more than three in five (63%) said they would be more likely to check tyre age when considering buying a car, including three in ten (30%) who were much more likely. One-third (32%) said they were no more or less likely to do so.
Seaside parking
Respondents said they would be prepared to pay an average of £11.90 for a day’s parking at the seaside, while around one in ten (12%) would not be prepared to pay at all.
Around three in ten (29%) do not usually check seaside or attraction parking costs in advance and pay whatever the charge is on the day. Around one-quarter (24%) check costs in advance, while one in seven (14%) do not think about parking costs at all. Just over one in ten (12%) assume charges will be similar to where they live, and 7% said being caught out by high seaside parking costs previously means they now always check in advance.
If parking cost between £20 and £30 for six hours or longer, over one-third (35%) would refuse to pay and look for somewhere else to park legally. One in six (16%) would pay but be irritated, and the same proportion (16%) would pay but resolve not to return to the resort. A further 15% would leave the resort and go elsewhere, while 5% would stay at a hotel, B&B or campsite and park there because the cost would be similar.
For a day at the beach, around one-third (34%) would expect to park for four to six hours and three in ten (30%) for two to four hours. One in seven (14%) expected six to eight hours. Smaller proportions would park at a hotel, B&B or campsite instead (5%), stay for less than two hours (4%), park for eight to ten hours (3%) or stay for more than ten hours (1%).
Yonder summary May 2026
The May 2026 AA/Yonder Motoring Panel was held between 15 and 20 May 2026 and received 12,479 responses from drivers and AA members.
In this survey
Motorway service areas
Views of motorway service areas were mixed. Three in five (60%) felt there were enough to meet their needs on long journeys, while 13% disagreed and 18% were neutral. More than three in five (61%) agreed toilets were clean and tidy, with 16% disagreeing, while 63% felt there were enough toilets and 13% disagreed. More than half (55%) believed service areas had improved in recent years, while 10% disagreed.
Price was a clear concern. More than three-quarters (77%) disagreed that motorway service area fuel prices were acceptable, including 56% who strongly disagreed. Just 6% agreed and 9% were neutral. More than half (56%) also disagreed that shop prices, excluding food and drink, were reasonable, compared with 12% who agreed and 19% who were neutral.
Almost two-thirds (63%) agreed that service areas can be overcrowded and too busy, while 9% disagreed. On parking capacity, almost half (46%) disagreed that there was insufficient parking and around one in five (22%) agreed.
Note: The source reports a further 26% for the parking-capacity question without identifying the response category.
Most respondents were uncertain about EV charging. Nearly three-quarters (72%) did not know whether there were enough EV charge points, while 6% agreed provision was sufficient and 9% disagreed. Almost eight in ten (78%) did not know whether EV charge points always seemed to be out of order.
Almost half (48%) agreed that on-site signage was always clear, compared with 22% who disagreed and 24% who were neutral. For food and drink prices, 46% gave a neutral rating, 31% rated them poor and 17% good. Views of quality were more favourable, with 34% rating it good, 48% neutral and 11% poor. For the range of outlets, 38% rated the offering good, 47% neutral and 9% poor.
Misfuelling
The majority (85%) had never put the wrong fuel in their car, while 15% had. Just over half (53%) said they would definitely know what to do immediately after misfuelling, one-quarter (25%) were unsure and almost one in five (18%) would not know what to do.
Engine damage was the main concern, cited by seven in ten (71%), followed by repair costs (57%) and the risk of being stranded (35%). Around one-third (32%) worried about journey delays, while 18% were concerned about wasted fuel, 14% about embarrassment and 7% about not knowing who to call. A further 15% said they would worry about all of these.
May half term travel
Between 22 and 31 May, more than half of respondents (53%–58%) planned to travel less than 50 miles on any given day. Smaller proportions (6%–7%) expected to travel 51–100 miles, while around one-quarter (22%–26%) did not plan to drive.
