It comes as no surprise that the first autonomous systems. Able to control steering, braking, and accelerating. So, have already started appearing in cars. Automobile giants like Ford, GM, Toyota, Nissan, Volvo, and Audi have all shown off cars that can drive themselves. As a result, they have all declared that within a decade. They plan to sell some form of advanced automated cars.
Thus taking over driving on highways or being able to park themselves in a garage.
Google, meanwhile, is investing millions in autonomous driving software. Subsequently, its driverless cars have become a familiar sight. Especially on the highways around Silicon Valley. Hence, over the last several years,.
The first autonomous systems, which are able to control most of the cars systems,. Therefore, have already started appearing in cars. The big car manufacturers have all shown off cars that can drive themselves. I must confess that this is something that I cant get my head around? The thought of all these cars bobbing about town scares the pants off me.
Especially in small towns with Victorian infrastructure
such as in Halifax here in the UK. So it may be OK in Silicon valley, but not many other places. I realise that, If we think about it, we humans actually make terrible drivers. Not to mention reckless drivers. People who fiddle with their phones, maps or GPS while driving are responsible for significant number of accidents.
The software that self-driving cars use is smart enough to detect the wait time at traffic signals and also on road stops, which would reduce unnecessary traffic congestion on busy streets. I do agree, though, with the people who took part in this survey. if I lived in a town or city, I would move to the country. Escape would be the only way. However, I do not think it will happen in my lifetime?
Campervan Brake Repairs in Halifax – Keeping Visitors Safe on Yorkshire’s Hills
One thing that surprises many people is just how many tourists visit Halifax and the surrounding Calderdale area every year.
We tend to take our local attractions for granted because we see them every day, but visitors travel from all over the UK and beyond to explore our beautiful part of West Yorkshire. This was highlighted recently when a visitor touring the area in his campervan called into Pellon Tyre and Autocentre with concerns about poor braking performance.
The campervan was based on a Vauxhall Vivaro CDTi van and had been professionally converted into a very smart touring vehicle. The owner had been travelling around Yorkshire and had quickly discovered something that many first-time visitors notice – Halifax and Calderdale are certainly not flat!
After driving around some of our steep hills and valleys, the owner became concerned that the brakes did not feel quite right. Rather than take any chances, he called into our Halifax depot for a free inspection.
Ethan Discovers Several Brake Problems: Campervan Brake Job
One of our mechanics, Ethan, carried out a thorough inspection of the braking system.
It soon became apparent that the campervan’s braking problems were not simply caused by the demanding local roads. The front brake discs and brake pads had become heavily worn and were well past their best.
Like many campervans, this vehicle carried a significant amount of extra weight compared to the original van specification. The conversion included living accommodation, storage areas and touring equipment, all of which place additional demands on the braking system.
When combined with the steep roads found throughout Calderdale, worn brake components can quickly become a safety concern.
After discussing the findings with the customer, Ethan carried out the necessary brake repairs, fitting new brake discs and pads to restore the braking system to full working order.
Once completed, the customer was delighted with the improvement and could continue enjoying his Yorkshire holiday with confidence.
The Popular Vauxhall Vivaro CDTi
The Vauxhall Vivaro has become one of Britain’s most popular medium-sized vans since its introduction in 2001.
Designed in collaboration with Renault and Nissan, the Vivaro quickly gained a reputation for reliability, practicality and good driving characteristics.
The diesel CDTi models proved especially popular with tradespeople, delivery companies and campervan conversion specialists. Their combination of fuel economy, comfortable driving position and generous interior space made them an ideal platform for campervan conversions.
Today, thousands of Vauxhall Vivaro campervans can be found touring Britain’s roads, from the Scottish Highlands right down to Cornwall.
Halifax – A Hidden Yorkshire Gem: Campervan Brake Job
Many visitors are surprised by how much there is to see in Halifax and the wider Calderdale area.
One of the first places our customer planned to visit after collecting his campervan was the famous Piece Hall.
Located in the heart of Halifax, the Piece Hall is one of the most remarkable historic buildings in Britain. Opened in 1779, it was originally built as a cloth trading centre for Yorkshire’s booming woollen industry.
The magnificent Georgian courtyard is the only surviving cloth hall of its type in the country and has been beautifully restored in recent years. Today it hosts shops, cafés, exhibitions and major music events featuring some of the biggest names in entertainment.
Exploring Calderdale
Visitors staying in Halifax often use the town as a base for exploring the wider Calderdale area.
Made famous by the television series “Gentleman Jack”, Shibden Hall dates back over 600 years and offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into Yorkshire’s history.
