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.
The Importance of Keeping Your Car’s Lights in Top Condition
In the bustling streets of the UK, where the weather may change on a dime and the roadways demand your complete attention, keeping all of your car lights in good operating order is not just a recommendation—it’s a requirement. Whether you’re navigating through Halifax’s misty mornings or cruising down the M62 on a rainy evening, good lighting is your first line of defence in keeping you and your fellow drivers safe.
Light the Way: Safety First.
Visibility for all:
Car lights are a vital communication tool on the road. Lights are crucial because they enable you to see and, even more importantly, allow others to see you. From your headlights and taillights to your indicators and brake lights, each bulb serves an important function in communicating your intentions to other drivers and preventing accidents.
Legal Requirements:
It’s more than simply civility and safety; it’s the law. Driving with any of your lights not working can result in a fine and, in some situations, points on your licence. UK traffic restrictions are strict for a reason: to keep everyone safe.
The Local Lowdown: Check Your Cars Lights
Why Halifax Drivers Should Be Extra Vigilant Keeping your car’s lights in good working order is especially important in Halifax, where the weather may be unexpected. The town’s small alleys, steep inclines, and typical Pennine weather can make for difficult driving. When you add restricted visibility to the mix, you have a potential recipe for disaster.
Foggy conditions are rather prevalent in our part of the country, particularly in the Calder Valley. In such circumstances, fog lights are more than an ornament; they are a necessity. These lights are intended to cut through the fog, making your car visible to others without blinding them.
Maintenance Tips:
Keep Your Lights Bright Regular checks: Check your lights on a regular basis—once a week is plenty. This includes the headlights, rear lights, brake lights, indicator lights, and fog lights. A simple tour around the vehicle while someone operates the controls will help you avoid future headaches.
Clean and Clear: Check Your Cars Lights
Having all the lights functional isn’t enough; they also need to be cleaned. Dirt, mud, or snow can obscure lights, drastically reducing their efficiency. Regular cleaning promotes optimal light output and visibility.
Professional Assistance: Check Your Cars Lights
If you’re unsure how to replace a bulb or if a light isn’t working properly even after the bulb has been replaced, don’t hesitate to contact your local garage. The fault might be with the wiring, fuses, or even the light assembly itself.
Wrapping Up
Keeping your car’s lights in good working order is more than just following the law; it’s also about taking proactive efforts to guarantee your own and other drivers’ safety on the road. As the nights draw in and the weather changes, a well-lit car is your best ally in navigating the problems of UK driving.
So, whether you’re heading to the Piece Hall for some shopping or taking a late-night drive through the Yorkshire moors, make sure your vehicle’s lights are as prepared as you are. After all, in Halifax, where every turn and weather change tells a tale, your vehicle’s lights might make all the difference.
Safe travels and keep those lights blazing brightly.Regular servicing will keep your lights up-to-date and, of course, safer for your family and other road users.
An oil change is no longer a simple Sunday afternoon job that requires a spanner, an oil pan, and a little elbow grease. Today’s engine lubricants are as diverse and sophisticated as the engines they lubricate. For many UK motorists, particularly those who enjoy doing their own car maintenance, this intricacy can make a normal oil change difficult.
The Evolution of Engine Oil: More Than Just Slick-Many Different Oils
Engine oils have changed dramatically, thanks in large part to developments in vehicle technology. Modern engines are intended to be more efficient, perform better, and be more eco-friendly. This means they need oils that can handle higher temperatures, lower pollutants, enhance fuel economy, and safeguard modern engine components.
The variety of lubricants available in the United Kingdom, where cars from Europe, Asia, and America may be found, is not only enormous but also overwhelming. Full synthetic oils, synthetic blends, and high-mileage oils are all designed to fulfil certain engine requirements and manufacturer specifications.
Engine Compatibility: Modern engines frequently require specific types of oil to function efficiently. Using the incorrect type might result in lower performance, higher wear and tear, and possibly severe engine damage. Many contemporary turbocharged engines in Halifax and around the UK, for example, require synthetic oils since they can withstand higher temperatures better than conventional oils.
Warranty Requirements: Many car manufacturers now require the usage of specified oil types in their owner’s manuals to maintain warranty coverage. This implies that a simple trip to your local Halfords for any old oil will not be enough; you need the perfect match for your make and model.
Technological Additives: Many Different Oils contain a variety of additives that protect and improve engine performance. These additions include detergents to clean the engine, antioxidants to prevent oxidation, and viscosity modifiers to ensure the oil’s performance in severe temperatures.
