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.

mot testing and car servicing

Car Servicing under Warranty

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Car Servicing under Warranty

Car Servicing under Warranty
Car Servicing under Warranty

Car Servicing under Warranty

Your car service can be carried out when the car is  under the manufacturerwarranty

So, as a garage owner of long standing ! This is a question that I am always asked. Albeit too late to benefit my garage. Of course, when customers come to us for say a tyre fitting. Naturally, then they sometimes ask us what the price of a service would be for their car. Some customers then say that we can’t do the car  servicing ! Because the car is under the manufacturer’s warranty. Subsequently, they must take their cars to the main dealer (franchise garage).

This ruling was brought out in the European Union (EU) in 2010

As an update to previous legislation. Consequently, this is similar to the American version of “Right to repair act”. It was brought up to date to prevent car manufacturers from adopting protectionism. Including diverting the cars that they made to their franchise dealers. Thus not allowing any work to be passed onto the independent garage sector. While the vehicle was still under warranty. This also would have included Prestige Car Servicing. Giving the main dealer garages the monopoly for all the work. Whilst the car was still in the warranty period.

This was not acceptable to the EU. Car Servicing under Warranty

So, as car repair bills were then accounting for 40% of running and owning a family car,. Unfortunately, the costs were going to rise in future years. In my opinion, this legislation was not very well publicised. Because the general public do not know much about the fact that you can take your vehicle to a reputable independent garage,. Finally, even if the car is still under the manufacturer’s warranty scheme,.

More reading…European Union Auto legislation

Car owners are still told that they must return their cars

to the franchise dealers for servicing. Including out-of-warranty repair work. Including such things as brake pad replacements and other wear and tear items. Tragically, or else if they don’t, it will affect their car’s warranty. This is simply NOT TRUE?

A couple of my customers have told me recently that this is what the salesman told them when they bought their new vehicle. One was a guy with a BMW, who told him that the car

had to be serviced by the BMW garage to keep the cars warranty. Another woman customer had bought an Audi TT from the local Audi franchise and they told her the same. I am not sure if it is a lack of knowledge by the car salesman, but I suspect that they must be trained to say these things.

The EU legislation states that all car makers. Car Servicing under Warranty

So, they have to offer the least: a two-year unlimited mileage warranty on all their cars. This starts from the day the car is first registered. These car sales people should know the law and I am sure the same thing is applicable in the USA, as I stated under their “right to repair laws”. The two-year minimum warranty ruling also applies if the car changes ownership within the warranty period.

The 2010 EU ruling, along with previous legislation,

has been around for quite a while now and all franchise garages know that you cannot force a new car buyer to return the car for all its car servicing or brake work.  Enabling the car to retain its warranty. The only stipulation is that the independent garage that is carrying out the service should carry out the work according to the cars manufacturing service manual and also use service parts of the same quality as the original equipment fitted the vehicle.

If possible, look out for a garage that is one of the “good garage schemes.”. My garage is a member of one of these schemes and you may think that I am blowing my own trumpet.

But in my opinion ! Standards are high and customer care is a priority at most of these regulated garages. I must stress, though, that if a part is found to be faulty,. Then the franchise dealer has the right to repair the van under the terms of the car warranty. In my opinion, this is entirely fair and reasonable. Because it will be the manufacturer who will be paying for the faulty parts being repaired. Consequently, they need to have proper procedures in place and a correct paper chase

Third-party sold warranties are not the subject of this post. Including extended warranties offered by the garage that have sold the car. So, my advice is to be careful with that situation. You might need to have your car serviced at the dealership where you purchased the van in order to take advantage of some of these additional warranties that are not subject to the rules governing manufacturer’s warranties.

We recently had this type of problem with a car that had a worn-out clutch. Car Servicing under Warranty

The lady customer brought the car to us for a new clutch fitting. Unfortunately, she did not tell us that the car was still under warranty. She genuinely thought that she did not have to pay for the clutch fitting. Unknowingly, and that we could claim the money back from the car manufacturers. After a long argument and many phone calls to the main dealer, she finally paid us for her clutch fitting and went away a very confused and disgruntled lady, never to be seen again.

This was a perfect case of the car owners not knowing about their warranty procedures.

