A Third Of Drivers Say They Can't Identify This Dashboard Symbol

A third of drivers say they can't identify a common symbol that often pops up on the dashboard.

A study of 2,000 motorists revealed drivers struggled to answer eight questions on what the different symbols commonly displayed in vehicles represent.

Among the symbols displayed include an oil warning sign, the bonnet not being closed, and a warning to check your coolant levels.

One important symbol has left Brits totally baffled, after a third failed to identify it. Would you know what this represents?

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Some 29 per cent of drivers couldn't confidently pick out the symbol - which means the washer fluid is low - while 30 per cent would be stumped if the engine oil warning light flashed up.

Added to that, less than six in ten (59 per cent) knew what the battery warning light was, while nearly half wouldn't know if their rear fog lights were on just from looking at their dashboard.

Meanwhile, just a third felt confident they could recognise the brake warning light, while just over half could identify the tyre pressure warning.

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Younger people are the biggest culprits, with 18 to 24-year-olds knowing an average of just 32 per cent of the symbols, compared to 52 per cent for over 65s.

The survey has raised some concerns. While over three quarters reported being in a situation where a warning light has come on while driving, the average driver estimated they could only identify less than half of the symbols on their dash.

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.”

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The study also revealed that out of those who have had a warning light appear, only 14 per cent could address it themselves.

Nearly half would call a garage, while four would speak to a family member and 12 per cent would ask a stranger.

Shockingly, 37 per cent admitted to ignoring a warning light, with more than one in 20 of those pretending it wasn’t there for at least a year.

The study, carried out via OnePoll, also found 58 per cent of drivers think the symbols on modern car dashboards are too complicated.

Could you identify the symbols on your dashboard?!

Topics: Life

Lucy Devine

Lucy is a journalist working for Tyla. After graduating with a master's degree in journalism, she has worked in both print and online and is particularly interested in fashion, food, health and women's issues. Northerner, coffee addict, says hun a lot.

@lucedevine