All Car Servicing

All Car Servicing

Hi I would like to introduce myself. Working in the Garage and tyre and all Car Servicing business now for 40 years. So. worked for a couple of national tyre companies before starting my first business. Of course, I now own a company here in the UK called Pellon Tyre and Auto-centre. Blogging about anything to do with Car Servicing and their related products. Naturally, that will help my business. We are members of Point-S and MotorCodes and are also a Unipart Car Care Centre.

Pellon tyre online tyres and car repairing servicing

Car Service Tips For the First Time Drivers

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car service advice for the young drivers

Having a Car service has always been seen as a big expense to the average motorist and certainly is for the young first time motorists. Most cars will need an annual major service, and in my opinion for the driver on average mileage should have one or even two smaller engine services.

This (the smaller engine service) usually means the oil and filter changed and the rest of the cars fluid levels topped up. It is also a great idea (if you can afford) for cars over three years old told to have the main service carried out at the same time as the cars MOT test. Your garage will probably advice you to have the MOT test carried out before the service, this is always best practice and is recommended by the Ministry of Transport as the correct procedure to follow.

 It also gives you control of your spending budget. Indeed what you should do is instruct the Car Garage to inform you of any failures that the test may throw up. You must also ask your garage to give you an estimate of the cost of repairs to your car to get it through the test.

Many customers of garages do this! Because if the cost of your repairs are high, you may not be able to afford to have the car serviced, indeed you can then cancel the service for a later date, when you can afford to have the service carried. The best practice though is to have the test and the car service carried out in the same day. This will ensure that your car will be in the best condition for your summer holidays or the possible harsh winter ahead.

Most good garages and auto centres carry out a car service  to a high standard.

hey will carry out menu services according to the manufactures advice. Indeed many garages and auto centres use a service menu specific to your car. Thus, by typing your registration number in to an automotive computer such as “Autodata”. Complete with software that will print out the exact Car service menu. of course which is for your make and model of your car.

Another good piece of advice

The usual way to find a good garage is by word of mouth by friends or relations.

Mazda 5 Brake Problems

Car Brakes-Entering the FRICTION ZONE — Older vehicle PARC sees increase in Car brakes sales

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Entering the FRICTION ZONE — Aging vehicle parc ripe for car brakes sales Car Brakes-Entering the FRICTION ZONE

Tire Business

“Where before when a vehicle reached 10 years or 11 years, consumers were thinking of selling it, now they’re thinking of, ‘How can I keep my car going?

Eric Roberts‘s insight:

This is a very in depth articles about car brakes

Un-reasonably,  car brakes are very often taken for granted. So, in other words car owners will just pull into your garage and leave their car. Because there is a banging or rattling noise coming from the front of the car.

This is usually a good indication that the brakes have failed, or are failing ! But brake jobs do follow a pattern.

The spring time is usually the time for our customers car brakes to start going wrong . So, and needing repairing. Of course, in my opinion I think that it is because that drivers use their  brakes. Of course, much more in the winter months and therefore the brake pads and discs .

Drivers almost always wait until the last minute to have them repaired and consequently cause more damage to the brakes.

For example a simple job like a set of brake pads replacing may turn out to be more complicated and end up the car needing new discs, or a seized up brake caliper.

This will result in a larger garage invoice for the customer. The secret is to get a free brake check at your local garage. most garages here in the UK will give a car a free brake check and give the customer a quote for the required work. We are members of the Independent Car Care Centres who also offer a nationwide guarantee throughout the UK and a free brake check on all makes and models of cars.

All this culminates as a good time of year for doing brake work, especially the many older cars that our customers are now hanging on to longer and having them repaired instead of replaced.

See on www.tirebusiness.com

Hankook Tyres-launches 4 HP

BMW MINI TYRES- 3 Millionth Engine built in the UK.

