Young drivers clueless behind the wheel: Survey

A new survey has revealed a startling truth about young Aussie drivers.

A new survey has revealed that young Aussies don’t know what to do if their car breaks down.

The study, conducted by car insurance provider ROLLiN’, found that nearly half of those aged 18-24 say they lack confidence when it comes to changing or checking car oil.

It’s a stark contrast to those aged over 55, with more than 70 per cent confidently knowing what to do.

Surprisingly, even something as simple as filling up the windscreen washer fluid leaves nearly a quarter of those aged 18-24-year-olds baffled.

More than a third of 18 to 24-year-olds said they were unsure of what to do if their car breaks down, and nearly 40 per cent wouldn’t know how to proceed if their car wouldn’t start.

More than half of every age group doesn’t know how to change a headlight, with the highest uncertainty appearing in those aged over 65 (67 per cent).

ROLLiN’ executive manager Brendan Griffiths said the lack of car knowledge could lead to serious and dangerous situations.

“Being a confident driver goes beyond just navigating the road – it’s about knowing your car and feeling prepared for whatever comes your way,” he said.

“It’s surprising to see how many Australians feel unprepared for these tasks, especially considering the difference they can make in staying safe on the road.”

More than 70 per cent of those aged over 55 feel confident in changing oil. Picture: Supplied

The research also revealed a clear difference in confidence between gender.

For women, more than three-quarters of women feel unconfident about changing an air filter, followed closely by replacing a headlight.

A staggering 76 per cent of women feel uneasy about changing a tyre.

Men are confident overall but like women, one in four feel unsure about changing an air filter.

Originally published as Young drivers clueless behind the wheel: Survey