Motorists have been warned they could be breaking the law if certain parts of their cars are dirty.
Car care experts from LiquidTech are urging drivers to keep their vehicles clean inside and out or risk being hit with hefty fines and penalty points.
Whilst a filthy car might attract disapproving looks from the neighbours, having a number plate or windscreen obscured by dirt can prove far more serious.
Drivers could be fined up to ÂŁ1,000 if a number plate is too dirty to read, while a windscreen that is too dirty to see out of could get them pulled over by the police.
It isn’t just the exterior that drivers need to be aware of though, as loose rubbish inside vehicles can get caught under a pedal causing the driver to lose control.
Drivers should keep mirrors and rear windows clean both inside and out and make sure all lights are free from dirt.
Experts warn that if your dirty car causes a crash or serious incident, you could face a ÂŁ5,000 fine and 9 penalty points on your license.
Rule 237 of the Highway Code states that motorists must drive with due care and attention, a law which drivers can break if they don’t keep their vehicles clean.
In the most extreme cases that lead to a crash resulting in serious injury or death, the fine is unlimited with driving bans and jail time also a possibility.
According to a spokesman from LiquidTech, there is no specific law that requires you to keep your car clean, but driving a dirty car can get you in trouble if it’s a hazard or makes it difficult to drive.
He said: “Despite the risks, there are thousands of drivers out there who are oblivious to the hot water they could find themselves in if they let their car get too dirty.
“Drivers might be shocked to receive a £1,000 fine if the letters and numbers of a number plate can’t be read clearly.
“While a windscreen that is significantly obscured by dirt could see someone pulled over by the police.
“It’s easy to let the dirt build up as it can happen so quickly during the winter months, but we don’t want Brits to fall foul of the law and pick up hefty fines and penalty points.”
“As well as the number plate and windscreen, we recommend keeping head and rear lights clean along with mirrors inside and out.
“And don’t forget the interior too, as not only does having a clean car inside and out feel great, but it also means there will be no loose items that can hamper you while driving.
The spokesman advises motorists to clean their vehicles at least every two weeks in the winter months as dirt can build up quickly.
He said: “You can be guided by the weather conditions but we advise making your car cleaning routine more frequent in autumn and winter.
“Wet weather creates more dirty spray from the rainwater and snow mixing with the grime on the roads which they dries on the vehicle.
“Cleaning your car every two weeks means dirt doesn’t build up to the point when visibility will be impaired putting you and other motorists at risk.
For further information on choosing the right vehicle cleaners and protectants to help stay on the right side of the law visit: https://liquidtechuk.com/