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Cheap Brake Pads: Are They Worth It?

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Cheap Brake Pads

Cheap Brake Pads
© Can Stock Photo / marekusz

Cheap Brake Pads – Are They Really Worth Saving Money On?

Over the years at Pellon Tyres Halifax, we have seen all kinds of brake problems. Some are caused by wear and tear, while others are down to poor-quality replacement parts being fitted elsewhere in an attempt to save a few pounds. When it comes to brakes, though, cheap is not always cheerful.

Most drivers never really think about their brakes until they hear a grinding noise or the MOT test points out a problem. Yet your braking system is probably the single most important safety feature fitted to your vehicle. Whether you are driving through busy Halifax traffic, coming down the hills around Sowerby Bridge, or stopping suddenly on the Bradford Road into Brighouse, you rely on your brakes every single day.

How Your Car Brakes Actually Work: Cheap Brake Pads

Modern braking systems are surprisingly clever, although the basic principle has remained much the same for decades. When you press the brake pedal, hydraulic pressure is created inside the master cylinder. Brake fluid then travels through pipes and hoses to the brake callipers at each wheel.

The callipers squeeze the brake pads against the brake discs. This friction converts the car’s movement into heat energy, slowing the vehicle down safely and under control.

Over time, the brake pads wear away naturally because they are constantly rubbing against the discs. That is exactly what they are designed to do. However, the quality of the brake pads fitted can make a huge difference to:

  • stopping performance,
  • noise,
  • brake dust,
  • disc wear,
  • and overall safety.

Cheap Brake Pads Can Cost More in the Long Run

One thing we often explain to customers around the Calderdale area is that the cheapest brake pads are not always the cheapest option overall. Some low-cost pads wear out very quickly, create excessive brake dust, and can even damage the brake discs themselves.

We occasionally see cars arrive at the garage fitted with very cheap imported pads that squeal loudly every time the brakes are applied. Some produce so much black dust that the alloy wheels are coated within days. Others simply do not perform well during emergency braking.

This becomes especially noticeable during wet Yorkshire winters when roads are greasy and stopping distances are already increased.

Different Types of Cheap Brake Pads

There are several main types of brake pads available today. Each has advantages and disadvantages depending on the vehicle and the customer’s budget.

Non-Asbestos Organic Brake Pads

These are commonly fitted to many standard family cars from the factory. They are made using materials such as rubber, glass fibres and Kevlar compounds.

Advantages:

  • quieter braking,
  • lower cost,
  • smooth braking feel.

Disadvantages:

  • wear out quicker,
  • produce more dust,
  • less suited to heavy vehicles.

These pads are perfectly acceptable for normal everyday driving and remain popular because they keep costs sensible for motorists.

Semi-Metallic Brake Pads: Cheap Brake Pads

These contain metal compounds such as steel, iron and copper mixed with friction materials.

Advantages:

  • strong braking performance,
  • longer lifespan,
  • good heat resistance.

Disadvantages:

  • can be noisier,
  • may wear brake discs faster,
  • produce more brake dust.

Semi-metallic pads are often a good compromise between performance and price. Many modern vehicles use this type.

Ceramic Brake Pads

Ceramic pads are generally considered the premium option and are increasingly popular on higher-end cars.

Advantages:

  • very quiet,
  • low brake dust,
  • long-lasting,
  • excellent heat resistance.

Disadvantages:

  • more expensive,
  • sometimes not ideal for heavier commercial vehicles,
  • can feel slightly less aggressive when cold.

Certain manufacturers specifically recommend ceramic pads, and where appropriate we fit them at Pellon Tyres. Customers who value quiet braking and clean alloy wheels often prefer this type.

Driving Style Makes a Huge Difference: Cheap Brake Pads

The lifespan of brake pads depends heavily on driving habits. Someone regularly driving through Halifax town centre in stop-start traffic will naturally wear brakes out quicker than a motorist mainly using the motorway network.

Heavy braking, towing caravans, carrying loads, or driving in hilly areas such as Hebden Bridge or Ripponden can also shorten brake life considerably.

We often remind customers that gentle driving habits not only save fuel but can also greatly extend the life of:

  • brake pads,
  • brake discs,
  • tyres,
  • and suspension parts.

Why We Never Fit the Cheapest Parts

At Pellon Autocentre Halifax, we always try to match the correct parts to the customer’s needs and budget. However, we avoid fitting the very cheapest brake components available on the market.

In nearly 40 years of business, we have learned that poor-quality parts often create:

  • noise complaints,
  • vibration issues,
  • reduced braking efficiency,
  • and premature wear.

Customers may save a small amount initially but often end up paying more later.

That is especially true now modern cars are heavier than ever before due to:

  • larger body sizes,
  • SUV popularity,
  • and electric vehicle battery weight.

Brakes today work extremely hard compared with older cars from the 1970s and 1980s.

Brake Dust and Environmental Concerns

One interesting topic that is becoming more important is brake dust pollution. Many people think vehicle pollution only comes from exhaust pipes, but brake pads and tyres also release tiny particles into the environment.

Governments and manufacturers are already beginning to investigate lower-emission braking systems and cleaner friction materials. Electric cars using regenerative braking actually reduce traditional brake wear because the electric motor helps slow the vehicle down.

In the future, brake dust may become a much bigger environmental issue than many motorists realise today.

Final Thoughts: Cheap Brake Pads

Brakes are simply not an area where motorists should cut corners. Cheap brake pads may look attractive when comparing prices online, but quality matters enormously when it comes to safety.

A good-quality set of brake pads can:

  • stop the vehicle more effectively,
  • reduce noise,
  • protect the discs,
  • and provide greater confidence in poor weather conditions.

Whether you drive a small hatchback around Halifax or a larger SUV through the Yorkshire hills, properly maintained brakes are essential for safe motoring.

At Pellon Tyres, we always advise customers honestly and fit brake components that we would be happy using on our own vehicles.

Hydrogen Fuel cells

Hydrogen Plugin Mercedes

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Hydrogen Plugin Mercedes

Hydrogen Plugin Mercedes
Hydrogen Plugin Mercedes

Hydrogen Plugin Mercedes

Hydrogen Plugin Mercedes Makes Debut

I must admit that I am losing the plot regarding the number of alternative-fuelled cars that are now being developed. On the other hand, I am very pleased that other forms of fuel are being experimented with.

