halifax-pothole-spring-repair

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halifax-pothole-spring-repair

halifax-pothole-spring-repair
halifax-pothole-spring-repair

halifax-pothole-spring-repair

Potholes Strike Again in Halifax – Another Victim for Pellon Tyres!

It’s been another crackingly busy week here at Pellon Tyre & Autocentre in Halifax, and once again our old enemy has been keeping us on our toes — potholes. Honestly, the state of the roads around Halifax and the wider Calderdale area seems to get worse by the week. Whether you’re heading down Queens Road, cutting over Mount Tabor, or travelling up towards Sowerby Bridge, you’re guaranteed to meet a crater or two big enough to swallow a wheel.

And once again, the potholes have been claiming victims.

This week we saw a right mix of damage: bent steering arms, damaged alloy wheels, and a surprising number of broken coil springs — the sort of stuff you’d expect after a winter of icy mornings and frozen tarmac. The combination of cold snaps and endless traffic is playing havoc with the road surface.

One job in particular stood out: a tidy little Honda Jazz, brought in by a lady from the Skircoat Green area. She’d heard a loud rattling and banging from the front of her car, especially when going over uneven roads — which, let’s face it, is pretty much every road around Halifax these days!

halifax-pothole-spring-repair
halifax-pothole-spring-repair

Diagnosing the Honda Jazz: halifax-pothole-spring-repair

When she rolled onto the forecourt, she told us the noise had started suddenly after hitting what she described as “a hole the size of Shibden Valley”. She wasn’t far off — there’s a nasty pothole near Salterhebble that’s been catching drivers out all winter.

Dale got the Honda up on the ramp, gave it a good check over, and there it was:
a cleanly snapped front coil spring.

To be honest, we weren’t surprised. Cold weather weakens already stressed metal, and a sudden hit from a pothole is often the final straw. Springs on smaller cars like the Jazz tend to go with a real “crack” when they break, and the loose end rattles around every time the wheel moves.

Once we sourced and fitted a new spring, gave the car a quick once-over, and made sure the tracking was all right, she was good to go. The lady was relieved—she’d been worried she’d done something serious—and she headed home happy, especially now the temperature is dropping again. Nobody wants to be stranded in the cold with a poor car.

halifax-pothole-spring-repair
New spring fitted and in place

Why Halifax Drivers Are Seeing More Broken Springs: halifax-pothole-spring-repair

Pothole season is definitely upon us. Calderdale Council do their best, but the sheer number of freeze-thaw cycles we get up here plays havoc with the tarmac. Water gets into small cracks, freezes, and expands, and before long there’s a hole big enough to damage even the toughest suspension.

At Pellon Tyres we’re seeing:

  • Broken coil springs

  • Damaged shocks

  • Bent steering arms

  • Split tyres from pothole impacts

  • Buckled alloy wheels

If you hear rattling or knocking or feel the steering pulling after hitting a pothole, it’s worth popping in. We’ll happily take a quick look—better safe than sorry, especially in the colder months.

A Little Bit of Honda History in the UK: halifax-pothole-spring-repair

Since we had a Honda on the ramp, it’s worth remembering just how important Honda has been to British motoring.

Honda first made a proper impact in the UK during the 1970s with small, efficient cars that suited our narrow roads and rising fuel prices. By the 1980s, Honda had partnered with Rover, helping bring models like the Rover 200 and 400 to market—both heavily based on Honda designs.

Then came a major milestone:
Honda opened its Swindon factory in 1985, which went on to produce over 3 million cars, including the Civic and CR-V. For years, you’d see thousands of Swindon-built Hondas driving around Calderdale — reliable, quiet, and great for handling the hills of Halifax.

The Honda Jazz, like the one we repaired this week, has always been a favourite with local drivers: economical, perfect for town driving, and surprisingly roomy.

A Local Note — and a Little Holiday Inspiration

Talking to the lady about her spring replacement reminded me how many Halifax folk are fed up with local road conditions and dreaming of a break. If anyone’s planning a spring or summer escape, our holiday home near the Yorkshire coast at Thornwick Bay is already taking bookings for next season.
Take a look at places like the Flamborough Head walks listed on the Lucky Paws website — perfect inspiration for a getaway after a stressful winter of dodging potholes.

car brakes problem

Anti-Lock Brake Systems: ABS

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Anti-Lock braking systems

Anti-Lock Brake Systems
Anti-Lock Brake Systems

Anti-Lock Brake Systems

So, this is one of the things that I am most proud of. Of course, I have been a garage owner ! Is when a customer contacts my garage for a brake problem sorted out? Subsequently, it appears not to be the price that the person is worried about. Because they know how important it is to have good brakes on their car.

