Fallen autumn leaves can have a "devastating effect" on the electronics of modern cars and result in breakdowns and repairs, according to the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM).

The institute has therefore warned drivers to ultimately avoid having to make car insurance claims by carrying out simple maintenance procedures under the bonnet.

Water runs off a car's windscreen into the plenum chamber located at the back of the engine before being safely dispensed via a tube to the ground, but the IAM has warned that leaves often get stuck here.

A clogged plenum chamber and tube will block drains and cause them to overflow with water when it rains, resulting in leaks into the engine computer controls and braking systems.

By occasionally unblocking any accumulated leaves from the chambers, the IAM advised, car insurance customers could save themselves money this season.

The British Insurance Brokers' Association has meanwhile warned drivers to be prepared for approaching winter frosts in a bid to help reduce the number of road accidents in the UK this year.

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