Among those travelling, four in ten (40%) planned a shopping trip and a similar proportion (39%) intended to visit family. Almost one-quarter (23%) planned to visit a DIY store or garden centre, while 22% expected to drive for work. Other plans included day trips to attractions (12%), coastal trips (8%), UK holidays (7%), long weekend breaks (7%), sporting events (6%) and road trips (5%). At the time of the survey, 6% had not decided on their specific plans.
European travel plans
Almost nine in ten (89%) were not intending to travel by road to mainland Europe, while 7% planned such a trip and 5% were undecided. Intentions were slightly higher in London (9%), the South East (8%) and East of England (8%).
Among those planning to travel by road to mainland Europe, more than half (56%) were considering European breakdown cover. Men were more likely than women to consider it (60% versus 45%). Around one-third (32%) were not considering cover, with women more likely than men to say this (39% versus 30%). A further 12% were unsure, rising to 17% among women compared with 10% of men.
Driving test confidence
Nearly three-quarters (72%) said they had felt confident about passing their practical driving test when they took it, compared with one-third (33%) who felt confident about the theory test. More than half (53%) did not take a theory test, including 57% of those aged 55–64, 61% of 65–74s and 62% of those aged 75+.
Older respondents were more confident about their original practical test: three-quarters (75%) of 65–74s and 77% of those aged 75+ felt confident, compared with 57% of 25–34s. Men were also more likely than women to have felt confident (77% versus 61%).
If retaking both tests today, almost eight in ten (78%) would feel confident about passing the practical test and 43% the theory test.
Among respondents unsure whether they would pass, confidence was highest in eyesight (95%), observations at junctions (94%) and alertness (92%). Nine in ten felt confident about mirror use (90%) and their attitude towards other road users (90%), followed by hazard awareness (86%) and speed control (85%). Three-quarters (77%) were confident about following a sat nav, while around two-thirds felt confident about reversing manoeuvres (68%), hazard perception (67%), safety and vehicle knowledge (65%) and managing nerves (62%). Confidence was lower for road signs (50%) and rules of the road (41%).
When asked where they might fail, nine in ten (90%) cited up-to-date Highway Code knowledge, while 61% mentioned bad habits and 59% rules of the road in the theory test.
Roads policing
Respondents generally felt drivers were unlikely to be caught by police officers in cars or on motorbikes for many offences. For speeding, 28% thought a driver was likely to be caught, 36% were neutral and one-third (33%) said unlikely. For drink driving, one in five (20%) said likely, 39% neutral and 36% unlikely. For drug driving, 14% said likely, 35% neutral and 43% unlikely.
For handheld mobile phone use, 16% thought an offender was likely to be caught, 34% were neutral and 46% said unlikely. Just one in ten (10%) thought careless driving such as tailgating or middle-lane hogging was likely to be detected, while 30% were neutral and 55% said unlikely.
For a vehicle in a dangerous or defective condition, 14% said likely, 37% neutral and 44% unlikely. For not wearing a seatbelt, 13% said likely, 35% neutral and 47% unlikely. Similar views applied to running a red light, with 15% saying likely, 35% neutral and 46% unlikely.
For driving without insurance, 18% said an offender was likely to be caught, 33% were neutral and 41% said unlikely. For driving without Vehicle Excise Duty, the figures were 20% likely, 33% neutral and 39% unlikely. For bus-lane offences, 29% said likely, 29% neutral and 33% unlikely. For driving under a red ‘X’ on a smart motorway, 19% said likely, 29% neutral and 29% unlikely.
A large majority (85%) believed a more visible police presence would make roads safer, while 88% said it would make local communities safer. Three-quarters (76%) agreed too many drivers currently get away with traffic offences, and almost eight in ten (79%) believed more police officers on the road could help reduce wider crime, including vehicle theft, drug dealing and human trafficking.
Almost three-quarters (72%) disagreed that there was a visible police presence on local roads, with 15% agreeing. On main roads, 62% disagreed and 22% agreed. On motorways, two-fifths (41%) disagreed and 27% agreed. More than two-thirds (68%) disagreed that roads can be policed effectively by cameras alone, while 13% agreed.
