Most unpopular modern car innovations

Motorists have given an overwhelming thumbs down to ‘space saver’ spare wheels and puncture repair kits.

Introduced to save space and weight, the ‘space saver’ spare – or no spare wheel at all – tops the chart of drivers’ irritations compiled by independent expert car buying guide Carbuyer.co.uk.

More than 1,000 motorists were asked which modern car features annoy them most, with two out of three (65%) listing no full-size spare as their biggest gripe.

Ranking second in the list of annoyances was another feature aimed at improving fuel efficiency – the engine stop-start system.

Some features introduced for driver convenience also turn out to annoy a significant number of motorists. Automatic handbrakes came third on the list, followed by keyless entry, inaccurate satellite navigation systems and interior hazard warning sounds.

Other annoyances included branded puddle lights, voice control systems and headlights that are too bright.

“Modern cars bristle with innovations designed for efficiency and convenience, but our research proves the adage that you can’t please all of the people all of the time,” said Carbuyer’s James Batchelor.

“The absence of a full-size spare appears to be overwhelmingly unpopular with drivers, doubtless because both alternative solutions are such inconvenient temporary solutions to a flat tyre.

“Removing the standard spare does allow for more storage space and helps to cut CO2 emissions by reducing weight, but these benefits don’t impress most motorists.

“Continuing your journey on a speed-limited wheel – or using a temporary repair kit – are deeply unpopular options for an overwhelming majority of drivers.”