“Under EU law, you may invoke your guarantee at any dealer in the manufacturer’s network, regardless of the EU country in which you bought the car. So if you buy your car in Germany and take it back with you to France,. So, you go to a car dealership for that make of car close to your home to ask for a manufacturing fault to be remedied (within the guarantee period), rather than travelling back to Ermany.” http://europa.eu/youreurope/citizens/vehicles/cars/faq/index_en.htm 

car brakes problem

Jaguar XF Brake Problems

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Jaguar XF Brake Problems

Jaguar XF Brake Problems
Jaguar XF Brake Problems

Jaguar XF Brake Problems

Jaguar XF Brake Problems – Past Lessons, Present Fixes

Here at Pellon Tyre and Autocentre in Halifax, we’re fortunate to have a loyal customer base, including a few proud owners of the stylish Jaguar XF. As someone who’s been in the garage game for a long time – going right back to my days as an apprentice mechanic – I’ve always had a soft spot for Jaguar cars.

They’ve come a long way over the decades, but some things haven’t changed – particularly the ongoing issue of brake vibrations.

🚗 A Bit of Jaguar History – From Fox’s Biscuits to Flared Arches

Back in the day, we had a number of wealthy customers who brought their Jags in for service – including one of the Fox family, the directors behind the Fox’s Biscuits empire. He was always rolling in with a fresh set of new Jaguars – typically keeping four or five on the go at once – which kept us busy with regular servicing and brake repairs.

I particularly remember the Jaguar XJ4 when it launched in the late 1960s – a real head-turner with flared arches and a brand-new tyre spec: the ER70VR15, specially made for Jaguar by Dunlop Tyres. These tyres were engineered in partnership with Jaguar to cope with the power and handling of the new cars.

🛞 The Original Brake Vibration Mystery Jaguar XF Brake Problems

But as great as the XJ4 looked, it wasn’t without its issues – particularly vibration through the brakes and steering wheel. I remember working for National Tyre Service at the time (owned by Dunlop), and we were constantly trying to balance Jaguar wheels as precisely as possible.

Back then, we didn’t have the fancy laser-guided balancers we use today – just basic machines and plenty of elbow grease. In fact, some of the worst cases were taken in secret to a Dunlop test facility in Leeds, where engineers would even skim the tread off tyres in an attempt to make them perfectly round. That’s how serious the vibration problem had become – and how committed Jaguar and Dunlop were to protecting their reputation.

🛠️ Back to the Modern Day – Jaguar XF Brake Issues Still Exist

Fast-forward to today, and we’re still seeing similar issues on the Jaguar XF, especially when it comes to brake judder and droning noises. We regularly carry out brake servicing on several local XF models, and a pattern has started to emerge.

🔍 Case 1 – Vibration at Low Speed Jaguar XF Brake Problems

One XF owner came in reporting a strange issue: the car ran perfectly at high speeds but vibrated when slowing down between 60 and 40 mph. We road-tested it, but – as is often the case – the problem wouldn’t show itself while we were behind the wheel.

The customer had also visited the main dealer, who confirmed this is now a recognised fault with the XF range. The likely cause? Disc brake or hub runout – a slight misalignment that causes vibration when the brakes are applied.

🔧 Case 2 – New Discs and Pads, But Still Vibrating

Another Jaguar XF came in for servicing and needed discs and pads all round. We replaced them, but a few months later the customer returned, complaining of a slight vibration through the brake pedal.

We took the car in for inspection and – while everything looked fine – we suspected a faulty disc. We replaced it under warranty with help from our supplier, but this time we took an extra step: we thoroughly cleaned the hub face before fitting the new discs.

Sure enough, a small amount of rust build-up on the outer part of the hub had caused a very slight misalignment. Cleaning it completely and re-seating the new discs fixed the issue.

🔧 Top Tip – Always Clean the Hub Face Jaguar XF Brake Problems

This experience has led us to a clear conclusion: if you’re fitting new brake discs to a Jaguar XF (or any precision car, really), it’s vital to clean the hub face thoroughly. Even a tiny bit of corrosion can throw off the alignment just enough to cause brake vibration.

It’s a simple fix that many overlook – and it could save a lot of head-scratching (and repeat visits) later on.

📍 Jaguar Brake Repairs and MOTs in Halifax

If you drive a Jaguar XF and you’ve noticed:

  • A pulsing brake pedal
  • Droning noises when slowing down
  • Juddering through the steering at low speeds

…bring it in to Pellon Tyre and Autocentre for a full brake inspection. We specialise in brake repairs, MOT testing, and servicing for prestige cars.