The Local Perspective: A Halifax Tale. Many Different Oils
In Halifax, where the weather changes as frequently as the local bus schedule, selecting the correct engine oil is very important. Cold starts in snowy Yorkshire winters necessitate an oil that will flow freely at low temperatures, whereas stop-start traffic in urban areas during a rare British heat necessitates an oil that will not thin down unduly.
Is making DIY oil changes a dying art?
With the increasing complexity of oil types and blends, combined with technological developments in automobile engines, the art of DIY oil changes is getting increasingly difficult. This isn’t only a question of pride for enthusiasts; it’s also about extending the life and efficiency of your car.
For many of us in the UK, stopping by the local garage in Halifax is becoming increasingly appealing. Not only does it eliminate the effort of deciphering complex oil specs, but it also assures that your favourite motor receives exactly what it requires. Plus, it’s always a good idea to talk with your mechanic about the latest car technology and the best routes to take for a weekend trip in the Dales.
Wrapping it up. Many Different Oils
While DIY oil changes are no longer as popular as they once were, they are far from extinct. For those who still enjoy delving under the hood, the key is comprehensive research and perhaps a conversation with a knowledgeable friend or a reputable mechanic. Remember that the appropriate oil can have a significant impact on the health and performance of your vehicle.
So, whether you’re taking your car to the garage or doing an oil change in your driveway, make sure you’re using the proper oil in your engine. After all, in a country known for its rich history and ongoing innovation, keeping our transportation system operating smoothly is simply expected!
https://www.pellonautocentre.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/pellon-tyres-logo-509x321.jpg00Eric Robertshttps://www.pellonautocentre.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/pellon-tyres-logo-509x321.jpgEric Roberts2025-08-05 07:39:482025-08-05 07:39:48Many Different Oils-For the DIY Motorist
Brake Trouble with a Hyundai i35 – Why Regular Brake Checks Matter
Hyundai i35 for Brakes Repairing
Morning all! We had a Hyundai i35 roll into Pellon Tyres the other day, and the poor thing was having brake issues. Now, I don’t mean the odd squeak or bit of dust – no, this one was seriously underperforming. The driver said the brakes felt “soft” and it wasn’t stopping properly. This is certainly not the ideal situation when you’re navigating the streets. Therefore, I decided to write a brief blog post discussing the importance of brake checks, particularly for modern vehicles such as the Hyundai i35.
such as the Hyundai i35. While we’re at it, let’s discuss the Hyundai i35 and its recent rise in the UK.
Brakes—don’t leave it too late! Hyundai i35 for Brakes Repairing
What we usually see at the garage is people waiting until they feel something’s wrong – a grinding noise, a soft pedal, or maybe the car pulling to one side. Often, damage has already occurred by that time. Worn pads can destroy your brake discs, and fluid issues can make the whole system spongy and unpredictable.
At Pellon Tyres here in Halifax, we recommend regular brake checks – especially if you’re heading into winter or planning a long trip. A simple inspection can pick up early wear, corroded parts, or low brake fluid. It’s quick, affordable, and it could save your life.
Hyundai i35 for Brakes Repairing
Hyundai i35 – A Bit of History Hyundai i35 for Brakes Repairing
Now, let’s discuss the Hyundai i35. Not everyone realises this, but the i35 is actually the name used in some markets for what we know here in the UK as the Hyundai ix35 – a smart-looking compact SUV that became quite popular in the early 2010s.
It was the follow-up to the Hyundai Tucson, and for a few years, Hyundai rebadged it as the i35 in other countries, keeping in line with their new naming strategy (you know, the i10, the i20, the i30, and so on). Over here, though, we mostly knew it as the ix35, and it was a big step forward for Hyundai.
Gone were the budget-looking boxes of the early 2000s – this one had curves, gadgets, and a proper road presence. It featured decent diesel and petrol engines, all-wheel drive on some models, and an ample amount of equipment for its price range.
People liked it too – it was practical, reliable, and a lot cheaper to run than some of its flashier rivals. In fact, we still see loads of them coming through our doors here in Halifax, most of them still going strong.
Hyundai i35 for Brakes Repairing
We Fix All Hyundai Models – From the i10 to the Santa Fe
At Pellon Tyres, we’re more than happy to look after any Hyundai that comes our way – whether it’s an old i10 with a knocking noise, a newer i30 due for service, or a Santa Fe that’s ready for new brakes.
We’ve been working on these cars for years now and know all the common issues. That includes everything from clutch replacements to battery swaps and, of course, brake repairs and diagnostics. We utilise high-quality parts and ensure thorough completion – we don’t take shortcuts, only delivering exceptional Yorkshire craftsmanship.
