A new survey by Autotrader has revealed that while drivers in the UK feel broadly confident performing basic car maintenance, more complex mechanical tasks remain a challenge—particularly for younger motorists.

Among the 2,000 drivers surveyed, over 80% said they felt confident refilling windscreen washer fluid, and nearly as many were confident checking tyre pressure (78%) and engine oil levels (77%). However, confidence dropped significantly when it came to changing engine oil (45%), replacing a headlight bulb (43%), and changing a flat tyre (50%).

Despite Gen-Z and millennials reporting the highest confidence levels overall—67% and 63% respectively—they were also the most likely to admit to making mistakes. Nearly three in five (57%) of younger drivers said they had made an error when attempting car maintenance, and 51% of Gen-Z respondents admitted to ignoring warning lights altogether.

Autotrader found that confidence decreased among drivers over 45, yet this group was more proficient in mechanical tasks. For instance, 78% of drivers aged 35 and over said they were confident checking and inflating tyre pressure correctly.

A striking 80% of all drivers believe there is a significant gap in car maintenance knowledge today. Over three-quarters (77%) said practical car maintenance training should be included in driving lessons, and 74% felt that modern vehicles were becoming harder to maintain due to their complexity.

Only half of drivers surveyed felt confident knowing what to do in a breakdown. Even among the younger respondents, just 58% of Gen-Z and millennials claimed to be prepared, while confidence dropped below 50% among drivers aged 35 and over.

When it comes to learning how to fix their cars, 62% of drivers would prefer to pay a professional. Visiting a garage remains the top choice for advice (41%), followed by reading the owner’s manual (30%) and searching online (29%). Among Gen-Z, 21% turn to TikTok for help, while YouTube is favoured by 31% of those aged 25 to 44. Only 34% of respondents trust the automotive advice they find online.

Autotrader’s editorial director Erin Baker said: “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.”

Some routine checks are still being widely neglected. One in five drivers admitted to never having checked their brake fluid, and 16% had never checked engine coolant levels. Meanwhile, 15% had never replaced their windscreen wiper blades.

The research also noted that leasing a vehicle may offer peace of mind for those less confident in maintaining their cars. With no MOT required for the first three years and optional maintenance packages, leasing can help ensure vehicles remain in good working order.