With decades of hands-on experience and a real passion for cars, we’ll keep your Jaguar running smoothly – without the mystery vibrations.

Eric Roberts

Peugoet 207 Trac Rod Ends

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Peugoet 207 Trac Rod Ends

Peugoet 207 Trac Rod Ends
Peugoet 207 Trac Rod Ends

Peugoet 207 Trac Rod Ends

A Case at Pellon Tyre and Autocentre:

Peugeot 207 Steering Knocking and Wandering Issue

A customer recently complained of a knocking sound emanating from the steering of his clean 59-plate Peugeot 207. He said that it was difficult to maintain a straight line on Halifax’s frequently twisting and mountainous roads since the car seemed to be straying a little while driving. Here at Pellon Tyre and Autocentre, we’ve encountered this issue before: steering noises and alignment problems are common on Peugeot 207s, particularly the earlier models.

Identifying the Knocking Noise-Peugoet 207 Trac Rod Ends

Upon inspecting the car, we could definitely hear the knocking sound. In situations like this, wear in components like the tie rod ends, anti-roll bar links, or even the steering rack itself is typically to blame for the noise. We thought it might perhaps be related to worn suspension parts because of the car’s small propensity to stray. These areas may suffer from Halifax’s diverse topography and our renownedly erratic weather, particularly while traversing the town’s cobblestone streets and steep hills.

Fixes and Resolutions-Peugoet 207 Trac Rod Ends

We examined the tie rod ends carefully and discovered that they were significantly worn. This was the cause of the wandering problem as well as the steering knock. Any motion in these parts can result in loose or hazy steering because tie rod ends are essential for connecting the steering rack to the wheels. Thankfully, we have a lot of experience in this field. After these components were replaced, the steering control was restored, and after a brief adjustment, the Peugeot felt stable and smooth again.

Our client, who lives close to the city centre, was relieved that his vehicle was secure and prepared to navigate Halifax’s winding roads, which stretch from the Pellon hills to the Calder Valley dips.

A Brief Retrospection: The History of the Peugeot 207

The history of the Peugeot 207 itself is fascinating. When the model was introduced in 2006, it immediately gained popularity throughout the United Kingdom. Known for its fashionable appearance and low operating costs, it was a popular vehicle on British roads and provided excellent value for anyone looking for a dependable, small automobile. The 207, which is safer and more comfortable, took the place of the beloved 206. Additionally, it became known for its agile handling and snappy steering, making it a favourite among city drivers and hatchback enthusiasts seeking a little sportiness.

The 207 does, however, have certain frequent problems as it ages, such as the necessity for maintenance on the steering and suspension parts because of the wear and tear they endure. These parts frequently just deteriorate with regular use, particularly in cities where stop-start driving is common.

Local Interest:-Peugoet 207 Trac Rod Ends

The Yorkshire Roads and Peugeot

For travelling around Halifax and the nearby areas, a little automobile like the Peugeot 207 is perfect. Smaller cars like this are popular among Pellon Tyre and Autocentre clients because they are agile and convenient to park on our narrower, older roads. Because Halifax is full of old roads and hills, a responsive steering system and dependable suspension are essential for a comfortable ride. Maintaining the 207’s steering and suspension is crucial, whether you’re driving it around the town centre or up to the neighbouring Pennine Hills for a picturesque trip.

We at Pellon Tyre and Autocentre are well

Versed in these repairs and understand how important they are for safe driving on the distinctive roads of Yorkshire. We are always available to assist you in staying safely on course, so stop by and see us if your automobile is causing you some trouble, whether it’s with the steering, the tyres, or anything else.

 

car servicing

Neglect car servicing

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Neglect car servicing

Neglect car servicing
Neglect car servicing

Neglect car servicing

Daily Nation Neglect car servicing at your own peril Daily Nation If you simply asked a garage for major car servicing and handed the car over with a flat spare, one rear wheel five psi below pressure, feathering wear on one front tyre tread, a screw…

EricRoberts‘s insight:

 Neglect car servicing advice from Africa

I know that I keep going on about how important car servicing is. But its good advice when I see other countries preaching the same thing. So this article comes from Africa! Giving the  motorist some good points that affect all car drivers. Importantly to have your car serviced. Of course, there may be some serious underlying problem with your car.

Especially about hidden problems that you do not know about.

