The study of 2,400 UK residents discovered that more than two-thirds recalled fond and treasured memories in their cars, with a further 15 per cent saying that their cars held a special place in their lives as a result.
At the other end of the spectrum, just over a third of those spoken to said that their vehicles had been a ‘source of despair’ and occasionally misery, having been a part of some of life’s most challenging moments.
Road trips came out on top when people were asked about the most notable moments they had in their cars, followed by travelling to a new home and dropping their children off at school for the first time. This was followed by bringing home a newborn baby and driving to and from a first date.
Some of the more crucial life moments which were intertwined with a certain vehicle included relationships coming to an end, marriage proposals and even giving birth.
Over half of those spoken to said that they like to unwind in their car, while a further 24 per cent saw their vehicle as a good place in which to reflect on their thoughts.
Denise Millard, CEO of Perrys, who commissioned the survey, said: “It’s unsurprising that most British car owners consider their vehicles as more than just a financial investment given all the time that we spend in them carrying out day-to-day duties, making our presence physically possible at so many important life events from work to weddings, you name it.
“We can’t blame ourselves for being emotionally attached to our cars because the findings above certainly show how much we rely on them and that they’re a significant part of our lives – because of this, it’s crucial you stay on top of your vehicle maintenance! This’ll make parting with your beloved cars, and the attached memories, much more avoidable.”
