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Motorhome Safety Tips for Roadtrips

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Motorhome Safety Tips for Roadtrips

Motorhome Safety Tips for Roadtrips
Motorhome Safety Tips for Roadtrips

Motorhome Safety Tips for Roadtrips

How to Get Your Motorhome Road Trip Ready: Tyres, Brakes, Batteries, and Safety Checks

Introduction

Motorhome road trip readiness means making sure your vehicle can travel safely, stop reliably, and power its essential systems without trouble. A motorhome is heavier than a car, often sits unused for longer periods, and usually starts a journey already carrying luggage, water, and passengers. Because of this, small faults can quickly turn into costly interruptions.

That’s why a proper pre-trip check matters. Tyres affect grip and stability, brakes manage weight and heat, batteries support starting and habitation systems, and the smaller safety items keep the vehicle legal and usable in real conditions.

This guide explains what being road trip ready really means, which checks matter most, how to inspect your motorhome at home, and when a professional inspection is the better option.

What does it mean to get your Motorhome Safety Tips for Roadtrips ready?

Getting your motorhome road trip ready means bringing the vehicle into a condition where safety, legality, and reliability all work together. A ready motorhome starts cleanly, runs on sound tyres, stops with confidence, powers its key systems, and shows no obvious warning signs before setting off.

The aim isn’t perfection — it’s to remove predictable risks before they interrupt your journey.

A proper pre-trip check usually covers these areas:
● Tyres and wheel condition
● Brakes and pedal feel
● Starter and leisure battery health
● Lights, fluids, and wipers
● Payload, visibility, and emergency kit

Motorhome Safety Tips for Roadtrips

Why should you inspect your motorhome before a long journey?

You should inspect your motorhome before a long journey because prevention is always cheaper and safer than a roadside breakdown. A weak tyre can overheat, an ageing battery can fail after one stop, and worn brakes can feel much worse once the vehicle is fully loaded.

Inspection also reduces stress. When you know the vehicle has been checked, you drive with more confidence and are more likely to spot unusual behaviour early.

What are the most important systems to check before you leave?

The most important systems to check are those that carry weight, control speed, support visibility, and keep the vehicle road legal. In practice, that means tyres, brakes, batteries, lights, fluids, and basic safety equipment.

Focus on these essentials first:
● Tyres, tread, sidewalls, and valves
● Brakes, brake feel, and warning lights
● Starter battery and leisure battery
● Lights, mirrors, and windscreen visibility
● Fluids, wipers, and washer operation
● Payload, locker security, and emergency gear

How do motorhome tyres affect safety, comfort, and fuel use?

Motorhome tyres are load-bearing safety components that support vehicle weight, maintain grip, and translate steering and braking into controlled movement. In a heavy vehicle, tyre condition affects stability in crosswinds, stopping distance, ride comfort, and fuel efficiency.

Motorhome tyres also age differently from car tyres. Long periods of standing still and uneven loading can harden the rubber and cause wear, even when the tread still looks acceptable.

Motorhome Safety Tips for Roadtrips
Solar charging is now another motorhome choice

Which tyre checks should you do before every road trip? Motorhome Safety Tips for Roadtrips

You should check pressure, tread, visible damage, and overall condition before every journey. Carry out these checks when the tyres are cold, and compare all tyres rather than focusing on one corner.

Start with these checks:
● Confirm the correct cold pressure for the load
● Measure tread depth across each tyre
● Look for cracks, bulges, cuts, or embedded objects
● Check valve condition and the spare tyre
● Watch for uneven wear that may indicate alignment or loading issues

How do you know if a motorhome tyre is too old or unsafe?

A motorhome tyre becomes unsafe when age, damage, or deterioration reduces its ability to carry weight safely — even if the tread still looks usable. Sidewall cracking, repeated pressure loss, flat spots, vibration, bulges, and uneven wear all need attention.

The date code also matters. Rubber hardens over time, so a tyre can look fine but still be past its best.

What tyre pressure should a motorhome have? Motorhome Safety Tips for Roadtrips

A motorhome should have the tyre pressure specified for its load, tyre rating, and axle setup. Pressure affects heat build-up, weight distribution, and stability under braking and cornering.

Use the handbook, tyre placard, or specialist advice based on actual axle weights. If your load changes significantly, the correct pressure may change too.

Does the type of motorhome affect which checks you prioritise?

