All Car Manufacturer Articles

All Car Manufacturer Articles

Significantly, and according to information I have had. So, scanners/cameras are placed across and along the full length and width of every motorway lane. As a result a radar picks you up as stopped in a motorway lane.

Naturally, the authorities are supposed to be on hand immediately to attend your broken down vehicle. So, and move you off the motorway. So, You legally sit there in your broken down vehicle. Whatever lane you are in and nobody is likely to run into the rear of your vehicle and kill you because of two reasons.

hydrogen cell cars

Toyota’s Prius EV

Toyota’s Prius EV

Toyota's Prius EV
Toyota’s Prius EV

Toyota’s Prius EV

Newsday: Toyota’s Prius EV refresh

hydrogen fuel cell car on tap for 2015 Newsday The next Prius, which is expected in 2015, will include improved batteries and smaller, more powerful electric motors and will be built on the company’s new global…

ricRoberts‘s insight:

This is great news about Toyota’s Prius EV Hydrogen Batteries

This news is good news for many motoring fans.Thus, who think that the future should be a mix of technologies. In the World of cars,. In the past twenty years alone, we have seen many new developments. Of course, In the battery World.

Apart from modifying the ever-present free-flow lead-acid batteries,. So we have seen the new battery types, such as AGM and GEL batteries crop up to serve as back up Varta batteries. Hence, for many industries, such as computer back up systems and even for the early computers that we all used,. All this new technology was introduced along with need for progress and the appetite from consumers and industry for better and faster electrical equipment.

Toyota’s Prius EV

This development has never stopped. Of late, we have developed many new types of batteries. As a result, governments and large corporations funded them. So, to satisfy the need of the ever-expanding electrical and engineering projects,. Whether they were large or small,.

The next generation of batteries was to be known as NiMH, Nickel metal hydride batteries. primarily for the ever-expanding miniaturisation of personnel computers. These were followed by the invention of the Lithium- Ion batteries . Invented in the 1990’s for use on Stealth aircraft in the USA. Also used in the space programme by NASA, the American space agency.

The latest surge in EV development. It came when there was an urgent need to save the Earth from greenhouse gases. The main culprit is pollution from fossil fuel-driven cars. So the Governments of the World. We got together and agreed that emissions had to be reduced. This caused a frantic rush. Thus, car makers must come up with an alternative fuel supply. Hence, to gasoline products. Of course, the answer would be an electric or hybrid car. At first, car makers came up with lithium-Ion batteries, which are still developing today.

Toyota’s Prius EV Looking for alternatives

However, because these cars will not travel far,. Of course, before the batteries require recharging,. Scientists are trying to come up with an alternative. One of the companies to do this is Toyota’s Prius EV from Japan. This new type of Toyota’s Prius EV battery is called the Hydrogen-cell battery and, in my opinion, will be the winner of this technology race in the future.

The car. Toyota’s Prius EV is expected to be on the market as early as 2015. Already, gas stations have prepared by adding hydrogen pumps to their forecourts. In my opinion, yet another step forward.

The EV Hybrid Market in 2024: A Look at What’s Driving the UK Forward


Hello everyone! Today, we’ll look at how electric and hybrid automobiles are shaping up in 2024. It’s an exciting time for everyone who wants to reduce pollution while still enjoying the ease of a traditional combustion engine. Whether you’re a motor aficionado or just thinking about leaving petrol, there’s a lot to catch up on, especially in the UK!

A surge in popularity.


First and foremost, it is apparent that the hybrid and electric vehicle (EV) market is more than a passing fad. It’s here to stay and is becoming stronger by the day. By 2024, hybrids and electric vehicles will be as common as rain on a bank holiday. People are more willing than ever to make the move as battery technology progresses and consumer awareness grows.

Sales are surging, and why not? With fuel costs as unpredictable as a British summer, electric and hybrid vehicles provide some security and significant long-term savings. Let’s not overlook the government incentives. They act as a gentle reminder to switch from your gas-guzzling vehicle to something more environmentally friendly.

What’s hot on the market?


This year, we’re seeing an excellent range of automobiles that combine power and efficiency. Tesla continues to push the boundaries with high-performance electric vehicles, while traditional manufacturers such as Ford and Vauxhall are upping their game with hybrid cars that fit seamlessly into the normal British lifestyle.

Hybrid automobiles are especially popular among those who aren’t ready to totally commit to an electric lifestyle. They provide the best of both worlds, allowing you to use electric power for daily commutes and gas for larger trips. There’s no need to worry about running out of juice in the middle of the Yorkshire Dales!

