Research conducted by Startline Motor Finance has found that 46% of drivers expect fuel costs to increase in 2026, while 42% expect to see more on-road insurance scams.
The only improvement drivers expected to see on the roads was electric vehicle (EV) charger availability, with 56% expecting it to improve in 2026.
Drivers also said they expect worse behaviour from other drivers (38%), more congestion (36%), higher vehicle running costs (32%) and more difficult parking.
One fifth (22%) of drivers surveyed by Startline Motor Finance expected to see an increase in speeding and other fines in 2026.
Nevertheless, 94% said they still valued having a car.
Paul Burgess, CEO at Startline Motor Finance, said: “It looks as though most motorists are quite downbeat about almost everything connected to owning and driving a car as we head into 2026.
“They believe costs will rise, driving will become increasingly frustrating, and even that they are more likely to be targeted by criminals.
“Except for quite visible investments being made in electric car charging infrastructure across the country, they don’t see any bright spots at all.
“This reveals a really interesting mindset. Motorists might expect almost everything related to owning a car to get worse, but they still very much want a vehicle and see it as an important part of their lives.
“Car ownership might be more of a grind, but it remains almost universally appreciated.”