Yes, the type of motorhome you own affects which checks you prioritise, as layout, size, and equipment change weight distribution and power demand. Anyone buying a used motorhome should always start with a fresh inspection.

Different layouts — such as 2-berth, 4-berth, or 6-berth — place different demands on tyres, brakes, and storage. The same applies to coachbuilt models, A-class motorhomes, campervans, and left-hand drive vehicles.

Motorhome Safety Tips for Roadtrips
Time for bed !

Why are brake checks essential before touring?

Brake checks are essential because a fully loaded motorhome needs consistent and reliable stopping power. Extra weight increases stopping distances, creates more heat during braking, and makes the brake feel more important — especially on long descents or in heavy traffic.

A brake system doesn’t need to fail completely to become dangerous. Uneven braking, worn components, or old fluid can all reduce control.

What brake warning signs should you never ignore?

You should never ignore noises, pulling, vibration, warning lights, or a soft pedal.

Watch for:
● Squealing or grinding noises
● Pulling to one side under braking
● Vibration through the pedal or steering
● A soft or sinking brake pedal
● Burning smells after heavy braking
● Dashboard brake or ABS warnings

Which brake components need checking? Motorhome Safety Tips for Roadtrips

Key components include:
● Brake pads for wear
● Brake discs for scoring or corrosion
● Brake fluid condition
● Calipers for sticking
● Brake hoses for damage
● Handbrake operation on a slope

Starter battery vs leisure battery

A starter battery delivers a quick burst of power to start the engine, while a leisure battery provides steady power for onboard systems like lighting and appliances.

If the engine turns over slowly, suspect the starter battery. If lights fade or power runs out quickly, check the leisure battery.

How do you check your starter battery?

  1. Check for corrosion, swelling, or loose terminals
  2. Clean and secure connections
  3. Start the engine and check cranking speed
  4. Watch for warning lights after starting

How do you check your leisure battery?

  1. Fully charge the battery
  2. Let it rest and monitor voltage
  3. Run normal electrical loads
  4. Look for reduced run time or poor charge retention

What other safety checks should you do?

Don’t skip:
● Headlights, brake lights, and indicators
● Engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and screenwash
● Wiper blades and washers
● Mirrors and number plate visibility
● Seatbelts, horn, and locker security

What emergency items should you carry?

Carry:
● Warning triangle and reflective vest (required in some European countries)
● First aid kit and torch
● Tyre inflator or compressor
● Basic tools and gloves
● Jump leads
● Phone charger or power bank

Simple pre-trip check at home: Motorhome Safety Tips for Roadtrips

Step 1: Walk around the vehicle
Check for leaks, damage, or anything unusual

Step 2: Check tyres and pressures
Inspect condition and compare all tyres

Step 3: Test brakes and controls
Start the engine; check pedal feel, lights, horn, and wipers

Step 4: Final checks
Top up fluids, test lights, and secure loose items

Common mistakes to avoid

● Ignoring tyre age
● Overloading the motorhome
● Relying on a weak battery
● Delaying brake checks
● Forgetting lights and safety gear

Conclusion

Motorhome road trip readiness comes from proper checks, not guesswork. Tyres carry the load, brakes control the vehicle, batteries power your systems, and the smaller safety items keep everything running smoothly.

A simple, regular check routine helps prevent breakdowns and makes the whole trip far more enjoyable.

Honda CRV For New Lucas Battery

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Honda CRV For New Lucas Battery

Honda CRV For New Lucas Battery
Honda CRV For New Lucas Battery

Honda CRV For New Lucas Battery

Honda CR-V Battery Problems in Halifax – Why We Recommend Lucas Batteries at Pellon

On Monday we had a Honda CR-V in for one of our free battery tests. The owner had already had a couple of moments where it struggled to start. It hadn’t completely failed, but it was turning over slower than it should, and that’s usually the first sign that a battery is on its way out.

To be fair, the Honda CR-V is a very popular car here in the UK. We see plenty of them running around Halifax, Sowerby Bridge, Brighouse and across Calderdale. They’re solid, practical vehicles — good driving position, comfortable and generally very reliable. But like all modern cars, they depend heavily on a strong, healthy battery.