Significantly, a service should pick up. The main neglect that we come across is Car Brakes problems, For example, leaking brake cylinders that are undetected could lead to a sudden brake loss, and heaven knows what that could cause, so please have your car serviced at regular intervals. Please do not Neglect car servicing?

If you would like some advice  about your cars servicing intervals, then here you are .

From my advice I would like to stress that the newer your car is then the fewer services the car will need. Most of today’s modern cars that our customers drive are supposed to be serviced every 12000 Miles Per Year. Or at least once a year. Some of the older models require more Servicing a Car, but we tend to check out the service booklets and service the cars accordingly.

After three years, your car should have averaged, say, 12000 miles every year, but many drivers do not do that amount of miles, so in that case, i would advise you once again to stick to the mileage regime and not the time scale.

In my opinion, it is best practice to stick to the cars service manual. If you do Neglect car servicing and exceed the miles, say if you use your car for work purposes, then you should have the 12000 mile service once a year, or at least make sure that the car has a major service.

But most importantly

Please make sure that the car has the oil and filter changed, as oil contamination can always lead into other, more serious problems. Also check the time or mileage that your timing belt needs changing; this can be a major problem if you Neglect car servicing If your car requires it, most do and have a brake check. if you have a 12-mile yearly service, then all this will be taken care of.

car brakes problem

Noisy Car Brakes

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Noisy Car Brakes

noisy car brakes
Car Brakes-Friction Zone

Noisy car brakes

I was surprised to see this nice-looking red car 

Being the owner of a busy garage has many “ups and downs.”. One of the more pleasant aspects of the job is seeing 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 1960s, not counting the everyday cars such as Ford Fiestas and VW Golfs. We had a Citroen DS3 call in to us early in the week with rattling car brakes.

It 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 “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 different carpet designs. There is also a sports version known as the D-Sport, which comes with blue teeth 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.“

We are now members of Tyresafe.org

“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

 

Change wipers during drier months

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Change wipers during drier months

Change wipers during drier months
Change wipers during drier months

Why You Should Replace Your Wiper Blades During the Drier Months – Advice from Pellon Tyres, Halifax

Hello again from all of us at Pellon Tyre and Autocentre in Halifax!

Today, we’re giving the batteries and engines a break and focusing on something simple — yet absolutely essential for road safety all year round: your wiper blades.

You might be thinking, “It’s dry outside; why bother changing my wiper blades now?” Well, here’s why replacing wiper blades during the summer months is actually one of the smartest things you can do for your car.

🧼 Clear Windscreens in Any Weather Change wipers during drier months

It’s not just rain that affects your windscreen. Even in dry conditions, dust, pollen, bird droppings, and road grime can build up. Your wiper blades are the first line of defence when it comes to keeping your view clear — especially when you hit the Halifax bypass or are heading down Skircoat Road in the sunshine.

Good blades help you spot potholes, cyclists, or sudden hazards — even when there isn’t a cloud in the sky.

🔍 Prevent Windscreen Scratches and Costly Repairs

Worn-out wiper blades don’t just leave annoying streaks — they can actually damage your glass. When the rubber on old blades starts to crack or peel, it can scratch your windscreen. And let’s be honest — a windscreen replacement isn’t cheap!

By replacing your wiper blades regularly, you’re protecting one of the most important safety features of your car: your visibility.

🌦️ British Weather Is Never Trustworthy Change wipers during drier months

Let’s face it — West Yorkshire weather is unpredictable at the best of times. One minute it’s blazing sunshine; the next it’s like the heavens have opened. You don’t want to be caught out in a downpour with wipers that smear more than they clear.

That’s why we recommend getting new wiper blades during the dry months, so you’re already prepared when the rain returns (as it always does around here!).

🛠️ Easy to Do, Affordable to Fix Change wipers during drier months

The great news? Changing your wiper blades is one of the easiest car maintenance tasks you can do. You don’t need tools, a ramp, or a mechanic. Just pop into your local Halifax parts shop, grab the right set for your make and model, and fit them in minutes. Or if you’re not sure what you need, just give us a ring at Pellon Tyres, and we’ll sort it for you.

💧 Better Washer Fluid Performance Too

New wiper blades do more than wipe — they help your windscreen washer fluid work properly by spreading it evenly across the glass. That means fewer smears, clearer visibility, and a better clean every time you use it — ideal after a long drive through the countryside or the odd seagull ‘gift’ while parked in town!