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BMW MINI TYRES

BMW MINI TYRES; Three million BMW Mini engines built in Hams Hall Birmingham UK

 Of course, the success story for the BMW Mini just goes on and on. Hence, you have only to look on our roads. Thus, to see how many of these excellent cars are on our roads. Consequently, the factory

where the BMW Mini is made. Is the first plant to be built outside of Germany. Of course, and is a compliment to all the people in Birmingham. Hence, with its great tradition of building good quality cars. Naturally, by a good quality workforce.

The factory that builds the BMW Mini is about 800 strong. Of course, and is expected to increase in size in the near future.

Last year (2011) . The British factory produced around 1.3 million new cars. This is expected to rise in 2012. This is a fantastic result. Therefore, it is anticipated that the UK car market. Thanks to the BMW Mini Coupe, will be a net exporter of cars for the first time since 1976 a great achievement for the British car market and their workers.

 

 

 

 

wiper blades-lady drivers

Good Windscreen Wipers Important-Clean windscreen and good windscreen wipers ensures safer driving.

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Good Windscreen Wipers Important

Good Windscreen Wipers Important

So when our wipers fail then we all know what a nightmare it can be. Especially, combining when driving your car in to the winter sun with a dirty windscreen. I am sure that it happens to us all at one time or another. Of course we all know that the answer is ? Make sure you clean your windshield. Including, all other windows regularly and before any kind of journey.

Naturally this will prevent dirt and grime building up. Making it impossible to see. Because, your window wipers just spread the dirt and grime across your windshield. Possibly, causing obscurity and restricting your view.

Winter time brings added problems when it comes to a clean safe vision. Washer jets often freeze up in winter time. It is important for safeties sake to make sure that your washer jets are clear of any dirt or frost. Hence before setting off on your journey. Jets that be accessed can be cleared of dirt or frost by using a safety pin to clear the hole that the washer fluid comes out of.

Good Windscreen Wipers Important-make sure wiper jets are not blocked?

Some models of cars allow you to adjust the angle which the solution is fired at the windscreen (adjustable jets) So after you have cleared the washers ensure they are at an angle that will get the best overall spray coverage. This is specially important when driving at high speeds on the motorway. We have all been sprayed by other motorists with their spray jets set at the wrong angle.

My advice is to try and aim the jets near the lower central area of your windshield. So that even at high speeds your windshield will get necessary cover. Very often drivers spray every other car but their own?

Ice scrappers are always a handy tool to carry in your glove compartment. This will ensure that you will be able to safely scrape all the ice and snow from your windscreen. A good recommendation is an old credit card. In fact I have used this method myself when caught out away from home in ice and snow.

As well as scraping any snow and ice off of your windows. So, you need to make sure your washer fluid doesn’t freeze on you or worse still run out. In colder weather we have all seen how the  salt on the UK roads mixes with the rain, ice or snow. When this mixture dries, salty deposits can build up on your windscreen and obstruct your view. When your washer bottle freezes or runs out of fluid then you visibility reduces to nothing.

Good Windscreen Wipers Important-Add the correct amount of antifreeze to your washer bottle?

As a result, make sure before any journey you have a full tank of washer fluid and a suitable amount of antifreeze or solution is used. If you are not sure what to do then your local garage would be only too pleased to help you out. If it is a prolonged winter then very often you will not use water at all and just pour the concentrated solution into your washer tank instead.

As I have said earlier in the article, driving in the winter can be made particularly difficult. Especially, due to the low position of the winter sun in the sky. Often dazzling drivers. So you should take care to wear sunglasses (even in winter) pulling  down your sun visor whenever it is required.

Of course drivers should take extra care when driving into the winter sun. Even with a clean spotless screen. Be especially aware of any sudden braking or pedestrians. When the sun is low which is often during the time of day people are driving to or from work.

Good Windscreen Wipers Important-Check before winter arrives

We have all seen drivers struggling to see through dirty windscreen. There is no excuse for it. In fact it is against the law here in the UK. Before winter approaches, I would recommend fitting new wiper blades. If you cant afford new ones then there are simply things you can do using household products. There are several things to use according to the “Tips Bulletin online magazine” Including a simple cup of water mixed with vinegar.