And while we’re on the subject – if you’ve got a Hyundai and haven’t had your brakes checked recently, give us a ring. The roads around here aren’t exactly flat, and the last thing you want is dodgy brakes going down Boothtown Road!
Wrap-Up – Don’t Risk It: Hyundai i35 for Brakes Repairing
So, to sum up—if your brakes are making noises, feeling soft, or just not giving you that confident stopping power—don’t hang around. It’s far cheaper (and safer) to fix things early than to wait for a full brake system failure.
We’re always happy to check your brakes while you wait, and we can sort everything from pads and discs to callipers and brake fluid. We do MOTs, servicing, tyres, exhausts, and diagnostics – all under one roof here in Halifax.
We’ve been helping local drivers since 1989, and we’re still here, still independent, and still putting safety first.
One of the benefits of being an independent garage is the huge diversity of cars that pass through our doors, and our ability to service and fix most of them. I say most of them, because we do have some problems with electrical faults, that can’t be detected without specialists equipment and so in that case we have a couple of different guys who are mobile electrical specialists. Otherwise we can cope with most car problems.
One popular car to run around Halifax UK, is the Mazda 5. The most popular ones being the different Mazda sports cars, that in my opinion were a similarity to our own beloved MGB sport cars, they all look very much alike.
Mazda’s have come a long way since the 1960’s, when they were inspired by the development of the NSU and the Wankel engine. I remember this little car very well; a mechanic friend bought one and showed me the strange engine that was belt driven. The car was also very fast once it got going and the guy used to frighten me to death: eventually the engine blew up and the car was scrapped.
Mazda were very interested in the German technology
So the Japanese car company formed a business alliance. Of course, with the German car company NSU. In 1967 Mazda started to make a limited production model called the Cosmo Sport and eventually became the sole makers of the Wankel engine, this was only because all the other car companies had given up making the rotary engine.
The Mazda car company was beginning to get a good reputation and started exporting their cars from Japan, both the rotary engine and the standard type piston engine layout, all over the World. These cars were primarily the rotary engine cars, especially the RX models, the RX 2, 3 and 4, were the biggest sellers.
In recent years many other very reputable models were introduced to the UK car market and this brings me onto the Mazda 5 that came into us with brake problems. The customer
originally rang us up for a Brake Replacement Cost, but we explained that we could not tell what the problem was until we removed all the wheels and inspected the Car Brakes including the Car Brake Pads, to see what the problem was.
The customer was a lady with a couple of children and we promised to do the best price for her. This Mazda 5 is a very fuel efficient car with great style and with the performance is a very desirable people carrier and so is very popular as a family car.
The Mazda was left with us for the day with a promise to call the lady with a Mazda 5 Brake Problems, as soon as the problem was assessed.
We pulled the car onto the car-ramp and removed all the wheels for a brake inspection
The original problem on the Mazda 5 was that the Mazda 5 Brake Problems were making a terrible grinding noise, and we soon found out why? The front brake caliper’s was half seized up.
This means that only one of the front Brake Pads were actually working. The one pad that was doing the work wore out quicker than the other pad. Until it went down to the bare metal. Hence,this is what made the terrible grinding noise. From the front of the car.
The other front Disc Brakes were also in need of replacing, so we gave the lady an estimate, and we were given the go-ahead to do the work on the Mazda 5. Luckily, the brake calliper could be freed off with a little heat and did not need replacing. All the other parts—the discs and pads—were replaced. The rear brakes were in good condition and only required a clean-up and the drums replaced.
This type of problem is a common fault with brake discs. Thus, it is one of the reasons that you should have your car and your brakes serviced. Of course, here in the PellonAutocentre Halifax area, we service car brakes on most car makes and models. In a service, one of the things that we do is clean and grease the caliper’s. So that they do not seize up and frighten the customer to death. especially when they hear the dreaded grinding noise of metal on metal. Naturally, when their brake pads wear out,
The job was completed, and the happy customer picked up her car in the evening.Mazda 5 Brake Problems
Pellon Tyre and Auto-centre offer Mazda 5 car and van servicing and repairs to all makes of vehicles. Also selling tyres online from our website www.pellontyres.co.uk by using the tyre selector and choosing your tyre size. We offer courtesy cars to local motorists who need to go to work and leave their car with us for work doing.
https://www.pellonautocentre.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/brakes-pads-only.jpg396800Eric Robertshttps://www.pellonautocentre.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/pellon-tyres-logo-509x321.jpgEric Roberts2025-08-02 19:39:442025-08-02 19:39:44Mazda 5 Brake Problems-crawls in with Brakes Problem making a bad Grinding noise?
