A third of drivers don't know what this symbol means

Virgin Radio

4 Mar 2022, 18:05

Do you recognise it?

We're always learning new things, and a study has found a third of drivers don't know what all of the lights on their dashboard mean.

The survey saw more than 2,000 motorists being asked eight questions on what the different symbols commonly displayed on a dashboard mean.

These included an oil warning sign, one for the coolant levels, and one for the bonnet being open.

Some 29 per cent of drivers couldn't pick out the symbol for the washer fluid.

Another 30 per cent failed to recognise when the engine oil warning light flashed up.

Those surveyed didn't do much better for recognising the brake warning light either, with only a third recognising it.

The younger generation fared the worst, with 18 to 24-year-olds knowing an average of just 32 per cent of the symbols.

For the over 65s it was 52 per cent.

Limvirak Chea, co-founder and CEO at Fixter, which commissioned the research, said: “These figures are troubling and show there’s a lot to be done to make Britain’s roads safe.

“It’s important that people are aware of the possible hazards which the warning lights tell drivers about their vehicle.

“By getting your car regularly checked and making sure you get your MOT done, this can offset any future problems you may have further down the line.”