Suzuki servicing is neglected

“Car Servicing and Repairs at Pellon Tyre

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Car Servicing and Repairs at Pellon Tyre and Autocentre

Car Servicing and Repairs at Pellon Tyre and Autocentre
Car Servicing and Repairs at Pellon Tyre and Autocentre

Car Servicing and Repairs at Pellon Tyre and Autocentre

 Hello, dear readers! It’s time to rev up your engines and dive into the world of car servicing and repairs at Pellon Tyre and Autocentre right here in Halifax, UK. If you’ve been cruising around town and wondering where to find a reliable garage, look no further because we’ve got you covered!

 You might be surprised to know that there are still many motorists out there who are unaware of the top-notch car services and repairs we offer at Pellon Tyre and Autocentre. So, allow me, Eric Roberts, the proud owner of this establishment, to shed some light on what makes us the go-to destination for all your automotive needs.

A Wealth of Experience in the Motor Trade

First things first, let me introduce myself. I’m Eric Roberts, and I’ve been immersed in the motor trade for many, many years. I’ve seen the evolution of cars, from classic beauties to cutting-edge vehicles, and I’ve dedicated my career to understanding every nook and cranny of these mechanical marvels.

My staff and I have a passion for cars, and my commitment to providing top-notch service has been the driving force behind Pellon Tyre and Autocentre’s success. I understand that your vehicle is not just a mode of transportation;

It’s a part of your daily life, and you rely on it for countless journeys. That’s why I’ve assembled a team of skilled technicians who share my dedication to ensuring your car runs like a dream. Comprehensive Car Servicing and Repairs Now, let’s talk about what sets us apart when it comes to car servicing and repairs.

At Pellon Tyre and Autocentre, we offer a comprehensive range of services

Of course, that caters to all makes and models of cars. Whether you drive a classic British gem or a modern marvel, our skilled team has the expertise to handle it with care. Our services include:

Routine Servicing: Car Servicing and Repairs at Pellon Tyre and Autocentre

 Keep your car in tip-top condition with our regular servicing. We’ll check all the vital components, change the oil, and make sure everything is running smoothly.

 Repairs:

From minor fixes to major overhauls, our technicians are equipped to handle all sorts of repairs. Whether it’s a squeaky brake, a mysterious engine issue, or a troublesome gearbox, we’ve got you covered.

 Tyres and Brakes:

We specialise in tyres, including all types of “winter tyres and brakes. Whether it’s time for a tyre change, wheel alignment, or brake pad replacement, we’ve got the best products and experts to ensure your safety on the road. I highly recommend Falken Tyres for a great-quality tyre at a reasonable price.

 Exhausts and Batteries: Car Servicing and Repairs at Pellon Tyre and Autocentre

 Since we’re also in the battery business, you can trust us to provide quality batteries if you ever need a replacement. We’re well aware of the importance of a healthy battery for keeping your car running smoothly. A Local Touch with a Dash of History Living and working in Halifax, we understand the importance of local connections. It’s not just about servicing cars;

 It’s about being part of a community.

 Halifax has a rich history, from its stunning architecture to its vibrant culture, and we’re proud to be a part of it. So, when you bring your car to Pellon Tyre and Autocentre, you’re not just getting excellent service; you’re supporting a local business that’s deeply rooted in the fabric of Halifax.

 In conclusion, if you’re a motorist in Halifax, UK,

 and you haven’t experienced the exceptional car servicing and repairs at Pellon Tyre and Autocentre, it’s time to give us a try. With my years of experience, a dedicated team of technicians, and a commitment to serving our local community, we’re here to keep your car running smoothly and safely.

Don’t let car troubles slow you down; visit us today and experience the difference! Thank you for taking the time to read about our garage, and I look forward to welcoming you to Pellon Tyre and Autocentre soon.

Kia Souls Steering Rack Replaced

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Kia Souls Steering Rack Replaced

Kia Souls Steering Rack Replaced
Kia Souls Steering Rack Replaced

Kia Souls Steering Rack Replaced

 

Steering Rack Trouble Fixed on a Kia Soul at Pellon Tyres, Halifax

It’s been another busy spell here at Pellon Tyre and Autocentre in Halifax. This time, we had a Kia Soul brought in with steering issues — the owner had noticed the steering felt loose and made the odd knocking noise when turning.

After a thorough inspection by our lads in the workshop, we found the culprit: a worn steering rack. Once we replaced the rack and carried out a full wheel alignment (tracking), the Kia’s steering was back to smooth and steady, just as it should be.

⚙️ What the steering rack actually does: Kia Souls Steering Rack Replaced

The steering rack is one of those unsung heroes under your car’s bonnet. It converts the rotation of the steering wheel into the left and right movement of the wheels — simple but vital.