Years ago, a battery just had to crank the engine, and that was about it. These days it’s a different story. Modern CR-Vs are packed with electronics:

  • Stop/start systems
  • Engine control units
  • Parking sensors
  • Heated seats and screens
  • Climate control systems

All of that puts extra demand on the battery. If it starts to weaken, you’ll often notice slow cranking, warning lights flickering, or the stop/start not working properly.

Honda CRV For New Lucas Battery
Honda CRV For New Lucas Battery

Proper Testing – No Guesswork: Honda CRV For New Lucas Battery

As always, we didn’t guess. Alex put the CR-V straight on our electronic battery tester. It measures voltage, cold cranking amps and overall battery health. Within a couple of minutes we had a clear answer.

The reading confirmed the battery was below where it should be. It wasn’t completely dead, but it was unreliable — and unreliable batteries have a habit of failing on the coldest morning of the year.

The customer wasn’t surprised. He’d already felt that slight hesitation when turning the key. He gave us the go-ahead, and we fitted a new Lucas top-of-the-range battery.

Why We Like Selling Lucas Batteries: Honda CRV For New Lucas Battery

We’ve been fitting batteries in Halifax for many years, and we’ve tried just about every make available. There’s a noticeable difference between a budget battery and a quality one.

We prefer Lucas batteries because they’re built to cope with UK driving conditions. Around Calderdale, we’ve got damp Pennine air, cold winter mornings and lots of short journeys. Short trips are especially hard on batteries because they don’t get long enough to recharge properly.

A Lucas battery gives:

  • Strong cold-starting performance
  • Reliable build quality
  • Good warranty protection
  • Consistent performance over time

We don’t believe in fitting something we wouldn’t use ourselves. A few pounds saved on a cheaper battery isn’t much comfort if it leaves you stuck on your drive in Pellon or outside the supermarket in Halifax town centre.

Honda CRV For New Lucas Battery
old battery failed

Why Batteries Fail Around Halifax: Honda CRV For New Lucas Battery

A lot of local driving is short distance. Nip down the road, school run, quick shop, back home. The alternator doesn’t always get a chance to fully recharge the battery. Add in heated rear screens in winter, lights on in poor weather, and modern electronics constantly drawing power, and batteries wear out sooner than people expect.

Most car batteries last somewhere between four and five years. After that, you’re on borrowed time.

We always advise customers: if your car is starting a bit slower than usual, don’t ignore it. It’s better to test it early than wait for a breakdown.

Free Battery Testing at Pellon Tyres

That’s why we offer free battery testing at Pellon Tyres in Halifax. It takes just a few minutes and gives a clear result. No pressure, no hard sell — just honest advice.

If the battery is good, we’ll tell you.
If it’s failing, we’ll explain the options.

This Honda CR-V left us starting perfectly again, and the owner drove away knowing he wouldn’t be worrying every time he turned the key.

Honda CRV For New Lucas Battery
New Lucas quality battery fitted safely

Final Thoughts: Honda CRV For New Lucas Battery

The Honda CR-V is a cracking car for Yorkshire roads. Strong, practical and dependable. But even the best vehicles need proper maintenance, and a quality battery is one of the basics.

If you’re in Halifax or anywhere across Calderdale and your car is slow to crank or you’re unsure about the battery, call in and we’ll test it properly.

It’s better to know than guess — especially before winter sets in.

Reducing Headlight Glare

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Reducing Headlight Glare

Reducing Headlight Glare
Rainy day dazzled by oncoming headlights

Rainy day dazzled by oncoming headlights

Simple Night Driving Tips to Reduce Headlight Glare – A Yorkshire Driver’s Guide

If you’ve ever driven over the tops around Halifax on a dark winter evening, you’ll know exactly what I mean when I say modern headlights can feel like a full-blown spotlight in your face.

Rain on the road, reflections bouncing everywhere, and an SUV coming round a bend with lights bright enough to light up the whole valley — it’s no wonder so many drivers say night driving isn’t what it used to be.

Following on from our recent article about dazzling modern headlights, I thought it would be useful to share some simple, practical tips that really do help reduce glare and make night driving safer and less stressful.

These aren’t technical tricks — just real-world advice that we see working every day.

1️⃣ Don’t Look Directly at Oncoming Lights: Reducing Headlight Glare

This is the oldest trick in the book, but many people forget it.

When a car approaches, avoid staring straight at the headlights. Instead, focus slightly towards the left edge of the road or the white line. You still keep your lane position, but you avoid taking the full glare in your eyes.