Charging ahead: Infrastructure Improvements


The lack of charging infrastructure has long been one of the most significant barriers to electric vehicle adoption. But, good news! The UK is making progress in 2024! Charging stations are cropping up quicker than daffodils in spring, everywhere from highway stops to small shops. This advancement is critical in making electric vehicles more accessible and viable for everyone, not just those who live in major cities.

A reference to the local scene.

Speaking of cities, don’t forget the local boost we’re experiencing in Halifax. Our own share of the pie includes efforts that encourage local businesses to include electric vehicles into their fleets. There is even talk of installing new charging stations in town centres to make it easier for everyone to keep their vehicles charged.

And, while we’re on the subject, did you know that Halifax was home to some of the first electric trams in the UK in the early twentieth century? We appear to have come full circle with our modern electric cars!

Looking forward

Looking at the future, it appears like the sky is the limit. With technology advancing, prices falling, and the government advocating for a greener society, the path ahead for EVs and hybrids is as obvious as a sunny day in Hebden Bridge.

Whether you’re contemplating an EV for environmental reasons, lower operating expenses, or simply to keep ahead of the technological curve, 2024 may be the perfect time to make the switch. And who knows. Perhaps your next vehicle purchase will be part of the exciting electric revolution!

So, whether you’re a tech enthusiast, an environmentalist, or simply a savvy buyer, the EV and hybrid market in 2024 will have something for everyone. Keep your eyes on the road ahead, and perhaps I will see you at the charging station!

Cheers for now, and remember that going electric is excellent not just for your money but also for our green and beautiful land!

See on www.newsday.com

Peugeot Partner Van

Peugeot Partner Van

Peugeot Partner Van

Peugeot Partner Van

Peugeot Partner Van Fuel Cap caused us a big problem ?

Importantly, this is one of those pieces of advice to help other drivers! Not to make the same mistake. On a recent visit to France, we were running out of diesel in our Peugeot Partner van. My wife and I sometimes drive down to France to take a few things with us. When we had a house in the south-west of France,. This time, we needed to take down a new oven. Because the oven we had was 7 years old and the paint was peeling off. We decided to buy the oven back in the UK. Simply because, when we checked online, ovens were cheaper here in the UK.

We also had some trash to take to the local tip in France. So the van seemed the best option. Another key point is that our van is only about 18 months old. Having all the mod-cons that you would find in a modern car.Including air-conditioning and a plug point for the iPod. So that we can listen to our own choice of music.(French radio stations are not easy to pick up and the music’s not very good)

The journey had gone well and we were having good time.

In any event, we pulled into a service station on the A16 motorway to fill up with diesel. I filled the Peugeot Partner Van up with diesel . Carefully, then started to put the fuel cap back into the diesel tank port. Michelle, my wife, went to pay the fuel bill. When inserting the Peugeot Partner Van fuel cap,. Stupidly, I fumbled with the cap ! Which then did not go straight into the hole. Struggling, I twisted it a bit before the fuel cap finally went into place ! Unknowingly, I had accidentally triggered off the Peugeot Partner Van Fuel Cap theft Sensor.

Quickly, I then jumped back into the cab to wait for my wife .

Surprisingly, the wipers had automatically switched on ! Then, to my horror, they would not switch off ! Added to that, all  the lights were also flashing on and off. Scarily, the Peugeot Partner Van would not start ? This was a nightmare. I was panicking. Calmly, my wife rang the AA, Luckily, we had taken out continental breakdown cover.

Shockingly, the AA told us that we were not covered on a French service station. Alternately, we had to call the police, who would tow us off the services. So,to a suitable location. Then the AA breakdown cover would kick in. See another website price comparisons  for more information…http://www.money.co.uk/breakdown-cover.htm

We also noticed that another British car had broken down near where we were broken down

I asked the guy with the defunct engine if he had sorted out the problem . Surprisingly,he was still waiting for a recovery truck to take him off the services. He too was in the AA and was waiting for the Police recovery vehicle to attend him. Sure enough the truck arrived and the guys car was winched on to the back to be taken away.

Surprisingly, the French breakdown mechanic came over to our Peugeot Partner Van . Straight away ! He knew what had happened (most French mechanics are experts on Peugeot and Citroen vehicles, because that’s all they work on) .

I had tampered with the Peugeot Partner Van Fuel Cap anti-theft fuel cap device ?

We understood from his limited English and our limited French that I had tripped the fuel cap anti-theft device; this stops people from stealing your fuel, This is very good if you know that it exists, but I did not ?

The mechanic knew what to do right away; all he did was disconnect the battery and let the system re-set itself. All this, from start finish, only delayed our journey by about an hour.

The mechanic made an invoice out for the AA and we gave him 20-euro tip and we all went on our way.

So if this happens to you, just dis-connect the battery and the whole thing will re-set itself.