None of these companies has yet disclosed any sales figures, but their fuels represent much larger pieces of the alternative fuel market. The EIA report for 2016 included less than that. In the United States, about 500 hydrogen-fuelled vehicles are in use, and about 330 of those are registered in California.

The size of this individually

produced a marketplace of AFVs (Armoured Fighting Vehicles). As a result, it may never be officially counted or calculated. It’s clear that the shift from petroleum to the next generation of fuels has already gathered a lot of momentum. Indeed, things are now moving on at a fast pace. It is also clear to individuals from around the world.

Thus, they are not waiting for big automakers. Including their governments. Hence, they should decide what fuels they should use.

The only problem with hydrogen cell vehicles is the lack of refuelling infrastructure. However, things are slightly improving, with a new hydrogen fuel station opening on the M25 here in the UK and several more in the pipeline.

Hydrogen fuel cells are certainly one of the ways forward and emit zero emissions. Indeed, UK supermarket chain Sainsburys has opened a hydrogen fuel facility on one of their sites.

Hydrogen Plugin Mercedes Makes Debut: This new model from Mercedes will only reinforce interest in this type of alternative fuel.

Of course, there are three major categories of alternative fuels in use now. One that we seem to have forgotten about is biofuels. Also, we have electric power and hydrogen power. Subsequently. We have the electric-battery car versus the hybrid plug-in car debate. For example, a hydrogen fuel cell vs. HHO (which does not appear to be catching on).

Also, biodiesel vs ethanol. In fact, biodiesel fuels are also being made from algae. These alternatives, though, seem to be falling behind. The main emphasis is on the drive for the total electric car (EV).
There are hundreds of videos out now about converting your car to use these other non-viable fuels. However, things in this direction are moving really slowly.


Similar companies exist and sell plans

parts lists, and instructions for converting a car to run on electric power (mostly of the plug-in variety). Books and instructions on how to build biodiesel kits and recipes for growing algae biodiesel are also easy to find online.

Individuals have produced hybrid cars and vehicles running completely on all of these alternative fuel sources. I must admit, though, that in the big picture of things, these are very small numbers. One company sells the instructions and maintains a worldwide support group.

Hence, for people doing their own HHO fuel conversion. So, it was reported that more than 11,000 people bought their product last year.

There’s the difficulty of tracking just who is converting their vehicles and how. The EIA has surveyed private fleet owners. Including quasi-government and local, state, and national government bodies. Thus, to get the basis for their calculations.

There are plenty of automakers, small and large, around the world coming out with different variations of all these cars. Including this new Mercedes model.

Hydrogen Plugin Mercedes Makes Debut – Lithium-Ion May Have a short life?

We do need alternatives. The electric car era will be very short because lithium-ion batteries are made by using “cobalt”. Cobalt is a very rare commodity, and we will soon run out if the current volumes of use are not restricted. We also have had recent developments with the good old fossil-fuelled cars powered by the good old-fashioned lead-acid car battery.

Mazda has developed the first gasoline engine that ignites by compression instead of a spark plug. Also burning much greener with less poisonous emissions. Yet another good step forward?

Mercedes-Benz is putting the finishing touches on a fuel cell version of the GLC ahead of its debut in Frankfurt. We don’t know many details about the car yet, but Mercedes has pulled back the curtain on the development process leading up to its launch.

Source: Mercedes prepares hydrogen plug-in hybrid for Frankfurt debut

See this important breakthrough from our friends in Australia.

Hydrogen Plugin Mercedes
Hydrogen Plugin Mercedes

Mercedes-Benz GLC Fuel Cell – Whatever Happened to Hydrogen Power?

A few years ago, Mercedes-Benz created quite a stir in the motoring world when it announced plans for a hydrogen fuel cell version of the popular GLC SUV. At the time, many industry experts believed hydrogen could become the future of motoring, especially for larger vehicles where battery weight and charging times were becoming a concern.

Back then, the company was putting the finishing touches to the new model ahead of its big unveiling at the Frankfurt Motor Show. The motoring press was full of excitement, with promises of clean driving, quick refuelling and long-distance capability. It looked as though hydrogen power might soon become a common sight on British roads.

Fast forward to today, though, and things have not quite turned out the way many expected.

The Mercedes GLC F-Cell Arrives

The vehicle eventually arrived under the name of the Mercedes-Benz GLC F-CELL. What made it particularly interesting was the fact that it combined two technologies into one vehicle:

  • a hydrogen fuel cell,
  • and a rechargeable battery system.

This meant the car could actually run as both:

  • a plug-in electric vehicle,
  • and a hydrogen-powered vehicle.

At the time, Mercedes described it as one of the world’s first plug-in hydrogen hybrids. Drivers could recharge the battery from the mains for shorter journeys and then use hydrogen fuel for longer trips.

On paper, it sounded like the perfect compromise.

So Why Did Hydrogen Cars Struggle? Hydrogen Plugin Mercedes

The biggest problem was never really the vehicles themselves. In many ways, hydrogen cars are excellent to drive. They are smooth, quiet and produce nothing from the exhaust except water vapour.

The real issue has always been infrastructure.

Unlike petrol stations or electric charging points, hydrogen filling stations are extremely expensive to build and maintain. Even today, there are only a very small number of public hydrogen refuelling stations in the UK.

This made ownership difficult for ordinary motorists.

A customer from the Halifax or Calderdale area, for example, would struggle to find somewhere convenient to refill the hydrogen tanks. That is very different from electric cars, where charging points are now appearing almost everywhere from supermarkets to motorway services.

Electric Cars Took the Lead

Whilst Mercedes and a few other manufacturers were developing hydrogen vehicles, battery electric technology advanced much faster than expected.

Companies such as Tesla helped push the rapid expansion of:

  • battery range,
  • charging speed,
  • and public charging networks.

At the same time, governments across Europe began heavily supporting electric vehicle infrastructure. As a result, most manufacturers shifted investment towards fully electric vehicles instead of hydrogen passenger cars.

Even Mercedes-Benz itself has now focused far more heavily on its EQ range of electric models.