Of course a regular pre winter service on your car would ensure that your wipers and washer tank levels were topped up the correct levels. Ensuring a good start to the winter safety and driving season.

Engine oils Price Hike!

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Engine oils Price Hike!

Engine oils Price Hike!

So, a few days of the week then I go into my office/reception in my Halifax garage. Nowadays, I don’t do very much. Mainly keeping an eye on the phones and chatting to my staff. Most of my staff are young and we can have a laugh and a joke.

I also listen into conversations and many a time can pick up some knowledge to use in my blogs. Last week was no exception. So, the conversation turned into the massive increase in the price of oil used in car servicing.

In the old days most cars would use the same engine oil. As a young mechanic then I can remember putting the “Castrol GTX oil” in almost every car engine requiring an oils change in the service schedule.

Now, when it comes to using the right type of engine oil, you need to consider several important things. In this article, we have discussed 5 important things that can indeed help you go for the right type of oil for your car engine. This is for the DIY motorist of course. We will look online to see what any particular cars oil choice should be.

Because of environmental policies, then car manufacturers have had to develop different types of oils to work in different cars. Now many of the oils made are synthetic oils and manmade. It is important therefore that you are choosing the right type of oil. Or you can have a negative impact on the performance of your car. Possibly blowing up the engine altogether.

Importantly, apart from this, it can also reduce the life of the engine or even ruin the engine altogether.

Therefore, it is extremely important to always use the right type of oil. Read on to find out more. Here at Pellon Auto Centre we only use the most up to date information from a leading automotive information website.

  1. Car series and manufacturer

So, if you are looking up the oil recommendations for your car, you should make and model of your car. Because we are professionals then we are able to enter the cars registration number to get a more accurate specification of the oil we should be using.

  1. Driving environment

You should also consider your driving environment when making a choice. For instance, you may have a hot or cold climate. Similarly, road conditions may vary. You may have to drive on paved or unpaved roads on a regular basis.

Based on these factors, your car engine will have to tolerate different levels of strain. If you drive on unpaved roads, you will have to change engine oil more frequently. Some types of oils are designed to reduce the strain on your engine.

  1. Engine oils Price Hike-Types of oil

After you have considered the make and model of your car engine, you can go for either a mineral or synthetic oil. Each type has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. For example, synthetic oils cost more money but may last longer.

  1. Viscosity grade

If you compare different products, you will find different codes and letters written on the labels. However it is becoming more and more complicated for the regular DIY and more expensive.

Engine oils Price Hike
© Can Stock Photo / romarti

Different grades and viscosity-  Engine oils Price Hike             

These numbers tell you about the viscosity grade and the resistance of the oil to flow. Now, this is an extremely important factor to consider after driving and climate conditions.

The letter “W” refers to winter. In other words, it tells you how the oil will perform in cold weather. The second number tells you about the flow of the oil at normal operating temperatures.

Normally, low viscosity oils are thinner and provide greater protection for your engine in cold weather. On the other hand, high viscosity oils offer greater protection in hot weather. Therefore, it is important to get familiar with the viscosity grade of the oil before making your purchase.

Shock of rising engine oil pricing-Engine oils Price Hike

The shock came when I was told about the massive rise in costs with the Engine oils Price Hike, we use to service your cars and vans. Not too long back, we could buy barrel of oils for £95 if say we bought four barrels. Now the price has shot up to £450 a barrel.

How silly is this!

The most popular oil we buy in barrels is the 5W30 oil. The other variations are bought in smaller quantity plastic barrels, for storing convenience. After the price shock I decide to have a shop round for the best price.