Just a short drive from Halifax, Hebden Bridge attracts visitors from across the country with its independent shops, cafés, canals and stunning countryside.
A favourite spot for walkers, birdwatchers and nature lovers, Ogden Water provides peaceful surroundings just a few miles from Halifax town centre.
Why Good Brakes Matter on Yorkshire Roads: Campervan Brake Job
The experience of our campervan visitor highlights an important lesson for anyone touring Yorkshire.
The roads around Halifax, Hebden Bridge, Ripponden and the Pennine hills place greater demands on a vehicle’s braking system than many flatter parts of the country.
Long descents, steep climbs and winding roads mean that brakes often work much harder than they would on ordinary motorway journeys.
For this reason, it is especially important for campervan owners, motorhome drivers and anyone towing a caravan to have their braking systems checked regularly.
Helping Visitors and Locals Alike: Campervan Brake Job
At Pellon Tyre and Autocentre, we help both local motorists and visitors who find themselves needing repairs whilst travelling through Yorkshire.
Whether it’s tyres, brakes, batteries, wheel alignment or MOT testing, our aim is always the same – to keep motorists moving safely.
Thankfully, our visitor’s brake problems were identified before they became a more serious issue. After Ethan completed the repairs, he was soon back on the road and able to enjoy everything that Halifax and Calderdale have to offer.
And with properly functioning brakes, those famous Yorkshire hills become a lot less daunting!
Pirelli Scorpion Verde Tyres – Built for the Modern SUV
Looking back, I do not think many of us in the tyre trade could have predicted just how popular SUVs and crossover vehicles would become.
When I first encountered some of these larger vehicles, I was attending a tyre testing event in Austria organised by Vredestein Tyres. At the time, most family cars were becoming smaller and more fuel-efficient. Manufacturers seemed determined to build lighter vehicles that would reduce fuel consumption and emissions.
Then along came the SUV revolution.
At first, many motorists viewed SUVs as specialist vehicles. They were often associated with off-road driving, country estates and large families. However, it soon became clear that the public loved the higher driving position, increased practicality and commanding view of the road.
Before long, manufacturers such as Porsche, Volkswagen, BMW, Audi, Mercedes-Benz and Land Rover were all producing increasingly sophisticated SUV models.
Today, vehicles such as the Volkswagen Tiguan, BMW X3, BMW X5, Audi Q5, Porsche Cayenne and Range Rover Evoque are a common sight on the roads around Halifax, Calderdale and throughout the UK.
As these vehicles evolved, tyre manufacturers had to develop entirely new products capable of meeting the demands of modern SUV drivers.
Why SUVs Need Specially Designed Tyres: Pirelli Verde Car Tyres
SUVs are generally heavier than traditional passenger cars.
They often carry larger loads, produce more power and place greater demands on their tyres during cornering, acceleration and braking.
At the same time, vehicle manufacturers wanted to improve fuel economy, reduce road noise and lower carbon emissions.
This presented tyre engineers with a significant challenge.
The tyre needed to be the following:
Strong enough to support a heavier vehicle.
Comfortable and quiet on the motorway.
Capable of delivering excellent wet and dry grip.
Fuel-efficient.
Long-lasting.
One of Pirelli’s answers to this challenge was the highly successful Scorpion Verde.
What Makes the Pirelli Scorpion Verde Different?
The word “verde” means “green” in Italian, giving a clue to the tyre’s environmentally friendly design.
Pirelli developed the Scorpion Verde specifically for modern SUVs and crossover vehicles with a focus on reducing environmental impact without sacrificing performance.
The tyre features an advanced tread design and specialised compound that help reduce rolling resistance.
Lower rolling resistance means the engine or electric motor does not have to work as hard to move the vehicle forward.
The result is:
Improved fuel economy.
Reduced CO₂ emissions.
Lower running costs.
Extended tyre life.
For many motorists, these benefits can add up to significant savings over the lifetime of the tyres.
Ideal for Modern SUVs and Crossovers: Pirelli Verde Car Tyres
One of the reasons for the Scorpion Verde’s success is its versatility.
The tyre is suitable for a wide range of vehicles, including the following:
Many of these vehicles are now fitted with wheel sizes ranging from 18-inch to 23-inch alloy wheels.
As wheel sizes have increased, tyre technology has had to evolve to maintain ride comfort whilst delivering precise handling.
The Growth of Hybrid and Electric SUVs
Since the Scorpion Verde was first introduced, the motor industry has changed dramatically.
Hybrid and electric SUVs have become increasingly popular.
