Car care takes a back seat

Most motorists have no driving ambition to care for their cars, says a survey out today. Only one-third say their car is something they can enjoy, while nearly half only wash their vehicles on an occasional basis, said the survey, from the Direct Line insurance company. Just one in 10 of the 1,600 car-owners questioned described car ownership as a source of pleasure.

"It seems that increased time pressures in our lives, and busier roads, mean than enjoying and caring for our cars has become a low priority," said Annette Court, Direct Line's motor insurance business manager.

Crime may be one of the causes of driver discontent. Another poll, by the British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association, found that one-fifth of car owners had suffered vehicle crime in the last year and one in three drivers expected to be a victim in the next 12 months. Randeep Ramesh