🚗 Stay Safe with Small but Important Fixes

Here at Pellon Tyres in Halifax, we always say that the little things matter just as much as the big ones. A quick wiper blade replacement might not seem like a big deal, but it’s one of those quiet jobs that makes a huge difference when it counts.

So, next time you’re giving your car a once-over — even if it’s sunny and dry — don’t forget to check your wipers. If they’re squeaking, smearing, or cracking, it’s time to replace them.

📍 Local Wiper Blade Replacement in Halifax

Need help choosing the right wiper blades for your car? Want us to fit them for you? Just pop in or give us a call at:

📞 01422 352292
🌐 www.pellonautocentre.com
📍 Pellon Tyre and Autocentre, Pellon Lane, Halifaxe!

Despite the warmer, drier weather being associated with the summer months, the importance of having fresh wiper blades with good adhesion to the windscreen glass is just as important as any other time of year,

Source: Change wipers during drier months for optimum visibility, First Line says

Suspension Arm Bolts

BMW Mini Suspension

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BMW Mini Suspension

Is this a common BMW Mini suspension fault ?

I opened my garage doors on Saturday. Then a dark green BMW Mini had been left in the car park overnight. As a result, the owner had left a note . Thus to say that she would be calling in that morning. At the time, we had not noticed . The rear drivers BMW Mini Suspension was not straight . But leaning in at the top.

When we eventually got the BMW Mini on the ramp (Saturday is a very busy day for tyre customers), we were astounded to find that the problem was caused by a broken bottom arm link, a part of the BMW Mini Suspension. The bottom link had completely snapped in two. This caused the wheel to pull in at the top, making the car undriveable.

that is now common on modern vehicles such as the BMW Mini and is used to give the car independent suspension in all four corners of the car. The BMW Mini Suspension top and bottom links are part of that system.

The lady customer can not remember running over any objects, but with all the snow that has fallen in the Halifax area this winter, it is possible that she may have run over a large stone that was buried in the snow without knowing and snapped the link in two. This year has been a particularly bad year for broken springs and other suspension parts.

The video that I have included in this post clearly shows the bottom link in action; it is the part that is a silver colour at the bottom of the BMW Mini suspension.

The new part has now been ordered and we will be fixing the BMW Mini this week.

More reading…

“Does multi-link suspension have any disadvantages? In short, yes… Such systems are more complex and incorporate more components, making them more expensive to design and produce. For this reason the systems were first introduced by luxury brands.

That said, lower vehicle production costs and higher customer expectation have more recently seen the technology filter down to many large and mid-sized mainstream vehicles. Development of the multi-link suspension systems is ongoing.

For example, Italian company Magneti Marelli

(most famous for its auto electronics) is making significant headway in producing cost-effective multi-link systems for small cars.

Its new designs incorporate flexible links, the benefits of which are said to allow fewer total parts, simplified bushing designs and reduced noise transmission into the passenger compartment”..http://www.carpoint.com.au/advice/2009/what-is-multilink-suspension-7533

Insane MOT Test Proposals

Independent Car Care centres

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Independent Car Care centres

Independent Car Care centres-Cars are among the most essential parts of our lives.

Independent Car Care centres
Independent Car Care centres

Virtually everyone owns their own vehicle. Whether it is for public use or private use. To ensure that your vehicle maintains its pristine condition. So, it is essential to periodically visit  to your Independent Car Care centres. Car care centres are ideal destinations for repairing and maintaining vehicles. There are numerous benefits that vehicle owners attain when they take their vehicles to these dealers.

  1. The first benefit is that these centres possess expert mechanics. Who have mastered every minute detail about automobiles. This lets them handle any form of issue with your vehicle. Consequently, they may undo most significant damages to your automobile. They typically repair, check or service your batteries, wiper blades, tyre pressure, clutch, lights, brakes and engine. These repairs will ensure that your vehicle remains pristine. That will protect it from the strain it typically faces.
  2. The second benefit is that the mechanics offer peace of mind . They have mastered virtually everything about vehicles due to their immense experience along with their training. Whatever make or model your vehicle might be. The mechanics know all of its workings. To them, it is irrelevant whether your vehicle is vintage, rare or foreign. They also possess all the ideal pieces of equipment. Along with tools to repair or to service your vehicle. They guarantee that your vehicle’s condition will improve. Hence, the mechanics offer peace of mind as you remain assured that they are the most ideal experts to handle your vehicle.
  3. The third benefit is that these care centres mechanics are cost-effective. Their charges typically reflect the type of repair or service they perform. If your vehicle has sustained extensive damage or requires extensive servicing. So, their services will reflect that. In fact, their charges are often reasonable with immense damages. Likewise, their charges are relatively minute if your vehicle does not need plenty of work. The mechanics, in addition, are insured. This means that they will not charge for any issues that may arise when they attempt to repair or service your vehicle.