Most female customers are very confident when buying anything, including having their car repaired.We now even have more female
So in general then I think that the garages who try to deceive female customers off. Of course, will be dishonest and also try to pull the wool over the eyes of all their customers ? men and women. “THESE GARAGES ARE A FOOL TO THEMSELVES”. So, our lady customers know when they are not been told the truth.
Hence, if the price looks and sounds wrong, then it probably will be wrong.
We are not currently members of Unipart Car Care Centres. Having regular Servicing tips meetings and contacts with other garages.
It is our experience that ourfemaley customers make up 60% of our total customer base. So, if a garage wants to keep this very important customerbase,e then the ladies have to betreatedt in the correctmanner,r especially by our mechanics..
Female customers look for a trustworthy garage- Servicing Tips for Women
Believe me the ladies know what they are on about and would not go to the garage with their car that they did not trust. So, if they thought that they had been ripped off, they would not go back there a second time. Another addition to this story is that we now have an increasing number of female mechanics, with many Motor Mechanic Jobs going to females.
Incidentally, they are just as competent as male mechanics and are probably more sensible. A strange thing happened the other day? a lady customer who was in for an MOT test asked us the price of a service to go with the MOT test. The lady agreed to the price and we duly did the work;The lady was happy with the job and the price paid and went home satisfied. About an hourlater, the ladies husband rang us up and told us in no uncertain words that we had RIPPED his wife off. WOW.
HERE IS A SECOND OPINION…Servicing Tips for Women
“You don’t ‘suggest’ a price to the garage looking to do the work, whether you know a bit or not. There is a price for the part(s) and a price for the labour. The part(s) you can research, but they may be privy todiscounts, etc. that you aren’t due to trade links, and the labour charge you either agree to or don’t.
You could dispute the number of hours charged, but if you think it would take a shorter time, do it yourself. What a daft American study from three probably biassed and slightly bitter women who have fallen foul, in theiropinion, of the motor trade”…
https://www.pellonautocentre.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/car-repair-garage.jpg331444Eric Robertshttps://www.pellonautocentre.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/pellon-tyres-logo-509x321.jpgEric Roberts2025-07-30 19:39:032025-07-30 19:39:03Servicing Tips for Women
We’ve had a good number of Ford Focus vehicles arrive at Pellon Tyres in Halifax. Since its debut in 1998, the Focus has been a steadfast favourite on UK roads, so it’s really no surprise. It’s a dependable workhorse, a family-friendly hatchback that can handle both a lengthy road trip and a short trip to the grocery store. However, we discovered that even the reliable Focus can experience occasional problems when a recent customer brought one in with grinding brakes.
The Issue of Grinding
When the driver used the brakes, this specific Ford Focus made a noise that sounded like a metalworking factory. Grinding sounds are never a positive sign, and it was simple to identify the cause once we got it up on the lift. In fact, the front brake discs and pads were dangerously old and in poor condition.
The metal backing plate may scrape against the disc due to worn brake pads, which reduces braking effectiveness and produces that terrible grinding sound. In addition to being a typical example of wear and tear, it serves as a reminder of the significance of routine maintenance. If left unchecked, this might have resulted in an accident or, worse, a far more expensive repair.
Ford Focus Front Brakes Overhaul
A Brief Overview of the Ford Focus Tradition
In the world of automobiles, the Ford Focus is somewhat legendary. Thanks to its cutting-edge engineering and contemporary style, it quickly became popular and replaced the Escort in the late 1990s. Its many revisions have kept up with the times while maintaining its original formula of reasonable performance, affordability, and usefulness.
The focus is all around Halifax and the United Kingdom. Whether you’re taking the kids around Calderdale or heading up to the Yorkshire Dales for a weekend escape, this type of vehicle is suitable for any kind of lifestyle. We manufactured the third generation model in our shop between 2010 and 2018. Even though these cars are reliable and sturdy, they are not unbeatable like other cars.
Why Do Brake Issues Like These Occur?
Brakes may experience issues for a number of reasons. The issue with our customer’s Focus stemmed from normal wear and tear. If not replaced immediately, brake pads will naturally deteriorate over time and begin to eat away at the discs. However, additional elements may also be involved:
1. Habits of Driving: Your brake pads will deteriorate more quickly if you use your brakes a lot, which could be the result of aggressive driving or a lot of city driving.
