Drivers warned that 67% of car TikTok's are misleading, Auto Trader reveal

Auto Trader has analysed TikTok videos to determine whether the information they provide is recommended to drivers

67% of car-related videos on TikTok should be met with caution

81% of car cleaning hack videos on TikTok might cause more damage to your vehicle

76% of car repair TikTok videos should not be attempted by inexperienced mechanics

Now more than ever drivers are turning to TikTok for guidance and advice for all things relating to their cars. #CarTok has become a booming niche on TikTok, with 876.4 million videos around tips and hacks, interior trends and more for your vehicle [1].

With a growing number of #CarTok videos, the UK’s largest automotive platform, Auto Trader, has analysed TikTok videos to determine whether the advice given should be followed by drivers or should be met with caution.

The #CarTok niches that should be met with caution

81% of car cleaning videos could lead to more damage to your vehicle

Upon analysing a sample of car cleaning related videos on TikTok, Auto Trader found that 81% of these videos should not be followed as they could lead to more damage to your vehicle. Many of the ‘hack’ videos used household items like toothpaste or coconut oil to remove marks. Some videos advised drivers to use items such as a mop to clean the exterior of their car, or in some cases, drivers were advised to attach a toilet brush to a drill to remove dirt from their car mat. While drivers might find using common household objects to clean their cars appealing, Auto Trader advises people to always use specialist products to avoid potential damage from harsh chemicals or unsuitable objects.

When leasing a vehicle, it’s crucial to understand how to properly maintain and care for your vehicle. If you don’t return your vehicle in good condition, you could face unexpected charges at the end of your lease agreement. Drivers should avoid attempting unconventional cleaning methods as seen on viral TikTok videos, as they might cause unintended damage and charges. Cleaning with specialist products ensures that your car is kept in pristine condition without the risk of damage.

76% of car repair videos should be met with caution 

TikTok has become the go-to destination for drivers to find quick solutions when looking to repair their cars. TikTok searches for “car repairs” receive a staggering 365,000 searches each month, emphasising that drivers are turning to TikTok for help with their vehicles [2]. Many of the car repair videos analysed were from mechanics showing how to professionally fix damages such as car scratches or how to perform a car service. While these videos offer practical advice, these hacks shouldn’t be followed if you are inexperienced as it could lead to more damage in the long run.

Attempting to fix issues on your own could end up becoming more of a costly problem than consulting a professional in the first place. If you have a maintenance package with your lease car agreement, it should cover repairs or replacements for fair wear and tear parts. This usually includes things like brake pads, exhausts, windscreen wipers and tyres. Attempting to follow TikTok car repair videos that result in more damage won’t be covered on your lease agreement.

The #CarTok niches with the most helpful advice

70% of car maintenance tips are helpful to drivers 

Cars are complex machines; many drivers may not know or understand the preventative maintenance checks they can do regularly to spot any issues ahead of time. Drivers are increasingly turning to TikTok for advice on car maintenance. Auto Trader’s research found that 70% of videos analysed are helpful to drivers. Many of these TikTok videos were created by professionals offering accurate, detailed and useful advice. Some tips included how to check your shock absorbers, prepping your vehicle for colder weather conditions and how to check your oil and tyre pressure.

Knowing how to check these things is crucial to spotting any warning signs and knowing when to visit a professional. Drivers having this knowledge helps identify any issues early and prevent any penalties for wear and tear at the end of your lease. When you take a lease out, you have the option to add a maintenance package, meaning you’ll pay more each month, but it will cover the cost of servicing and routine maintenance or MOTs within the length of your contract.

66% of driving tips videos are helpful, especially for learner drivers

TikTok is known for its short form content, and the educational content on the app is often bite-sized, allowing complex information to be condensed into more manageable chunks. Many of the videos around driving tips are targeted towards learner drivers. 66% of these videos offer practical advice for learner drivers and are often created by driving instructors. They provide practical tips ahead of your driving test or how to know when you’re ready to take your test.

Leasing is an appealing option for new drivers as it gives you the opportunity to drive the latest cars. Gaining valuable tips and insight from TikTok will help drivers become more confident on the road, potentially reducing the risk of accidents and damage to their vehicle.

TikTok is becoming one of the go-to search engines, offering inspiration and education content from experienced creators. But Ddrivers should be wary as many videos on TikTok are intended to shock audiences and to gain traction and engagement to the creator’s content. We found that a staggering 67% of the videos offer advice that is not recommended to drivers and could potentially leave your vehicle with more damage if followed. For those who lease their vehicles, it is paramount that you approach the hacks you see online with caution. Some of these tips offer quick and cost-effective solutions but can lead to more unintended damages. Such damage won’t be covered in general wear and tear when you return your vehicle at the end of your lease. It is strongly advised that drivers approach TikTok hacks cautiously. Drivers should visit specialists if they see an issue with their vehicle instead of trying to fix it themselves to avoid any unexpected charges at the end of your their lease agreement.