Surprisingly, people only seem to be acutely aware of the cleanliness of their vehicles when someone other than themselves has to sit in it.

How is it that some car owners seem oblivious to the rubbish which accumulates in their cars, and unconcerned that, wherever it is parked, dozens of passers-by can see its filthy interior?

Yes, motorists do spend more time in their cars these days than in days gone by, and perhaps having a filthy car is the new "in" thing, symbolising an enviably busy and productive lifestyle.

But let's face it, the exterior and interior condition of your car speak volumes about you.

Have you ever given thought to what kind of impression you would make if you arrived arrive at a business meeting (all dressed up in your designer threads) crawling out of a messy, dirty (smelly) car?

Here are some classic "treasures" one might observe from taking a peek into a car and the tell-tale signs of the driver's personality:

1. Fast food wrappers and empty water bottles, aka: Jekyll and Hyde.

This is a clear indication that the driver is a borderline psychotic, caught somewhere between the quick-fix and convenience of junk food, while pretending to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

If the driver of such a car is your life-partner, chances are you are a nervous wreck and are on a course of anti-depressants.

2. Clothing (apart from gym stuff). This is an indication that the driver is likely to be a socialite with a panache for sleeping around.

Why else would they carry their wardrobe around with them, unless they were unsure where they would wake up the following morning?

If you are romantically entangled with the driver of such a car, we hope this explains a few things for you.

3. Receipts, till slips etc. This driver either does not pay taxes (any law-abiding citizen would meticulously file their slips), or isn't high enough up the corporate food chain to have an entertainment budget they can claim for. In either instance, you don't want this person as your significant other.

4. Knobkerrie or any other weapon. This is an indisputable sign of a person with a lack of acceptable social communication skills.

Should you opt for a ride with this driver, refrain from arguments of any kind.

Just smile and nod your head to all they say, or it could be the last time you are seen alive.

5. Chewing gum, mints and other breath fresheners. A sure signs of a person with poor oral hygiene.

If you are brave, you could stick around to ask the owner but if this describes your car then a visit to a dentist is in order.

6. Make-up (and other items used for concealing the truth). If the owner of the vehicle is female these should be freely accepted.

However, if you see a pair of men's shoes peeping out from under the driver's seat, run for your life.

7. Books, magazines, old newspapers. Unless you are a student or employed as a delivery guy, the only print material which should be in your car is today's newspaper.

Anything older than that and you could be mistaken for the community mobile library van, and the only love interests you attract are nerds (nothing wrong with nerds by the way - some of my best friends are nerds).

8. Toys. Anything fluffy and or furry has no place in an adult's car and blow-up dolls are no exception - especially if one has been strapped into the front passenger seat.

Hide and wait for the owner to return, then take pictures you can sell to the media, especially if the owner is a high-profile person.

It can be argued that your car's interior is an accurate reflection of the state of your life - specifically as regards health, eating habits, and grooming (or lack thereof).

A messy, disorganised and dirty car equates to a messy and complicated life, although granted, it is not a hard-and-fast rule.

Perhaps you might not give a hoot about what people think of you or your car, but there is a hygienic difference between riding around in a mobile trash can and a clean, uncluttered car.