Hydrogen Still Has a Future: Hydrogen Plugin Mercedes

Despite this, hydrogen technology has certainly not disappeared altogether. Many experts still believe hydrogen could play a major role in:

  • heavy goods vehicles,
  • buses,
  • trains,
  • shipping,
  • and industrial transport.

Large vehicles that travel long distances may still benefit from fast hydrogen refuelling rather than lengthy battery charging times.

Here in Yorkshire, we have already seen trials of hydrogen-powered buses and commercial vehicles in certain parts of the country. The technology remains very promising, although widespread public use still seems some way off.

The GLC Fuel Cell Today

The GLC F-CELL itself remained fairly limited in production numbers and was never widely sold in the UK. In many ways, it became more of a technology showcase than a mass-market vehicle.

Still, Mercedes deserves credit for pushing boundaries and experimenting with alternative fuels long before many rivals took the idea seriously.

Looking back now, the GLC fuel cell project represents an interesting moment in motoring history. Manufacturers were trying several different routes towards cleaner transport:

  • diesel hybrids,
  • hydrogen fuel cells,
  • plug-in hybrids,
  • and full battery electric vehicles.

Eventually, battery electric cars became the dominant direction, at least for now.

What Does the Future Hold? Hydrogen Plugin Mercedes

The motor industry is changing faster than ever before. Only a few years ago many experts believed diesel cars would dominate for decades. Then electric vehicles suddenly exploded in popularity.

Hydrogen could still return in a bigger way later on, especially if governments invest more heavily in infrastructure and cleaner hydrogen production.

At Pellon Tyres Halifax, we continue seeing more hybrid and electric vehicles arriving every year for tyres, wheel alignment and servicing work. The technology inside modern cars is advancing at an incredible pace compared with the simpler vehicles many of us grew up with.

One thing is certain, though — the days of relying purely on traditional petrol and diesel engines are slowly changing before our eyes.

 

Part Worn Tyres

Worn Tyres Dangerous

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Worn Tyres Dangerous

Worn Tyres Dangerous
Worn Tyres Dangerous

Worn Tyres Dangerous

One in Six Motorists Still Driving on Dangerous Worn Tyres

It still surprises us at Pellon Tyres Halifax just how many motorists continue driving on tyres that are either badly worn, damaged, underinflated or simply unsafe. Despite years of safety campaigns and MOT regulations, there are still drivers taking enormous risks every single day on UK roads.

Many motorists only think about their tyres when they get a puncture or fail an MOT test. Yet tyres are one of the most important safety components fitted to any vehicle. They are the only point of contact between the car and the road surface, whether you are driving through Halifax town centre, travelling along the M62, or heading out across the Yorkshire Dales.

A vehicle may have the latest safety technology, modern brakes and advanced suspension systems, but if the tyres are worn out, the car’s safety is immediately compromised.

Why Tyre Safety Matters More Than Ever

Modern traffic conditions place enormous pressure on tyres. Cars today are:

  • heavier,
  • faster,
  • fitted with larger alloy wheels,
  • and expected to perform safely in all weather conditions.

In areas such as Calderdale and West Yorkshire, drivers regularly face:

  • steep hills,
  • wet roads,
  • potholes,
  • frost,
  • and sudden weather changes.

All these conditions increase the importance of having tyres in good condition.

At our Halifax garage, we often see customers shocked when we show them how close their tyres are to the legal limit. Some are already below it without realising.

Worn Tyres Dangerous

In the UK, the legal minimum tyre tread depth is:

  • 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre,
  • around the entire circumference.

Anything below this is illegal and dangerous.

If caught driving with illegal tyres, motorists can face:

  • fines of up to £2,500 per tyre,
  • three penalty points per tyre,
  • and potentially losing their licence altogether.

A vehicle with four illegal tyres could theoretically lead to the following:

  • £10,000 in fines,
  • and 12 penalty points.

Most people are amazed when they discover how serious tyre offences can become.

Wet Weather Dangers

One of the biggest problems with worn tyres is loss of grip in wet conditions.

Yorkshire motorists know only too well how quickly roads can become slippery during heavy rain. Worn tread grooves cannot clear water effectively, which greatly increases the risk of aquaplaning.

Aquaplaning occurs when:

  • a layer of water builds between the tyre and road surface,
  • causing the vehicle to partially lose contact with the road.

The steering can suddenly feel light, braking distances increase dramatically, and the driver may temporarily lose control.

Even a few extra metres of stopping distance can make the difference between the following:

  • a near miss,
  • and a serious collision.

Underinflated tyres cause problems too. Worn Tyres Dangerous

Tyre safety is not only about tread depth. Incorrect tyre pressures are another major issue.

Underinflated tyres:

  • wear out faster,
  • reduce fuel economy,
  • increase heat build-up,
  • and can even lead to blowouts.

Overinflated tyres can also reduce grip and cause uneven wear patterns.

At Pellon Tyres, we still find many vehicles arriving with tyre pressures dangerously below recommended levels. Some drivers simply never check them.

A quick monthly pressure check can:

  • improve tyre life,
  • save fuel,
  • and greatly improve road safety.

Damage That Drivers Often Miss

Modern tyres can suffer hidden damage from the following:

  • potholes,
  • kerb strikes,
  • speed bumps,
  • and rough road surfaces.

We regularly inspect tyres showing:

  • sidewall bulges,
  • internal cord damage,
  • cracks,
  • nails,
  • and slow punctures.

One particularly common problem around Halifax and surrounding areas is pothole damage. Some roads after winter can be extremely harsh on low-profile tyres fitted to modern vehicles.

A tyre may still hold air perfectly yet be structurally unsafe internally.

Uneven Wear and Wheel Alignment: Worn Tyres Dangerous

Another issue we frequently encounter is uneven tyre wear caused by poor wheel alignment.

If:

  • one edge of the tyre wears faster,
  • the steering wheel sits crooked,
  • or the vehicle pulls to one side,

then wheel alignment may need correcting.

Modern computerised wheel alignment systems allow us to accurately adjust the following:

  • tracking,
  • camber,
  • and caster angles.

Correct alignment not only improves tyre life but also the following:

  • improves fuel economy,
  • sharpens steering,
  • and increases driving safety.

Cheap Tyres Versus Quality Tyres

Many motorists today face rising motoring costs and naturally look for cheaper options. However, tyres are one area where quality still matters enormously.