On narrow Calderdale roads with stone walls and tight bends, this makes a big difference.

Rainy day dazzled by oncoming headlights
Rainy day dazzled by oncoming headlights

2️⃣ Keep Your Windscreen Spotlessly Clean: Reducing Headlight Glare

You’d be surprised how much extra glare comes from a dirty windscreen.

Even a thin film of grease, dust or condensation spreads the light and makes it appear brighter than it really is.

Quick checklist:

  • Clean inside and outside regularly
  • Use proper glass cleaner (not just a quick wipe)
  • Replace worn wiper blades
  • Top up screenwash — especially in winter

In the garage we often find drivers blaming headlights when the real issue is a misty or dirty screen.

3️⃣ Check Your Own Headlights Are Correctly Aligned

This one is often overlooked.

If your lights are aimed too high, you’ll dazzle other drivers — and if they’re too low, you won’t see properly yourself.

A quick alignment check during a service or MOT can make a world of difference.

At Pellon Tyres we see this regularly, especially after:

  • Bulb changes
  • Suspension repairs
  • Heavy loads in the boot
  • Minor bumps or potholes

4️⃣ Slow Down Slightly in Heavy Glare: Reducing Headlight Glare

There’s no shame in easing off the throttle when visibility drops.

Wet roads around Halifax and the surrounding hills reflect light badly, and glare can hide potholes, cyclists or pedestrians.

Dropping your speed by just a few miles per hour gives your eyes more time to adjust and react.

5️⃣ Use Your Rear-View Mirror Correctly

Most modern mirrors have an anti-dazzle setting — and many drivers forget it exists.

If headlights behind you are blinding, flick the mirror to night mode. It cuts down glare instantly and reduces eye strain.

Small thing — big difference.

6️⃣ Avoid Driving Tired

Headlight glare feels much worse when you’re tired.

Your pupils react slower, and your eyes struggle to recover after being dazzled.

If you’ve been working all day and driving home late, take a moment before setting off:

  • Give your eyes a quick rest
  • Clean your glasses if you wear them
  • Keep the car cabin cool and fresh

It sounds simple, but it helps.

7️⃣ Keep Your Eyes Tested: Reducing Headlight Glare

Many drivers don’t realise how much night vision changes as we get older.

A routine eye test can pick up small issues that make glare feel stronger, even if your daytime vision seems fine.

Opticians often recommend anti-glare coatings on lenses for regular night drivers — worth considering if you spend a lot of time on the road after dark.

8️⃣ Be Careful With High Beams Yourself

We all get caught out now and then.

On quiet country lanes it’s easy to leave full beam on for a second too long. But dipping early helps everyone.

A good habit is to dip as soon as you see:

  • Another vehicle’s lights
  • Reflections in road signs
  • A bend where someone could appear

A Calderdale Reality Check

Let’s be honest — driving at night around here isn’t always easy.

Steep hills, narrow roads, rain that seems never-ending in winter, and now modern headlights brighter than ever.

But most of the time it isn’t one single thing causing the problem — it’s a combination of glare, weather and tired eyes.

A few small adjustments can make night driving feel far less stressful.

Final Thoughts from Pellon Tyres

Modern headlights are probably here to stay, but that doesn’t mean we can’t adapt and make driving safer.

The key is preparation:

  • Clean glass
  • Correctly adjusted lights
  • Slower pace when needed
  • Good driving habits

Sometimes the simplest tips are the ones that work best — especially on those dark Yorkshire evenings when everyone just wants to get home safely.

UK Tread Depths Looked At

Low Tyre Pressure Costs you Money

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Low Tyre Pressure Costs you Money

Low Tyre Pressure Costs you Money
© Can Stock Photo / Ydur

Low Tyre Pressure Costs you Money

The financial impact that low tyre pressure can have on your company

 

Greetings, fellow citizens of the United Kingdom! Today, let’s talk about something that might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about ways to reduce costs in your company, particularly if you operate a fleet of vehicles. It’s not about gimmicky technology or significant organisational shifts.

The tyre pressure is something that is simpler but quite important. You did indeed read that correctly. There is a big impact that the pressure of your tyres can have on your pocket, and here is how it might happen.

To begin, let’s take a look at some facts from Michelin that will open your eyes.