2. Halifax’s hilly terrain: Pay attention to our local roadways. Your brakes may suffer from the high slopes in Halifax and the neighbouring Pennines, particularly if you ride them frequently on the descents.
3. Inexpensive Components: Occasionally, consumers choose less expensive brake components. Although it may save a few pounds up front, this frequently results in less dependable brakes and faster wear.
4. Neglected Maintenance: By neglecting regular maintenance, possible problems like this one may go undiscovered until they become serious ones.
Ford Focus Front Brakes Overhaul
The Solution-Ford Focus Front Brakes Overhaul
The The solution for this focus was straightforward.To make sure the automobile was operating at its peak again, we replaced the front brake discs and pads with high-quality parts. The buyer drove away satisfied and, most importantly, safe after a full test drive on the local roads, during which the brakes operated flawlessly.
A Concluding Remark-Ford Focus Front Brakes Overhaul
Don’t overlook odd sounds coming from your car! For instance, grinding brakes are an indication that anything is amiss, and the longer you wait, the more harm you’ll probably cause. Whether your vehicle is a Ford Focus or something else entirely, we at Pellon Tyres in Halifax are committed to helping you maintain it in optimal condition. Over time, routine maintenance and prompt action in reaction to odd noises can save you a tremendous deal of trouble and money.
Furthermore, nobody wants to be caught on Halifax’s mountainous roads with shoddy brakes; let’s face it. Always exercise caution and seek professional assistance if you have any doubts. Let’s turn on the kettle!
Things that motorists still ask for when having a car repair.(Car Hand brake)
Consequently, this is an article about some of the things that motorists ask for or ask us to check. Hence, when they leave their car with us for servicing. I have to admit that most of these guys are male. Thus, from the older generation of motorists.Naturally, who remember some of the problems that they used to encounter in the past. Of course, on some of the older model cars that were driven then.
Therefore,one of the most asked questions is “Can you just adjust my Car Hand brake”. This comes from the days when I was a young mechanic. So all you had to do to adjust the hand brake on most regular cars. Was to take out a split pin, and turn a screw thread. Of course, to either lengthen or shorten the hand brake cables.Thus giving you more leverage from the handbrake in the brake shoes.
When the handbrakes finally snapped with rust or age. Then, all you had to do was replace it with a new cable,”simple”. This type of hand brake system was always failing. Especially, when you pulled on the hand brake.So, the cable would snap. This, was responsible for many an accident.With cars parked on hills running away. However, this is the type of Car Hand brake that some motorists think their car is fitted with. Thus,thinking that it is only a ten minute job to adjust (at probably no cost to him ).
(Parking Brake)
As the modern car progressed. So it was clear that better braking systems had to developed. As a result, cars were getting faster, then they had to stop more efficiently and quickly. This brings us up to date. Consequently, with more and more car manufacturers using discs on all four corners of their cars. Not fitting the drums system at the rear. (Some newer cars still have drums at the rear, but more are favouring four wheel disc systems, for greater braking efficiency). Modern cars also have a separate handbrakes system. Including, their own drums system. Thus, working in conjunction with the rear discs. of course, which are virtually a separate system from the main brakes. Many cars are now fitted with duel cables. So, that are better protected from the outside elements (corrosion) .Most Car Hand brake on modern cars are much more complicated to service. Of course, now are one and two hour jobs to complete. Some smaller cars have still got rear drums. A Car Hand brake that works by connecting to the Rear Brake Shoes. Requiring freeing off from time to time. Also and lubricating as part of a regular service. But I am afraid that the cables still seize up and have to be come to us for a Car Hand brake Cable Replacement from time to time especially as the car gets older.
brake is now a different animal?
In the more up to date modern car with disc brakes all round there is an additional lever and cork screw mechanism that is added to the calipers piston. When the driver pulls the hand brake on in the car, the lever forces the cork screw against the same piston that activates the foot pedal system.
This system also has problems with seizing parts and will take more than ten minutes to free off and lubricate for further use. There are other systems such as used by Volvo, that incorporate a separate drum with its own Ferodo Brake Shoes that is connected to the rear discs, this can also be a long job to service correctly.
To summarise the “can you just adjust my Car Hand brake” days are over, we as a garage need to take more time to repair and adjust the modern car hand brake system and indeed what we do is to offer a separate service just to do the cars braking system justice and to offer a first class brake service.
https://www.pellonautocentre.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/brakes-pads-only.jpg396800Eric Robertshttps://www.pellonautocentre.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/pellon-tyres-logo-509x321.jpgEric Roberts2025-07-28 19:39:302025-07-28 19:39:30Car Hand brake- Car Repair MYTHS ? Hand Brake (Parking Brakes) Customers always want it Checking?