So, now we buy our oils form a local company who started in oil back in the 1800,s when oil was used in the great textile mills of West Yorkshire. Then known as “Squire Radcliffe’s” and now use the name of “SARS Lubricants” Ltd. With nearly 200 years’ experience in oil quality. I have recently heard that there is yet another Engine oils Price Hike, in the offering! Oil producing Arab countries are lining up with Russia against the Wests climate change programme. So, depleting the amount of oil they will have to buy.

mot testing and car servicing

Air Filters-How they Work-Chevy High Performance Magazine

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Air Filters

How Air Filters Work

Chevy High Performance Magazine

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.

Eric Roberts‘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 suck in. Especially, in summer time! Of course, it sucks in millions of insects and dust particles. Including, in autumn and winter! So, apart from dirt and grime, the engine sucks in leaves. Even water from the winter rains. All these things can end up in the engine compartment and eventually would be sucked into the inlet ports. But your air filter stops all this 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.

Brake Servicing

Jaguar Brake Discs

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Jaguar Brake Discs

Jaguar Brake Discs

When I was junior mechanic I always wanted a Jaguar car. Unfortunately, I had wait fifty years for my dream to come true.  Jaguar, is one of the most recognisable names in the history of the automobile industry. Of course, has consistently been at the vanguard of innovation in automotive design and engineering. Jaguar is a company that has a long history of invention and pushing the limits of what is possible in the automotive industry. The company is most well-known for producing high-performance automobiles that are also a luxury.

The implementation of disc brakes across the entirety of Jaguar’s model line up. Hence, is widely regarded as one of the company’s most important technological leaps forward. Jaguar was the first major manufacturer to embrace the braking system that they had played such a significant role in designing. While they were not the first company to make disc brakes a standard feature on their vehicles, they were the first company to do so.

First Jaguars had drum brakes

The manufacturer Jaguar realised the limitations of drum brakes, which were the normal braking system of the time, and began development of disc brakes in the early 1950s. Drum brakes were the conventional braking system of the time. Drum brakes were not reliable in terms of their ability to stop the vehicle and were prone to failing under heavy use. Disc brakes, on the other hand, provided superior stopping force and were less likely to fade over time. Of course more suitable for the powerful Jaguar models to come.

Norman Dewis, a Jaguar engineer and racing driver, was the driving force behind the company’s development of disc brakes. Dewis put in countless hours to improve and perfect the technology. Thus, by 1952, Jaguar was using disc brakes on their C-Type racing car. This achievement is largely credited to Dewis. The technology was an instant hit. Importantly, Jaguar’s use of disc brakes helped the company win the renowned Le Mans 24-hour race three times between 1955 and 1957. These victories took place during the years 1955 and 1957.

Jaguar’s Mark 2 was the first production vehicle to feature disc brakes when it was released in 1958, ( I was 10 years old at the time). The Mark 2 was a luxury sedan that offered exceptional handling and braking performance. As a result, it was very popular not only among automotive enthusiasts but also among the general public. Disc brakes eventually became a standard feature across the whole Jaguar product line. Including the venerable E-Type sports car, which Jaguar introduced in the 1970s.

Jaguar introduces disc brakes

The introduction of disc brakes by Jaguar. Hence, marked a significant advancement for the automobile industry as a whole. Drum brakes were replaced by this innovation, which not only improved performance and safety. But also paved the way for the development. Including, other more advanced braking systems such as anti-lock brakes and electronic stability control.

It is vital to recall the significance that Jaguar had in the development and adoption of disc brakes even though practically all modern cars come equipped with them as standard equipment. Jaguar’s position as a firm that was driven to innovation and perfection was cemented when they became the first major manufacturer to implement disc brakes throughout their whole range of cars. This earned them the title of “first to adopt.”