They conducted some tests and discovered that a tyre that is underinflated by just twenty percent will wear down twenty percent more quickly. This indicates that a tyre that you would anticipate to last for around 25,000 miles might only make it to 20,000 miles throughout the course of its lifetime. That’s 5,000 miles of tyre life that’s going to vanish into thin air, very literally!

Nevertheless, as the owner of a fleet, why should you take this matter seriously? However, tyres are not the only thing that is wearing out more quickly. It’s a double-whammy situation right here. Tyres that are not properly inflated result in increased fuel consumption.

And let’s not forget that the price of petrol is as predictable as the weather in the United Kingdom’s climate. According to the AA’s fuel report for petrol and diesel, the average price of the two has increased by 13.9% and 14.5%, respectively. Because of this, not only are your vehicles consuming more fuel than usual due to low tyre pressure, but they are also doing so at a time when the cost of fuel is continuously rising.

Having said that, let’s speak about the figures, Low Tyre Pressure Costs you Money

since that is where it truly hits home. Imagine that your entire fleet is driving down the M62 with tyres that are not quite pressurised to the appropriate level. Each of those automobiles is not only using petrol or diesel at a faster rate, but it is also accelerating the time at which it will need to replace its tyres.

The annual weight of each car could be hundreds of pounds as a result of this. Depending on the size of the fleet, this may mean the difference between making a tidy profit and barely making ends meet.

There is more to consider than just the price. Low Tyre Pressure Costs you Money

It is comparable to having a shop in Halifax and failing to properly lock up at night if you are operating a fleet of vehicles with tyres that are underinflated.

It is a potential danger. Under-inflated tyres can have a negative impact on the vehicle’s handling and braking, which can ultimately result in accidents. In addition, we are all aware that safety is of the utmost importance, not just for your drivers but for everyone else who is on the road.

What, then, are your options? In reality, it is quite easy. Regular inspections and upkeep are required. A regular check of the tyre pressure should be performed by your staff. It’s a simple task, but it has the potential to save you a significant amount of money and make everyone safer on the roads.

Make sure you don’t forget to ensure that your tyres have the appropriate pressure

isn’t just about saving money. Being a responsible business owner and doing everything you can to reduce emissions is the focus of this discussion. Having a lower fuel use implies that your company will have a reduced carbon impact, which is always excellent news for our beautiful green islands.

As a conclusion, the next time you are strolling around your fleet, be sure to check the tyres on each vehicle. Even though it’s a simple action, it can result in significant cost savings and safer travel.

It is possible that you will use the money you have saved to reward yourself with a delicious cup of coffee and a biscuit, or even better, you may choose to reinvest the money in your company. Remain cautious while driving, and make sure your tyres are in good condition! and that Low Tyre Pressure Costs you Money

Ford Focus TPMS Warning Light

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Ford Focus TPMS Warning Light

Ford Focus TPMS Warning Light
Ford Focus TPMS Warning Light

Ford Focus TPMS Warning Light

Ford Focus TPMS Warning Light – A Simple Fault with an Interesting History

We recently had a Ford Focus come into the workshop at Pellon Tyres with a warning light glowing away on the dashboard. One of those lights that worries drivers, even though the car still feels perfectly fine to drive.

The warning was for the TPMS system – that’s the Tyre Pressure Monitoring System – and as with most modern cars, it’s there to warn the driver if one or more tyres is losing pressure.

What was the problem?

On this Focus, the customer had already checked the tyres and couldn’t see anything obviously wrong. Pressures looked roughly OK, no nails visible, and no obvious flat tyre.

Once we got the car into the workshop and plugged in our diagnostic equipment, the fault became clear fairly quickly. The TPMS warning wasn’t actually caused by a puncture at all – it turned out to be a faulty TPMS valve sensor.

These valves sit inside the wheel and do two jobs at once:

  • They act as the tyre valve you inflate through
  • They contain a small electronic sensor and battery

In this case, the valve itself had failed. That can happen through age, corrosion, or sometimes just bad luck – especially on UK roads where salt, grit and potholes take their toll.

The fix was straightforward. We removed the tyre, replaced the faulty TPMS valve with a new one, rebalanced the wheel, and reset the system. Job done, warning light out, and one relieved customer.

Ford Focus TPMS Warning Light
Ford Focus TPMS Warning Light

A quick look at where TPMS came from: Ford Focus TPMS Warning Light

TPMS might feel like a modern nuisance at times, but it was actually invented for a very good reason – safety.

