Recent findings indicate that cars often serve as personal retreats, with how people utilize this time varying significantly across different generations.
A survey involving 2,000 U.S. car owners revealed an array of activities. Some said they plan their futures or unwind with music and naps while parked.
Millennials emerged as the group most engaged in self-improvement during their driving time.
This generation is more likely to contemplate life than others, with 44% planning ahead and 39% tuning into podcasts as they drive.
Conducted by Talker Research and commissioned by Ziebart, the study noted that Gen X drivers preferred to listen to music, with a notable 89% confirming this habit.
In contrast, Gen Z views their vehicles as refuges. They lean towards relaxation, embracing silence (55%), managing long workdays (43%), and frequently taking naps (25%), while older generations are more inclined to engage in upbeat activities.
A common sentiment unites all drivers, though. The time spent in their cars is incredibly precious, and many are determined to make the most of it.
Regarding the average age of their vehicles, participants indicated their cars are around nine years old.
Respondents expressed a desire for their cars to last an additional four years on average and estimated that it would take at least three more years before they could realistically afford a new one, even if finances aren’t dire.
Most drivers expressed that even if their cars aren’t new, they’re keen to maintain the sense of freshness (79%).
Amid concerns about their vehicles, almost half (46%) of owners reported taking steps to care for them in the past year.
This included more frequent cleaning—both inside (57%) and outside (51%)—as well as checking tire pressure and tread depth (43%) and monitoring oil levels (43%).
A significant portion (33%) also started taking their cars for regular health checks.
Beyond mechanics, many drivers are attentive to their car’s appearance, with a quarter (26%) worried about rust and 23% concerned about paint wear.
Additionally, over 20% (22%) expressed anxiety over potential damage to the vehicle’s exterior.
“Keeping up with mechanical maintenance is crucial, but many drivers overlook how issues like rust, chipped paint, or deteriorating interiors can shorten their vehicle’s lifespan,” an expert noted.
Research Method:
This survey was executed by Talker Research and commissioned by Ziebart, surveying 2,000 American car owners from June 6 to June 12, 2025.