Please note that the British Breakdown services Cannot enter French service areas (by French Law).

Since this incident in France, we have sold the van and now gone onto Ford transit Connects.

Of course, these small vans are invaluable for delivering batteries from our online battery shop

,

Cars and Climate Change

Hybrid Car Ownership

Hybrid Car Ownership

Hybrid Car Ownership
Hybrid Car Ownership

Hybrid Car Ownership

I am the owner of a small independent garage in Halifax, UK. Then I am determined not to be left behind . Hence, in the new technology car race,. For this reason, we are going to participate in as much learning about “hybrid “cars” as I think will dominate the future car market. After all, it is not rocket science, and all we have to do is search the internet to find out more information about this type of vehicle.

There is no doubt that “hybrid cars” are wonderful for the environment.

Of course, they can get 55–60 miles per gallon in city driving. In my opinion, Hybrid cars are much better than electric cars. There is no need to recharge them. Another disadvantage of pure electric cars. Hence, this is a limited journey. Electric cars can only do a certain amount of travel before they require recharging at a charging station.

As a business owner who collects and delivers, I would find this unacceptable? Not knowing if your van would return or not during a days work would be out of the question? Of course, at the moment, all we have to do is make sure that we have sufficient petrol or diesel. So to complete our journey,. At the moment, this would not be possible in an electric car called an “EV”.

Hybrid Car Ownership: Gas engines turns to electric power

Of course, hybrids would be a better replacement and probably save half the cost of standard fuel. because the hybrid would use the battery at any time. Especially in city driving, where low speeds are the norm,. In city driving, the gasoline side of the engine is shut down. So the  hybrid cars would run on an electric motor. As a result, the battery powers it.When the batteries need to be charged again, the gasoline engine will start again.

Another advantage is that the battery is also charged when the cars brakes are applied. This is known as “regenerative braking” Because of the lower amount of power needed when braking for an extended period of time, when the hybrid car brakes, it usually returns to the electric motor side.
Hybrids and all-electric vehicles create their own power for battery recharging. Thus, through this process known as regenerative braking,. As a result, I have explained what regenerative braking is and how the process works in general terms. Of course, I think that it is a complicated area to get into?

Hybrid Car Ownership: Staff education required

I can understand that in hybrid or all-electric vehicle. So, the word “regenerative” refers to regenerative braking. Of course, means capturing the vehicle’s momentum (kinetic energy) and turning it into electricity. In turn, this recharges the car’s on-board battery as the vehicle slows down and/or stops when braking occurs.

All clever stuff? Hybrid Car Ownership

but it’s all these things that we have to re-train in. For this reason, we will looking into the future and I will be sending my staff to as many courses as may be required. Subsequently, we will not fall behind. I am afraid that many smaller garages may fall behind and eventually have to close.

Subsequently, we will not stop or prevent this massive drive towards greener vehicles. As a result, I have decided to grasp the opportunity and, as a team, learn as much as we can about this new technology. So as not to fall behind.

2024 Hybrid Car update. Hybrid Car Ownership

Just a thought of mine to update things the way I see it. Certainly, in my opinion, the EV market has slowed down. The winner seems to be the hybrid car market. I still feel that people are not convinced about the truth about the electric car, which is perhaps not as green as we were first told. Including logistical objects, such as how many people would not be able to plug an electric car in on their particular property. Especially in older structures such as the UK Victorian streets.

Flat Tyres A Guide for Women

Why do some people prefer used cars

Why do some people prefer used cars

Why do some people prefer used cars

As a good friend of a used car dealer, we know that our visitors are considering buying a used car, so in this article, I Eric Roberts, decided to write down why you should buy a used car.
After your home, your car may be the most expensive commodity you have considered or bought. We know that you need to manage your finances in the best way possible without giving up your love for beautiful cars.


There are ups and downs to buying used cars and new cars

However, today we will discuss the main reasons why second-hand cars may be your best choice. For beginners, the most obvious reason is that it can save you a lot of money. We will also tell you about how much you can save on average with a used car.
Let’s start with the first and most obvious reason:

A new car loses: Why do some people prefer used cars

A car loses value. This is because the number of exceptions to be handled is small. There is no free dinner in the world, my father used to say. Honestly, this also applies to vehicles. Regardless of the benefits of a new car (free maintenance, warranty, low capital), the inevitable depreciation method is still an inevitable cost factor and a good reason to look for a used car.

Once you take the new car out of the seller’s parking lot, its value will drop. Essentially. Some brands of cars are more expensive than others, and some new cars generally have a longer service life than ever before, but there is still a loss of up to 40% in value in the first year of purchase.

