Potholes cost UK drivers £3.3bn in repairs every year

Potholes are a leading cause of vehicle repairs, costing drivers and fleets an estimated £3.3 billion each year, according to research from Close Brothers Motor Finance.

Almost one in four UK motorists (23 per cent) have suffered damage from hitting a pothole in the past year. This is a prevalent issue also in Ireland.

Close Brothers found that the average cost to repair common pothole issues, such as suspension damage, misaligned tracking, and blown tyres, now stands at £341.

John Cassidy, managing director at Close Brothers Motor Finance, said: “The state of Britain’s roads has escalated from a minor driving inconvenience into a multi-billion crisis that is hitting motorists directly in the pocket.

“Facing an unexpected repair bill of £341 is a bitter pill to swallow.

“The fear of a surprise financial hit is manifesting as real anxiety for many Brits, with over a quarter listing potholes among their biggest concerns when driving.

“At a time when drivers are already navigating high insurance premiums, running costs, and a broader cost-of-living crisis, we hope the government will continue to support motorists and properly equip local councils to fix this worsening issue.”