A motoring industry expert has shared five defence strategies for pollen-sensitive drivers — and one of her tips is often overlooked by mechanics.

This auto insurance whiz, Ali Ingram-Seal at Saga, notes that most cars have pollen filters that service appointments don’t address.

Ali said: “Most modern vehicles are fitted with pollen filters which prevent potential allergens from entering the cabin when the air conditioning is being used. 

“However, these filters tend to become clogged and inefficient over time and are rarely replaced. Poor airflow from the aircon unit is the biggest indicator. 

“Drivers then often resort to opening their windows instead on a warm day, which only exacerbates hay fever symptoms,” Saga reports.

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“Wind and warm air currents lift pollen from the ground, so symptoms worsen around midday until the temperature cools in the evening when pollen settles on the ground.”

Third, Ali suggests switching to rubber car floor mats since pollen can embed itself in carpet floor mats. 

The auto insurance industry vet adds that rubber floor mats are also easier to clean in addition to reducing overall cabin allergens.