Could you pass your driving test if you took it today? Many Americans failed – here’s why

A quarter of Americans aren’t sure they’d pass the written driver’s test if they were asked to retake it now, according to a new study.

A survey of 2,000 driving adults examined how smart respondents are about the road and their car, finding that only 40% are absolutely sure they remember and follow all the safety precautions they learned when they set off to drive a car for the first time.

When it comes to their car, respondents have spent quite a bit of time together, averaging around five years of use; one in five have kept their vehicle for at least twice that long.

After owning their car for so long, the average driver claims to be able to understand about 78% of dashboard indicators and warning lights, with men feeling more confident in their ability to do so (82% vs. 76%).

The survey conducted by Talker Research for LIQUI MOLY put this knowledge to the test.

While respondents were confident and able to correctly identify the oil pressure warning light (79%) and check engine light (64%), the test revealed that there is certainly more to learn.

Only half of respondents were able to correctly name the temperature warning light (51%) and 47% were able to pick out the tire pressure warning light.

Across the board, respondents lack knowledge when it comes to the brake system warning light, which only 16% identified, while 40% revealed they were unsure.

Furthermore, only 22% got the transmission temperature warning light correct and another 23% confused it with the temperature warning light.

“Cars are an important part of our daily lives and many of us rely on them,” said Steffen Niemietz, application engineer at LIQUI MOLY. “To prevent further damage, you need to know what to do when a warning light comes on – especially if you’re not familiar with it. And that’s taking the car to a workshop for a professional check as soon as possible. No just for the sake of your car, but also for your safety.â€

When asked about the current state of their car, 43% admit to having their dashboard warning lights on.

On average, respondents will wait five days after a warning light comes on before dealing with it, with Gen Z and millennials waiting slightly longer – about a week – before getting to the problem.

In the event that an unfamiliar control panel light comes on, nearly a quarter of respondents would look for easy answers online (23%).

Although 43% of drivers said they would check the owner’s manual first, 15% said they are not at all familiar with the contents of the book.

However, 74% feel knowledgeable about proper car maintenance, with Gen Z the least likely (67%) and a similar pattern is present among women (68%).

When they need advice, 39% rely on their auto mechanic most for car maintenance knowledge and one in six would take their car straight to the auto shop for a professional opinion if a new problem arises .

Despite the fact that most Americans feel like they know how to take better care of their car, nearly a third wait longer than the recommended six months to take their car in for routine maintenance (28%).

Forty-four percent perform some level of car maintenance themselves, with men more likely (59% vs. 34%).

What prevents respondents from continuing with their car? For 56%, cost plays a big factor.

On average, drivers estimate they spend $379.10 on car maintenance per year, with 26% spending over $500 per year.

This money goes mainly to oil changes (41%), regular inspections (16%) and tire maintenance (13%).

“To maintain the efficiency of your machine and increase its service life, it is important to take care of it properly,” said Niemietz. “Regular inspections and oil services guarantee the safe operation of the engine and the car as a whole. It is also important to use the correct products for your vehicle, the wrong engine oil specification for example can lead to lower overall efficiency, increased wear and tear, major engine damage and loss of warranty. Regular maintenance with the right products helps you prevent any serious and costly problems so you can enjoy your car for a long time.â€

Survey methodology:

Talker Research surveyed 2,000 American drivers; the survey was commissioned by LIQUI MOLY and administered and conducted online by Talker Research between September. 23 and September. 27, 2024.