The idea of monitoring tyre pressure electronically dates back to the 1980s, but it really started to gain momentum in the 1990s, particularly in the United States. Serious accidents were being linked to under-inflated tyres, which can overheat, wear quickly, and in worst cases fail at speed.

After several high-profile tyre-related accidents, laws were introduced that pushed manufacturers to fit tyre pressure monitoring as standard.

In Europe and the UK, TPMS became mandatory on all new cars from November 2014. Since then, virtually every new car sold has some form of tyre pressure monitoring fitted.

Ford Focus TPMS Warning Light
Old broken TPMS valve

How TPMS works on cars like the Ford Focus

There are two main types of TPMS systems, but the Ford Focus uses the direct system, which means:

  • Each wheel has its own sensor built into the valve
  • The sensor measures tyre pressure directly
  • Data is sent wirelessly to the car’s computer

When pressure drops – or when a sensor fails – the warning light comes on.

The downside?
Those little sensors have batteries sealed inside them. Over time, usually after 5–8 years, they can fail, just like the one on this Focus.

Ford Focus TPMS Warning Light
New TPMS valve ready to be fitted

Why TPMS is actually a good thing: Ford Focus TPMS Warning Light

Even though warning lights can be annoying, TPMS has definitely improved road safety. Correct tyre pressures mean:

  • Better braking
  • Improved fuel economy
  • Even tyre wear
  • Safer handling, especially in wet Yorkshire weather

Many drivers don’t routinely check tyre pressures anymore, so TPMS acts as a useful backup.

Our advice to drivers

If your TPMS light comes on:

  • Don’t panic
  • Check your tyre pressures first
  • If the light stays on, get it checked properly

Quite often, as with this Ford Focus, it’s not a puncture at all – just a valve or sensor that’s reached the end of its life.

At Pellon Tyres, we deal with TPMS faults every week. Most are quick, affordable fixes once the real cause is identified.

Ford Focus TPMS Warning Light
TPMS Valve tester and reset machine

Ford Focus TPMS Warning Light – A Modern Fault on a Proper British Favourite

We recently had a Ford Focus booked in at Pellon Tyres here in Halifax with a warning light showing on the dashboard. It was the TPMS light – the tyre pressure monitoring system – one of those warnings that can make your heart sink even though the car feels perfectly fine to drive.

The customer had done what most sensible drivers do. They’d checked the tyres, couldn’t see anything flat, and the pressures looked about right. But the light wouldn’t go out, so they did the right thing and brought it down to us.

Finding the real fault

Once the Focus was in the workshop, we carried out a proper check and quickly narrowed it down to a faulty TPMS valve sensor. These valves are a bit cleverer than the old rubber ones many of us grew up with. They sit inside the wheel and constantly monitor tyre pressure, sending signals back to the car.

In this case, the valve itself had failed – not uncommon on UK roads. Between potholes, winter salt, grit, and plenty of stop-start driving around Calderdale, these components do take a hammering over time.

We removed the tyre, replaced the faulty valve with a new TPMS sensor, rebalanced the wheel, and reset the system. Warning light off, job sorted, and the Focus back on the road the same day.

A bit of history – where TPMS came from: Ford Focus TPMS Warning Light

Tyre Pressure Monitoring Systems might feel like a modern annoyance at times, but they were introduced for safety reasons. The technology began appearing in the 1990s, mainly in response to accidents caused by under-inflated tyres.

In the UK and across Europe, TPMS became mandatory on all new cars from November 2014. Since then, nearly every car we see through the doors at Pellon Tyres has some form of tyre pressure monitoring fitted.

The system is designed to:

  • Warn drivers of slow punctures
  • Improve road safety
  • Help reduce tyre wear and fuel consumption

The downside is that TPMS valves contain sealed batteries. After around 5 to 8 years, they can simply wear out – exactly what happened on this Focus.

The Ford Focus – a proper part of UK motoring history

The Ford Focus has been a familiar sight on British roads for over 25 years now. First launched in the UK in 1998, it replaced the much-loved Ford Escort – no small task at the time.

Early Focus models were a bit of a shock visually, but drivers soon warmed to them. They handled well, were comfortable, and were ideal for everything from commuting to family trips. Before long, they were everywhere – from Halifax town centre to the winding roads up towards Ogden and beyond.