Modern cars like the Kia Soul often use electric power-assisted steering (EPAS), meaning there’s an electric motor that helps you turn the wheel instead of the old hydraulic system. When something goes wrong in the rack — such as worn internal gears, damaged seals, or electrical faults — it can cause:

  • Clunking or knocking noises when steering

  • Stiff or uneven steering

  • Pulling to one side

  • A steering wheel that doesn’t return to centre properly

In this Kia’s case, the steering felt vague and made a dull clonk on cornering — a classic sign of wear inside the rack.

Kia Souls Steering Rack Replaced
Kia Souls Steering Rack Replaced

🔧 The fix — and why tracking matters: Kia Souls Steering Rack Replaced

Once we fitted the new steering rack, we carried out a full wheel alignment (often called tracking). That’s an essential step — if you don’t realign the wheels after steering work, the tyres will scrub unevenly, the steering can feel off-centre, and the suspension geometry can suffer.

Our computerised alignment system ensures pinpoint accuracy, so once the new rack was fitted and everything adjusted, the Kia drove straight and true again. Another happy customer back on the road!

🚙 A bit about the Kia Soul in the UK

The Kia Soul first hit British roads back in 2009, and it certainly stood out. With its boxy shape, high driving position, and cheeky styling, it looked more like something you’d expect from downtown Los Angeles than the streets of Halifax!

It was originally designed to appeal to younger drivers, offering the practicality of a small SUV but the size and economy of a hatchback. Over the years, it’s built a loyal following thanks to its reliability, good visibility, and roomy interior.

By 2014, Kia launched a second-generation Soul with improved suspension and a plusher feel — and later even offered electric versions (Soul EV), showing how Kia was ahead of the curve with greener motoring options.

Although not as common as the Sportage or Ceed, the Kia Soul remains popular with local drivers who like something a bit different. And as we’ve seen in our garage, it’s a solid, well-built car — but like any vehicle, wear and tear can take its toll on steering and suspension components.

🧭 Steering problems? Get them checked early: Kia Souls Steering Rack Replaced

If your steering feels loose, makes knocking noises, or doesn’t feel quite right, it’s always worth popping in for a quick check. Problems with the rack, tie rods, or suspension joints can develop slowly — catching them early can save a big bill later.

At Pellon Tyre and Autocentre, we deal with all makes and models, and we’ve got the tools and experience to get your car steering straight again—whether it’s a Kia Soul, a Ford Transit, or a BMW.

We always finish the job with a proper wheel alignment, because there’s no point fixing the steering if the wheels aren’t pointing in the right direction!

Kia Souls Steering Rack Replaced
Kia Souls Steering Rack Replaced

🚗 Honest local MOT and repair service in Halifax

We’re proud to be one of Halifax’s DVSA Green-rated MOT stations, and our reputation is built on doing things right — fair tests, quality parts, and straightforward Yorkshire service.

If you notice anything odd with your steering or suspension, give us a shout or book online today. We’ll get it checked, fixed, and tracked — all under one roof here at Pellon Tyres

Pellon Tyres Grade-A MOT testing

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Pellon Tyres Grade-A MOT testing

Pellon Tyres Grade-A MOT testing
Pellon Tyres Grade-A MOT testing

Pellon Tyres Grade-A MOT testing

Title: “Why Pellon Tyres Is Proud to Be a Green-Rated MOT Station”

When it comes to getting your MOT done, trust and honesty are everything. Here at Pellon Tyre and Autocentre in Halifax, we’ve built our reputation on being open, fair and dependable — the sort of garage you can rely on year after year. But did you know that the DVSA (formerly VOSA) actually grades every MOT station in the UK on how well they perform?

It’s called the Traffic Light System — sometimes known as the Green Light Rating — and we’re proud to say that Pellon Tyres holds a Green rating, putting us among the most trustworthy and compliant MOT stations in the country.

🟢 What Is the DVSA Green Light System? Pellon Tyres Grade-A MOT testing

The DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) oversees all MOT garages in the UK, keeping an eye on standards and fairness. To help them manage thousands of testing stations efficiently, they use what’s called the RAG system — Red, Amber and Green.

This is essentially a “risk rating” that tells DVSA how each garage is performing.

  • Green means low risk — the garage consistently follows the rules, the test results are accurate, and the staff are properly trained and professional.

  • Amber means medium risk — perhaps some inconsistencies or data that needs monitoring.

  • Red means high risk — where DVSA may need to carry out checks or offer guidance.

It’s not just about pass or fail rates. The system looks at how tests are being carried out, how consistent the testers are, whether the equipment is up to date, and whether the garage keeps proper records and calibration logs.