Six in ten (60%) agreed that traffic officers employed by national highways agencies should have more powers to enforce motoring offences, while 18% disagreed. Views were more mixed on local community safety patrol teams, with 42% supporting powers to enforce motoring offences such as speeding and 34% disagreeing.
MOT repairs
Following an advisory notice at an MOT, almost half (48%) said they get the issue repaired immediately and a further one in five (19%) arrange the repair within a month. Smaller proportions wait up to three months (8%) or six months (4%).
Yonder summary April 2026
The April 2026 AA/Yonder Motoring Panel was held between 15 and 23 April 2026 and received 13,150 responses from drivers and AA members.
In this survey
Car food
When asked which foods they least like being eaten in the car, just over one-third (34%) placed fish among their top three choices and almost three in ten (29%) said fast food. Around one-fifth selected eggs (21%), ice cream or lollies (19%), pies (18%) and crisps (17%). Juicy fruits (16%), yoghurt (16%) and sweet pastries, cakes or flapjacks (15%) followed.
Around one in ten included biscuits (11%), beef jerky or dried meat (10%) and hummus with vegetables or breadsticks (9%) among their top three. Fewer chose bananas (7%), cheese (5%) or nuts (5%). One in five (19%) said none of the foods listed were among their least favourite.
Crisps were the most popular favourite car snack (11%), followed by bananas (9%), fast food (7%), biscuits (6%) and nuts (5%). Three in ten (30%) said none of the listed foods were their favourite car snack.
Overloading
More than half (58%) correctly identified all the listed signs of an overloaded car. Around three in ten recognised a lowered rear of the car (31%) and less responsive handling (28%), while one-quarter (25%) identified tyres appearing underinflated or flattened. More than one in five selected slower braking (22%) and sagging suspension (21%). Fewer recognised noises from the suspension (15%) or the driver’s vision being obscured (12%).
Two-thirds (67%) correctly identified Maximum Authorised Mass as the total maximum weight of a car. Men were more likely than women to answer correctly (72% versus 58%). A further 12% thought it meant the total number of passengers allowed and 8% thought it referred to maximum weight per tyre. Around one in ten (11%) did not know, rising to 15% among women compared with 9% of men.
When asked about possible consequences of overloading, 17% identified impaired handling. Sixteen percent selected increased fuel consumption over time, reduced fuel economy, longer braking distances, suspension damage, reduced overall stability and risks to passenger safety. Around one in ten identified a fixed penalty fine or licence points (11%) and increased maintenance costs (10%). Overall, almost eight in ten (79%) correctly recognised all the listed consequences, rising to 84% among women compared with 76% of men.
Used car faults
One-third (33%) said they discovered hidden faults they believed were present when they last bought a used or second-hand car, while three in five (60%) did not. Men were more likely than women to report hidden faults (35% versus 29%). Younger drivers were also more likely to do so, including half (50%) of 18–24s and 53% of 25–34s, compared with 29% of 65–74s and 21% of those aged 75+.
Among those who found hidden faults, 15% noticed them within two weeks, 6% within three to four weeks, 6% within two to three months and 7% more than three months after purchase. Overall, 7% of respondents had never bought a used or second-hand car.
The most common hidden faults were electrical or technology issues (21%) and engine faults (17%). Battery problems were reported by 11%, while 10% cited paintwork issues and 10% faults detected through a diagnostic check. Other problems included oil leaks (9%), brakes (8%), suspension (8%), tyre damage (8%), clutch or gearbox faults (7%), body damage (7%), faulty lights (6%), timing chain or belt noises (4%), interior damage (4%), chips or cracks in windows (4%) and dents in the bodywork (4%). One in five (19%) reported another issue.
Among those who discovered faults, one in five (21%) had not repaired the vehicle. Repair costs were £1–£100 for 12%, £101–£250 for 14%, £251–£500 for 18%, £501–£750 for 9%, £751–£1,000 for 6% and more than £1,000 for 9%. A further 11% did not know how much they had spent.
