Older motorists could be slapped with huge repair bills this winter as they are unwilling to fix any vehicle issues themselves, according to new data.
A recent survey has found that 56 per cent of motorist say they normally have someone else fix problems with their vehicles, with just six per cent doing it themselves.
Just under a quarter of people said it would depend on the issue, with even basic vehicle maintenance being left to professional help.
These figures paint a stark picture ahead of the winter months, where drivers are expecting to see more breakdowns given the wetter and colder temperatures.
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Elderly drivers were found to be one of the age groups most reliant on others for repair help at 59 per cent of over-65s, with only three per cent confident in their own ability to fix an issue.
Some older motorists have admitted to driving less at night and during the winter months, given the increased hazards that could lead to accidents.
Motoring organisations have already warned that an increase in breakdowns is expected over the coming months, potentially causing traffic chaos for road users.
Road users between the ages of 45 and 54 were found to be the most dependent on others for repair help at 63 per cent.
Older motorists are more likely to have professionals deal with their vehicle breakdowns
|GETTY
The survey revealed that 12 per cent of the age group would go for help even though they have never experienced a breakdown.
Antony Diggins, Managing Director at Warrantywise, said: "Winter is the hardest season for cars - cold starts, dead batteries, and slippery conditions all take their toll.
"But with modern vehicles packed full of sensors, computers, and hybrid components, even a small issue can require specialist tools or software to diagnose.
"Our research shows that most UK drivers - especially older motorists and female drivers - simply don’t feel equipped to handle these repairs themselves."
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Many drivers would not be confident when replacing a tyre
| PAMr Diggins stressed how crucial it was to have a reliable warranty plan and roadside support, describing it as "more important than ever", especially in the winter months.
In contrast to older generations, young people between the ages of 18 and 24 were the most hands-on, with 15 per cent saying they normally fix issues themselves.
The data also showed that three-quarters of women were less confident in changing a tyre, with 65 saying they normally get someone else to fix the issue.
Drivers in London were more confident in performing DIY repairs to their vehicles, with nine per cent normally taking matters into their own hands.
Car breakdowns will become more common in the winter months
| PAHowever, motorists in Northern Ireland were the most headstrong, with more than a quarter saying they would fix problems themselves if they arose.
The South East and South West of England were the regions most insistent on relying on someone else to fix their car issues with 64 and 63 per cent respectively.