Drivers split between trusting car software or own instincts
New research has revealed that Britons are divided when it comes to trusting modern vehicle technology, with drivers unsure whether to rely on increasingly advanced car software or their own judgement behind the wheel.
Despite decades of innovation in vehicle safety and ADAS, data from automotive diagnostics specialist Carly shows there is no clear consensus on who – or what – drivers trust most.
Lack of visibility and confidence
When asked: “What would you trust more when you are driving and parking: car software systems or your own judgement?”, only 28% of UK motorists said they trust their car’s software systems more than themselves, while a nearly identical 27% still place greater confidence in their own instincts. Meanwhile, 38% said they trust both equally, suggesting many drivers are navigating a middle ground between human judgement and machine intelligence.
The findings point to a deeper issue than simple preference – a lack of visibility and confidence in what modern vehicles are doing beneath the surface. As cars become more complex, drivers are increasingly asked to rely on systems they cannot see, interpret or verify, creating uncertainty even as technology advances.
This uncertainty is further shaped by a clear generational divide. Younger drivers are significantly more likely to trust software, with 44% of those aged 25-34 leaning towards vehicle systems. In contrast, just 20% of drivers aged over 65 say they would place more trust in the technology, reinforcing the idea that familiarity with digital systems plays a major role in shaping confidence.
Motorists split between trusting car software
Commenting on the findings, Emma Brown, UK growth manager at Carly, said saidof driver trusting car software: “Drivers are being asked to trust technology more than ever before, but without always having the tools to understand it. That’s where uncertainty comes in.
“What we’re seeing is not a rejection of technology, but a desire for clarity. People want to know what their car is doing, why it’s doing it, and whether they can rely on it. Carly gives drivers that visibility – real data, in real time – so they’re not relying on instinct or blind trust in software alone.”
As vehicles continue to evolve with more advanced, software-led systems, Carly’s research highlights a growing need for transparency, accessibility and understanding – ensuring drivers remain confident, informed and in control.
