Motorists across the nation have been left utterly gobsmacked after discovering the true purpose of hooks in their cars, a revelation that has sent social media into a frenzy.

For years, many drivers believed these hooks, located near the rear doors, were simply there to hang coats or other garments. However, a Facebook post that has gone viral has set the record straight.

The enlightening post, which has rapidly spread across various pages and groups on Facebook, features an image showing a parcel shelf suspended from the car hooks.

The caption explains the real use: "How many of you knew this? The hooks near your car doors aren't for coats and items of clothing, it is in fact hooks to hold a parcel shelf when the rear seats are down."

The revelation garnered over 14,000 likes and sparked thousands of comments. One individual, who claimed to have worked in the motor trade for a quarter of a century, confessed: "That's blown my mind to be honest."

Another person commented with a sense of newfound knowledge: "I was today years old when I learned that," reported Birmingham Live.

Meanwhile, a third remarked "we learn something new every day..." before humorously adding, "I always put mine in the hallway".

Despite the widespread amazement, some remain sceptical about this newfound function of the hooks. A dissenter in the comments section expressed doubt: "I'm not entirely convinced that that's what they're for, but I will accept that they can be used for that purpose."

Another bluntly dismissed the idea, stating: "There's plenty of motors without removable shelves and still have hooks."

"Right from when I was a little kid, my dad's cars and all of mine up until 1997 were saloons (so no parcel shelf)," one individual remarked.

"And they all had these hooks, so no, you're wrong I'm afraid. What you're doing there, is massively shortening the lifespan of the parcel shelf cords."

Some commenters offered different perspectives on the purpose of the hooks, suggesting they could be used for items like air fresheners and keys.

However you choose to use your hooks, as long as it's not a safety issue while driving, it should all be OK.