Research finds most UK drivers baffled by modern cars

The average UK driver is currently being outsmarted by their own car, according to new research.

The survey of 1,000 British car owners, carried out by BookMyGarage.com, found that 73 per cent don’t understand how to use all of the high tech gadgets and safety features in their vehicle. This is despite over half (54 per cent) of British adults admitting they were sold on the car they bought because of the features it offered.

The survey quizzed car owners on the usage of specific features that are available to them in their vehicle, such as tyre pressure monitoring systems, cruise control, skid control systems and parking sensors.

1 in 5 (19 per cent) surveyed claimed to use only one or two of the settings available to them regularly, while 45 per cent regularly use between just three and four settings.

The research exposed a number of features that are commonly being left unused, due to lack of understanding. Cruise control was the most likely to cause confusion, followed by eco settings and gadgets such as Bluetooth.

Parking sensors and cameras were the fourth most likely to leave car owners bemused, followed by high-tech Heating and cooling systems.

1 in 2 (48 per cent) of those who admit to not using all of the features, cite not understanding how to use them as the reason for not doing so.

Modern day and luxury cars are becoming more advanced, and with technology such as in car cameras, built in power outlets and Wi-Fi becoming the norm, car owners need to spend time learning how to make best use of the features in order to make the most of their investment.

Karen Rotberg, director at BookMyGarage.com, said: “With advanced vehicle technology on the rise, it’s important that people are aware of the features their car offers as they can make the difference both financially and in terms of safety.

“What is particularly interesting from the findings, is that so many car owners claim they specifically chose the car they did because of its features, yet lots haven’t got to grips with them or don’t use them – which is a shame considering a car is one of the biggest investments an adult will make.

“Although the features available in the latest vehicles are there to suit the needs of the modern day driver, they must be fully understood in order for the car to reach its full potential – and those who take the time required to acquaint themselves with these options will find they reap numerous benefits, whether it’s lower fuel bills, a more comfortable journey or a safer car.”