Effects of rising fuel costs
When asked how rising fuel prices were affecting spring and summer travel, more than one-third (37%) had not changed their plans and did not intend to. Three in ten (30%) had no spring or summer travel plans, while around one-fifth (21%) were waiting to see how fuel prices changed. A further 6% said they were likely to change their plans if prices stayed high and 5% had already done so.
Among those who had changed or were likely to change their plans, just over one-third (35%) said higher fuel prices were increasing their holiday budget without changing the plans themselves. Around one in five (21%) were more likely to travel somewhere closer to home in the UK and 17% expected to change how they travelled, such as driving less and using public transport more. A further 15% were less likely to travel within the UK or abroad, 12% were more likely to holiday in the UK rather than abroad because of higher airline costs and 4% were more likely to travel abroad rather than holiday in the UK.
European breakdown cover
Fewer than one in ten (9%) had broken down in Europe while driving their own vehicle, including 7% of respondents who had European breakdown cover. Around one-third (36%) had never broken down in Europe. Three in ten respondents (30%) said they had never broken down but had European breakdown cover ‘just in case’, while 5% had never broken down and did not have cover. More than half (56%) had never driven their vehicle in Europe.
Among those without European breakdown cover, more than two-fifths (42%) had not considered buying it at all and 16% had considered it briefly without exploring it in depth. A further 5% had looked into it in depth but decided not to purchase it.
The most common reason for not buying cover was believing it would not be needed (35%). One in ten (10%) already had cover elsewhere, such as through insurance or a bank account, while 8% said the price was higher than expected and 6% were unsure what was included.
Among those who had looked into European breakdown cover, more than two-fifths (44%) felt confident they understood the benefits, including 31% who were somewhat confident and 13% very confident. Around three in ten (29%) were neither confident nor unconfident. Almost one-quarter (24%) were not confident, including one in five (20%) who were not very confident and 4% who were not confident at all.
Dash cams
Three in ten (30%) had a dash cam. This was higher among drivers aged 18–34 (36%) than those aged 55–64 (30%) and 65–74 (31%), and among men compared with women (35% versus 21%). Seven in ten (70%) did not have a dash cam, while 5% said they had one but had not installed it yet.
Among those with a dash cam, around one in five (21%) had not needed to use the footage. Only 2% had submitted footage to the police and 2% had used it for an insurance claim.
Yonder summary March 2026
The March 2026 AA/Yonder Motoring Panel was held between 13 and 19 March 2026 and received 13,631 responses from drivers and AA members.
In this survey
Used car purchasing
When choosing their next car, just over one-third (36%) said they were most likely to buy a manual vehicle, while a similar proportion (34%) would choose an automatic petrol, diesel or hybrid. Manual preference was highest among 18–24s (58%) and 25–34s (50%), and was more common among women than men (39% versus 33%). Fewer than one in ten (7%) said they were most likely to buy a fully automatic electric vehicle, rising to 10% among those aged 35–44. Less than one-fifth (17%) had no plans to buy another car.
Used car checks were common. Nine in ten (90%) would take a test drive, while eight in ten would check the service history (81%) and MOT record (80%). Around two-thirds (67%) would listen for abnormal noises, and three in five would check tyres for cuts and bulges (60%) and obtain a thorough history check (60%). Around half would check lights (52%), reviews (49%) and windows (48%).
Just over a third (35%) felt confident assessing a used car themselves, while 33% did not and 31% were neutral. Men were more likely than women to feel confident (45% versus 16%), while women were more likely to lack confidence (56% versus 20%).
Most panellists (73%) had not considered buying a used electric or hybrid vehicle last year. Among drivers who had considered one, the main factors were age and condition (22%), value for money (20%), range (18%), battery quality (15%) and brand reputation or prestige (13%).
Pothole damage
Nearly all respondents (97%) had previously struck a pothole on UK roads, almost always while driving a car (96%). Smaller proportions had done so while cycling (9%), driving a van (7%) or riding a motorcycle (5%).
