Britain’s dwindling driveway DIY car mechanics

A third of motorists check under the bonnet of their car less than four times a year and 62% leave the engine bay untouched for more than two months at a time, according to new research.

The survey by car ownership and maintenance start-up MotorEasy indicates that it could be technology, rather than apathy, that is to blame.

Technology-laden connected cars force drivers to think twice before attempting vehicle maintenance, as specialist tools and diagnostics equipment become essential for identifying faults and carrying out repairs.

Female motorists are less likely to attempt car maintenance than male drivers who, on average, lift the bonnet 4.8 and 6.8 times respectively on an annual basis.

“While DIY maintenance might be the domain of classic car owners and the determined few, it is clear that the service, repair and maintenance industry is changing fast,” said Duncan McClure Fisher, MotorEasy founder.