You could be fined £1k for making common driving mistake – here’s how to avoid it

BRITS are being fined £1,000 for making a very common driving mistake – and it’s very easy to avoid being caught out.

It comes as a new survey from Comparethemarket has revealed that a staggering three in four drivers admit to struggling with performing basic car maintenance tasks.

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However, with winter approaching, keeping on top of car maintenance is more important than ever, and failing to do so could land drivers with hefty fines.

The survey revealed that over one in five (22 per cent) drivers admit they’re not confident when checking their brake fluid levels.

And it’s important drivers check their brake fluid levels correctly because if not they could receive a £1,000 fine and three penalty points.

Julie Daniels, motor insurance expert at Comparethemarket, says: “Our research suggests that more than one in five drivers do not feel confident conducting brake fluid level checks, this raises some safety concerns.

“In the colder months, brake fluid can thicken and congeal, which can compromise your braking power, causing them to become ineffective. Not only does this put the driver and passengers at risk but also the safety of other road users”.

“According to The Highway Code, failing to have proper control of your vehicle could cost you £1,000 and three penalty points.”

Brake fluid refers to the liquid chemical solution in hydraulic braking systems in modern cars.

In simpler terms, it allows drivers to smoothly press on the brake pedal.

But keeping it topped up is essential to making sure your car runs smoothly.

AAA car expert John Paul suggests you get the brake fluid changed every 30,000 miles.