More than half of UK drivers do NOT understand what symbols on their car’s dashboard mean

OVER half of Brits have no idea what many of the buttons, switches and icons on their car mean or what they do.

When asked about the function of their car, a whopping 53% of respondents said they were confused, and more than one in ten said they were clueless on almost every aspect, according to a survey.

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If you’ve ever accidentally pressed the wrong button or switch while driving, you’re not alone – 45% of people also admit to making the same mistake.

Driving around with the wrong car clock on was a problem shared by 24% of respondents, while 22% said they regularly turn on their windshield wipers when trying to blink.

One in four said they didn’t know how to open the bonnet, while a third said they were embarrassed at not knowing simple car functions with friends or family as passengers – and needed their help.

Even more worryingly, a whopping 62% of the 2,000 people surveyed said they didn’t know what it means when a warning light or sound goes off.

The survey, commissioned by WeBuyAnyCar, also found that 12% were forced to listen to a radio station because they didn’t know how to change it, with the same number also struggling with their sat nav.

Richard Evans, Head of Technical Services at WeBuyAnyCar, said: “With the advent of high-tech cars and electric vehicles and the more complex functionality that comes with them, it’s not a huge surprise to see that so many of us are intimidated by all the different features and modes that are now available to us.

“Fortunately, it’s a lot easier to sell your car quickly through WeBuyAnyCar, giving you a lot more time to get comfortable with your new car when you’re ready to upgrade.”

While 14% said they drove to a gas pump only to forget which side their car’s gas cap was on, 29% had no idea that the arrow on their fuel gauge tells them (with an arrow).

Upgrading to a new high-tech car intimidates nearly 70% of drivers, and while 37% say they still try to learn its gadgets even though they know they can’t, 16% said they do don’t even try.

How many can you get?

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