They say you can't go home again, but automotive do-it-yourselfers – spurred by soaring gas prices and a struggling economy — are going against the mantra, bringing vehicle maintenance back into their own garages.

Our 34th Annual Do-It-Yourself Survey shows more work is being done at home, with an average 94 percent of respondents performing underhood and chassis activity, diagnostic, electrical and cosmetic maintenance, among other work categories, on their own vehicles this year, compared to only 78 percent in 2007.

The majority of respondents fall among the 36-55 age bracket and earn between $20,000 and $59,999 annually. Seventy-seven percent report making unplanned automotive purchases only sometimes or rarely. But when they do buy, accessories are purchased more than half of the time, according to the study. National brand products are preferred 75 percent of the time, but when purchasing store brands, the impact of price has dropped more than 15 percent.

Women outnumber men as 2008 survey respondents — 56 percent to 44 percent, respectively — but both genders' experience levels remain the same as in 2007, with most falling in the beginner or experienced brackets.

And while vehicle systems continue to advance, time restrictions, ownership of newer vehicles and less need were named before technology hindrances as the main reasons 13 percent of respondents performed less DIY work than in the previous year. Almost 70 percent have continued at the same level as in 2007. Monetary savings is again the primary reason for performing DIY work; but the aftermarket is still seeing a boost, as respondents spend an average $1,131 annually on their vehicles, up almost $150 from 2007.

But where are they buying? Auto parts stores remain the preferred shopping location, and price and convenience, as in years past, are the top decision influencers. But warranties and product reliability and quality have gained significant momentum in influencing buyers decisions on where to shop, according to the study.

Antifreeze & Coolant
Batteries
Battery Chargers
Battery Testers
Brakes
Car Wash Products
Diagnostic Tools
Filters
Fuel Pumps
Glass Treatments
Motor Oil
Oxygen Sensors
Shocks & struts
Shop Towels
Spark Plugs
Touch-Up Paint
Windshield Washer Fluid
Wiper Blades

Note: For our 2007 study, click here.

Note: For our 2006 study, click here.

Note: For our 2005 study, click here.

Note: For our 2004 study, click here.

Note: For our 2003 study, click here.

Note: For our 2002 study, click here.