Vehicles such as the Jaguar I-PACE, Audi Q4 e-tron, BMW iX, Kia EV9 and Hyundai IONIQ 5 place even greater demands on their tyres due to their increased weight and instant torque.
Modern versions of the Scorpion range have been developed with these new vehicles in mind, offering low rolling resistance and reduced road noise, both of which are important for electric vehicle efficiency.
All-Season Options for British Weather: Pirelli Verde Car Tyres
One of the most sensible developments in recent years has been the introduction of all-season SUV tyres.
Pirelli now offers all-season versions of the Scorpion range, providing improved traction during colder weather whilst still performing well during the summer months.
For many drivers in West Yorkshire, where we experience everything from heavy rain to frosty mornings, an all-season tyre can provide a useful balance between summer and winter performance.
This is especially true for motorists who regularly travel over the Pennines or commute between Halifax, Huddersfield, Leeds and Bradford.
Why We Like the Scorpion Verde at Pellon Tyres
At Pellon Tyre and Autocentre, we fit a wide range of SUV tyres every year.
The Pirelli Scorpion Verde continues to be popular because it offers a good combination of comfort, fuel economy, low noise levels and dependable handling.
Whilst there are many excellent SUV tyres available today, the Scorpion Verde remains one of the products that helped define the modern environmentally conscious SUV tyre category.
As SUVs continue to dominate the UK car market, tyres such as the Pirelli Scorpion Verde demonstrate just how far tyre technology has advanced over the last two decades.
What began as a specialist tyre for premium SUVs has become a trusted choice for thousands of motorists looking for comfort, efficiency and safety in one package.
Why Tyre Pressures Are More Important Than Ever in 2026
One of the simplest things a driver can do to improve safety, save money and prolong tyre life is also one of the most overlooked. I am talking about checking your tyre pressures.
Over the years, I have lost count of the number of vehicles that have arrived at Pellon Tyre and Autocentre in Halifax with tyres that were seriously under-inflated. Many drivers are completely unaware that their tyre pressures are incorrect until they notice excessive tyre wear, poor fuel economy or, in some cases, a puncture.
The truth is that maintaining the correct tyre pressure is one of the easiest ways to reduce motoring costs whilst keeping your vehicle safe on the road.
Low Tyre Pressures Cost You Money: Importance of Tyre Pressures
Most motorists are aware of rising fuel prices and the increasing cost of running a vehicle. What many people do not realise is that under-inflated tyres can significantly increase fuel consumption.
When a tyre is under-inflated, more of the tyre comes into contact with the road surface. This increases rolling resistance and forces the engine to work harder to move the vehicle forward.
The result?
More fuel is consumed, and your running costs increase.
Whilst the difference may appear small on a single journey, over thousands of miles each year the extra fuel consumption can add up to a substantial amount of money.
This is especially important for drivers of larger vehicles such as SUVs, motorhomes, vans and pickup trucks, where tyre pressures play a critical role in fuel efficiency.
Tyre Pressures and Electric Vehicles
One of the biggest developments in recent years has been the growth of electric vehicles.
Electric cars are generally heavier than their petrol or diesel counterparts because of their battery packs. As a result, tyre pressures are even more important.
Incorrect tyre pressures on an electric vehicle can:
Reduce driving range.
Increase tyre wear.
Affect vehicle handling.
Place extra strain on the tyres.
Many electric vehicle owners are surprised by how quickly tyres can wear if pressures are not checked regularly.
With some electric vehicles capable of producing instant torque, maintaining correct tyre pressures has never been more important.
Under-Inflated Tyres Wear Out Faster: Importance of Tyre Pressures
Another hidden cost of low tyre pressures is premature tyre wear.
When a tyre is running below its recommended pressure, the shoulders of the tyre carry more of the vehicle’s weight. This causes the outer edges of the tread to wear more rapidly than the centre.
We regularly see tyres at Pellon Tyres that could have lasted thousands of miles longer if the pressures had been checked regularly.
Replacing tyres early because of uneven wear is an unnecessary expense that can easily be avoided.
Tyre Pressures and Vehicle Safety
Safety is perhaps the most important reason to check your tyre pressures.
A correctly inflated tyre is designed to provide maximum grip, stability and braking performance. When the pressure drops below the manufacturer’s recommendation, the tyre can flex excessively and generate additional heat.
This can increase the risk of tyre failure, particularly when travelling at motorway speeds.
Many drivers will notice that a vehicle begins to feel different when a tyre loses pressure. The steering may feel heavier, the vehicle may pull to one side and braking performance can be affected.
In severe cases, low tyre pressures can contribute to dangerous tyre blowouts.