Among those who had struck a pothole, half (51%) said there was no damage, just over a third (35%) reported damage and 14% did not know. For those whose vehicle was damaged, over a quarter (27%) faced costs of £101–£200, one in five (19%) paid £201–£300, and 15% paid £1–£100. A smaller proportion (7%) faced costs of £401–£500.
Most (77%) did not try to claim from either their local council or insurer. Around one in seven (14%) had unsuccessfully tried to claim from the council.
Engine idling
Just over a third (38%) said it was acceptable to leave a vehicle’s engine running while stationary in very cold weather to warm it up. This view was more common among younger drivers, including 56% of 18–24s and 51% of 25–34s, compared with 34% of 65–74s and 28% of those aged 75+.
A similar proportion (36%) said it was never acceptable to leave an engine running while stationary, rising to 46% among those aged 75+ and 40% among 65–74s. Around one-third (34%) said idling was acceptable when collecting or dropping off passengers, 31% said it was acceptable when waiting for less than a few minutes, and 11% said it was acceptable in very hot weather to keep the vehicle cool using air conditioning.
More than two-fifths (42%) often notice drivers leaving engines running while stationary locally, including 17% who see it very often and 26% fairly often. Three in ten (31%) notice it occasionally, 15% rarely see it and 9% were unsure.
E-scooters
More than half (56%) correctly thought privately owned e-scooters can only be legally ridden on private land. This rose to 66% in the East Midlands. By comparison, 8% thought privately owned e-scooters could be legally ridden on public roads in areas with government-approved trials, and 5% believed they could be used legally on public roads anywhere.
Three in ten (31%) did not know which statement best reflected current e-scooter laws, with uncertainty higher among women (38%) than men (27%).
Holiday intentions
Last year, one-third (34%) stayed in the UK for both their main holidays and short trips. Around three in ten (31%) went abroad for their main holiday and also took one or more short UK trips, while 10% went abroad for all holidays. Around one-fifth (22%) did not go on holiday, rising to 30% among those aged 75+.
For this year, one-third (35%) plan to stay in the UK for both main holidays and short trips, while 33% plan to go abroad for their main holiday and take one or more short UK trips. Around one in ten (9%) plan to go abroad for all holidays, and almost one-fifth (19%) do not plan to go on holiday, rising to 25% among those aged 75+.
Pollen filters
Three in ten (30%) did not know whether their car’s pollen filter had ever been changed, rising to 43% among women and 45% among those aged 18–34. A further 17% said they had never changed it and 14% could not remember.
Among those who recalled when the filter was last changed, 17% said within the past 12 months, with men twice as likely as women to report this (20% versus 10%). Around one in ten (9%) had changed it within the past few months, while 7% had changed it within the past 18 months and another 7% within the past six months.
Easter travel
For each day between Thursday 2 April and Wednesday 8 April, the most common planned driving distance was under 50 miles. Over half planned journeys under 50 miles on Tuesday 7 April (53%), Wednesday 8 April (53%) and Thursday 2 April (52%), while half (50%) said the same for Saturday 4 April. Just under half planned journeys under 50 miles on Good Friday (47%) and Easter Sunday (47%), and over two-fifths (44%) on Easter Monday.
Only small proportions expected to drive 51–100 miles, ranging from 5% to 6% across the Easter period. Fewer than one-fifth were unsure how far they would drive, including 18% for Wednesday 8 April, 17% for Tuesday 7 April and 16% for Easter Monday. Drivers were most likely to say they would not drive on Easter Sunday (30%), Easter Monday (30%) and Good Friday (29%).
Yonder summary February 2026
The February 2026 AA/Yonder Motoring Panel was held between 12 and 19 February 2026 and received 13,045 responses from drivers and AA members.
In this survey
Road conditions
Motorways received the strongest ratings for road surfaces, with two-thirds (67%) describing them as good. Around one in ten rated motorway surfaces as average (10%) or bad (11%), while 12% were unsure. Trunk roads were also viewed relatively positively, with around half (49%) rated good, 16% average and three in ten (31%) bad.
