- Australians could save an average of $2,144 per driver over five years by choosing recycled auto parts, amounting to a collective $15.5 billion in potential nationwide savings.*[1]
- Eight in ten (82%) surveyed Australian vehicle owners are already open to purchasing recycled auto parts, with 64% citing cost savings as their key reason.*[2]
Aussie drivers could be saving big, according to findings from a survey conducted by YouGov and commissioned by eBay Australia. The survey suggests Aussie drivers could potentially find average savings of $2,144 estimated over five years if they choose Recycled Original Equipment (ROE) parts over buying a new equivalent part.*[3] That’s a collective estimate of $15.5 billion in potential savings nationwide, while also helping to tackle one of the country’s biggest waste streams.*[4]
The survey uncovered that eight in ten (82%) Australians were open to purchasing recycled auto parts.*[5] Amidst cost-of-living pressures, 64% of those specifically cited cost savings as a key reason for choosing recycled over new.*[6] Supporting this, eBay, together with AutoPARTnered Solutions (APS), has revealed new research showing Aussies can potentially save up to 85% when choosing recycled auto parts over new manufacturer equivalents, with the biggest wins coming from the purchasing of major mechanical components such as engines, transmissions, and differentials.*[7]
As revealed through the YouGov survey results, cost wasn’t the only reason for Aussies favouring recycled auto parts, as half (49%) of surveyed Aussie drivers have experienced a situation where they needed a specific part for their vehicle, but found it was no longer manufactured or was difficult to find through traditional retail channels.*[8] What’s more, when presented with two images of an auto part, one new and one recycled, 62% of surveyed Aussie drivers could not correctly identify which of the two parts was the new part, showing that the cosmetic difference between them is often indistinguishable.*[9]
Gen Z are leading the charge when it comes to driving the shift towards recycled auto parts. From the survey, four in ten Gen Z vehicle owners (38%)*[10] purchased or considered rebuilt or recycled auto parts in the last two years, a significantly higher rate than Baby Boomers (25%).*[11] Meanwhile, surveyed Millennials keep a foot in both camps with a slight preference for brand-new auto parts (87%).*[12]
It’s not just about cost savings and accessibility. With approximately 850,000 vehicles reaching the end of their life in Australia each year, the country generates around 1.36 million tonnes of automotive waste annually.*[13] Nearly two-thirds (64%) of surveyed Aussie drivers agree with the sentiment that choosing recycled auto parts has a significant positive impact on the environment.*[14]
Gautam Taluja, Category Manager for Car Parts & Accessories, eBay Australia, says, “With cost-of-living pressures at an all-time high, Australians are looking for smarter ways to drive without breaking the bank. At eBay, we are proud to be connecting Aussies with affordable parts and accessories online, helping them stretch their dollar at the touch of a button without compromising on quality.’’
Customers can shop with confidence thanks to eBay Money Back Guarantee. If an eligible item doesn't arrive, is damaged, or significantly differs from its description, eBay will help facilitate a refund, giving buyers more peace of mind with their purchases. To further support Aussie drivers, eBay offers eBay Guaranteed Fit, ensuring the parts they purchase will actually fit their car. This feature is powered by eBay’s MyGarage, which houses millions of Australian vehicles, making it easier than ever to find the right part the first time.
NOTES TO EDITOR
We note that the research does not assess whether car owners’ financial strategies are effective, and none of the report’s insights should be interpreted as financial advice from AutoPARTnered Solutions or eBay Australia.
About the research:
This research, commissioned by eBay Australia and conducted online by YouGov between August 1st and 6th, 2025, provides a comprehensive market analysis of the Australian automotive aftermarket. Based on a nationally representative sample of 1,013 Australian vehicle owners, the findings explore consumer attitudes and behaviours towards recycled auto parts, highlighting their potential as an under-utilised lever for economic benefit and environmental impact within the circular economy automotive sector. The methodology adhered to ISO 20252:2019 standards, with data weighted to reflect ABS population estimates. The purpose of this research is an early step in measuring just how much of a difference these parts can make for Australian drivers.
For more information, please contact:
Maeve O’Sullivan, Ogilvy PR
T: 0406 926 250 | E: maeve.osullivan@ogilvy.com
Emily Fookes, Ogilvy PR
T: 0438 854 883 | E: emily.fookes@ogilvy.com
About eBay
eBay Inc. (Nasdaq: EBAY) is a global commerce leader that connects people and builds communities to create economic opportunity for all. Our technology empowers millions of buyers and sellers in more than 190 markets around the world, providing everyone the opportunity to grow and thrive. Founded in 1995 in San Jose, California, eBay is one of the world's largest and most vibrant marketplaces for discovering great value and unique selection. In 2024, eBay enabled $75 billion of gross merchandise volume. For more information about the company and its global portfolio of online brands, visit www.ebayinc.com.
[1] All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc. The total sample size was 1013 adults. Fieldwork was undertaken between 1st - 6th August 2025. The survey was carried out online. The figures have been weighted and are representative of all Australian vehicle owners (aged 18+).
[2] As above
[3] As above
[4] *$2,144.17 estimated cumulative average, multiplied by estimated 7,209,110 vehicle owners who have purchased recycled auto parts in the last 5 years, extrapolated to $15,457,557,388.70 estimated cumulative savings over 5 years.
[5] YouGov consumer research
[6] As above
[7] Commercial Benefits Analysis: Cost Savings from Recycled Original Equipment Vehicle Parts in the Australian Automotive Market', AutoPARTnered Solutions (APS)
[8] YouGov consumer research
[9] As above
[10] As above
[11] As above
[12] As above
[13] The Outlook for End of Life Vehicles in Australia, Federal Chamber of Automotive (FCAI) and Motor Trades Association of Australia (MTAA)
[14] YouGov consumer research