⚙️ How MOT Stations Are Graded: Pellon Tyres Grade-A MOT testing

Every MOT station and individual tester is automatically assessed using data from the online MOT system. The DVSA looks at things like:

  • Average pass and fail rates

  • Retest statistics

  • Differences between testers

  • Equipment calibration and site review results

  • Any customer complaints or enforcement actions

All that data feeds into an overall risk score. Green-rated stations, like ours, have consistently accurate and honest testing patterns that match national averages — no dodgy passes, no unfair fails.

If a station’s data looks odd — for example, passing far more vehicles than others in the same category — it might trigger a DVSA review. This keeps the system fair for everyone.

Pellon Tyres Grade-A MOT testing
Pellon Tyres Grade-A MOT testing

🚗 Why It Matters to You, the Customer: Pellon Tyres Grade-A MOT testing

Choosing a Green-rated MOT garage means you’re choosing peace of mind. You can be confident your car is tested properly, fairly, and safely — not rushed, not overcharged, and not failed unnecessarily.

At Pellon Tyres, we treat every customer the same way we’d want to be treated ourselves. We’ve always said: if a car’s safe, it passes; if it isn’t, we’ll show you exactly why. That straightforward Yorkshire honesty is what’s kept our customers coming back for decades.

Our workshop in Halifax is inspected regularly, and all our MOT equipment is calibrated and maintained to DVSA standards. Our testers are trained and audited to keep everything by the book.

Being Green-rated isn’t just a label for us — it’s a reflection of how we’ve always done business.

🧰 Keeping Standards High at Pellon Tyres: Pellon Tyres Grade-A MOT testing

Here’s how we make sure we stay in the green:

  • Regular internal audits of MOT tests to ensure consistency.

  • Up-to-date calibration and maintenance of all MOT equipment.

  • Continuous staff training to stay on top of DVSA changes.

  • Transparent pricing — no hidden extras or scare tactics.

  • Clear communication with customers about any issues found.

That’s why local motorists trust us, and why many of our customers have been with us for years. From MOTs to tyres, brakes, and servicing, it all comes down to doing the job properly and treating people fairly.

🏁 Honest MOTs in Halifax — The Green Way: Pellon Tyres Grade-A MOT testing

The DVSA’s Green Light System might not be widely known, but it’s something every driver should look for when choosing where to book their MOT. It’s proof that the garage plays by the rules and takes road safety seriously.

So next time your MOT is due, bring your car to Pellon Tyre and Autocentre, your DVSA Green-rated MOT station in Halifax. You’ll get a fair test, friendly service, and honest advice — no nonsense, just how we’ve always done it.

Flat Tyres on the motorway

Flat Tyres on the Motorway

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Flat Tyres on the Motorway

Flat Tyres on the motorway
Flat Tyres on the motorway

Flat Tyres on the motorway

So, in the past years, I have written many times. Of course, about how to change your punctured wheel. Although not all punctures occur on the motorway system. Importantly, this is what I am going to write about ! British motorways, as we all know, are always extremely busy. So, as many of my readers know. Hence, I delivered some of our battery sales to all over the UK. Inclusively, from Devon to Aberdeen. Covering all of the UK . When delivering very large truck batteries or even leisure batteries.

Many times I will set of at 4.30. Of course, depending on where I am going. So, for a short while in mid-summer, it will be light at this time. Happily and a pleasure to drive, with wonderful sunrises that only the early risers would see. However, the particular morning that caused me to write this article was dark. It was raining heavily and extremely windy. In fact, it was a terrible morning to be driving on the motorways !

Two miles on and a loud bang ! Flat Tyres on the Motorway

So, this particular day, I was heading for the Bristol area with about ten deliveries of different batteries. My usual motorway entry junction is the Barnsley entry/exit just south of the “Woolley Edge” service area on the M1 motorway. As I have said, it was a stinking morning with a gale blowing and raining heavily ! No problem; I thought it could only get better. However, I could not have been more wrong ! So, about two miles on, I remember running over something in the dark . A juddering sound followed this, which was frightening.

This was to be my first punctured tyre  at any time in my life !

probably one of the reasons for this. It is because, as the owner of a tyre centre, I have always had new tyres on any of my vehicles. Thus protecting me against any imminent tyre problem, including flat tyres on the highway. My van started to drift about ! So at first, I thought it could be the strong winds that were blowing. Even at that time of the morning, the M1 motorway is very busy with trucks and other vehicles alike.

Realising that I had a flat tyre, I pulled over onto the hard shoulder of the motorway. The wind was howling ! Rain was pouring down, and I was totally miffed, to say the least. Adrenaline was beginning to kick in ! Frightened at the prospect of changing the wheel with trucks whizzing by only four feet away. So, the first thing that came to mind was “where is the spare wheel?” and jack and “wheel l brace Disappointingly, then, I did not practise what I had been preaching for all these years.