Cheap tyres can sometimes:

  • wear quickly,
  • perform poorly in wet weather,
  • generate more road noise,
  • and provide reduced emergency braking performance.

At Pellon Tyres, we always try to offer customers sensible choices to suit their budget whilst maintaining safety standards.

Brands such as:

continue investing heavily in tyre safety and wet-weather performance.

Seasonal Driving Challenges in Yorkshire: Worn Tyres Dangerous

Driving conditions around Halifax and Calderdale can be particularly demanding during winter months.

Motorists may encounter:

  • icy mornings,
  • flooded roads,
  • rural lanes,
  • fog,
  • and steep gradients all within a short journey.

Good tyres are absolutely essential in these conditions.

We often remind customers that four quality tyres are one of the best safety investments they can make for their family vehicle.

Free Tyre Safety Checks

One of the simplest ways to stay safe is to have tyres inspected regularly.

At Pellon Autocentre Halifax, we continue offering straightforward tyre inspections to help motorists identify problems before they become dangerous.

A proper tyre inspection takes only a few minutes but can potentially

  • prevent accidents,
  • improve fuel economy,
  • extend tyre life,
  • and avoid MOT failures.

Final Thoughts: Worn Tyres Dangerous

Driving on worn or damaged tyres is simply not worth the risk. Tyres affect:

  • braking,
  • steering,
  • fuel economy,
  • ride comfort,
  • and overall road safety.

Whether travelling through busy city traffic or driving along quiet country roads, motorists depend entirely on those four small contact patches between the vehicle and the road surface.

Many people spend thousands of pounds buying modern cars packed with technology, yet overlook the very tyres keeping that technology connected to the road.

Regular tyre checks, correct pressures and replacing worn tyres promptly remain some of the most important things any driver can do to stay safe

Check out tyre safety…www.tyresafe.org

Potholes are damaging alloy wheels.

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Potholes are damaging alloy wheels.

Potholes are damaging alloy wheels
Potholes are damaging alloy wheels

Potholes are damaging alloy wheels.

See on detroit.cbslocal.com

EricRoberts‘s insight:

Potholes Damaging Alloy Wheels and tyres are a major problem everywhere? But you can claim your money back

Of course, this is a story that I have been harping on about for a few years now. It seems that local government highway departments and city government departments are struggling with the enormity of the problem.

Originally, this excellent article was from the Detroit metropolis in Canada, but the story could be from any city in the “Western World.” including here in little old Halifax, UK. From a local point of view, we have the same problems across the whole of the UK. We are also benefiting from the extra business that this problem is bringing to us: damage to the wheels, damage to the  wheels, damage to the tyres, and many broken springs.

Of course, the condition of our roads is a hot issue for us drivers.

We appear to be riding a bumpier ride the more we talk about it. You’re driving along, taking in the odd glimpse of sunshine, when suddenly another pothole appears. It’s a real threat to alloys and tyres equally, not simply a bother.

Everyone is aware that the UK has many beautiful drives and historical charm, but our roads? Given all the fissures and craters that dot them, they could narrate a few historical stories themselves. It is like trying to drive through a poorly written novel’s plot holes.

Here in Halifax and around the UK, the problem is quite acute.

Potholes deep enough to cook a Sunday feast are what we are discussing! And the promise of smooth tarmac is still just that, a promise, with the council’s finances tighter than a gnat’s chuff. It hurts, especially for those of us who deal with batteries and tyres on a regular basis. You could wind up with a charge for a wheel alignment, a new tyre, or both after one poor turn.

Why, then, is there a crack? As it happens, the funding and prioritisation of maintenance are part of the issue. Apparently, rather than appropriate, long-term improvements, our roadways become victims of band-aid treatments. It’s not really as effective as slapping a plaster on a broken leg. When the frost arrives each winter, those plasters simply fall off.

The effect is on our finances as well as our safety.

Avoiding potholes may make a routine commute seem like an obstacle course. And it causes serious difficulty for companies like ours, where daily operations include customer visits and delivery. It detracts from our service and, to be honest, is a little embarrassing when a customer arrives to pick up a brand-new battery and leaves with a dented alloy.

It was about time we chatted about things other than band-aid solutions. Putting money into our roads is putting money into our health, safety, and scones—after all, no one wants a scone that has endured a seismic tremble in a pothole.

The next time you’re out and about negotiating the lunar terrain of our neighbourhood lanes, consider how a little investment in our roads could make your trip safer, smoother, and a little more enjoyable. Keep an eye on things and keep your tyres inflated until then. You know where to find us if you need a battery that can withstand the highs and lows of British roads. I hope for a more comfortable journey ahead, and be careful out there.

What to do if your wheels/tyres are damaged !

The potholes also cause damage to the car’s suspension and often knock out the wheel alignment. Some of the damage can be claimed back from your local authority here in the UK.

Unfortunately, I do not know how the law works in other countries. However, if you do have pot-hole damage. Firstly, then you should take a picture of the potholes.  Secondly get an invoice for the work carried out on your car. Thirdly, then you can put in a claim for compensation. Of course, to recover your losses from the damage that the potholes have caused.

A few of our customers did this after our advice and were successful with their claim.

Because of the rise in the number of damaged alloy wheels. So, we have purchased an alloy wheel straightening machine. I feel that this, along with a new tyre vulcanizing machine, will give our customers better all-round service !

Importantly, improving customer services is always one of my business priorities. Consequently, many damaged tyres can be repaired with the correct equipment ! So, large tyres that are now used on many SUV family cars are very expensive. Getting a nail in the side wall normally means a new tyre.

However, we have now invested in equipment to be able to repair such damage! Significantly, these repairs are both safe and legal.

Hyundai i10 with Radiator leak

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Hyundai i10 with Radiator leak

Hyundai i10 with Radiator leak
Hyundai i10 with Radiator leak

Hyundai i10 with Radiator leak

Why Car Radiators Fail – And a Bit About the Hyundai i10

The other day in the workshop, we had a Hyundai i10 roll in with a poor radiator. It wasn’t just a little dribble either – it was leaking like a teapot with a hole in the bottom. The old radiator had reached its end, and, as is often the case, the only option was to replace it with a new one.