Reduce insurance cost

The cost of a car is a key factor in determining the cost of car insurance. Since used cars are cheaper than the new version, insurance costs should be lower. Reid said that because certain elements of car insurance can be eliminated, more money can be saved.

Warranty

Some used cars still have part of the original factory warranty. You can create a new warranty for other used vehicles. The extended warranty period of the used car provided by the manufacturer can give factory-trained technicians the opportunity to use high-quality parts and provide immediate service to repair your car. In addition, you don’t need to buy a new car to use part of your savings, brakes Naples FL and have a warranty that covers all costs up to 100,000 miles or
more. What new car is that?

Reliability: Why do some people prefer used cars

Do you remember that classic cars like Ford rusted for ten years in the 1970s? The occurrence of this situation in modern cars requires the great power of the original owner of the vehicle.

Today’s cars, trucks, 2021 SUVs Birmingham, and vans have a longer service life. According to IHS Automotive, in the midsummer of 2015, the average age of cars on American roads reached a record of 11.5 years. The tank also predicts that by 2020, the number of vehicles in service for 12 years will increase by 15%.

You can check if you own a used car

Have you heard of car test drives, but have you heard of ownership checks? The latter is becoming more and more popular, and this is for good reason. When the clerk is yelling in your ear, dont provide too much information around the block. In contrast, trial owner status means that you can buy a vehicle and guarantee that if you change your mind, you can get a full refund within a few days.


For many buyers, the vehicle defect warranty for a new car is worthwhile.

Why do some people prefer used cars

However, today, almost every car manufacturer offers a new car. The Certified Used Car programme

makes buying a used vehicle in Puyallup less of a worry. CPO plans vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, and there are significant differences between certified manufacturers and non-certified manufacturers. The distributor and the former almost always provide more reliable packaging. Manufacturer-certified vehicles have a certain guarantee (although the number of kilometres and time covered vary)

and usually provide additional benefits such as free breakdown assistance or free car rental when you need to visit a store.

Nissan Navara Clutch replacement

Ford Focus Clutch: Diesel TDi 2004—with Clutch Problems.

Ford Focus Clutch

Ford Focus Clutch
Ford Focus Clutch

Ford Focus Clutch

So, over recent years, I seem to have had a run of cars with clutch problems. Consequently, that has been brought into my garage, Pellon-Autocentre, here in Halifax, UK. I think that most garages will have these kinds of cars with different problems. Sometimes it may be brake problems or sometimes we have a run of exhaust pipes dropping off. This particular time, there have been clutch problems.

Yesterday was no exception? Sure enough, first thing in the morning, an AA transporter turned up on the forecourt. So, with a silver car strapped to the back,. Fortunately, an old customer of ours was in the car. When his Focus was unloaded. He came into the reception to explain what had happened.

He told us that he had recently been working away in the south of England. While he was away, he started to have problems with his clutch. He told us that one morning he was driving to work from his accommodation and called in for some diesel. When he arrived back at the car, the biting point of the clutch was very close to the car floor. Also, the rest of the pedal was very sloppy and loose.

He managed to drive the car to his job, Ford Focus Clutch

Subsequently, he is a builder for an housing association. Who own properties all over the UK, the head office is here in Halifax .He sometimes has to work away to help sort problems out. Although he was having great difficulty selecting his gears. When he first bought the  Focus about 18 months earlier he was told that the car had recently been fitted with a new clutch ! Of course, this was one of the reasons that he had bought the car. Visibly, it appeared to be in good condition.

He called out a local garage that topped up the slave cylinder. I was also telling him that the clutch pedals on these Fords have a black plastic hinge-type thing attached to it. Importantly, this is what pushes the master cylinder in. This hinge is attached to the  pedal by a metal rod. The hinge is held in by a clip and it is this clip that can come off. So causing the cars clutch problem. The garage resolved this, and for a few days, everything appeared to be fine with the Focus.

Ford Focus driver could smell clutch fluid? Ford Focus Clutch

He noticed a slight smell coming from the car’s cab, but he did not know what it was. It was apparently clutch fluid that had leaked from his previous problem. The guy told us that after the

garage reportedly had sorted the Ford Focus 1.6 TDCi problem out, but the car gear change was still a bit lumpy. After the job was complete, the guy decided to risk it and drive the car back home to the north via the M1.

He decided to call in at the services for something to eat and a rest. On his return to the car, he found that once again the clutch pedal was down to the floor pan of the car, but unlike before there was no bite at all on the clutch. His company had provided their staff with AA breakdown cover, for their employees who traveled away to work, and so the guy promptly called the AA out to the services.

