More motorists 'self-service cars'

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With car insurance premiums on the up, more motorists appear to be trying to keep costs down by servicing their own vehicle.

A Kwik-Fit poll of 2,000 adults found more than a third now carry out their own service, but 69 per cent admitted to not being confident with the practice.

Motorists said they felt more comfortable servicing older cars, which do not rely on computers.

Some 37 per cent of those owning cars more than 10 years old felt it was simple enough to self-service, while only 6 per cent of those with cars with a 2007 to 2010 plate expressed the same confidence.

Drivers have been warned not to think an MoT alone will spot all vehicle faults as the poll highlighted an increasing number of cars are not receiving any service.

Kwik-Fit customer services director David White said: "Modern cars are increasingly reliant on computer technology so there are fewer tasks under the bonnet suitable for an amateur enthusiast as they won't have the necessary equipment.

"Car owners shouldn't rely on the MoT to pick up faults as this mainly focuses on safety factors. A proper service will highlight issues which could cause a future breakdown and also cover areas too complicated for most DIY mechanics."

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