According to Kwik-Fit, nearly one in three UK motorists (32%) – over 10 million in total - admitted that they would fail the new driving test that requires candidates to demonstrate a basic knowledge of car maintenance. In addition, a further 25% of drivers said they would have been doubtful of passing had they been faced with the new set of questions.

Kwik-Fit's survey of 3,300 motorists was conducted following the introduction of a new driving test by the Driving Standards Agency in which candidates will be asked a series of questions on car safety checks including how to check oil, engine coolant and brake fluid levels as well as measuring tyre pressures and treads .

In response to the new driving test, Kwik-Fit is launching a new car safety and maintenance clinic that will be available to all drivers – free of charge.

Every Thursday from 2 October onwards drivers will be able to visit one of Kwik-Fit's 609 centres located in Great Britain where a qualified mechanic will carry out the full list of checks on their car that are included in the new driving test. At the same time, drivers will be offered guidance to help them carry out the checks on their own.

The new driving test asks candidates to show they can check oil and brake fluid levels, tyre treads, and handbrake wear.