Check Your Levels: Before Hot Weather Driving – Essential Safety Tips for UK Motorists
When the sunshine finally arrives in Yorkshire — usually all at once — drivers start heading off on day trips, coastal runs, and long weekends away. But every year we see the same thing here at Pellon Tyre & Autocentre: cars arriving in our bays suffering from problems that could have been easily avoided with one simple reminder…
👉 Always check your levels before you set off.
Hot weather puts extra strain on your engine, cooling system, brakes, tyres… basically everything. A five-minute check on your driveway can save you a world of trouble later on — including breakdowns, overheated engines, or worse.
Let’s go through the essentials.
1. Engine Oil Levels – The Lifeblood of Your Engine
Your engine oil is the number one thing that keeps everything running smoothly, especially when temperatures rise. Oil thins out when hot, so if your level is already low, your engine has to work twice as hard.
Most modern engines now use synthetic oiland specific grades designed to protect the engine at high and low temperatures. If you’re unsure which oil your car needs, don’t guess — pop down to Pellon Autocentre, or check your handbook.
Key tip: Always check your oil when the engine is cold and parked on level ground.
Check Your Levels
2. Coolant Levels – Crucial in UK Heatwaves: Check Your Levels
Coolant prevents your engine from overheating. In hot weather and slow-moving traffic (and we all know Yorkshire gets its fair share on bank holiday weekends), coolant is absolutely vital.
If your level is low, your car can overheat surprisingly fast. This can warp your engine head, damage gaskets, and cost thousands in repairs.
A quick top-up before setting off makes all the difference.
3. Washer Fluid – Don’t Get Caught Short on Motorways
It sounds simple, but drivers forget. Dust, pollen, insects, sea spray near the coast — they all smear across the windscreen and can completely block visibility.
You don’t want to be scrambling for a bottle of water to pour over the screen on the hard shoulder.
4. Tyres – The Most Important Part of Summer Safety
This is the part we see go wrong most often.
Hot roads + under-inflated tyres = tyre blowouts.
Your tyres are made using heat processes, so when they’re already warm and the tarmac heats up to 50°C or more, the pressure inside rises. If the tyre is already weak, worn, or under-inflated, it can explode.
We see plenty of customers every Monday with blown tyres that could have been prevented.
Avoid part-worn tyres. They might look like a bargain, but you don’t know where they’ve been or what damage they’ve suffered.
A quality new tyre — even a budget one — is always the better and safer choice.
Set off earlier or choose a quieter route when possible.
7. Basic Summer Safety Checks Every Driver Should Do
Before you head out:
Check all fluid levels
Top up washer bottle
Test wipers
Check lights
Inspect tyres and pressures
Make sure your spare wheel or repair kit is ready
Ensure your breakdown kit and phone are charged
Five minutes now can save you hours later.
Local Yorkshire Weather Challenges: Check Your Levels
Here in Halifax and across West Yorkshire, the landscape adds extra strain:
Steep hills
Stop-start driving
Sudden changes in weather
Heavy traffic through towns like Huddersfield and Bradford
Cars overheat faster in this environment, making level checks even more important.
Final Thoughts – Check Your Levels & Stay Safe
Hot weather is great, but it brings challenges for both drivers and vehicles. A few simple checks can prevent breakdowns, extend the life of your engine, and keep your family safe.
If you’re unsure about anything — from tyres to oil grades — we’re here to help at Pellon Tyre & Autocentre in Halifax, ready to get you sorted quickly and safely.
Stay cool, stay safe, and enjoy the sunshine whenever it decides to arrive!
As we always remind our customers here in Halifax, looking after your car in hot weather isn’t just about topping up the odd fluid — it’s about keeping the whole vehicle calm and comfortable when the temperatures shoot up.
Modern engines run much hotter than older ones, and that means coolant levels, oil quality and even brake fluid condition become far more important on long summer drives. If you’re unsure which oils or fluids your particular model needs, you can always look on our Pellon website for guidance: 👉 https://www.pellontyres.co.uk
Check Your Levels
Another thing worth checking before you set off is your car battery. Many people associate battery failures with winter, but the truth is that heat damages batteries too. Hot weather increases evaporation inside the battery, which leads to sulphation and a sudden loss of performance.
We regularly see cars turning up at the garage after a long trip to the coast with warning lights flashing, simply because the battery has overheated. A quick battery check can save you from being stranded on the roadside.