In conclusion, the introduction of disc brakes by Jaguar was an important turning point in the annals of the history of automotive engineering. Jaguar was the first major manufacturer to adopt the braking system that they had played such a significant role in developing across their entire range of models. While they were not the first company to make disc brakes a standard feature on their vehicles. So, they were the first company to do so across their entire product line. Jaguar has become one of the most recognisable and well-respected automobile companies in the world. Thanks in large part to its unwavering dedication to technological advancement and technical mastery.

worn out rusty brake discs

What causes Brake Discs to Wear Out

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What causes Brake Discs to Wear Out

What causes Brake Discs to Wear Out

Unfortunately, I remember the days before brake discs were fitted to our cars. In fact brake shoes were the norm for most regular car models. Indeed my first encounter with disc brakes were on a Jaguar belonging to the son of a wealthy millowner. We used to service his vehicles and the jaguar was one of them. However, as an apprentice then I never got to touch the car. But I remember being shown how the disc system worked.

Hence, It was explained to me that brake discs are subjected to constant friction and heat during the braking process. However, over time, the repeated exposure to these elements can cause the discs to wear out. In addition, other factors that can contribute to brake disc wear include:

Driving Style

Accordingly, aggressive driving habits such as frequent hard braking and riding the brakes can accelerate the wear of the brake discs. (Boy racers come to mind)

Driving Conditions

Driving in stop-and-go traffic, mountainous terrain, or on rough roads can cause excessive wear on the brake discs.

Poor Quality Brake Pads

So this along with corrosion is the most common cause for disc wear. Low-quality brake pads can cause uneven wear on the brake discs, leading to premature failure.

Corrosion

Exposure to moisture, salt, and other environmental elements can cause corrosion on the brake discs, leading to accelerated wear. Especially the rear discs, that dont get as much use as the front discs.

How Can You Tell if Your Brake Discs are Worn Out?

There are several signs that can indicate worn-out brake discs, including:

Vibration

So, when driving along If you feel a vibration in the steering wheel or brake pedal when you apply the brakes, it may be due to worn-out brake discs. Many of my customers think this is something to do with wheel balance. But it is a different type of vibration caused by wheel balance.

Squeaking or Grinding Noise

Yet another common cause is when the driver can hear, squeaking or grinding noises when braking. Of course, that can indicate that the brake pads have worn down to the metal and are damaging the brake discs.

Reduced Braking Performance

So, when the discs  are subjected to hours of heating then the metal changes construction and softens. When this occurs it takes longer to stop your vehicle than usual or the brakes feel less responsive. Consequently, it may also be due to worn-out brake discs.

  • Visual Inspection

You can visually inspect the brake discs for signs of wear. If the disc has deep grooves, cracks, or a blue colour, it may be due to excessive heat and wear.

  • What Should You Do If Your Brake Discs are Worn Out?

If you suspect that your brake discs are worn out, it is essential to have them inspected by a qualified mechanic. Here are some steps you can take:

  • Replace the Brake Discs

If the brake discs are worn beyond their service limit, they must be replaced. It is essential to replace both brake discs on the same axle to ensure proper                   braking performance.

  • Replace the Brake Pads

Most commonly, then worn-out brake pads can cause excessive wear on the brake discs. Therefore, it is recommended to replace the brake pads at the same time as the brake discs.

  • Check the Brake System Components

It is essential to have the entire brake system inspected for wear and damage. Components such as brake callipers, brake hoses, and brake fluid should be                inspected and replaced if necessary.

What can I do ? Upgrade to High-Quality Brake Components

If you frequently drive in challenging conditions or want to improve braking performance. Consider upgrading to higher-quality brake components such as ceramic brake pads or drilled and slotted brake discs.

  1. How Can You Prevent Brake Disc Wear?

Regular maintenance and driving habits can help prolong the life of your brake discs. Here are some tips:

     2. Avoid Aggressive Driving Habits

Frequent hard braking and riding the brakes can accelerate the wear of the brake discs.

      3. Drive Carefully on Rough Roads

Driving on rough or unpaved roads can cause excessive wear on the brake discs.

      4.Use High-Quality Brake Components

High-quality brake pads and discs can last longer and provide better safety risk for your family and friends.