The Rise of TPMS Systems: Importance of Tyre Pressures
Most modern vehicles are now fitted with Tyre Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS).
These systems use electronic sensors to warn drivers when a tyre loses pressure.
Whilst TPMS technology has undoubtedly improved road safety, it should not replace regular tyre inspections.
Many warning systems only activate once a tyre has already lost a significant amount of air. By the time the warning light appears, tyre wear may already have started.
This is why we still recommend physically checking tyre pressures at least once a month.
Run-Flat Tyres and Pressure Checks
Run-flat tyres have become increasingly common on many premium vehicles, particularly BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Jaguar models.
These tyres are designed to continue operating for a limited distance after a puncture, typically around 50 miles at reduced speed.
The advantage is obvious. Drivers can often reach a garage safely without changing a wheel at the roadside.
However, run-flat tyres still require regular pressure checks.
Because the reinforced sidewalls support the vehicle after pressure loss, drivers may not immediately notice a puncture. This makes TPMS systems particularly important on vehicles fitted with run-flat tyres.
Seasonal Changes Affect Tyre Pressures
One factor that many motorists overlook is the effect of temperature on tyre pressures.
As temperatures fall during autumn and winter, tyre pressures naturally decrease. A tyre that was correctly inflated during a warm summer day may be several PSI lower during a cold Yorkshire winter morning.
This is one reason why we often see more pressure-related tyre issues during the colder months.
Free Tyre Pressure Checks in Halifax: Importance of Tyre Pressures
At Pellon Tyre and Autocentre, we encourage drivers to call in regularly for a free tyre pressure check.
It only takes a few minutes, but it can save money, improve safety and help your tyres last longer.
Many of our regular customers call in every few weeks, particularly before long journeys or family holidays.
After all, tyres are the only part of your vehicle that actually touches the road.
Keeping them correctly inflated is one of the simplest and most effective ways to stay safe and save money.
After nearly fifty years in the tyre industry, one thing remains true. Looking after your tyre pressures is one of the best motoring habits you can develop
https://www.pellonautocentre.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/pellon-tyres-logo-509x321.jpg00Eric Robertshttps://www.pellonautocentre.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/pellon-tyres-logo-509x321.jpgEric Roberts2026-06-07 08:51:122026-06-07 08:52:36Importance of Tyre Pressures
As we all know winter is just around the corner here in the Northern hemisphere. The weather is turning colder at night and this will affect the performance of your car battery. To keep you car battery lasting longer there are one or two things that you can do.
If your van battery has the old-type screw tops, then you can inspect the level of acid in your battery, With Van Battery Care, this can be checked and remedied.
If this is something that you have to do at frequent intervals,
then it means that the battery is boiling and could have a faulty alternator. You should top up the battery with distilled water and recheck it a few days later to see if the level has dropped again. If the level has dropped, then you should get your alternator checked at a good garage.
If are reading this in the UK and you do not know of a good garage, then look up the nearest independent garage in your area, they have safeguards to protect you the customer and a fair price policy, but more than that they can be trusted.
Also, another Van Battery Care tip
Of course, is to look out for white coloured powder on the top of the battery. This indicates a leak around the terminals, the white powder is dried battery acid. You can clean it off using a cup full of warm water. But if it is a recurring problem. So, it means that the battery is on its way out.Needing replacing! Before it lets you down, on your deliveries. It is a good idea to always keep a Car Battery Charger and a 12V Voltmeter,to hand. As it may just keep you going for a few more winter days. Of course, until you can buy Cheap Car batteries Online.
This is about the limit that you can go to check
over your battery and look after it. After all, as I have said, the last thing you want is for the battery to let you down when you
least expect it and having to be towed to the nearest garage to have it seen to, and paying over the odds because you are stranded. That is if they have a battery to fit your car, you may have to wait another day if they have to order a new battery.
More reading…”If you often see leaks under your car, it’s about time to check your van battery. Extreme weather condition can cause the battery to crack and leak.
Van batteries sometimes leak highly corrosive acid, which is harmful to your van and to you as well. Good van battery care will ensure this does not happen?. Cleaning up a battery leak is easy, but you should observe the utmost caution when dealing with battery acid to prevent injury.” http://carfs.net/2013/10/your-car-is-at-risk-reasons-car-batteries-fail.
For performance air filter manufacturers like Air aid, determining the ideal filter design for each vehicle application is a balancing act between optimal flow and packaging constraints.
EricRoberts‘s insight:
What do CAR AIR FILTERS DO?
So, as we all know, All filters are very important parts of your cars performance system. They help your engine breathe easily by filtering out the dirt and dust that enters your car engine. The car engine sucks in tremendous amounts of air. Importantly, this air must be perfectly clean.