Radiators are among the unsung heroes of the engine. They just sit there quietly doing their job, keeping the engine comfortable and cool while you’re bombing up the M62 or crawling through traffic in Halifax town centre. But when they fail, you soon know about it – steam out the bonnet, engine temperature needle climbing quicker than a pint disappearing in a Dewsbury pub, and before you know it, you’re stuck at the side of the road, ringing the AA.

So, what actually makes radiators pack in?

Hyundai i10 with Radiator leak
Hyundai i10 with Radiator leak

Common Causes of Radiator Failure

1. Corrosion

Radiators are full of coolant and metal. Metal plus liquid usually equals rust if you don’t keep things topped up properly. The inside of the radiator can corrode over time, particularly if the coolant hasn’t been changed in a long time. That corrosion weakens the metal, and before long, you’ve got a leak.

2. Physical Damage

Radiators sit right at the front of the car, which makes them prime targets for stones, grit, and the occasional pheasant if you’re unlucky. Even a little stone chip can start a crack or a pinhole leak.

3. Poor maintenance.

A radiator relies on a steady flow of coolant. If the coolant level drops too often, or if someone keeps topping it up with plain tap water instead of the proper mix, it can cause all sorts of trouble – from overheating to freezing in winter. (Yes, we still see cars with plain water in the system. It’s true!

4. Old Age

Like anything else on a motor, radiators don’t last forever. The seals can perish, the metal can weaken, and after years of heat cycles, they just decide enough is enough.

5. Faulty Thermostat or Water Pump

Sometimes, it’s not the radiator’s fault at all. If the thermostat sticks or the water pump fails, the radiator ends up with boiling hot coolant under pressure it just can’t cope with. Eventually, a leak will occur.

Hyundai i10 with Radiator leak
Hyundai i10 with Radiator leak

Signs Your Radiator’s on the Way Out: Hyundai i10 with Radiator leak

  • There is a pool of coolant beneath the car, typically consisting of green, red, or blue liquid, which should not be mistaken for rainwater dripping from the air conditioner.

  • The engine may be overheating, or the temperature gauge may be gradually increasing.

  • The engine is emitting steam.

  • The car’s sweet smell indicates coolant leakage, which is not a good sign.


If you spot any of these, it’s best not to ignore it. A radiator is cheaper than a new engine, and we’ve seen a few customers learn that the hard way.

The Hyundai i10—a little gem Hyundai i10 with Radiator leak

Now, about that i10 we fixed. The Hyundai i10 has been knocking about in the UK since 2008, replacing the older Hyundai Atos. It was Hyundai’s answer to the city car market – small, nippy, and cheap to run, perfect for nipping down to Morrisons or tackling those tight little parking spaces in Halifax town centre.

The i10 has always had a favourable reputation as a no-nonsense motor. A proper Yorkshire brew is not flashy, but it is reliable and great value, doing the job without any fuss.

In fact, it’s been one of Hyundai’s best sellers in the UK. The first generation was built in India and shipped over here, and it quickly became a favourite with new drivers and older folk who just wanted something straightforward and dependable. The later versions have got posher with more tech, but the original charm is still there.

Plenty of i10s are still on the road today, which just shows how tough they are – though, like the one we had in the workshop, even the best little cars need a new radiator from time to time.

Final Word Hyundai i10 with Radiator leak

So, if your car starts overheating, don’t just turn the radio up and hope for the best. The radiator is one of the most important parts of keeping your engine alive. Look after it with proper coolant, regular servicing, and a bit of TLC, and it’ll look after you.

And if it does spring a leak, well, that’s where we come in at Pellon Tyres & Autocentre. We’ll get you sorted and back on the road before you can say “Hyundai i10 with a hole in its radiator!”

How Not to get at Your Locking Wheel Nuts

Damaged Alloy Wheels Repaired

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Damaged Alloy Wheels Repaired

Damaged Alloy Wheels Repaired
Damaged Alloy Wheels Repaired

Damaged Alloy Wheels Repaired

Relaxing. Last week, I was sitting in my small office . Daydreaming and  just looking out of the window. So. I noticed a breakdown recovery truck with a blue car on the back. I never thought more about it, as we have these broken down cars brought into us all of the time, as most busy auto centres do.

About ten minutes later

A member of my staff came in, shouting for me to have a look at this wheel. The damaged alloy wheel had come off the car that was brought in on the back of a transporter, a Ford Focus with a sport conversion, up-rated brakes, and an oversized cheap alloy. You know the thing I mean; this was a young guy’s car and a bit sporty.

However, the guy had been going at speed and hit a massive pothole in the road. The impact had caused a massive blowout out to both his offside (driver’s side) alloy wheel and completely

wrecked the tyres and caused severe damage

to the alloy wheels. We can have small damages repaired by a local alloy wheel welding specialist. These are very often small cracks that appear on the rims and start to leak air from the wheel and tyre assembly. This is most common on some BMW models, and sometimes we have known BMW to replace wheels free of charge.

These small cracks can be repaired successfully, much to the pleasure of many of our customers. It has been a bad time for broken and cracked alloy wheels recently due to the large increase of potholes on our roads, and so it is good to be able to give our customers the good news when they do not have to buy a new wheel, but we can have their damaged refurbished Alloy Wheels repaired.

I had not seen alloy wheel so badly damaged ? Damaged Alloy Wheels Repaired

We were all amazed at the massive split in the Pothole Damaged wheel that came off the front. Shockingly, I have never seen one so bad. Splitting was almost all around the circumference of the wheel. If you look at the image below, then  you can see what I mean. Luckily for the customer, we have just become members of a buying group. Now, here in the UK, it’s called MD . Fortunately, this is one of the suppliers we can deal with. Hence, TSW Wheels sells alloy wheel and tyre packages. We were able to supply four new wheels along with two new Falken Tyres, and the guy went on his way, a happy driver.

Pellon Tyre and Auto-Centre offer car and van servicing and repairs

now including “wheel repairs” for all makes of vehicles.  Also, we sell Falken tyres online from our website.  Using the tyre selector and choosing your tyre size. Offering courtesy cars to local motorists who need to go to work. Leaving their car with us for work. Of course, we are also an official MOT testing station.