I finally found all the tools and spare wheel-Flat Tyres on the Motorway

I was scrambling about in the dark, then I shifted the batteries and finally found the wheel brace and tool kit. Jacking points were no problem, and luckily, I managed to lower the spare wheel without any problems. So, this is where my 40 years experience came in. As the trucks were hurtling by, I managed the job pretty quickly. My only snag was that I had put the spare back into the carrier the wrong way around.

So, it was sort of dangling about a bit. However, I was able to limp along to the next service and fit the spare correctly and safely. As daylight approached, I began to think about my bad experience. Proudly, I had applied myself and done the wheel change safely and speedily. So I was back on my way down the M1 just an hour later.

However, my experience had made me think about what could have been !

Including what if the driver had been a lady driver !  Or even an elderly driver. So much so, in fact, that I have now completely changed my stance. especially over changing a wheel on the motorway or any other busy road.

My new advice from now on would be that drivers should join one of the breakdown services. Recently, I have noticed that the breakdown services have been changing their customers wheels. Admittedly, I  did snigger a little ! Of course, but not now !

Having ! experienced this with all the elements against me ! So I do now know that many people would not have been able to cope with this bad experience. Also, if you are capable of physically changing your own wheel, you should check out all the tools that you will require.

Also, there are now different spare wheel systems. Flat Tyres on the Motorway

  1. Many vehicles still carry a standard type of spare wheel. Just the same as the ones that will be on the vehicle. This was the case in the van that I was driving on that torturous rainy night. Flat Tyres on the Motorway
  2. Vehicles will also have a spare wheel. However, it will be a “temporary spare” wheel. The wheel has the same overall diameter as your vehicle’s tyres. However, it will be much thinner, usually a steel wheel. Most vehicles have alloy wheels, and this spare will look much thinner than the ones on the vehicle.
  3. Subsequently, these wheels do do the job and enable you to carry on with your journey. Importantly, though there is a limit to driving at 50 mph for a distance of 70 miles with one of these spares fitted.
  4. Many cars are fitted with run-flat tyres. At first, I did not agree with these run-flat tyres ! Primarily because they were more expensive to replace than a standard tubeless tyre. However, I have changed my mind ? Because of the tyres’ safety features.
  5. So if I had runflat fitted to my feet, then I would have been able to limp on. Albeit, at 50 mph. So the cars fitted with the run-flat system will not have a spare wheel, but the system will get most drivers out of trouble. So my opinion this is the worst system !
  6. car makers lower the weight of their vehicles by not fitting a spare wheel at all. A can of repair sealant replaces the spare. This sealant only works if the tyre has a small nail or screw embedded in it. So, anything larger, such as a small cut or large hole, can not be sealed.
  7. So, leaving you no better off and still stuck at the side of the road. The “no spare system” was to lower the cars overall weight to cut back on the cars emissions ! In my opinion then membership f one of the breakdown services is a must. Incidentally, when this repair sealant is used then the tyre has to be replaced as the cant be repaired.
  8. Flat Tyres on the Motorway

I hope that this article informs drivers enough to check and see what spare wheel system is used on their car. Importantly, because of the high volume of traffic on our roads, we should perhaps join one of the breakdown companies. Ensuring that your wheel will be changed in safety, whatever your cars spare wheel system. Flat Tyres on the motorway.

Pellon Tyres are now proud members of Tyresafe.org

Vauxhall Corsa Exhaust Replacement

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Vauxhall Corsa Exhaust Replacement

Vauxhall Corsa Exhaust Replacement
Vauxhall Corsa Exhaust Replacement

Vauxhall Corsa Exhaust Replacement

🚗 Vauxhall Corsa Exhaust Replacement at Pellon Tyres, Halifax

Here at Pellon Tyre and Autocentre in Halifax, we recently had a tidy little white Vauxhall Corsa come in with a rather noisy problem. The customer mentioned that the exhaust had started “blowing” quite badly — the sort of deep, rasping sound that you can hear long before the car pulls up!

Sure enough, once we got it up on the ramp, it was clear that the exhaust system had split just behind the catalytic converter. This is a common issue, especially on cars that spend their lives pottering about town or making short trips where condensation builds up inside the exhaust. Over time, that moisture causes corrosion from the inside out, eventually leading to a blow or even a complete break.

Vauxhall Corsa Exhaust Replacement
Vauxhall Corsa Exhaust Replacement

🔧 Diagnosing the problem: Vauxhall Corsa Exhaust Replacement

Our exhaust expert Dale quickly checked the system from front to back. The pipework and back box had seen better days, with rust starting to eat through around the joints. It’s one of those jobs that’s easy to miss until the noise suddenly ramps up.

In many cases, if the damage is only to a small section, we can weld in a new flexi pipe or section to save the customer money. But in this case, the corrosion was too widespread, so we advised a complete replacement system.

The customer agreed, and within a couple of hours, the new exhaust was fitted, sealed, and tested. We always check for any small leaks before the car leaves the ramp — it’s part of our standard quality check.