Inspected by the AA

The AA man inspected the cars clutch cylinder to check the level, but soon noticed that the cylinder was empty of fluid. He said that the Ford  was susceptible to these type of  problems and diagnosed a broken master cylinder. There was nothing that he could do as far as road side assistance, and so he proceeded to load the car onto the back of his transporter in order to take the car to the garage of his choice, which was our garage in Halifax.

When I proceeded to put the car on lift, I found that clutch fluid was seeping out at the bottom of the clutch housing through one of the vent holes that are there to collect dust and dirt to evacuate the housing. We diagnosed the problem as a master cylinder failure and reported back to the customer, who by this time had borrowed one of our courtesy cars and gone back to work somewhere here in Yorkshire.

We removed the Ford Focus gearbox and clutch housing to reveal yet more problems?

The engine was dropped, as was the gearbox. Removed, and then the Ford Focus clutch housing was separated. Revealing the clutch assembly. We found that the hydraulic cylinder bearing had, in fact, a broken seal and needed replacing. Then we found that although the Focus diesel should have been fitted with a duel mass flywheel,. Subsequently, this car had been converted to a solid single flywheel.

Including a normal-type clutch plate and to make matters worse! Incidentally, both were damaged. The flywheel was broken, and the clutch plate was worn out and also needed replacing.

We phoned the customer on his mobile! Of course, he was not very pleased to say the least. Having, expected the clutch to last him more than the 18 months that it had lasted since he bought the car. The old parts were saved for the customer to look at as we always do. Another small problem also occurred? We had some difficulty matching a new single clutch plate with a new solid flywheel, as the old one was a cheap clutch plate and had no part numbers on to match a new one.

With the help of the motor factors we were able find the correct parts and rebuilt the whole assembly. The car works fine now and the customer went away highly delighted, after his initial shock.

The diesel Ford Focus can be converted to a solid single-clutch system, Ford Focus Clutch

When the customer had left I looked at some Ford forums about the conversion to a single clutch assembly and the general consensus is that it is fine to do it. In fact Ford transits can be converted by using genuine Ford parts. That is made especially for these conversions. Also I have heard that many taxi companies convert their taxis to the single clutch system.

For more Ford Focus clutch problems,

Eric Roberts

Revolutionise Your Tyre Shopping Experience

Bridgestone Jaguar Tyres-celebrates finishing new Jaguar XJ220 tyres

Bridgestone Jaguar Tyres

Bridgestone Jaguar Tyres
Bridgestone Jaguar Tyres

Bridgestone Jaguar Tyres

Bridgestone and Jaguar: a match made in automotive heaven


When it comes to great automotive collaborations, few match the relationship between Jaguar, one of Britain’s most renowned vehicle manufacturers, and Bridgestone, a worldwide tyre technology behemoth. This alliance is more than just about performance and precision; it is the story of two pioneers collaborating to produce the ultimate driving experience. So, get a cup of coffee and let’s look at why Jaguar automobiles with Bridgestone tyres make such an excellent combination.

The Pride of Britain meets Global Innovation


Jaguar has long been a symbol of British luxury and performance, with its origins deep in the history of the UK automotive industry. Jaguar has always been about sophistication and speed, from the streets of Coventry, where the company was founded, to the sleek, futuristic designs that roll off the manufacturing lines today. Pair such elegance with Bridgestone’s cutting-edge tyre technology, and you’ve got a winning combination.

Why Bridgestone tyres are ideal for Jaguar. Bridgestone Jaguar Tyres


Jaguar vehicles are known for their agility, style, and power, which necessitates a tyre capable of keeping up. Bridgestone tyres are designed to compliment Jaguar vehicles’ high performance, ensuring that whether you’re navigating the winding roads of the Yorkshire Dales or cruising down the M1, your ride is smooth, safe, and highly responsive.

Bridgestone’s commitment to innovation means that they are always pushing the limits of what tyres can achieve. Their Dueler, Potenza, and Turanza series are all popular choices for various Jaguar models, with each designed to highlight the luxury automobiles’ particular features. The Potenza series, which emphasises high-speed stability and precision handling, is suitable for the sportier Jaguar F-TYPE, whereas the Turanza series provides comfort and longevity for the more calm Jaguar XF.

A Legacy of Trust and Performance.


Jaguar and Bridgestone’s collaboration extends beyond common goals; it is founded on trust and a track record of performance. Both corporations have consistently invested in technology that results in safer, more enjoyable driving experiences. Bridgestone’s Ecopia tyres, for example, not only improve fuel efficiency but are also specifically designed to complement Jaguar’s newer, more environmentally conscious models.

Local Ties That Bind. Bridgestone Jaguar Tyres


It’s difficult to discuss Jaguar without acknowledging its uniquely British background. Jaguar, like Yorkshire, has its own story of ingenuity and tenacity, and it represents a proud chapter in the British industrial narrative. This local pride is reflected in the cooperation with Bridgestone, a worldwide corporation that has always recognised and responded to the specific demands and characteristics of the regions it serves.