So, 80% of cars now have alloy wheels fitted to them! And as you know, every day, thousands of these wheels cause minor damage. Of course, from kerbing, potholes. Causing  stone chipping and lacquer discolouration. Predominantly, this damage stands out like a sore thumb. Especially on polished rims. Of course, by offering this new service, we were looking for a cost-effective method. Of course, to repair and bring the damaged alloy wheel(s) back to a showroom finish.

Alloy Wheel Damage – More Common Than You Think

It’s funny really; people spend thousands on shiny new cars with fancy alloy wheels, only to scuff them on the kerb outside Morrisons on their first week of ownership. Alloys might look smart, but they’re not half as delicate compared to the old steel wheels we used to bash about with.

How Do Alloy Wheels Get Damaged? Damaged Alloy Wheels Repaired

  1. Kerb Scuffs
    The most common one – clip the kerb when parking and you’re left with an unsightly scrape that spoils the look straight away.
  2. Potholes
    Halifax roads aren’t exactly billiard-table smooth, are they? Hit a pothole at speed and your alloy can crack or buckle.
  3. Corrosion
    Alloys are metal, and with all the winter salt on our Yorkshire roads, corrosion can creep in if the lacquer gets damaged. That leads to bubbling paint and leaking tyres.
  4. Over-tightened Wheel Nuts
    Believe it or not, garages using the wrong torque setting can damage the alloy around the bolt holes – something we’re careful about here at Pellon Autocentre.
  5. General Wear and Tear
    Daily driving, grit, brake dust – it all takes its toll. Over time, alloys lose their shine and need some TLC.

Why It Matters- Damaged Alloy Wheels Repaired

It’s not just cosmetic either. A badly buckled wheel can affect handling, tyre wear, and even safety. Plus, corrosion can cause air leaks around the rim, leaving you with a slow puncture you can’t seem to fix.

At Pellon Tyres & Autocentre, we see all sorts of alloy wheel issues – from small kerb rash to cracked wheels that need replacing. A quick check can save you money and keep your motor looking the part.

beware of cheap tyre repairs

Nail in your sidewall

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Nail in your Sidewall

Nail in your Sidewall
Nail in your Sidewall

Nail in your Sidewall

I will always remember my time working at Kurt Neild Tyres in Leeds,

UK. This is where I learned most of my tyre and business skills. Neilds always employed the best-skilled staff to teach others how to carry out tyre repairs. Especially on the large earthmover tyres.  Importantly, all types of tyre repair are very much the same. The only difference is the physical size of the tyre that is to be repaired. From the giant earthmover tyres to the regular car tyres,.

Hence, the basic repair materials are made from raw rubber products.

Especially the repairs when using the new “hot vulcanization machine” that I have just bought to improve our tyre repair service offered to customers. As the saying goes, “What comes around, goes Around” So this is what has happened recently ! So, as I have said, one of the services that we used to offer our customers was a car tyre vulcanising service.

Discerning customers had to buy a new tyre. Because of the rules regarding tyre repairs at that particular time. So, the tyre with the nail in the shoulder or sidewall could not be repaired. The image to the left shows exactly what i am referring to.

A vulcanizing machine was purchased. Nail in your Sidewall

Customers had to buy a new tyre if they had this type of damage to their tyre. Passionate about my business, I took the decision to buy a specialist tyre repair machine. Enabling us to repair this type of tyre damage. So we offer a more complete service to our tyre-buying customers. Of course, the largest tyre sizes at that time were the new 16 inch tyres. Indeed, these tyres were very expensive when they first came out. So, it was more economical to have your tyre repaired at a cost of, say, £29.90 than to pay £80 for a new tyre.

Subsequently, the 16 inch tyres became cheaper ! Nail in your Sidewall

So making the tyre vulcanizing less viable. Customers would opt for the new tyre. Rather than have a vulcanised repair. Eventually, it became less profitable, and we stopped offering the service. However, we did continue with the standard puncture repairs and, of course, still do so today.

So this is where “What Comes Around, Goes Around” applies to our business today. SUV cars and larger tyre sizes have now become commonplace. Resourceful customers with these large cars are now having to pay well over £100 for a new economy tyre. Significantly, tyre sizes go well over the 20-inch mark with high replacement costs.

Specialist tyre repair is back on the agenda ? Nail in your Sidewall

Tyre vulcanization is the process of adding fresh raw rubber to a damaged section of a tyre to generate a repair that will last for the remainder of the tyre’s road life. Your damaged tyre will be prepped, with fresh rubber moulded into the damaged region before being placed in a tyre vulcanizing machine to cook the raw rubber at a high temperature.

So, because of the expense of these large tyres, we have made a corporate decision. Of course. to buy a new tyre vulcanizing machine. Enabling us to repair customers tyres (safely and legally) with, say, a nail or screw in the sidewall or shoulder area of the tyre. So, the machine will bring the repaired area of the tyre up to the new tyre standard and also within the tyre laws.

A vulcanised repair will be half the cost of a new tyre and just as safe. This work can be carried out at Pellon Tyres in Halifax, UK. It often saves the customer time and money.

Citroen C1 for New Exhaust System Fitting

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Citroen C1 for New Exhaust System Fitting

Citroen C1 for New Exhaust System Fitting
Citroen C1 for New Exhaust System Fitting

Citroen C1 for New Exhaust System Fitting

Citroen C1 and the Case of the Blowing Exhaust

The other week at Pellon Tyres we had a little Citroen C1 come rolling in, sounding more like a tractor than a small city car. The poor thing had an exhaust system that was blowing louder than a brass band on Whit Friday. The customer was mortified, but to us it’s all in a day’s work.

Now, a blowing exhaust is one of those things that creeps up on most motorists. You don’t usually wake up one morning to find it’s completely dropped off – it’s a gradual process. Exhaust systems are constantly battling against the great British weather, road salt, potholes, and those speed bumps that seem to be breeding all over Halifax. Eventually, rust takes hold, joints loosen, or a weld gives way. Before you know it, your lovely quiet runabout is growling away like an old diesel bus.

Another common culprit is the flexipipe— that little section designed to take some of the movement and vibration of the engine. They’re handy things, but once they start to split, they make a right racket. Add in a few knocks from stones or the odd kerb, and you’ve got yourself a noisy problem.

Apart from being a nuisance to the ears, a damaged exhaust can also mean poor fuel economy, increased emissions, and, of course, an MOT failure. Additionally, there’s a possibility of hazardous gases infiltrating the cabin, a scenario that no one desires.