Over the years, the Focus has gone through several generations, but it’s always kept the same basic appeal:

  • Sensible size
  • Good road manners
  • Affordable running costs
  • Easy availability of parts

That’s why we still see so many of them locally around Calderdale. They’re practical cars for real life, whether you’re nipping down to Sainsbury’s, heading over the tops in winter, or commuting out towards Huddersfield or Bradford.

Why TPMS matters in places like Halifax

Driving around Halifax and the wider Calderdale area isn’t always gentle on cars. Steep hills, sharp bends, rough road surfaces, and cold winters all put extra strain on tyres.

Correct tyre pressures make a real difference here:

  • Better grip on wet hill starts
  • More predictable braking
  • Reduced tyre wear on uneven roads

TPMS is there as a backup, especially for drivers who don’t regularly check pressures themselves. When it works properly, it’s a useful bit of kit.

Our advice to local drivers: Ford Focus TPMS Warning Light

If your TPMS warning light comes on:

  • Don’t ignore it
  • Check your tyre pressures first
  • If the light stays on, get it checked properly

As this Ford Focus showed, it isn’t always a puncture. Quite often it’s just a valve sensor that’s reached the end of its life.

At Pellon Tyres, we see these faults every week. We know the cars, we know the roads, and we know what Halifax driving does to them over time. Most TPMS problems are straightforward to fix once diagnosed properly.

If in doubt, pop in and have a word – that’s what we’re here for.

Truth-About-Car-Bulb-Fitting

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Truth-About-Car-Bulb-Fitting

Truth-About-Car-Bulb-Fitting 
Truth-About-Car-Bulb-Fitting 

Truth-About-Car-Bulb-Fitting 

The Truth About Headlight Bulb Fitting – Fair Prices at Pellon Tyres, Halifax

(By Eric Roberts – Pellon Tyre and Autocentre, Halifax)

At Pellon Tyre and Autocentre, we’ve always prided ourselves on being open and honest with our customers. It’s the Yorkshire way, after all. We tell it as it is, and we believe in giving people proper value for money.

One area that’s caused a bit of confusion lately is headlight bulb replacement — something that used to be a quick five-minute job but now, with modern car designs, can take anything from 30 minutes to over an hour on some models.

💡 Why Are Bulbs So Hard to Change These Days? Truth-About-Car-Bulb-Fitting 

Older cars were a mechanic’s dream — pop the bonnet, twist the bulb holder, and job done. But these days, many modern cars are built so compactly that to reach the bulb, you sometimes have to remove the battery, the air filter housing, or even part of the wheel arch liner!

For example, on some models such as the Renault Mégane, Peugeot 207, or certain Volkswagens, the headlight bulbs are tucked right behind solid panels or crammed up against the inner wing. It’s not that garages want to make things difficult—it’s just how the cars are designed now.

Truth-About-Car-Bulb-Fitting 
Truth-About-Car-Bulb-Fitting 

🔧 Our Policy on Bulb Fitting Charges: Truth-About-Car-Bulb-Fitting 

Here at Pellon Tyres, we like to keep things fair and simple.

  • If a bulb can be replaced easily, we’ll usually fit it straight away at a minimal charge, or often as part of another job if the car’s already in for service or MOT.

  • If we do need to remove parts or spend longer getting access, we’ll always let you know first and agree on a reasonable labour charge before we touch a thing.

We don’t believe in hiding costs behind “free fitting” claims and then charging extra elsewhere. You’ll always know what you’re paying for and why.

🧾 How We Differ from the Big Chains: Truth-About-Car-Bulb-Fitting 

You might’ve seen offers from the big national chains shouting about “Free bulb ”fitting!”—but it’s not always quite as free as it sounds.

In reality, those “free fitting” offers often apply only to a few simple jobs. As soon as a bit of trim, the battery, or the wheel arch liner needs to come off, a separate labour charge kicks in.

We’d rather be honest from the start — we’ll quote you properly for both the bulb and the fitting time (if needed), so there are no surprises and no hidden extras.

We stock a full range of quality bulbs too — from simple stop/tail bulbs to long-life and LED options — all at sensible prices.

🚘 Examples of Tricky Bulb Jobs: Truth-About-Car-Bulb-Fitting 

Some of the more awkward cars we’ve seen over the years include:

Renault Mégane / Clio – access through the wheel arch liner!