Vauxhall Corsa Exhaust Replacement
Vauxhall Corsa Exhaust Replacement

🧰 Why exhaust systems fail: Vauxhall Corsa Exhaust Replacement

Here in Yorkshire, with our damp climate and plenty of salted winter roads, exhaust systems take a real hammering.
Common causes of failure include:

  • Rust and corrosion from salt and moisture

  • Short trips that don’t let the exhaust heat up properly

  • Loose hangers or broken brackets, causing vibration and stress

  • Stone or speed bump damage, especially on older cars with low clearance

Keeping your exhaust in good nick not only keeps your car quiet but also helps your fuel economy and reduces emissions — so it’s worth checking at least once a year, ideally when you book your MOT test.

Vauxhall Corsa Exhaust Replacement
Vauxhall Corsa Exhaust Replacement

We see plenty of Vauxhall Corsas through our doors—they’re popular in Halifax for a reason. Cheap to run, easy to park, and reliable little workhorses. But like all cars, they need a bit of TLC to keep them on the road safely and efficiently.

Our team at Pellon Autocentre can help with:

If your car sounds louder than usual, starts to rattle, or has a strange smell inside the cabin, don’t ignore it—these can be early signs of an exhaust leak.

🌧 Local service with Halifax care: Vauxhall Corsa Exhaust Replacement

We’re proud to serve drivers from Halifax, Sowerby Bridge, Hebden Bridge, and Elland, providing honest, professional service at fair prices. Many of our customers have been coming to us for years — often the sons and daughters of our first customers back in the 1990s!

There’s something about running a family-style business here in West Yorkshire — it’s about community, trust, and getting the job done right.

So, whether it’s a Vauxhall Corsa, a Ford Transit, or a BMW 3 Series, you can rely on Pellon Tyres to keep your car running smoothly and safely.

timing belt cam shaft engine problems

Timing Belt Needs Changing Sir

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Timing Belt Needs Changing Sir

Timing Belt Needs Changing Sir
Timing Belt Needs Changing Sir

Timing Belt Needs Changing Sir

Change your timing belt; it’s imperative?

When our customers are having a service to their car, there are certain things that we will report to them. Thus, when their cars service is complete. What we do which is what most garages do!

So, nowadays, is to take a contact number of the person who’s car it is having a service. Before mobile phones this would have been more difficult to do. But now most of our customers have some sort of mobile phone or other.

The things we report on are such things as tyres or worn steering parts. So, these can be changed later on in the day if the customer is contacted . Of course, and we will have time to carry out the repairs. One important thing though is the Timing or cam belt. The Timing Belt Kits come in two types. The chain type, which as the word say’s is very similar to a motor bike chain. More commonly, the rubber looking belt! Consequently, that looks very similar to a fan belt. Including looking like  the belt that drives your washing machine or spin dryer.

This is made out of very strong material, similar to the materials that tyres are made from.

The importance of the timing belt cannot be overstressed. If the belt breaks in use then the engine can be damaged beyond repair. When we carry out a service we always check in the Autodata online manual. Naturally, for the exact time for the belt to be changed. Sometimes it will state a Timing Belt Intervals and other times it may state a time period. However, usually it will be between 60000miles and 100000 miles when the new belt should be fitted.

This is also important to know if you buy a second hand car. I have known customers who have had a car for a couple of months and their timing belt has snapped leaving them with a

blown up engine and no redress from the person that they bought the Old Cars from, so if you buy a second hand car you must only buy one with a history record and the knowledge of the timing belt, otherwise you could be caught out with a huge repair bill, always ask about the timing belt?

A simple explanation of what this important part does is as follows; the timing belt is used to turn the camshaft at exactly half the speed of the crankshaft. Your camshaft controls the opening and closing of the valves in time to the pistons going up and down the engines cylinders. The camshaft belt runs on pulleys at the end of each important part and very often also drives the water pump. Should the belt break; then all these other parts simply smash into each, other causing major damage to the car’s engine.

The timing belt is spinning at tremendous speed and generates much heat,

So the belt is subject to many pressures and eventually starts to break up and cracking starts to appear, once again very similar to tyres. Perhaps you can see now why it is so important to change the belt at the correct time. Importantly, we also recommend that you change the water pump at the same time. The water pump runs on a bearing and the bearings tend to wear out at the same time. If the water pump is not changed and goes at a later date, then the garage will have all the same work to carry out all over again.

Many different companies makes of timing belt but we prefer to use leading brand belts. Because, our customers are covered under a warranty should anything go wrong with the part or the fitting of your new belt. You will be covered across the whole of the mainland UK, under the terms of the warranty a great protection to have.

So to finalise,

If your garage warns you that the timing belt is due for a change, get it done as soon as you can afford to, before the thing breaks and causes much more damage to the car and to your wallet or purse. Timing belt replacement times should be checked at your cars servicing intervals.