Mazda 5 Brake Problems

Braking Problems Highlighted- Check your brakes after the lockdown park up

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Braking Problems Highlighted

Braking Problems Highlighted

Of course your cars brakes are really important. Surprisingly, we still get cars presented to us with brake pedals that almost touch the floor of the vehicle! So you would not believe the number of cars that are driving about with insufficient braking power. You really have to press the pedal with all your might to stop the car!

Braking Problems Highlighted-brake fluid levels require regular checks

So, this article comes as yet another reminder to my customers and the motoring public in general. Regular servicing ensures that your brake levels , including your master cylinder are checked. Of course not only checked but topped up tot he correct level. At the moment I an writing this important post in the middle of the “covid 19” pandemic.

As a result millions of cars have been parked up and stood down. We were all told to stay at home to fight this terrible virus. Vehicles were no doubt neglected. Consequently, braking systems for ne reason or another would have become “spongy”. This is due to air getting into the brake system for one reason or another. Especially when the brakes were not used.

As I am writing this there will be motorists who will remember having to pump the brake pedal to enable them to get a good braking response. So, in my opinion I would recommend that you should call into your local independent garage and at least have a brake check. Preferably though as part of a service.

I have personally experienced brake failure and believe me it is no fun when you press the brake pedal and the car does not stop.

MOT testing back on track

Another thing effected by the government lockdown was a suspension of MOT testing. Because people were in lockdown then the government in there wisdom decided to make my life even more miserable by suspending MOT testing. However now that this period is over then cars will still have to be tested. Backlogs are inevitable as thousands of motorists will try book their cars into their favorite garages. This will be a great time to take advantage of one of the deals that small garages can offer. For example, here at pellon Autocentre we will offer the customer an MOT test and service for just £100.

naturally this will also alleviate any anxiety about the cars brakes. As they will be thoroughly check on the service and then sanctioned on the MOT.

 

Mazda 5 Brake Problems

Brake Problems- A good look at some common problems with Master Cylinder Auto Repair – Brakes Don …

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Brake Problems

Brake problems can be difficult to diagnose, but most drivers encounter these common symptoms: your brake pedal feels soft or mushy, when braking, your foot

Eric Roberts‘s insight:

Master cylinder brakes  fluid may need checking at regular intervals

This Brake Problems video and article written by Joyce Blay is well worth looking at. We in the garage and Autocentre sector are always advising the motorists. Of course, about how they should look after their cars. However, we cannot over stress the important of the cars braking system. Including, how important it is to have your brakes checked. By a professional mechanic or your local garage to avoid future Brake Problems.

The levels that are checked under your bonnet (hood) . Importantly,will include the level in your master cylinder. The lack of brake fluid in the Brake Master Cylinders will lead to spongy brakes and if not corrected will end up in Brake Problems and even brake failure.

Brake Problems

So have these levels checked and if required you may need a complete brake fluid change. This is something else that is recommended by the car manufacturers at intervals. So it is well worth checking to see what intervals this job should be done at. Also if you are topping up the master cylinder yourself, make sure you use the recommended type of fluid for your model, some are different to others, your user’s manual will tell you which fluid to use. These procedures may help eliminate any braking problems for the future!

brake revolution

Of course as time has gone by then brakes have become much more complicated. So one of big advances has been the introduction of ABS to our braking systems. Important to realise that in my life time then braking systems have improved beyond recognition. That is to say that when I was an apprentice mechanic then most regular cars only had drum brakes fitted front and rear.

Later cars that were in the upper class bracket such as Mercedes were fitted with disc brakes at the front. Developments were coming out of the racing car circuits. Consequently, technology would be passed from the racing circuit onto the every day regular cars. Motor racing sped up the developments of all aspects of the modern cars. Up to the latest developments! Including, the introduction of the AEB (Automatic Emergency Braking).So, this system will detect a potential vehicle impact and automatically apply the braking system.

To be truthful I am not sure how this is going to work but I am sure that it will be another brake system success.