A new survey from Autotrader found that while many drivers feel confident handling basic car maintenance, a number are making costly — and potentially dangerous — mistakes when attempting repairs themselves.
According to the survey of 2,000 drivers, nearly a third admit they have made a mistake while trying to fix their car. Gen Z and Millennials, despite being the most confident in their car maintenance skills, are also the most likely to get it wrong, with 57 per cent admitting to errors. More than half of Gen Z drivers (51 per cent) admitted to ignoring warning lights on their dashboard.
The data shows that confidence is highest for simple tasks:
- 83 per cent feel comfortable refilling windscreen washer fluid
- 78 per cent are confident checking tire pressure
- 77 per cent say they can check engine oil levels
But confidence drops sharply when it comes to more technical jobs. Only 39 per cent feel confident replacing a blown fuse or changing engine oil, and just 34 per cent are comfortable changing a flat tire.
Younger drivers struggle most with mechanical tasks. Gen Z drivers reported the lowest confidence in changing engine oil (39 per cent) and tires (35 per cent), while millennials weren’t far behind. This, AutoTrader noted, suggested a gap between perceived and actual ability.
Older drivers (aged 35 and up) reported lower overall confidence but were more comfortable with mechanical basics like checking and inflating tires.
Where drivers turn for help
When faced with a car issue, 62 per cent of drivers say they’d rather pay a professional than attempt a fix themselves. Visiting a garage or mechanic remains the top choice (41 per cent), followed by reading the owner’s manual (30 per cent) and searching online (29 per cent).
Gen Z stands out for turning to TikTok for help — 21 per cent say it’s their go-to source for car maintenance advice. In contrast, YouTube is more popular among older drivers, with 31 per cent of those aged 25 to 44 using it for guidance.
Still, only 34 per cent of drivers say they trust the car maintenance advice they find online. When in doubt, nearly a third of Gen Z drivers (29 per cent) say they’d call their dad.
Some drivers are skipping even the simplest checks. One in five have never checked their brake fluid, 16 per cent have never checked engine coolant, and 15 per cent have never replaced their wiper blades.
Erin Baker, editorial director at AutoTrader, said the findings highlight a growing knowledge gap.
“While it is encouraging to see many drivers confident with basic maintenance tasks, there is still a gap in more technical tasks. Our research reveals that while the internet is a growing destination for car help, drivers are more likely to trust the guidance and expertise of professionals.”
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