Drivers have been warned against feeling overconfident when working on their car in order to avoid unexpected repairs that could cost a fortune.
According to a study of 1,000 drivers from across the UK, more than half stated that they would feel happy conducting small maintenance tasks, such as checking the coolant levels, topping up the windscreen washer fluid, and replacing the wiper blades.
However, a significant number of drivers were unable to correctly explain how each task could be done. As a result, a company spokesperson recommended drivers take their car to a mechanic instead.
They explained: “When it comes to maintaining our motors it’s clear that even if we’re feeling confident about the task, some things are better left to the professionals, as sometimes our confidence might be unfounded.
“If you’re dead set on doing your own car maintenance, please look up your instructions from a trusted source for your car model and don’t go in with blind faith.”
Group 1 Automotive’s survey found that the car maintenance task most drivers felt confident doing themselves was topping up the windscreen washer fluid, with 77 percent of drivers happy to do it themselves.
However, out of those who stated they feel confident, only 69 percent were able to explain how to do the task correctly – pouring specialist washer fluid into the neck of the reservoir with the blue cap under the bonnet.
Whilst motorists who forget to top up the fluid risk reducing their visibility, particularly when travelling in the winter, those who pour the fluid into the wrong reservoir risk contaminating other fluids, such as the coolant and oil, and damaging vital engine components.
The company also found that just 41 percent of drivers claiming to know how to change their vehicle’s wiper blades were able to explain how to do it correctly.
Another vital task to ensure good visibility, windscreen wiper blades should typically be replaced every 6-12 months, with drivers typically experiencing a squeaking noise or juddering from worn blades.
To replace the blades, drivers must buy the right set for their vehicle, lift up the wiper arms and place a towel underneath to protect the windscreen, and take off the old blades by removing a clip or sliding it down the arm.
Once the old blades have been removed, drivers should use the same method to add the new ones.
Whilst it is vital that drivers maintain their car to the standards outlined by the manufacturer, drivers should never take a gamble with their vehicle, which could result in expensive damage.
Group 1 Automotive encouraged drivers who are the slightest bit unconfident about a certain task to approach a trustworthy mechanic.
They added: “Any servicing or maintenance can be done at your local garage, making this the best option for any more involved car maintenance that you’re in need of – which is a much better option than accidentally damaging your vehicle or yourself.”