It is amazing what the engine will sink in. Especially in summer! Of course, it sucks in millions of insects and dust particles. Including in autumn and winter!
So, apart from dirt and grime, How Air Filters Work
The engine sucks in leaves. Even water from the winter rains. All these things can end up in the engine compartment and eventually be sucked into the inlet ports. But your air filter stops all this from happening.
The cabin filter is most often encased in a plastic holder, or older cars could be made of metal. This casing is a secondary filter safeguard and is sometimes they are shaped like kitchen pans, with the air intake looking like the pan handle, but the more modern cars have them shaped to fit in with the engine compartment. The plastic box has its own filter slits which helps trap larger objects such as leaves.
Air Filters
It is therefore very important to have your car serviced at regular intervals and to make sure that the garage changes the oil and other filters by asking them to see the old ones when you pick the car up. If you do not change the air filter, it will slowly clog up with dirt and starve your engine from oxygen.
This will hamper the performance of your car. The biggest problem is in Fuel-injected cars, because a dirty oil filter will hamper the performance of your car. It is great when a customer has just had his car serviced and notices the difference in the cars performance, this is usually because of the new air and oil filters.
Of course, all filters are manufactured by many different companies, but here in Halifax, UK we use quality replacement filters on all models.
https://www.pellonautocentre.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/car-service-centre.jpg458688Eric Robertshttps://www.pellonautocentre.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/pellon-tyres-logo-509x321.jpgEric Roberts2026-06-06 19:39:002026-06-06 19:39:00How Air Filters Work
Of course, winter is on its way yet again! So, I wonder what the 2024 winter will bring us. However, it is important to keep you and your family safe and consider winter tyre if new tyres are required.
EricRoberts‘s insight:
Winter tyres
Of course, there has never been any doubt about Winter Tyres . Significantly, including the fantastic job that they do when winter arrives. Including most in the Northern hemisphere, no matter what country you live in.
It is always an advantage when great car magazines !
The likes of Autocar reinforce what us tyre experts have been saying for years. So, the reason that we tend to harp on about safer Winter Tyres. Importantly, there is the safety aspect of the product. These days, cars are getting much faster and more powerful and we also have had a recent influx of SUV’s and crossover cars. These vehicles are next to useless when it comes to coping with the winter conditions of snow and ice. They are large and powerful and are absolutely useless in the snow without Winter Tyres fitted.
Quality Winter Tyres are now an essential safety commodity
Significantly, to be used on our modern-day vehicles. Winter tyres will even give you a significant safety advantage when driving on the highway on a stinking wet day. So must be considered before the winter sets in. We at Pellon Tyres in Halifax recommend a couple of makes that have been proven to us over the years. They are Falken and Jinyu! Although Jinyu is an economy brand,. Importantly, we have tested these on our own vehicles over the past few years.
This is in reply to your tweet, “Why Your Employees May Be Looking to Quit. ”.
The State of the Auto Repair Industry in 2026
People often ask me what I think about the state of the motor trade today. As someone who has owned and run a garage in Halifax, West Yorkshire, for almost fifty years, I have seen many changes come and go. We have survived recessions, fuel crises, changing governments, new vehicle technology, and more recently, the rise of electric vehicles and increasing business costs.
So, what is the current state of the auto repair industry?
The answer is not straightforward because there are many factors involved. However, in my opinion, one thing remains as important today as it was when I first started in business back in 1989: how you treat people.
By people, I mean both your customers and your staff.
Looking After Your Staff: State of the Auto repair Industry
Over the years, I have learned that good employees are worth their weight in gold. Many of my staff have been with me for a long time, and I regard them as part of the Pellon family.
When times become difficult, it is often the small and medium-sized garages that come through strongest. One of the reasons for this is that independent businesses tend to have closer relationships with their employees.
We all hear stories about large national chains putting pressure on staff to sell additional work or meet targets. I have never believed in that approach. Customers are not stupid. They can usually tell when they are being sold something they do not need.
At Pellon Tyre and Autocentre, I have always preferred to reward staff through sensible bonus schemes and by creating a workplace where people feel valued. The bonuses are not linked to selling unnecessary repairs. Instead, they recognise hard work, loyalty, and teamwork.
I am proud to say that many of my staff have established good lives for themselves, bought homes, raised families, and built successful careers within the business.
That is how it should be.
Customers Can Spot a Good Garage
One thing I have noticed over the years is that customers appreciate honesty.
If a vehicle needs repairs, then we explain why. If it does not need repairs, then we say so.