Wrapping Up


So, whether you’re a Jaguar fan or just someone who values the better things in life, the marriage of Jaguar cars with Bridgestone tyres exemplifies what can be accomplished when tradition meets innovation. This collaboration not only combines expertise and engineering but also demonstrates a common commitment to excellence, keeping Britain at the forefront of the automotive world.

The next time you’re out and about, whether it’s for a trip to the nearby store or a drive across the moors, be aware that Jaguar and Bridgestone have improved a piece of history beneath your Jaguar’s bonnet and on the asphalt. Safe travels, and may your voyage go as smoothly as the partnership that made it possible!

Importantly, one of the greatest cars ever made

is the Jaguar XJ 220. Unfortunately, many of the car experts did not like the car and were very disappointed when the fist came out. The new Jaguar came equipped with a V12 engine. As a result, the engine was mounted at the rear . making the car suitable for racing use. Indeed, a version of the XJ 220 is the XJR 9 . I went on to win the prestigious Le Mans 24-hour race .

This has been a special project for Bridgestone tyres . Although Bridgestone Jaguar tyres are available for all Jaguars tyre needs,. Then the development of tyres for the XJ 220 was to become a special project. In fact, it was stated that no profit was to be made on the sale of these tyres.

The XJ’s  tyres. Bridgestone Jaguar Tyres

Consequently, were originally the sizes of 255/45zr17 and 345/35zr18 and could cope with the cars top speeds of over 200 mph. Consequently, owners of these cars could not buy new tyres, as they were not made and unavailable.

Bridgestone are now proud suppliers of tyres for the whole jaguar range going into 2022.

As a result of the tyres being unavailable

, Bridgestone has now started to make the tyres available again. Including the Potenza RE031. Of course, Incorporating sports performance with ride comfort, the Potenza RE031 is original equipment (OE) on selected vehicles. Original equipment (OE) on Lexus RX330.

After months of development, Bridgestone has finished creating new tyres for Jaguar’s iconic 1990s supercar, the XJ220. The tyre manufacturer partnered up with Jaguar specialist Don Law Racing to create new rubber for the turbocharged supercar, the British firm also supplied the original pre-production car that Jaguar originally used for testing.

Source: Bridgestone celebrates finishing new Jaguar XJ220 tyres with a documentary film | Evo

car brakes problem

Noisy Car Brakes-Nice Red Citroen DS3 Pulls in with a Grinding Brakes Problem?

Noisy Car Brakes

I was surprised to see this nice looking red car 

Been the owner of a busy garage has many” ups and downs”. One of the more nicer and pleasant aspects of the job is to see the the number of different cars and car models that would appear in any given week.

This past week has seen cars as diverse as a Rolls Royce Wraith ( which was one of only 220 cars produced) to a Wolsey Hornet Mini from the late sixties, not counting the everyday cars such as Ford Fiestas and VW Golfs. Early on in the week we had a car made by Citroen, the DS3 call in to us with rattling Car Brakes. The was in my favourite  colour a very bright red, ( I love red cars). We put the citroen car with the Noisy Car Brakes on a ramp and removed all the wheels to check the Brakes, and sure enough the front pads were worn down to the metal and the friction from having “metal to metal” had also damaged the front discs. The rear brakes were cleaned and checked and were good for further use.

We contacted the customer and was given the go ahead to replace the brakes

Of course, this meant that the customer was getting good quality brakes with a nation wide guarantee. The  job was completed and the customer went on his way. Importantly, I took a couple of pictures because I am a great fan of the Citroen DS3. The colours are very bright and modern looking with a choice of 11 colours and four different roof colours, you can even have colour coded alloy wheels and also different carpet designs. There is also a sports version known as the D-Sport which comes with Blue-tooth and climate control. The car also include 17 inch alloy wheels, the one I looked at came with Yokohama tyres and looked great. They also come out with additional body modifications and really look very stylish.

This car in my opinion is a great tribute to the New Citroen DS3 designers, who had to compete with the BMW Mini and the great little Fiat 500.