You should also keep an eye on your brake performance during hot spells. Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, and when temperatures rise, this moisture can heat up and cause brake fade.
If your brake pedal feels spongy after a steep drive through the hills around Halifax, it might be time for a fluid change. The DVSA also reminds drivers that braking efficiency is a key MOT requirement — worth reading here: 👉 https://www.gov.uk/getting-an-mot
Finally, let’s not forget about summer fuel economy. Many drivers notice their MPG dropping during warm weather, often because the car is working overtime to run the air-con while crawling through traffic.
Poorly inflated tyres can make this even worse. By keeping your pressures spot-on and your tyres in good condition, you’ll save money, improve handling, and reduce the risk of a blowout. You can find more tyre advice and booking options on our site: 👉 https://www.pellontyres.co.uk
When you have gotten your hands on a car that you are truly happy with, you are going to want to Make sure that you are taking the best possible care of it. There are a lot of people out there who do not realise just how important this is. Keeping your car in good condition is not just about making sure that you take it in for a wash every month or so, or that you try not to forget about taking it for
its MOT. Keeping Your car in the Best Condition
It’s about making sure that it continues to offer you the best possible performance and that you stop its value from depreciating. With each passing year, and perhaps more importantly, with each passing mile, you are putting your car through a lot of wear and tear, especially if you are driving at events.
But with the right maintenance, you can keep the impact of those road surfaces, adverse weather conditions, and the simple act of driving itself, to a minimum. Here is a guide to how you can keep your car in the best condition possible.
Watch How You Drive. Keeping Your car in the Best Condition
Let’s start by talking about something that many people don’t think about when they think about car maintenance. The way that you drive has a huge impact on the condition of your vehicle. Driving as smoothly as possible, without any sudden pressure on the brakes or accelerator, should help to reduce the standard wear and tear.
However, it is also important to ensure that you are revving your engine often enough to keep anything from being clogged up. Regular use is the key here, which can sometimes be tricky if you are looking after a modified car that you drive at special events. Find a way to take it out when you can.
Keep It Clean
This one is arguably the simplest of the points we are going to cover but it is certainly one of the
most important. If you leave your car dirty after a drive, the dirt and debris may start to stick and
cause corrosion. It is also important to give your car a clean if you have been driving on icy roads, or
recently iced roads, as the chemicals that are used to keep the roads drivable can do a number on
your paintwork. It may seem like a superficial job, but it plays a massive part in keeping everything in
good condition.
Get Your Battery Checked. Keeping Your car in the Best Condition
You should be checking that everything is working properly with your battery on a regular basis. If you have had the same car for three years or more, then it is particularly important to take it into a mechanic if you notice anything unusual, but it is always better to be on the safe side.
Remember that your battery can run down even when you are not using your car. In fact, this is often how Batteries end up dead, and replacement batteries can cost a huge amount. So, even if you don’t do a lot of driving, try to take your car out for a spin on a semi-regular basis. There is battery charging packs called trickle chargers that you can buy if you know that you are not going to be driving for a few months.
Find Insurance That Works For You
One of the best ways that you can make sure that your car stays in good condition is by finding quality insurance coverage. There are always going to be things that you can’t plan for. Sometimes Freaky accidents just happen, and other drivers on the road may not be as careful as you are when it when it comes to watching where they are going.
Repairing a damaged car can be costly, particularly if you are driving a modified or high-performance car. If you want to have the peace of mind that your vehicle is going to be in safe hands no matter what happens, then why not look for modified car insurance that will cover you. Reis can arrange coverage for road cars that have been modified and They have experience in helping drivers who attend rain or shine shows, exhibitions, or specialist
shows, and you can find out more here. They have a range of different options to help you find the perfect policy for you.
Don’t Forget The Oil Levels
Checking your oil levels is one of the most essential parts of keeping your car in good condition. Engine oil keeps everything lubricated and running smoothly, and if you are driving without the right levels, then you will start to damage your car quickly.
The good news is that checking your engine oil levels is fairly simple to accomplish on your own. Just make sure that your car is on a flat surface and that the engine is cool, then pop the bonnet up and use the dipstick to check the level. However, it is also a It’s a good idea to get your oil checked professionally on a regular basis.
It’s not just about making sure that you have enough oil in there, you also need to see if it needs to be changed. Which brings us to our next point.
Find A Garage That You Trust And Visit Regularly
A lot of people view taking their car to the garage for a professional mechanic’s inspection as a chore. However, if your car is important to you, it’s just as important to do this as it is for you to go to the doctor or the dentist on a regular basis.