Sometimes we repair components rather than replacing expensive assemblies. Sometimes we can weld a new flexi pipe into an exhaust system rather than fitting a complete exhaust. Sometimes a legal puncture repair will save a customer the cost of a new tyre.
We are not in the business of creating work. We are in the business of solving problems.
Customers remember that.
Many of our customers have been coming to us for years. Some now bring their children and grandchildren to us. That level of trust takes decades to build but only moments to lose.
The Technology Revolution: State of the Auto repair Industry
One of the biggest changes in recent years has been vehicle technology.
Today’s cars are effectively computers on wheels. Modern vehicles are packed with sensors, cameras, radar systems, tyre pressure monitoring systems, driver assistance technology, and complex electronic control units.
Even a routine wheel alignment can involve recalibrating steering angle sensors and safety systems.
At Pellon Tyres, we have had to invest heavily in modern equipment to keep pace with these developments. Our latest wheel alignment equipment and MOT testing systems represent a significant investment, but it is necessary if independent garages are to continue servicing modern vehicles properly.
The days of simply repairing mechanical components are largely gone. Today’s technicians need to be mechanics, electricians, computer operators, and diagnostic specialists all rolled into one.
Electric Vehicles Are Changing the Industry
Electric vehicles are becoming more common on the roads of Halifax and Calderdale.
Although EVs generally require less routine maintenance than petrol and diesel cars, they still need tyres, suspension repairs, wheel alignments, brakes, batteries, air conditioning servicing, and MOT testing.
Many people believed electric vehicles would dramatically reduce work for independent garages. In reality, the industry is adapting and finding new opportunities.
What has changed is the level of training and investment required to work safely on these vehicles.
Garages must continually invest in staff training, specialist tools, and safety equipment.
Rising Costs for Small Businesses: State of the Auto repair Industry
Running a garage today is not cheap.
Energy costs, business rates, wages, National Insurance contributions, equipment purchases, training costs, insurance, waste disposal charges, and environmental regulations continue to increase.
Like many businesses, we are always looking for ways to improve efficiency. Recently, we invested in a new Solax solar energy system at our Halifax depot to help reduce electricity costs and make the business more sustainable for the future.
Every pound saved helps us remain competitive while continuing to provide quality service to our customers.
The Skills Shortage
Perhaps the biggest challenge facing the motor trade today is finding skilled staff.
Across the UK, garages are struggling to recruit qualified technicians.
Many young people are encouraged towards university education, while practical trades are often overlooked. Unfortunately, this has created a shortage of skilled mechanics and technicians.
The irony is that modern vehicle technicians require considerable technical knowledge and often enjoy rewarding careers with excellent prospects.
I firmly believe that apprenticeship schemes are part of the solution.
Some of the best technicians I have worked with started as apprentices. Given the right training, support, and opportunities, young people can build long and successful careers in the motor industry.
Looking Ahead: State of the Auto repair Industry
Despite the challenges, I remain optimistic about the future.
People are keeping their vehicles longer than ever before. Modern cars are expensive to replace, so owners are increasingly choosing to maintain and repair them properly.
That means independent garages continue to play a vital role in keeping Britain moving.
Technology will continue to evolve. Electric vehicles will become more common. Artificial intelligence and advanced diagnostics will become increasingly important. Government regulations will continue to change.
However, the fundamentals remain exactly the same.
Treat customers honestly.
Look after your staff.
Invest in good equipment.
Provide quality workmanship.
And never recommend work that a customer does not need.
Those principles have served Pellon Tyre and Autocentre well for almost fifty years, and I believe they will continue to do so for many years to come.
https://www.pellonautocentre.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/breakdown.jpg500760Eric Robertshttps://www.pellonautocentre.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/pellon-tyres-logo-509x321.jpgEric Roberts2026-06-05 19:39:072026-06-06 09:20:11State of the Auto repair Industry
Over the past few years, one of the biggest changes in the motor trade has been the introduction of stop-start technology. Almost every modern vehicle now seems to switch the engine off automatically when stationary at traffic lights or in traffic queues.
At first, many motorists found the system strange and even slightly annoying. However, manufacturers introduced stop-start systems to:
reduce emissions,
improve fuel economy,
and help meet increasingly strict environmental regulations.
What many drivers do not realise, though, is that stop-start technology completely changed the type of battery modern vehicles require.
At Pellon Tyres Halifax, we regularly explain to customers why many modern cars now need advanced AGM battery technology rather than traditional batteries.
What Happens During Stop-Start Operation? AGM Batteries for Hybrids
In older vehicles, the battery mainly started the engine once or twice a day and then spent most of its time being recharged by the alternator.