Main roads and residential roads were viewed less favourably. One-third (31%) rated main road surfaces as good, 15% average and just over half (54%) poor. Residential roads performed worst, with just over a quarter (26%) rated good, 15% average and 59% poor.
Road markings were rated better than surfaces. Three-quarters (74%) rated motorway markings as good, with 7% average, 6% bad and 12% unsure. Six in ten (63%) rated trunk road markings as good, 15% average and 19% poor. On main roads, around half (53%) rated markings as good, 17% average and 30% poor. Residential road markings were split, with two-fifths rating them good (41%) and the same proportion bad (40%), while 18% rated them average.
Among those expressing a view, more than eight in ten (85%) said improving road surfaces was important, and more than three-quarters (77%) said the same for markings. Two-thirds (67%) of those who prioritised surfaces said improvement was very important, while 44% said the same for markings. Around one in ten (13%) said improving surfaces or markings was unimportant.
Fuel Finder
After the launch of the Government’s Fuel Finder scheme, drivers were asked about refuelling habits. Two-fifths (42%) usually refill when the tank is around one-quarter full, while just over one in five (22%) wait until there is less than a quarter left. Smaller proportions refill at half a tank (15%) or wait until the warning light comes on or range drops below 50 miles (14%). Younger drivers were more likely to wait for the warning light or low range, including 25% of 18–24s and 34% of 25–34s, compared with 9% of 65–74s and 7% of those aged 75+.
Around two-fifths (39%) buy fuel once a fortnight, three in ten (31%) about once a month, one-fifth (20%) once a week and fewer than one in ten (7%) less than once a month. Younger drivers were more likely to buy weekly, including 36% of 18–24s and 34% of 25–34s.
When refuelling, two-fifths (40%) usually spend £40 or more, falling to 25% among 18–24s. Less than one-fifth (16%) usually spend £30–£39, one in ten (10%) spend £20–£29, and three in ten (31%) do not budget a set amount and pay for what they need.
Financial circumstances
Respondents were asked how they would cover an unexpected cost that needed paying within a few days. For a £500 cost, two-fifths (40%) would use their current account and 14% would use easy-access savings. At £1,000, more than one-third (35%) would use a credit card, 23% a current account and 19% savings. At £2,000, three in ten (30%) would use a credit card, 20% savings, 13% a current account and 12% did not know.
For larger costs, uncertainty rose. At £5,000, more than one in five (22%) did not know how they would pay, while 18% would use savings, 15% a credit card and 8% a personal loan. At £10,000, one-third (33%) did not know, 13% would use savings, 9% a personal loan, 9% other savings, 6% a credit card and 5% investments. For £15,000 and over £20,000, 38% and 42% respectively did not know how they would cover the expense.
Over a quarter (27%) had more than one year’s worth of basic living expenses saved, rising to 33% of those aged 65–74 and 35% of those aged 75+, but falling to 6% of 18–24s, 8% of 25–34s and 9% of 35–44s. Fewer than one in ten (8%) had no easy-access savings.
Fewer than a quarter (23%) owed money across more than one form of credit or borrowing, while more than two-thirds (68%) did not and 9% preferred not to say. Among those with multiple balances, one-third (32%) did not know the APR on most of their balances, rising to 39% among women and 29% among men. Nine in ten (89%) with more than one form of outstanding debt had never missed a payment, while 10% had.
Tyres
Eight in ten (80%) said they were aware of differences between budget, mid-range and premium tyres. One-third (34%) said they completely understood the differences and almost half (46%) had a basic understanding. Men were twice as likely as women to say they completely understood (41% versus 21%). Around one in ten (13%) had heard the terms but were unsure of the differences, and 6% were not aware of them, rising to 20% among 18–24s.
When estimating the cost of a typical replacement tyre, two-fifths (40%) guessed £50–£100 and over one-third (36%) guessed £101–£150. Fewer expected a tyre to cost more than £150 (16%) or less than £50 (4%).