Peugeot 207 and 308 – battery and air filter housing often need removing.

Ford Focus (certain models) – the entire headlight unit can need loosening.

Volkswagen Golf / Passat – cramped engine bays with fiddly clips.

Vauxhall Astra (newer models) – bulbs buried behind bulkhead panels.

These aren’t five-minute jobs, and we think it’s only fair that our time and care are reflected in the price — but always reasonably.

🤝 Fair, Honest, and Local – The Pellon Way

We’ve built our business in Halifax on trust. We’re not a chain, and we don’t believe in gimmicks. Whether it’s tyres, servicing, MOTs, or bulb replacements, you’ll always get a fair price, proper workmanship, and a friendly bit of Yorkshire honesty.

If your bulb’s gone and you’re not sure how tricky it’ll be to change, just pop in — we’ll take a quick look and let you know before doing anything.

Contact Pellon Tyres in Halifax to book a repair, bulb fitting, or service.

Reception Revamp at Pellon Tyres

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Reception Revamp at Pellon Tyres

Reception Revamp at Pellon Tyres
Reception Revamp at Pellon Tyres

Reception Revamp at Pellon Tyres

Greetings from Pellon Tyres’ newly renovated customer reception!

Hello everyone,

Tyre depots and garages are and have always been dirty places. However, these days we have a wide spectrum of customers, many of whom are lady customers. So to welcome them into our businesses, we have to make extra effort. Especially when it comes to cleanliness and hygiene.

Gone are the days of our customers wallking out of their cars with dirt and grease on their shoes. I must give credit to the larger national chains of tyre retail companies for showing us the way by having a nice reception area for their customer base. We can all match them now, and many of us do.

A good-looking reception, together with competent reception staff, will and does now give us the edge when it comes to customer care. Therefore, we are expanding our business in our local towns and cities.

Reception Revamp at Pellon Tyres
Reception Revamp at Pellon Tyres

We would like to share some wonderful news!

We’ve been hard at work at Pellon Tyres in Halifax renovating our customer waiting room. Our objective? to ensure that your stay is as relaxing and pleasurable as possible. Let’s now take a brief look at what’s updated and new!

Initial Impression Counts

We want you to feel comfortable and welcomed as soon as you enter our reception area. The old, dull surroundings are gone. A modern space with cosy seats and inviting colours will now welcome you. Imagine it more like a comfortable living room than a place to wait.

Amusement While You Wait- Reception Revamp at Pellon Tyres

You know how boring it can be to wait for your car? Not any longer! We have a brand-new TV installed, so you can watch daytime television, catch up on the news, or, if you’re lucky, watch a match. Making the most of your waiting time is the key.

Reception Revamp at Pellon Tyres
Reception Revamp at Pellon Tyres

Enjoy a Cuppa on Us

Who doesn’t enjoy a cup of tea or coffee? The best part about the amazing new coffee maker we introduced is that it’s totally free! We have you covered, whether you’re a connoisseur of cappuccinos or just like a plain cup of tea. Sit back, have a nice beverage, and unwind while we take care of your car or van.

Cosy and welcoming- Reception Revamp at Pellon Tyres

Your comfort is our top priority when designing our new seating area. It’s a place you can really relax with lots of reading material, new chairs, and a light, airy atmosphere. We want you to feel comfortable, whether you’re waiting for a fast tyre change or a more involved service.

A Hint of Regional Charm

To keep us reminded of the lovely town we serve, we’ve also incorporated certain regional elements. It’s a tribute to the community that has supported us over the years, with local history and historic photos available. After all, we’re a member of the Halifax family, not simply a company.

What Caused the Change?

You may be wondering why we changed the way we welcomed people. It’s straightforward: we want to provide you with the finest experience possible since we value you as one of our clients. Our primary goals are your comfort and enjoyment, and we think these adjustments will have a significant impact.

Thus, do stop by and take a look at our Reception Revamp at Pellon Tyres the next time you’re at Pellon Tyres. Savour a steaming beverage, catch up on some TV, and take in the friendly ambiance that we’ve especially designed for you. We’re ecstatic with the change and are eager for you to see it!

I appreciate your support and hope to see you at Pellon Tyres soon!

Eric Roberts MD

Pellon Tyres are now proud members of Tyresafe.org