AA: Women more likely to neglect cars

A new AA Roadwatch survey shows that women are more likely to neglect their cars than men.

The poll of more than 12,300 people indicated that a huge number of motorists neglect to check their car's fluids, tyres and lights.

A third of those surveyed said that they rarely if ever check their tyre pressure - with 37% of female drivers compared to 32% of men saying they failing to carry out this check.

“Under-inflated tyres means that your vehicle’s rolling resistance will increase, making your vehicle more fuel-thirsty.” said Noel Keogh, Head of AA Rescue.

“You also increase the likelihood of sustaining a puncture which means even more expense. Most importantly of all, under-inflated tyres reduce your vehicle control, increase braking distances and increase your risk of skidding.”

Some 42% said that their oil dipstick rarely sees the light of day, with women identified as having a worse track record regarding this also.

“Oil is the lifeblood of your car and without the proper level, your engine can be severely damaged. Try to check the oil level on the dipstick every couple of weeks when your engine is cold and before any long journey," Keogh advised.

Twenty-nine per cent of those polled said that they hardly ever check if their lights are working, while 56% said they do not check coolant levels.

This New Year, the AA is encouraging motorists to treat their cars with a little more TLC.