Most respondents (87%) felt prepared for the unexpected cost of replacing a damaged tyre, including 48% who felt very prepared and 38% somewhat prepared. Older drivers were more likely to feel prepared overall, with 90% of those aged 65–74 compared with 70% of 18–24s. Fewer than one in ten (8%) felt unprepared.
Yonder summary January 2026
The January 2026 AA/Yonder Motoring Panel was held between 15 and 21 January 2026 and received 13,250 responses from drivers and AA members.
In this survey
Motorways
Two-fifths (43%) use motorways for a few journeys each year, while one-third (34%) use them a few times each month. One in ten (13%) make motorway journeys weekly, with smaller proportions using them on weekdays (3%) or every day (2%).
Most respondents (83%) felt safe and relaxed on motorways with a continuous hard shoulder. Confidence fell sharply where there was no hard shoulder: half (50%) felt nervous or anxious when emergency refuge areas were around 1.5 miles apart, and 46% felt nervous or anxious when the spacing was around 0.75 miles. Nearly half (47%) also felt nervous or anxious where the hard shoulder can be opened as a running lane at peak times.
Compared with three years ago, half (50%) felt less safe on motorways with no hard shoulder and refuge areas 1.5 miles apart, 48% felt less safe where refuge areas were 0.75 miles apart, and 47% felt less safe where the hard shoulder can be used as a running lane. Fewer than one-third (29%) felt safer on motorways with a continuous hard shoulder.
Middle-lane hogging was the most commonly observed behaviour (85%), followed by speeding (84%) and driving too close (84%). Undertaking (80%), changing lanes without signalling (79%), swooping (78%), tailgating (77%) and frequent lane changes in heavy traffic (74%) were also widely reported. More than half had seen drivers failing to pull out for merging traffic (59%), crossing chevrons after an exit slip road (54%) and using a handheld mobile phone (52%).
The M6 Toll was most often named the best motorway to drive on (11%), followed by the M5 (7%), M1 (6%), M4 (6%) and M40 (6%), though 28% did not know. The M25 was most often named the worst (30%), followed by the M6 (14%) and M1 (10%), while 24% did not know.
Road safety
Support was strongest for measures targeting illegal or dangerous driving. Almost all (95%) backed stronger penalties for issuing and using cloned, illegal or ghost number plates, and over nine in ten (92%) supported doubling fines for driving without insurance. A similar proportion (89%) supported saliva testing to prosecute drug driving, and more than four-fifths (83%) backed a zero-tolerance drink-drive approach for new drivers.
Eight in ten supported 3 penalty points for drivers who fail to wear a seatbelt (81%) and lifelong road safety education (81%). A similar proportion (80%) backed 3 penalty points and a £100 fine for drivers carrying passengers under 14 not wearing a seatbelt, while support was lower for passengers over 14 (72%). Around three-quarters supported mandatory eye tests every two to three years for drivers aged 70+ (78%), temporary licence suspensions for drivers accused of driving under the influence until court proceedings are resolved (72%), and setting a minimum number of learner hours before the practical test (72%).
Reducing the drink-drive limit in England and Wales to match Scotland was supported by 71%. Driver training updates, including a revised driving syllabus and updated motorcycle CBT syllabus, were supported by 69%, as was fitting alcolocks to cars of drivers who had previously received a drink-drive ban (69%).
Two-thirds (65%) supported making it easier for councils to install cameras to catch red-light jumping and introducing cognitive tests for older drivers, though 20% were unsure and 13% opposed these measures. Support for road safety targets was also positive, with 62% backing a 65% reduction in deaths and serious injuries by 2035, and 64% supporting a 70% reduction for children aged 16 and under. Fewer than 5% opposed either target.
More mixed views emerged on structural changes. Two-fifths (42%) supported a minimum time gap between passing the theory test and taking the practical test, while 25% opposed it and 29% were neutral. A similar proportion (41%) supported making it easier for councils to reduce speed limits, while 34% opposed this. One-third (34%) supported creating a Road Safety Oversight Board chaired by a Government Minister, with 21% opposed and 37% neutral.