Solar Storage Batteries

Solar Energy Batteries

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Solar Energy Batteries

The rapid development of rooftop solar and

Solar Energy Batteries
Solar Energy Batteries

Eric Roberts’ insight: Solar batteries

Ernest Moniz, the Energy Secretary of the United States

has made a statement that resonates with the discussions I’ve been having for the past few years. He envisions a future where the USA could achieve energy independence from national providers. How, you ask? Well, it all hinges on the remarkable growth of solar, renewable energy, and other sustainable resources.

And this isn’t just an American dream; Solar Energy Batteries

It’s a global shift that’s taking place right now. Across the Atlantic, both in the United States and here in the UK, it’s heartwarming to see how the public has wholeheartedly embraced the concept of generating their own clean energy. Take, for instance, the picturesque town in West Yorkshire, UK, where the residents have been tapping into the power of the sun since February.

Rows of solar panels grace their rooftops, silently converting sunlight into electricity.

What’s particularly fascinating is that this surplus electricity flows seamlessly into the grid, and the electric company rewards the homeowners for their contribution. In America, there’s a growing inclination towards storing this solar electricity for later use.

This is especially valuable in rural and isolated areas where the grid might not always be reliable. These regions have found a solution in the form of solar energy batteries. These high-capacity batteries serve as reservoirs, storing the daytime-generated electricity for nighttime use.

It’s like having a stash of sunlight in a box. Solar Energy Batteries

Now, when it comes to choosing the most effective type of solar energy battery, AGM batteries are shining stars. While they may come with a slightly higher price tag initially, they are worth every penny. The secret lies in their ability to endure a significantly higher number of charge and discharge cycles compared to standard lead-acid car batteries.

This durability means they’ll be there to support you for the long haul. If you’re considering setting up your own solar energy battery system, fret not.

There is a wealth of DIY videos available online

guiding homeowners through the process. One standout choice for solar enthusiasts is the Lucas AGM battery. These batteries are tailor-made for solar energy applications and have earned a solid reputation for their performance and reliability. Much like Secretary Moniz, I find myself pondering the future.

How far are we from a scenario where we, as individual homeowners and communities, produce more electricity than the national providers? It’s a tantalising thought, one that hints at a future where energy production is democratised.

What happens when we reach that point?

Well, it’s a question that invites exciting possibilities and perhaps some challenges too. Will there be a shift in the energy landscape? What role will the national providers play in this new era of energy independence? These are questions that deserve attention and discussion.

For those interested in delving deeper into this topic, I recommend exploring www.bloomberg.com for further insights and perspectives on the evolving energy landscape. In closing, let’s keep harnessing the power of the sun and exploring the potential of solar energy. It’s a journey that promises to bring about a brighter and more sustainable future for us all


Pellon tyre online tyres and car repairing servicing

Car Service Tips

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Car Service Tips

Car Service Tips
Car Service Tips

Car Service Tips

car service advice for young drivers

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

 It also gives you control over your spending budget.

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

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

Halifax Guide: Safety and Maintenance Advice for Young and Experienced Drivers

You’ve cleared your driving test and are now prepared to drive! Congratulations! The broad road and its freedoms await you as a new driver, but so do the duties that come with owning a vehicle. Here are some top safety and maintenance suggestions with a dash of Halifax spice to make sure you have a pleasant and safe driving experience.

Get to Know Your Vehicle-Car Service Tips

It’s important to get to know your automobile before you even consider taking it on a road trip through the Yorkshire Dales or a fast trip to Leeds. Take some time to become acquainted with the dashboard lights, controls, and fundamental functions of the car. In addition to boosting your confidence as a driver, this will enable you to respond swiftly in an emergency.

Routine Maintenance Inspections-Car Service Tips

Don’t put off routine auto maintenance any more than you would a dental exam. Frequent inspections can stop small problems from growing into bigger ones. Here are some fundamentals to be aware of:

Oil Level: A minimum of once a month, check the oil level in your vehicle. It’s your engine’s lifeblood, and maintaining the proper level makes sure it runs smoothly.

  • Tyres: Make sure that your tyres have enough tread and are correctly inflated. Halifax’s cobblestone streets and uneven topography make for a rough ride for tyres.
  • Brakes: Pay attention to any strange noises and get your brakes inspected frequently. West Yorkshire’s high inclines can be taxing on them.
  • Lights: Check your headlights, brake lights, indicators and fog lights on a regular basis. In our frequently cloudy weather, particularly on the moors, visibility is crucial.

Maintain Concentration-Car Service Tips

It takes complete focus to drive, particularly in a busy area like Halifax. Steer clear of distractions like eating, using a phone, or tinkering with the radio. Pull over securely if you need to send a text or make a call. Recall that other drivers’ safety is also at risk in addition to your own.