A Bit About the Citroen C1 Citroen C1 for New Exhaust System Fitting

Citroen C1 for New Exhaust System Fitting
Citroen C1 for New Exhaust System Fitting

The Citroen C1 is now a cracking little motor for nipping about town. First launched back in 2005, it was part of a joint venture between Peugeot, Citroen, and Toyota. You’ll probably know its close relatives, the Peugeot 107 and Toyota Aygo. They all rolled off the same production line in the Czech Republic – just given different badges and a few tweaks so you knew which one you’d bought.

The C1 has always been aimed at city drivers – compact, light on fuel, and easy to park in tight spots where a bigger car just wouldn’t fit. It doesn’t pretend to be flashy, but it delivers exactly what it promises: affordable motoring with a touch of French flair.

Over the years it’s had a few facelifts and updates, but it’s still kept that dinky, cheeky look. This car is perfect for young drivers, second cars, or anyone who doesn’t fancy wrestling with a tank down King Cross Road.

Back to Our Noisy Visitor Citroen C1 for New Exhaust System Fitting

Citroen C1 for New Exhaust System Fitting
Citroen C1 for New Exhaust System Fitting

So, back to our C1 customer – after a bit of inspection up on the ramp, we found the exhaust had corroded around the joints and a section had gone completely. There’s nothing for it but to replace the lot. The customer drove away happy – and probably enjoyed the peace and quiet for the first time in weeks.

It’s a reminder that exhausts, though hidden away under your motor, are doing a tough job every time you turn the key. If you start to notice your car sounding louder than usual, or you get that tell-tale smell of fumes, don’t leave it too long. Pop in and we’ll soon sort it.

After all, a Citroen C1 should be a neat little car that hums along nicely – not something that makes you blush at the lights when it sounds like it’s about to take off.

Independent garages lead MOT testing

MOT Test Combined with Car Servicing

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MOT Test Combined with Car Servicing

MOT Test Combined with Car Servicing
MOT Test Combined with Car Servicing

MOT Test Combined with Car Servicing

Unlike a vehicle MOT test, servicing is not a legal requirement for your vehicle. However, you will probably find that regular servicing can help to keep everything.

Eric Roberts‘s insight:

Pre-testing your car can mean the difference between passing and failing the MOT test when it comes time for testing. Consider it as giving your vehicle some TLC before the examiners arrive.

A service helps identify any minor concerns, such as worn-out brake pads, malfunctioning lights, or even low fluid levels, that could become serious problems during the MOT. In addition to increasing your car’s chances of passing the test, taking care of these issues beforehand can guarantee that it operates smoothly and safely when driving. You might also avoid the inconvenience of having to retake the test, which nobody likes!

To be honest, most of our customers do have an MOT test and service at the same time. This practice gives the car owner peace of mind that their car is in reasonable condition for at least 12 months up to the next annual testing time. Of course, this doesnt count for any mechanical failure of a part.

We all must be responsible for our cars servicing and  test

Sometimes I find it a great shame. Incredibly, we are in the motor trade. Insistently, you have to keep harping on about servicing your cars. One of the main excuses in recent times! Of course, there has been a recession. Recently, car drivers just haven’t had any spare cash to spend on their vehicles. Consequently, we have all seen people just putting £10’s worth of fuel into their cars at the filling station? Ridiculous, but true !

MOT Test Combined with Car Servicing
MOT Test Combined with Car Servicing

In my opinion,

I think that these people should have some kind of budget. A sort of “piggy bank” and save to have their vehicle serviced. Including any mechanical work required when it goes in for its annual vehicle test. Incidentally, it is estimated that 4.7 million people miss their mot testing date. I am sure that drivers either just flaunt the law or are not aware that driving your

A car without a valid MOT test certificate is an offence referenced in Section 47 of the 1988 Road Traffic Act.

Also, driving without an MOT test.

will make your insurance invalid, and you may receive a fine of up to £1000. Is it really worth it when you can have a vehicle test and a service for most average family saloons for around £150? If you are not sure where you can go to have your vehicle serviced, you should go online and look for your nearest local independent garage; they will offer you excellent service at a fair price.

Once you have had your MOT test and service you should be safer for another year, although I recommend that you have an engine oil and filter change in between the tests to be on the safe side. Also, do not forget to check your levels at regular intervals, say once a week, and top them up when required.

Here we are now at the back end of 2024, nearing Christmas time, and the price of fuel has plummeted. The only problem is that the price of oil and petrol is not following as fast. The experts say that it may take a little longer for this to take place, but I was just wondering if services for cars would also be coming down. I am not so sure , but I suspect so.

mot testing and car servicing

Mazda offers improved engine technology.

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Mazda offers improved engine technology.

Mazda offer Improved Engine Technology
Mazda offer Improved Engine Technology

Mazda offers improved engine technology.

This is great news for the regular mechanic who is sick of hearing about electric cars. Including the billions of dollars that are being thrown at them.

Many small garage owners are fearful for their futures. Including the futures of their families. This news from Mazda could be groundbreaking and may be followed by other car manufacturers.

In regard to normal modern vehicles. Mazda offers improved engine technology.

that have been around forever. Then, there are two main types of engines available. Of course, there are two main types: gasoline combustion engines and diesel engines. Or a diesel compression engine.

To explain the differences, we must first explain the similarities. Hence, of both engine types. In my opinion, we should use a four-cylinder engine. So is the basic model. Because it is common in both petrol and diesel configurations.

As a result, in both diesel and petrol engines, Mazda offers improved engine technology.

The following holds true:. Both engine types convert burning fuel into mechanical energy. Of course, through a common series of explosions. Thus, inside the engine’s combustion chambers. All very basic stuff? These explosions force the crank to rotate. This, in turn, is by design. Forces another piston in the line up into the bore of the next cylinder in the firing order. This repeats the process over and over again. Resulting in the rotation of the engine.

This is where the difference comes in from Mazda. Mazda offers improved engine technology.

In a normal compressed fuel engine. Then the fuel/air mix is compressed and then ignited. Which is what drives the engine. The Mazda system does the same thing as a conventional diesel engine but uses petrol. Subsequently, the fuel/air mixture is first heated and then compressed by the piston. Thus, to the extent at which it creates combustion spontaneously.