Car maintenance
Routine servicing was the most common maintenance intention for the next 12 months, with nearly four-fifths (79%) planning annual servicing or oil changes. Around six in ten (61%) expected MOT-related repairs, while just over half planned safety-related repairs such as brakes, tyres and lights (53%) or seasonal checks such as winter tyres, battery or air-conditioning maintenance (52%).
Nearly half (47%) planned preventative maintenance to avoid breakdowns, while 15% intended to fix outstanding issues they had been postponing and 14% expected major mechanical repairs.
More than half (58%) said scheduled servicing usually prompts maintenance, rising to 61% among men and 65% among those aged 65+. Two-fifths (41%) are usually prompted by an MOT being due or failed, while 37% act when a warning light appears or a problem becomes noticeable. Women were more likely than men to be prompted by a warning light or noticeable issue (42% versus 34%).
One-fifth (20%) act following advice from a garage or breakdown provider. Smaller proportions are prompted by an upcoming long journey or holiday (13%), something going wrong (8%), winter (6%) or when they can afford it (3%).
Fuel Finder
The Government’s Fuel Finder scheme will allow drivers to see petrol and diesel prices at UK forecourts, with price changes shown within half an hour. Three-quarters (74%) were interested in comparing prices at their usual fuel station with others nearby, while over two-thirds wanted to see prices across different stations (69%) and know when stations change prices (67%). Over two-fifths (45%) would monitor fuel prices mainly out of interest, while 14% had no interest.
Almost nine in ten (88%) said they would likely buy fuel from a non-supermarket station if it was significantly cheaper, including 57% who were very likely to do so. Eight in ten (79%) said seeing local fuel prices would likely influence where they bought fuel, and 41% said this was very likely. Over half would travel slightly further for cheaper fuel (56%) or switch supermarkets if another offered lower prices (51%). Just under half (48%) would try to time fuel purchases based on price-change patterns, while only 10% would travel significantly further.
Three-quarters (76%) said most long journeys are for holidays, events or special occasions, while 21% regularly travel long distances from home. Six in ten (62%) said fuel prices along their route would be valuable, and over two-fifths (44%) said knowing prices in nearby towns would influence where they refuel. Among those for whom the question was relevant, one-quarter (25%) said fuel price information would be useful for their business, while 35% were neutral and 35% said it would not be useful.
Winter driving
Nine in ten (90%) said they leave more space between themselves and the vehicle in front in snow, ice, sleet or frost. Similar proportions drive more slowly (88%) and allow extra journey time (86%). Over three-quarters (78%) allow greater stopping distances, while seven in ten (71%) stick to gritted roads where possible.
Over half (59%) generally make fewer journeys in winter weather, and half (50%) take extra items such as warm clothing and hot drinks. Women were more likely than men to stick to gritted roads (78% versus 68%) and make fewer journeys (69% versus 55%).
Drivers also noticed changes in others. Over half (51%) said other drivers travel more slowly, while two-fifths (41%) felt fewer people use the roads overall. One-quarter (25%) said other road users leave more space and are less likely to tailgate, and 15% said others allow more stopping time. However, over a third (35%) had not noticed any change in winter driving behaviour.
Driving confidence
Respondents reflected on their confidence during the first six months after passing their driving test. Over three-quarters (78%) felt confident making local journeys under 30 minutes, compared with 57% for long journeys of more than two hours. Among the 16% who were not confident on long journeys, women were more likely than men to say this (27% versus 10%).
Almost three-quarters (73%) felt comfortable driving in residential areas, while 71% felt comfortable driving without passengers and 66% at junctions. Women were more than twice as likely as men to feel unconfident at junctions (15% versus 6%).
Six in ten felt comfortable on isolated roads (62%) and parking as a new driver (62%). More than half felt comfortable driving in towns or city centres (58%) and around vulnerable road users such as cyclists and pedestrians (56%). While 52% felt comfortable using motorways within their first six months of driving, over one in five (22%) felt uncomfortable, rising to 36% among women compared with 15% among men.