Inflation and interest rates influence customer decisions in the aftermarket

AIA Canada says inflation, higher borrowing costs and cost‑of‑living pressures are affecting how Canadians make spending decisions, including vehicle maintenance and repair.

Research from AIA Canada’s Canadian vehicle owners’ attitudes towards maintenance and repair, 2025 edition shows only 13 per cent of vehicle owners describe themselves as very knowledgeable about their vehicles, while 43 per cent say they are not very or not at all knowledgeable. The association says this knowledge gap can lead customers to take more time before approving work and ask for clearer explanations of what repairs are required.

Affordability continues to influence when and how work is completed. AIA Canada says financial pressures can contribute to postponed service or different repair decisions, which can affect service providers, suppliers and the broader vehicle care ecosystem.

Safety remains the leading reason owners prioritize maintenance, followed by reliability and avoiding more expensive repairs later. AIA Canada says this gives aftermarket businesses an opportunity to make the value of their services clearer by explaining what repairs should be addressed immediately and what can reasonably wait.

The association says changes in declined work, repair frequency, average transactions, product demand and customer questions can help businesses adjust inventory, service offerings, staff training and communications. Traditional maintenance reminders such as windshield stickers continue to be effective, while digital tools are increasingly used by younger drivers.

Maintaining customer relationships is important when work is delayed. AIA Canada says customers who postpone repairs may return when circumstances change, and clear communication without pressure can help preserve those relationships.