Be Aware of the Roads

There are many different kinds of roads in Halifax and the surrounding areas, ranging from busy city streets to peaceful country lanes. Take your time getting to know the peculiarities of the local roadways. Give special consideration to:

Small Roads: A few of our rural roads are only big enough for a single vehicle. Reverse your speed and be ready to stop for any approaching vehicles.

  • Roundabouts: West Yorkshire is full with these. Proceed cautiously, yield to oncoming traffic, and accurately indicate.
  • Traffic Areas: Town centres with a high pedestrian traffic volume are Halifax. Always be ready to pull over when someone crosses the street.

Emergency Provisioning-Car Service Tips

Keep an emergency kit in your car at all times. This ought to consist of:

First Aid Kit: For small cuts and bruises.

  • Jump leads: In the event that your battery runs out,.
    Torch: In case you find yourself in the dark.
  • Warm Clothes and a Blanket: Yorkshire winters may be harsh, and you never know when you’ll become stuck.
  • Basic Tools: A spare tyre, screwdriver, and wrench can come in very handy.

Weather Sensitivity

The weather in Yorkshire is notoriously unpredictable. It can be sunny one moment and pouring rain the next. Be ready for anything that could happen:

Rain: Slow down and lengthen your following distance. Roads that are wet might become slick, and stopping distances might grow.

  • Fog: Turn on your fog lights, but don’t forget to switch them off as the weather clears. Around the Pennines, fog is common, so exercise additional caution.
  • Ice and Snow: Take just a car if it’s absolutely essential. If you must go, make sure you leave plenty of space between you and the car in front, drive carefully, and shift into higher gears to prevent wheel spin.

Parking

It might be difficult to get a decent parking spot in Halifax, particularly in crowded areas. Parking should always be done in well-lit, crowded areas. Pay attention to parking regulations to prevent penalties. Use your handbrake and turn your wheels towards the curb when parking on a hill.

Final Reflections ###

The ability to drive gets better with practice. It’s normal for a novice driver to have a mixture of nerves and enthusiasm. You’ll be well on your way to developing into a self-assured, accountable driver if you adhere to our safety and maintenance recommendations. Recall that although the roads in Halifax and the surrounding area of Yorkshire are stunning, they may also be challenging. Enjoy the trip, take good care of your car, and remain vigilant.

I hope you have a safe and enjoyable journey!

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

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

Another good piece of advice

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

Skoda Fabia Shock Absorbers

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Skoda Fabia Shock Absorbers

Skoda Fabia Shock Absorbers
Skoda Fabia Shock Absorbers

Skoda Fabia Shock Absorbers

Skoda Fabia Shock Absorbers Woes – Another Job Well Done in Halifax

It’s been another busy week here at Pellon Tyre and Autocentre in good old Halifax, and as always, we’ve seen our fair share of knocks, bangs, and unexpected noises. One that stood out this week was a Skoda Fabia that arrived sounding more like a tin can being kicked down the road than the quiet, reliable little motor it’s meant to be!

The customer told us the car had been rattling and banging from underneath for a few days — especially when going over potholes or speed bumps. Well, as anyone from West Yorkshire knows, you don’t have to drive far round Halifax before you meet a pothole big enough to swallow a wheel!

After a quick test drive and a proper inspection on the ramp, the problem became clear — the rear shock absorbers were completely shot. Both were leaking oil and offering about as much damping as a pogo stick. No wonder it sounded rough!

Skoda Fabia Shock Absorbers
Skoda Fabia Shock Absorbers

The shock absorber’s job – small part, big role: Skoda Fabia Shock Absorbers

Shock absorbers are one of those parts most drivers never think about until they fail. They’re designed to keep your tyres in constant contact with the road, controlling the bounce of your suspension springs. When they’re worn or broken, the car doesn’t just feel bouncy — it can actually become unsafe, especially when braking or cornering.

In this case, we fitted a fresh pair of quality replacement shocks, checked the suspension alignment, and gave the whole underside a once-over. The result? The rattles vanished, and the Fabia drove smooth and steady again.

The customer was chuffed — and a little surprised at just how much better it handled. It’s one of those repairs that makes an instant difference, and you can feel it as soon as you pull away from the garage.

Skoda Fabia Shock Absorbers
Skoda Fabia Shock Absorbers

A little Skoda history: Skoda Fabia Shock Absorbers

Now, the Skoda Fabia has always been a firm favourite with Halifax motorists. It’s solid, well-built, and doesn’t cost the earth to run — perfect for our hilly roads and unpredictable weather.

Skoda’s story is a fascinating one. The brand began way back in 1895, not as a car company but as a bicycle manufacturer in what is now the Czech Republic. Founded by two keen engineers, Václav Laurin and Václav Klement, they soon moved on to making motorcycles and then motorcars under the name Laurin & Klement.

