Most motorists clueless on car care

Most motorists have no idea how to maintain their car and do not carry a battery charger or tyre pump when they drive, according to new research.

A survey of almost 1,500 adults by Britannia Rescue found that seven out of 10 struggled with tasks such as checking oil levels, while one in 10 could not open their car bonnet.

One in seven of those questioned had suffered a car breakdown that could have been prevented if they had a better understanding of basic maintenance, said the report.

Peter Horton, managing director of Britannia Rescue, said: "Regular car maintenance is crucial, whether your car is old or new."