Independent Car Care centres– offer more care for your car

The fourth benefit is that the mechanics offer additional services. For instance, if your car has broken down somewhere and you cannot move it, you may hire them t

o tow your vehicle. This will be considerably more affordable and convenient than paying an independent towing company. The mechanics also offer ideal advice. Your vehicle may require new parts like brakes or headlights. If so, these professionals may offer advice on the type of  Online Catalogue are most ideal.

For instance, there are brand new spare parts that are considerably expensive. But are essential for certain parts, like gearboxes. There are also recycled spare parts which are affordable and may be ideal for parts like headlights. They may also offer advice on whether a particular component needs to be repaired or if it requires replacement. Independent Car Care centres advice is primarily to suit you and your budget.

On the whole, Unipart car care centres are ideal centres for having your vehicle repaired or serviced. They are affordable and effective. We have now left the Unipart scheme, and it will make no difference to our customer service going forward.

car brakes problem

Failing Brakes

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Failing Brakes

Failing Brakes

Failing Brakes
Failing Brakes

Many cars are now having a bad  experience

Of driving your car along the road only to find that when you apply the Failing Brakes,

you hear a tremendous “grinding”noise problems

Of course winter is always a bad time for our customers with brake problems. Specifically, because drivers use their brakes much more often. Especially, if the weather turns wild. Snow and ice make drivers doubly aware of the driving conditions. Consequently, they use the brakes twice as much as they would in say dry sunny summer conditions.

Eventually the brake pads will wear away. In many cases the pads wear down to the extent of wearing out altogether thus causing Failing Brakes ! Frequently, only leaving the metal part of the pads in tack. Of course this is the time when the grinding noise can be first heard by the driver. So, causing panic as this is often accompanied by brake warning lights illuminating on the cab dashboard !

Drivers panic !

So, the noise comes from the metal part of the worn out pads grinding on the metal brake discs eventual causing Failing Brakes. Resulting in the horrific noise when the brakes are applied. Significantly, this happens many times and We are now finding that we are seen an increase in drivers calling into our Halifax garage with this problem. With with Failing Brakes that are rattling and banging. Many of our customers are lady drivers (about 60% we estimate).

Not being sexist but the lady drivers do appear to panic more when this bad brake experience happens. Finding out that when you apply the brakes. Then you can hear a tremendous “grinding”noise. As a result, coming from your car. This can be a harrowing and frightening experience. Especially, to a first time driver.

When this happens all the customer wants to do is stop their car. Of course and then, getting it to a garage as soon as possible. As I have siad earlier, these days as well as the noise, then a warning light will illuminate. Hence, on the dash-board. Making the experience twice as daunting.

Customers just want their vehicle putting right !

So, in really severe cases of total brake failure, then a recovery is often required. Drivers just dont want to drive their cars that are making such a terrible noise. So, the cars are just left with us to do whatever is needed to make their vehicles roadworthy again ! The cost of the repairs does not seem to be a problem. Because, this important part of the car and the brakes must be fixed at all cost.

Why let the brakes get to this stage ?

This is the bit that I don’t understand ! I believe  that the main reason for the customer grinding brake problem is a lack of car servicing. Thus allowing their cars to become  beyond the stage of proper safety levels (when the pads are completely worn down and they become metal on metal with the Discs). Dangerously, this problem occurs mainly because the vehicle had not been serviced the year before.

Customers now lead very busy lives ! So, it is not surprising when we tell them that their car has not been serviced for over two years. I must admit that I am in this bracket ! Consequently, because of a missed service then parts that need replacing such as brake pads . So, are neglected and wear out causing the grinding problem. Customers do not usually miss servicing on purpose !

So, there was a time when our customers would miss a service for financial reasons. In recent years we have found that this has become less of a problem. Money is much easier to access, so important things such as servicing their car has become less of a problem.

Missing a service is false economy !