More reading…

The DS3 is the first in a range of very different Citroen models that put the emphasis on style and personality, along with strong performance and driver appeal. With its stylish look and compact size, it’s easy to see why so many comparisons have been drawn with the popular MINI and Fiat 500.” msn cars

“The engine combines strong low-rev performance – 110bhp at 3600rpm and 199lb ft at 2000rpm, enough for a sub-10.0sec 0-60mph time – with a claimed 62.8mpg (combined cycle) and 118g/km of CO2 emissions, which sees annual road tax costing just £20…”EVO

 

 

Nissan Navara Clutch replacement

Peugeot 206 Estate Clutch-Peugeot 206 Estate comes in for a new clutch fitting

Peugeot 206 Estate Clutch

Peugeot 206 Estate Clutch No Duel mass Flywheel on this Peugeot 206

Owing to the number of vehicle breakdowns. Hence, the recovery wagon has been busy bringing in broken down cars for most of this week. Consequently, the owner of this Peugeot 206 estate 2003 model.  Observed that they “could smell burning”, coming from their vehicle. Followed the the stopping  with a bang !

As a result of running a good garage, then we get many customers giving us repeat business.  This Peugeot was to be no exception. Consequently, this Peugeot 206 Estate has had the Clutch problem for some while ! But the driver is deaf and so  could not here the clutch slipping.

A slipping clutch is signs of more worrying problems ahead. Usually detected by the sound of the clutch slipping. Which is a very distinguished and worrying noise. Especially when setting off in gear up an incline.

So a good clutch just bites and off you go. However a slipping clutch squeals a little before biting and gradually gets worse, until total failure.

Anyway the car was diagnosed as a clutch problem, and the job would be done by our main man Ryan. Because, job is a straight forward one and the new Peugeot 206 Estate Clutch was fitted and working in a few hours.

The Peugeot 206 Estate Clutch was collected by the customer the same day and a good job done.

For more reading…

”Recently it got to the point where the noise from a worn out clutch thrust got on my nerves, so it had to be changed. I had a local mechanic in Spain (where the car is kept) change the complete clutch assembly and cable. The cable was a genuine Peugeot part (or so I’m told) but the rest of the assembly was not”… http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=90831

Daewoo Matiz Engine management light problem

Peugeot 406 Lights: flashing lights problem?

Peugeot 406 Lights

Peugeot 406 Lights
© Can Stock Photo / HPW

Driver of the Peugeot 406 could not switch off the engine

Peugeot 406 Lights

Subsequently, the first time that we saw this particular car was when it was in for an MOT test. Gloomily, the owner said that the car would probably fail the test. Because some of the lights were not working as they should! However, the owner’s disappointment came to an end when the car passed the test.

Surprisingly, contrary to what we thought, all the lights were indeed fine. In good working condition. The weather at the beginning of the year. Indeed, it was warm and sunny. The customer picked up his car ! and we heard nothing from the customer or his Peugeot 406 (with the suspected lights problem).

Peugeot turns back up with a central locking problem- Peugeot 406 Lights

So, we did not see the car again until later in the year. Turning up again with an unrelated problem. Hence, the central locking was not working as it should ?  We checked out all the likely things and found nothing to miss. When the car was in our hands, the central locking was working fine. Subsequently, we could not find any problems.

The customer collected his Peugeot 406 back home, and sure enough, he returned with yet another problem ! The car’s side lights were in a permanent position. In other words, they were switched off but remained on (if you get what I mean) .So,once again, we checked all the likely culprits. Including the fuses and switches, and everything was just fine. Significantly, the car was having a number of “lights and other electrical problems” at differing times (very strange). When investigating, we found this clip from another Peugeot owner with similar problems in the forum of the Peugeot 406 web-site…

Then, with the car locked, the brake lights came on. Then went off, then glowed dimly then stayed on. At this point I pulled the fuses for the brake lights and nothing at all happened. The lights stayed on. Disconnected the battery and then reconnected. Lights stayed off until I tried the brakes with the ignition on.
“I removed the BSI (with the battery disconnected) and (with battery back on) turned on the ignition to find all the lights still lit up.
Must be the dash board. Out with the dash on with the soldering iron.

Every pin and connection to the dials.
Put back in; no joy. Brake lights are on with or without the dash board.
removed the brake light switch. (What a swine that is to remove!)—lights still on!
I looked for all the earth points around the car. I got to the drivers foot well and I could hear a buzzing noise. Could it be a relay?”…

Of course, this was a problem that we had not come across before. Surprisingly, the whole thing came to a head when the car engine would not switch off ! To stop the engine from running, we had to stall the car’s engine. Amazingly, we just could not find a problem.

Had to call in an a Citroen/Peugeot expert ! Peugeot 406 Lights

As a last resort, I had to call for help and enlisted the help of a mechanic friend called Richard. Richard had heard about this problem before and went straight to the foot well of the driver’s side.

The weather was terrible for a couple of weeks prior to the cars problems occurring ! Torrential rain and wide-spread flooding were a national problem ! Because of all the heavy rain here in the UK, the footwell had become flooded. Consequently, when we lifted the carpet at the driver’s side, we found a wet, soggy mess.

Peugeot 406 wiring was rotten with the wet ?