Modern stop-start vehicles are completely different.
Every time the car:
stops at traffic lights,
waits in traffic,
or pauses at junctions,
The engine may automatically switch off and restart moments later.
This repeated restarting places enormous strain on the battery.
A modern stop-start car may restart:
dozens,
or even hundreds of times per week.
Traditional batteries were never designed for this type of heavy cycling.
AGM Batteries Explained
That is why manufacturers developed AGM battery technology.
Unlike older batteries containing free-flowing liquid acid, AGM batteries use special fibreglass mats to hold the electrolyte solution inside the battery.
This gives several major advantages:
stronger cold-start performance,
faster charging,
improved durability,
vibration resistance,
and the ability to handle repeated stop-start cycles.
Modern stop-start systems simply would not function properly using older-style battery technology.
Today many premium vehicles require AGM batteries as standard equipment.
Which Cars Use AGM Batteries? AGM Batteries for Hybrids
At Pellon Tyres Halifax, we regularly fit AGM batteries to vehicles from manufacturers such as:
Audi,
BMW,
Mercedes-Benz,
Volkswagen,
and Volvo.
Popular models often using AGM technology include:
Audi A4,
BMW 3 Series,
Mercedes-Benz C-Class,
and Volkswagen Golf.
Many motorists are surprised when they discover how advanced modern battery systems have become.
Why Standard Batteries Cause Problems
One common mistake is fitting a cheaper standard battery into a vehicle designed for AGM technology.
Whilst the car may initially start and drive normally, problems can quickly begin appearing, including:
Modern charging systems are carefully calibrated for AGM battery characteristics.
Fitting the wrong battery can confuse the vehicle’s battery management system and reduce reliability.
Modern Cars Depend on Stable Voltage: AGM Batteries for Hybrids
Today’s vehicles are packed with electronics and control modules.
Modern cars now rely on batteries to support:
electric steering,
parking sensors,
infotainment systems,
climate control,
cameras,
and numerous safety systems.
As a result, weak batteries can cause surprisingly strange symptoms, including:
dashboard warning lights,
gearbox faults,
steering errors,
and intermittent electrical problems.
Many motorists fear expensive repairs when the real problem is simply poor battery performance.
Battery Coding and Registration
Another thing many customers are unaware of is that modern battery replacement often requires:
battery coding,
registration,
or adaptation procedures.
Many newer vehicles monitor:
battery age,
charging history,
and electrical performance.
After fitting a new AGM battery, the vehicle’s computer system may need updating so it can correctly manage charging rates and electrical demand.
Ignoring this process can sometimes shorten battery life significantly.
At Pellon Autocentre Halifax, we use modern diagnostic equipment to ensure batteries are correctly fitted and registered where required.
Yorkshire Driving Conditions and Battery Wear: AGM Batteries for Hybrids
Driving conditions around Halifax and Calderdale can also be tough on modern batteries.
Many local motorists regularly encounter:
steep hills,
stop-start urban traffic,
cold mornings,
and short journeys.
These conditions place extra strain on modern AGM battery systems.
Short trips are especially damaging because the battery may never fully recharge after repeated engine starts.
Cold Weather Makes Things Worse
Winter remains one of the biggest enemies of modern batteries.
Cold temperatures:
reduce battery efficiency,
increase electrical demand,
and make engines harder to turn over.
That is why many stop-start systems disable themselves automatically during colder weather if battery performance drops too low.
This is often one of the earliest warning signs of a weakening AGM battery.
Lucas AGM Batteries: AGM Batteries for Hybrids
At Pellon Tyres Halifax, we continue supplying quality Lucas AGM batteries suitable for modern stop-start vehicles.
Modern Lucas AGM batteries are designed to provide:
reliable cold-weather starting,
durability,
rapid charging,
and strong performance under heavy electrical loads.
Choosing the correct battery technology is essential for modern motoring reliability.
Final Thoughts
Modern stop-start systems may help improve fuel economy and reduce emissions, but they have also dramatically increased the demands placed on vehicle batteries.
That is why AGM battery technology has become essential on many modern vehicles.
From Audis and BMWs to Mercedes and Volkswagens, today’s cars depend heavily on advanced battery systems to keep their electronics and stop-start functions operating correctly.
At Pellon Tyres Halifax, we continue helping local motorists choose the correct AGM batteries for reliable modern driving throughout Yorkshire.
https://www.pellonautocentre.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/pellon-tyres-logo-509x321.jpg00Eric Robertshttps://www.pellonautocentre.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/pellon-tyres-logo-509x321.jpgEric Roberts2026-06-05 08:42:192026-06-05 08:45:13AGM Batteries for Hybrids
Why More Modern Cars Now Need Battery Coding After Replacement
Years ago, replacing a car battery was one of the simplest jobs in the motor trade. Disconnect the old battery, fit the new one, tighten the terminals, and away you went.
