Manitobans paying more for vehicle repairs as CAA Worst Roads campaign launches Mar 17, 2026
Manitobans are paying more out of pocket to fix their vehicles as concerns about road conditions continue to grow, according to new survey data released as CAA Manitoba launches its annual CAA Worst Roads Campaign.
The survey found 92 per cent of Manitobans are concerned about the state of roads in the province and are spending an average of $944 to repair vehicle damage caused by poor road conditions. This is $122 more than last year, when the average repair cost was $882.
As Winnipeg grows and congestion worsens, fixing key trade and connector routes isn’t just about road conditions; it’s about protecting the economy, keeping our city moving, and prioritizing affordability.
“Most of the roads people flag as priorities are the same routes our supply chain depends on, they’re how goods get in, out, and across the province,” says Ewald Friesen, manager, government and community relations for CAA Manitoba. “With Manitoba’s growing population, especially in Winnipeg, there is a need for improved infrastructure.”
At the same time, the rising cost of living has made consumers more mindful of their spending, and people are opting to keep their cars longer rather than buy a new one. Poor roads increase the wear and tear of tires, lead to higher fuel consumption, and increase the risk of other costly repairs.
Nearly half of drivers (45 per cent) reported experiencing vehicle damage due to poor road conditions, with potholes cited as the leading cause, accounting for 86 per cent of damage.
Most drivers (75 per cent) are paying for repairs out of pocket; 12 per cent filed a claim with Manitoba Public Insurance. Another 14 per cent said they chose not to repair the damage, up six per cent from last year.
Despite widespread frustration, the survey suggests most concerns are not reaching decision-makers. It found that 85 per cent of Manitobans commonly complain about road conditions to a spouse, coworker or mechanic rather than to the governments responsible for road maintenance.
Manitobans encouraged to nominate roads most in need of repair
“The Worst Roads campaign is a proven platform that gives Manitobans a voice and helps governments identify the roads causing the most frustration,” says Friesen. “We know it works because we see governments prioritize budgets and move up road repairs every year after appearing on the list.”
Manitobans can nominate any road for issues, including potholes, congestion, faded road markings, poor signage, traffic light timing, and pedestrian or cycling infrastructure.
CAA Manitoba is encouraging all road users to participate.
Nominations are open at www.caaworstroads.com from March 17 to April 10. Once nominations close, CAA Manitoba will release a list of the top 10 worst roads in the province, along with regional lists.
CAA conducted an online survey with 649 CAA Manitoba Members between January 6 to 14, 2026. Based on the sample size and the confidence level (95 per cent), the margin of error for this study was +/-3 per cent.