Specifically, the Peugeot 406 lighting and engine problems were found . Subsequently, the plugs that connected the wiring together were perished and rotten. Of course, causing all the short-outs and strange electrical things to happen. Firstly, we drilled a hole to release the water . Secondly, we  re-wired the damaged wires together. So, it was very time-consuming, but  a good job was done. We still do not know where the water is getting in, but I have added some advice from the Honest John website…

“Dry the interior out; remove all mats. Stay inside the car while a friend gently sprays a hose, one section at a time, for several minutes. Wait a few minutes, then inspect. Make sure you train the water on the sunroof, side windows, light clusters, rear hatch, doors, and main windscreen; these are the common areas that could leak.
After a thorough dowsing, gently bounce rear and front of car to dislodge any water that may be sitting somewhere inside. Also, covering the dry car interior carpets with newspaper will show the presence of water and possibly the direction of the leak if you have a dark trim”…http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=48178

Water can cause many electrical problems in your car ? Peugeot 406 Lights

Thinking back the cars owner could relate the problems after we had had heavy rain fall. So, when the water leaked into the car then it shorted out some of the cars electrics . Of course if any water enters the car then much damage can occur. It even happened recently to a nearly new Ford transit delivery van that I bought from the local Ford dealer.

Apparently, unknown to me, the van had a new windscreen fitted before we bought the van. On a recent delivery to a customer in Lancashire, I experienced a very heavy period of rainfall. Surprisingly, the van came to a sudden stop ! Fortunately, I had just pulled off the M56 motorway. So, the engine was completely dead , refusing to start !

After a couple of hours of waiting, the RAC guy turned up and recommended that I be towed to our base in Halifax, UK. To our horror we found that the windscreen had been incorrectly fitted and water had entered the cab onto the ECU (Vans computer). So, after the shock and a couple of thousand pounds lighter, the van is now back on its delivery runs !

All caused by water entering the van’s cab ?

steering parts only

Ford Escort Steering Problems

Ford Escort Steering Problems

Ford Escort Steering Problems
Ford Escort Steering Problems

Ford Escort Steering Problems

In recent weeks, we have had a spate of Ford Escorts with steering problems. Therefore, I believe that the large number of “potholes” that we have are to blame. Hence, we have all gone down a pothole in recent times. especially here in Halifax, UK, where my garage is situated.
Furthermore, potholes do seem to affect older, more frail car models. As a result, younger generations are typically the ones who own these older cars. To put it another way, these younger drivers will probably try a DIY repair. They are at the lower end of the income bracket and cannot afford garage fees.


Ford Escorts fall into the category of cars for young drivers.

Fortunately, we have a large female customer base. As a result, women are able to budget for car repairs. So they are more likely to bring in their car for us to check out and give them a quote for work.
In the past three or four weeks, we have had a run of Ford Escorts with steering and suspension problems. Consequently, the first one was the wife of an old customer. Her name was Jane. Jane drove an old P-registered SUV that was handed down through the family. She loved her little car.

Ford Escort Steering Problems: Jane’s car pulled to the right?

Jane reported that the outsides of her front tyres were wearing down. Also, when she accelerates the car, it pulls to one side. In this case, to the right. Consequently, the car pulls to the left when she eases her foot off the gas.
Her husband had looked up the problem online. Because of this, he thought it could be either the “steering rack” or the “drive shaft.” Jane left her Ford Escort with us, and we proceeded to examine the ladies’ car.

Ford Escort Steering Problems: Suspension arm bushes were the culprits

Without doubt, we checked the steering rack and the driveshaft. But these were fine and in good working order. In this case, we found that the problem was the “lower suspension arm bushes.” This appears to be a common issue with this model. As usual, we contacted the customer. In this instance, Jane Jane was given a quote for the work, and we were given the go-ahead to proceed.
After the work was done, we readjusted the wheel alignment and took the car out for a test drive. Jane works for the local Nestle company in Halifax. She was also very happy with the service, so she brought us a box of chocolates for everyone to share.

The second escort was exactly the same?

We received another call later that week from a young man. Hence, whose name was Craig? Craig’s car was his pride and joy, a 1977 Ford Escort GTI. Once again, Craig brought in his car for us to check out. Sometimes, the car had a mind of its own. Steering wise.


Whenever I am driving along, the car keeps getting wobbly.

especially on bumpy roads with dips in them. Craig also reported that the Escort would pull to the right and then to the left. Of course, this sounded very much like Jane’s problem with her escort.
The car was left with us. Sure enough, the problem turned out to be exactly the same: the lower suspension arm bushes. Consequently, these were replaced, and the car also had a wheel alignment before a road test. Again, our customer was very happy and took his Ford Escort with him the same day.