Modern vehicles, however, are now far more complicated.
At Pellon Tyres Halifax, we regularly explain to customers why many newer cars now require:
battery coding,
battery registration,
or battery adaptation procedures
after a new battery has been fitted.
Many motorists are surprised to discover that replacing a battery today often involves connecting diagnostic equipment to the vehicle’s computer systems.
Why Modern Cars Monitor the Battery: Why Car battery Coding
Modern vehicles contain sophisticated energy management systems designed to:
These advanced batteries require carefully controlled charging systems to operate correctly.
Modern vehicles continuously adjust charging rates depending on:
driving conditions,
battery condition,
and electrical demand.
This is very different from older cars which simply charged the battery continuously at fixed voltage levels.
Stop-Start Systems Depend on Correct Battery Coding
Stop-start systems are especially sensitive to battery condition.
If the vehicle does not recognise the newly fitted battery correctly:
stop-start may stop working,
warning lights may appear,
or charging performance may suffer.
Many motorists think: “The stop-start system has packed in again.”
In reality, the battery management system may simply need recalibrating.
Popular Vehicles Requiring Battery Coding: Why Car battery Coding
At Pellon Tyres Halifax, we regularly carry out battery coding on vehicles, including:
Audi A4,
Audi Q5,
BMW 3 Series,
BMW 5 Series,
Mercedes-Benz C-Class,
and Volkswagen Golf.
Many premium vehicles are now heavily dependent on proper battery management systems.
Strange Faults Often Linked to Battery Problems
Modern vehicles are extremely sensitive to voltage fluctuations.
Weak or incorrectly coded batteries can trigger:
dashboard warning lights,
steering faults,
gearbox errors,
parking brake faults,
infotainment glitches,
and communication errors between control modules.
Customers often fear expensive repairs when the real issue is poor battery management.
At Pellon Tyres Halifax, we regularly diagnose these types of battery-related faults.
Why Modern Cars Use So Much Electrical Power: Why Car battery Coding
Today’s vehicles contain far more electrical equipment than older cars ever did.
Modern cars may include:
heated seats,
heated windscreens,
climate control,
touchscreens,
electric steering,
parking cameras,
radar sensors,
and advanced safety systems.
All these systems place heavy demands on the battery.
That is why battery health has become far more important in modern motoring.
Short Journeys Create Additional Problems
Many local journeys around Halifax involve:
school runs,
short commutes,
supermarket trips,
and stop-start urban driving.
Short journeys often do not allow enough time for the battery to fully recharge after starting.
Over time this can weaken battery condition and increase stress on the charging system.
Modern battery management systems constantly monitor these charging patterns.
Winter Weather Exposes Weak Batteries
Cold weather remains one of the biggest enemies of modern battery systems.
During winter:
battery efficiency drops,
electrical demand increases,
and engines require more power to crank.
A battery that seemed acceptable during summer may suddenly begin causing faults during cold weather.
This is often when warning lights and stop-start problems first appear.
Lucas AGM Batteries: Why Car battery Coding
At Pellon Autocentre Halifax, we continue supplying quality Lucas AGM batteries suitable for modern vehicles requiring battery coding and advanced charging systems.
Choosing the correct battery technology is essential for long-term reliability.
Modern Battery Replacement Is No Longer Simple
Many motorists still think replacing a battery is a quick DIY job like it was years ago.
However, modern vehicles often require:
specialist diagnostic equipment,
battery coding,
system registration,
and charging system checks.
Fitting the correct battery and ensuring proper coding helps:
maximise battery lifespan,
maintain stop-start operation,
and avoid electrical problems.
Final Thoughts
Battery technology has evolved enormously over recent years. Modern vehicles now rely heavily on intelligent battery management systems to control charging and electrical demand.
That is why many newer Audi, BMW, Mercedes and Volkswagen models require battery coding after replacement.
At Pellon Tyres Halifax, we continue helping local motorists keep pace with changing vehicle technology and ensure modern batteries are fitted and programmed correctly for reliable motoring.
https://www.pellonautocentre.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/pellon-tyres-logo-509x321.jpg00Eric Robertshttps://www.pellonautocentre.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/pellon-tyres-logo-509x321.jpgEric Roberts2026-06-05 08:12:302026-06-05 08:14:09Why Car battery Coding
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