Young drivers fork out every year for basic tasks

Young drivers in Britain lack basic car-maintenance skills, with the majority finding simple tasks such as checking the oil and changing a tyre beyond them.

Figures show this lack of knowledge is costing drivers under 25 to pay out over £140million every year in mechanic fees.

Despite the DVLA introducing a car maintenance section to the practical driving test in September 2003 referred to as the Show Me, Tell Me section – 37 per cent of 18-24 year olds who have passed this test, still struggle when it comes to checking the level of their car’s brake fluid (37 per cent).

Direct Line has found that half of all drivers under 25 (50 per cent) can’t jumpstart their car or replace a tyre (55 per cent) – compared to only 25 per cent and 40 per cent of drivers aged 45 or over.

Likewise, over half of young drivers (55 per cent) lack the know-how to change a headlamp, indicator or brake light bulb, whereas only one in three (35 per cent) of drivers in their late 30s and early 40s have such difficulties.

Further to this, 62 per cent of all young drivers turn to their parents or a mechanic (51 per cent) for help, with each driver admitting to spending an annual average of £111 a year in the process.

Young drivers admitted to forking out cash for the most basic of tasks. Nearly one in three paid to have their oil changed (30 per cent), a quarter to have their brake fluid checked (25 per cent) and one in eight paid to get their tyre replaced (15 per cent).

Emma Holyer, Direct Line’s Motor Spokesperson said: ”It’s not unusual for drivers to feel a little helpless when it comes to car maintenance –however, it is important for drivers to be able to make basic safety checks on their vehicle, such as checking tyre pressure and oil level. These checks are essential before embarking on a long journey and we are urging motorists to ensure they are able to conduct these simple tests rather than relying on parents or mechanics for help.

“Our research also shows that more than four in 10 (43 per cent) drivers have waited for their vehicle’s annual service to fix some of these potentially serious problems. This should be avoided as it is important that all motorists are driving roadworthy vehicles.”