The financial price comparison website Uswitch is urging motorists to be proactive when getting faults with their car repaired.

According to a new study published by the company, 89 percent of drivers admitted to taking over a week before getting issues with their car inspected and repaired.

Leoni Moninska, motoring expert at Uswitch car insurance, said that the company is helping drivers to know what is wrong with their car by launching a new ‘AutoLingo’ function on their website, which explains key mechanical terms.

She explained: “Our goal with AutoLingo is to save drivers money by translating the technical language they need to negotiate with mechanics, and therefore making sure their car is kept roadworthy and insurance compliant.

“By keeping your vehicle in top condition, you can reduce the risk of accidents, prevent minor issues from becoming costly ones and keep your insurance valid, which is why having a yearly car service is essential.”

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The company’s AutoLingo system allows road users to enter technical motoring terms and receive an explanation, which has been vetted by the mechanic chain Kwik Fit.

According to the study, the most searched automotive term by UK motorists is ‘catalytic converter’, with 28,330 drivers Googling it each month.

Other terms commonly searched by drivers include ‘car transmissions’, ‘engine coolant’ and ‘how to check transmission fluid’.

Leoni added that motorists who neglect problems with their car run the risk of invalidating their insurance policy.

She advised: “Being confident with car terms is key to understanding any problems with your vehicle – your insurance may become invalid if you ignore warning lights on the dashboard, as this could mean your car is no longer roadworthy.

“Well-maintained cars with functional safety features could also make you eligible for insurance discounts, and their prolonged lifespan could lead to lower insurance expenses over time.”

Uswitch also advised motorists on the best way to communicate with motoring experts, recommending that they make notes of any problematic symptoms they have affected.

Even if drivers do not completely understand technical terms, general information on the problem can help the mechanic to diagnose the issue.

Finally, the company suggested that drivers who are unsure on a diagnosis or the price they have been quoted to get it fixed should not be afraid to get a second opinion from another trusted source.