This has never been done in the past. The Mazda system works very much the same way as our conventional diesel engines but fires on combustion using petrol. Consequently, it burns much less fuel. Therefore, making the engine much more environmentally friendly.

This now makes up three types of engines: Mazda offers improved engine technology.

Over the years, the basic design of the engines has stayed the same. Regardless of the vehicle manufacturer. Of course, fuel delivery systems do vary, but at the end of the day, the internal process is the same for all vehicle types.

On a diesel engine, there are no spark plugs. As a result, the compression of the air itself triggers the ignition process. because of the higher compression of diesel engines by design. Then the air, when compressed, reaches temperatures high enough to ignite. Of course, when fuel is introduced into the cylinder. Hence, at a specific time in the combustion cycle.

Mazda SKYACTIV-X – Mazda offers improved engine technology.

For many years now, motorists have been told that the traditional petrol engine is slowly heading towards extinction. Electric vehicles dominate the headlines, governments continue tightening emissions laws, and manufacturers are investing billions into battery technology.

Yet amongst all this change, Mazda quietly continued developing one of the most advanced petrol engines ever produced.

The result was the remarkable SKYACTIV-X engine technology.

When Mazda first launched the SKYACTIV-X engine in 2019, many people in the motor trade sat up and took notice. Here was a manufacturer refusing to completely abandon the internal combustion engine and instead trying to improve it dramatically using clever engineering.

In many ways, Mazda has always done things differently from the larger manufacturers. Whilst other companies rushed heavily into small turbocharged engines and electric-only development, Mazda engineers continued asking one important question:

“How can we make the petrol engine even better?”

Mazda offers improved engine technology.y
Mazda’s clever SKYACTIV-X technology

What Makes SKYACTIV-X Different? Mazda offers improved engine technology.

Traditional petrol engines work using spark ignition. Fuel and air are mixed together and ignited by a spark plug.

Diesel engines work differently. They use compression ignition, where the fuel ignites under extremely high pressure without needing a spark.

Mazda’s SKYACTIV-X technology cleverly combines aspects of both systems.

The engine uses what Mazda calls the following:

  • Spark Controlled Compression Ignition (SPCCI).

This allows the engine to behave more like a diesel under certain driving conditions whilst still running on petrol fuel.

The result is:

  • improved fuel economy,
  • lower emissions,
  • stronger low-speed torque,
  • and smoother overall performance.

When the technology first appeared, many motoring journalists described it as one of the biggest petrol engine breakthroughs seen for years.

Why Mazda Continued Believing in Petrol Engines

Mazda argued that fully electric vehicles were not yet the perfect answer for every driver around the world.

There were still concerns about:

  • battery production,
  • charging infrastructure,
  • electricity generation,
  • and vehicle range.

For many motorists, especially those regularly driving long distances through rural areas, petrol engines still offered:

  • convenience,
  • reliability,
  • and easy refuelling.

Mazda therefore believed cleaner, more efficient petrol engines still had an important role to play during the transition towards lower-emission transport.

Looking back now in 2026, that strategy appears to have been quite sensible.

SKYACTIV Technology Continues to Evolve

Since the original launch, Mazda has continued refining its SKYACTIV technology range. Modern Mazda vehicles now feature improvements in the following:

  • combustion efficiency,
  • hybrid integration,
  • lightweight engineering,
  • and emissions reduction.

Many newer Mazda models also combine mild hybrid systems with petrol engines to further improve fuel economy without completely changing the driving experience motorists are used to.

This has become particularly popular with drivers who:

  • are not yet ready for full electric cars,
  • cannot easily install home charging,
  • or still prefer traditional driving characteristics.

The rotary engine returns. Mazda offers improved engine technology.

In another interesting twist, Mazda has even brought back a version of its famous rotary engine technology.

The rotary engine became legendary in cars such as the Mazda RX-7 and Mazda RX-8. Although once thought obsolete, Mazda has now adapted rotary technology for use as a compact electricity generator in certain hybrid vehicles.

This shows just how determined Mazda remains to explore alternative engineering ideas instead of simply following the crowd.

Hydrogen Technology Still Moving Forward

Hydrogen technology has also continued developing slowly in the background. Although battery electric vehicles currently dominate the market, hydrogen-powered systems are still seen by many experts as part of the long-term future.

Hydrogen may eventually prove especially useful for:

  • heavy goods vehicles,
  • buses,
  • commercial transport,
  • and long-distance haulage.

Mazda itself has previously experimented with hydrogen rotary engines, showing that the company has always been willing to investigate multiple solutions rather than relying on one single technology.

The Future May Be a Mixture of Technologies

One thing becoming clearer every year is that there may never be one perfect solution for every vehicle and every driver.

Instead, the future may involve a combination of:

  • electric vehicles,
  • hybrids,
  • hydrogen systems,
  • cleaner petrol engines,
  • and alternative fuels.

Here at Pellon Tyres Halifax, we already see this changing mix arriving daily into the garage:

  • hybrids,
  • mild hybrids,
  • electric cars,
  • modern diesels,
  • and advanced petrol engines.

The motor industry is currently going through one of the biggest technological changes in its history.

Petrol Engines Are Improving, Not Disappearing Overnight

Despite predictions of their rapid demise, petrol engines are still evolving rapidly. Manufacturers continue finding ways to:

  • improve combustion,
  • reduce emissions,
  • increase efficiency,
  • and combine engines with electric assistance.

Mazda deserves considerable credit for continuing to invest in engineering innovation rather than simply abandoning combustion technology altogether.

For many motorists, especially in areas such as Yorkshire where long journeys, hills and varied weather conditions remain common, efficient petrol engines still make practical sense.

Final Thoughts: Mazda offers improved engine technology.

The launch of SKYACTIV-X proved that the internal combustion engine still had room for improvement. Rather than accepting the petrol engine’s decline, Mazda showed that clever engineering could deliver the following:

  • cleaner emissions,
  • excellent fuel economy,
  • and enjoyable driving characteristics all at once.

Whether petrol engines survive for another decade or several more decades remains to be seen. However, the technology is certainly far from dead.

In fact, companies like Mazda may have helped give the petrol engine a valuable new lease of life.