However a modern safe guard has become the annual MOT Test and servicing. Expressly, the modern way is to have a service when the vehicle is in for its annual MOT test. So, to help drivers, many garages like ourselves. Offer a service and MOT package that is in the financial reach of most card drivers. Of course, this package ensures that things that could be missed due to neglect can be spotted  and put to rights.

Including the cars braking system. When the brake pads  are not completely worn down then we can advise the car owners and they can be changed before the dreaded grinding noise emanates.

So, when the car is in fir a service/MOT, and we find that the  Brake Pads are getting low. Then we report back to the client with an advisory. Of course with the permission of the car owner ! The parts will be changed on the service making the car safe again, and up to scratch. If the owner does not have their vehicle serviced and the Failing Brakes are neglected, then the problem of low pads will then be spread to the other parts, namely the brake discs.

Of course, other brake problems could also occur. Including, seized up brake calipers, or leaking brake cylinders and damaged ABS warning wires.

Failing Brakes problems could have been avoided.

As an example to what I was saying earlier in the article! One lady customer brought her BMW Mini in to us with a  Brakes problem. Closely examining the Mini we found that she required discs and pads on the front. Including a set of pads on the rear. The lady could not understand this ! Explaining that she we had only just serviced the car a couple of months previously.

Much surprised! We subsequently,checked the records on our computer system. She was horrified to find that the last service was carried out 18 months ago ! Time had flown by and she had missed her annual service completely. Needless to say that she apologised, paid her bill and went on her way. Of course ,we do send out reminders to our customers, but it had slipped her mind.

I do believe that motorists are becoming more aware and educated about the need for regular car servicing as a preventative measure to Failing Brakes. Especially before the dreaded grinding brake scenario occurs!

car brakes problem

Warped Brake Discs

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Warped Brake Discs

Warped Brake Discs

warped brake discs; warping  is a common problem

Warped Brake Discs
Warped Brake Discs

Most people know what a brake disc is. Of course, they learn this through experience gained throughout their motoring life. The brake discs are known in America as “Brake Rotors”, I say this

because of my American readers. Just in case they dont know what I am referring to,.

The discs are the large metal discs that you see on most cars. Hence, when the wheels are removed,. For this reason, there job is to stop the car when the brakes are applied. Thus, they are grabbed by the brake pads. At great pressure to stop the car. This action causes friction and wear on the discs. Consequently, with constant use and heat buildup,.

replacing warped brake discs

Over time, the Disc Brakes will slowly wear down. Most manufacturers of these discs recommend a minimum thickness of wear. when a skilled autocenter examines your brakes Then the discs will be measured to see if they are below the thickness limits. Therefore, customer will then be advised?Hopefully, the warped brake discs will be changed.

Discs come in all types of designs. Although the discs fit the regular family saloon car,. Hence, are usually of the conventional solid steel discs type. Although many cars are now coming out on vented discs,. This was an improvement to help dissipate the high amount of heat that the discs generate in heavy usage. In my opinion, these vented discs wear more quickly than the solid discs but do not warp as much.

Warped Brake Discs

The warped brake discs will go out of shape for many reasons , but the main reason is what I call “normal wear and tear” , This is caused by the exposed discs coming into contact with water, During in heavy rain, the discs constantly heat up and cool down when in contact with the water. This year has been particularly bad for warped brake discs replacements due to our record wet year here in the UK. The discs produce a high spot, which over time causes them to develop a “high spot,” and eventually the discs will warp.

This warped brake discs can be felt through the brake pedal when you are pressing the brakes and will get worse, making driving feel uncomfortable. If this is not seen, it is possible that the discs can break up into pieces, often causing distress to the driver.

Some sportier car models have to have perforated discs fitted as an added bonus in keeping the discs cool when heavy braking and have to be re-fitted with the same type of discs.Discs are very important and can not be messed about with, except for upgrades.

Warped Brake Discs How do I look after my brake discs ?

The answer really is to have your car regularly maintained. Most good Autocentres will offer their customers a free brake check. Also, you should have your car serviced at least once a year; this will include your brake check and any problems will be noted and presented to you as a recommendation.

It is then up to you to have the problems fixed before you run into more problems.

I have noticed recently that the customers with brake problems are the ones that did not find time to have their car serviced, and the cost doubles because of the extra problems that a set of worn-out pads would have if discovered on a service.

Sports discs are ready to be fitted

Pellon Tyres are now proud members of Tyresafe.org helping spread the word about tyre safety.