To start with, never put off going for your MOT. It is required by law, and you could be facing a thousand-pound fine if they find that you are driving on an expired one. You can look at minor services that will look at your car’s fluid and oil levels and any leaks in the tyres, exhaust, brakes, gearbox, and steering wheel.
They will also cover everything from the suspension to your car horn. Major services tend to cover things like replacements and will cost more. If you can identify any potential problems before getting to that point, then you’ll be much better off.
https://www.pellonautocentre.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Philips-2-450x296-2.jpg296450Eric Robertshttps://www.pellonautocentre.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/pellon-tyres-logo-509x321.jpgEric Roberts2025-07-26 19:40:062025-07-26 19:40:06Keeping Your car in the Best Condition
Your Local Auto Centre will advise on timing belt change times
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure Waterloo Record Some of the most important maintenance services to have regularly performed at Local Auto Centre on your car include tyre rotation, four wheel alignment, transmission service, differential service,…
EricRoberts‘s insight:
Car servicing
So. this is a great saying ! and of course it is correct:an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”. Of course, the moral of the story is all about having your car serviced at your Local Auto Centre. So, by doing so, you are taking a preventative measure to find future faults and possible failures.
Importantly, things like rotating your tyres, wheel alignment, checking brakes and steering before a more major fault appears will be checked out at your local service centre.
Of course, you should also be advised. Especially about the time that you should have your timing belt changed. Hence, this is very important . Because it could mean a massive bill . Of course, for a new engine fitting . Thus, should you fail to change your timing belt.
Especially at the correct time. Please make sure that you have a regular service carried out on your car at a Local Auto Centre, Here in the UK, I recommend that you go online to find a Local Car Care Centre in your local town or look out for tyre prices online.
Back after Corvid 19
So, like many other auto centres then we are back to full strength. We have suffered the same millions of other small businesses. However we are pleased to say that our service and tyre business is picking back up nicely.
I would like to thank all our loyal customers for their support both now and in the future.
So. this is a great saying ! and of course it is correct”an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”. Of course the moral of the story is all about having your car serviced at your Local Auto Centre. So, and by doing so you are taking a preventative measure finding future faults and possible failures. Importantly, things like rotating your tyres, wheel alignment, checking brakes and steering before a more major fault appears, all these things will be checked out at your local service centre.
Of course, you should also be advised. Especially, about the time that you should have your timing belt changed. Hence, this is very important . Because it could mean a massive bill . Of course, for a new engine fitting . Thus, should you fail to change your timing belt . Especially, at the correct time. Please make sure that you have a regular service carried out on your car at a Local Auto Centre, here in the UK I recommend that you go online to find a Local Car Care Centre in your local town or look out for tyre prices online.
Back after Corvid 19
So, like many other auto centres then we are back to full strength. We have suffered the same millions of other small businesses. However we are pleased to say that our service and tyre business is picking back up nicely.
I would like to thank all our loyal customers for their support, both now and in the future.
https://www.pellonautocentre.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/car-service-centre.jpg458688Eric Robertshttps://www.pellonautocentre.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/pellon-tyres-logo-509x321.jpgEric Roberts2025-07-26 07:42:102025-07-26 07:42:10Local Auto Centre
We may request cookies to be set on your device. We use cookies to let us know when you visit our websites, how you interact with us, to enrich your user experience, and to customize your relationship with our website.
Click on the different category headings to find out more. You can also change some of your preferences. Note that blocking some types of cookies may impact your experience on our websites and the services we are able to offer.
Essential Website Cookies
These cookies are strictly necessary to provide you with services available through our website and to use some of its features.
Because these cookies are strictly necessary to deliver the website, refusing them will have impact how our site functions. You always can block or delete cookies by changing your browser settings and force blocking all cookies on this website. But this will always prompt you to accept/refuse cookies when revisiting our site.
We fully respect if you want to refuse cookies but to avoid asking you again and again kindly allow us to store a cookie for that. You are free to opt out any time or opt in for other cookies to get a better experience. If you refuse cookies we will remove all set cookies in our domain.
We provide you with a list of stored cookies on your computer in our domain so you can check what we stored. Due to security reasons we are not able to show or modify cookies from other domains. You can check these in your browser security settings.
Other external services
We also use different external services like Google Webfonts, Google Maps, and external Video providers. Since these providers may collect personal data like your IP address we allow you to block them here. Please be aware that this might heavily reduce the functionality and appearance of our site. Changes will take effect once you reload the page.