By the 1920s, the company had joined forces with Skoda Works, a large engineering firm, and the Skoda name as we know it was born. Like many European carmakers, Skoda had its ups and downs through the 20th century, but its real turning point came in the 1990s, when it joined the Volkswagen Group. From there, the brand transformed its reputation from budget runabout to modern, dependable, and even stylish.

The Fabia, first launched in 1999, has been one of Skoda’s biggest success stories. It’s a car you’ll find everywhere — from students’ first cars to reliable family runabouts. Many of our regular customers here in Halifax and across West Yorkshire own Fabias and swear by them.

Skoda Fabia Shock Absorbers
Skoda Fabia Shock Absorbers

Yorkshire roads take their toll

Of course, driving around our area gives any suspension a proper workout. Between the steep climbs up towards Queensbury, the cobbled roads around the old mills, and the endless bumps through Sowerby Bridge and Elland, it’s no wonder shock absorbers take a hammering.

That’s why we always recommend getting your suspension checked if you hear knocking or rattling or if your car feels unsettled through corners. Sometimes it’s a simple fix that can save you a lot of wear on your tyres and brakes too.

At Pellon Tyres, we’ve seen just about everything in our years of serving Halifax motorists—from rusty old exhausts to suspension arms hanging on by a thread. The good news is that these things can usually be sorted quickly and cost-effectively, keeping your car safe and the ride smooth.

Final thoughts: Skoda Fabia Shock Absorbers

It’s easy to forget how many small parts are working hard underneath your car, quietly taking the punishment of West Yorkshire’s rough roads. When one of those parts fails — like the shock absorbers on this Skoda Fabia — it’s our job to put it right and make sure the customer drives away happy and confident again.

So, if your motor starts sounding like a washing machine full of bricks, don’t ignore it! Pop in to see us at Pellon Tyre and Autocentre, or give us a call to book an inspection. We’ll have a proper look, sort it quickly, and get you back on the road safely.

As always, we’re proud to keep the cars of Halifax running sweetly — one rattle, bang, and bump at a time.

Insane MOT Test Proposals

Annual MOT Testing

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Annual MOT Testing

Annual MOT Testing
Annual MOT Testing

Annual MOT Testing

Happily, as I have said before, this is a great time to be involved in the auto trade. Of course, as the owner of a successful auto centre. Then we take every day as it comes.  Consequently, apart from the work that we have booked in for that day. So, we had a run of cars that were all affected by “pothole” damage.

So, the first car was a Ford Fiesta !

Suffering from a broken coil spring . Caused by running into a pothole ! Incredibly, the second was a Vauxhall Corsa, with yet another broken coil spring . Unluckily, the spring had also penetrated the front tyre ! Once again, caused by hitting a pothole !

Thirdly, the damaged car was a VW Sirocco that hit a pothole and bent his steering arm. Urgently, we managed to fit these cars in between our car services. Consequently, those were already booked in . Happily for the customers, we managed to carry out the repairs, and we all had a good day !

After lunch, we had another bit of excitement for me. Annual MOT Testing

Unbeknownst to me, we had two vintage cars booked in for their annual MOT tests. Significantly, the first car was a regular one for us. So, it was a Rolls Royce tourer. It had a 5.6-litre engine and was built in 1936. Of course, the car easily passed the test.

Apart from a brake switch light, which we repaired on site. The company that owns the vehicle always gives their car a pre-MOT test. Of course, before it is brought into us for the MOT test. But the brake light switch must have been overlooked.

The second car that turned up was a black A35 Austin saloon.

It was manufactured in 1958 (I was ten years old then Respectfully, the great, great aunt of the woman who now owns the car was the previous owner.r ?

So, the aunt passed the car on to her niece, who later died. Subsequently, the car was then passed onto her niece, who is the current owner. Incredibly, the car was last serviced in 1990. Having only done 2000 miles, (it was then used to tootle around town. The car has a 948-cc engine

with drums on the front brakes. Including an old-fashioned rod braking system at the rear.

The car was then mothballed for the last ten days in a barn- Annual MOT Testing

So the latest in a line of nieces decided to bring it out and restore the car. She asked for the service of a local mechanic, who looked at the car to assess its condition. Incredibly, the  car only required a new battery and started up the first time. Urgently, the brakes needed some work done on them! Then he handed the car over to us for its MOT test. Lastly, the brakes were sorted using parts from an old MG Midget. Pleasantly, the engine was in immaculate condition and had only done 6,000 miles.

Passed mot test with flying colours

The old Austin had a new 063 ApolloPower battery fitted and passed the mot test in tip-top condition apart from some very slight corrosion I will see it driving up and down the street of Halifax here in West Yorkshire, UK this summer. I just love these cars with a bit of history and a story behind them. The A35 was also fitted with cross-ply tyres to the front and radials to the back.