Before we remove the wheels, we examine the brakes. So, generally, we have a blank canvas to work from. We know that most cars get to the stage of having practically no brakes! Then the braking system will be in pretty bad shape. Believe me, they usually are.

Back in the old days! Then the car’s brakes were a much simpler affair to diagnose and repair. Of course, with only the upper end of the market cars. Having any type of electrical modification in order to aid  better braking. As in almost all the car developments. So, brakes were originally tested and tried on motorsport vehicles. Long time before being tried and tested on average road cars. Including the beginning of the ABS braking systems! Importantly, those are in common use today.

At first, Anti-lock braking systems only came out on prestige cars such as BMW and Mercedes

but many drivers had not heard of them before; in fact, we still get customers today who do not know what it means when their ABS warning light comes on and have to be investigated. Twenty years ago, many vehicle owners were given the option of having ABS brakes or not, a similar sort of thing to fitting alloy wheels or steel wheels; they were an optional extra.

Anti-Lock braking systems: work differently to a standard braking system

ABS brakes do act differently from a normal braking system. The main two advantages are that when you are braking on a wet, slippery road surface, or, say, on ice, your car will stop quicker; this also applies to normal roads, of course. Also, the car will handle much better when the driver has to brake and steer at the same time. Once again, in bad weather conditions, the car will handle much better than when using a conventional braking system.

In any normal driving situation,

such as stopping at traffic lights or at a road junction, the Anti-Lock Braking Systems do not activate, but if you need to brake sharply and suddenly, the Anti-Lock Braking Systems will be activated and assist you in braking more safely.

The Anti-Lock Brake Systems send out pulses of pressure instead of the single pressure that is asserted when braking a normal car. You can actually feel the pulses coming through the brake pedal when you have to exert pressure on the brake pedal in an emergency stop. It’s also crucial to keep in mind that if you do encounter a challenging situation, such as snow or a non-tarmac road, you will still need to slow down because your ABS system won’t be able to assist you.

The main benefit of Anti-Lock Braking Systems is that the driver has full control when braking and steering at the same time, which can help the driver steer away from danger; they prevent the wheel from locking in certain conditions.

Practice your ABS brake system—Anti-Lock Brake Systems

In my experience, it has always been a good idea to take your car and practice with the brakes if you are driving a car fitted with ABS brakes for the first time and get used to the different feel of the brakes when going straight and when steering.

The in-cab ABS warning light may come on if there is a fault with the ABS system or the normal braking system. If the warning light comes on, then you should have the brakes looked at as soon as possible. In our experience it is usually something simple, such as a faulty electrical connection or even that the car needs a set of new pads. You can also find problems with Anti-Lock Brake Systems and other Anti Lock Brake Parts. Once the problem has been found and rectified the ABS warning light can be re-set with a computer.

Also sell Firestone Tyres online from our website www.pellontyres.co.uk. By using the tyre selector and choosing your tyre size. We offer courtesy cars to local motorists who need to go to work. Also an official MOT testing station who carry out checks for high standard of equipment and workmanship.

Steel-Belted Radials

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Steel-belted Radials

Steel-belted Radials
Steel-belted Radials

Steel-belted Radials

What Causes Steel Wires to Protrude Through Tyres? The Unspoken Risk of Degraded Rubber

Despite being one of the most crucial safety features on any car, many drivers ignore their tyres—until something goes wrong. At **Pellon Tyres**, one of the most concerning things we occasionally witness is a customer driving in with tyres so worn out that the **steel wires inside the tyre are peeking through**.

This is extremely risky and might lead to a **catastrophic blowout** if ignored. However, what is the real cause of this? And why, exactly, do steel wires appear in contemporary tyres? Let’s examine it more closely.

Why Are Steel Wires Inside Tyres? Steel-belted Radials

There are layers of **steel wires embedded inside the rubber** in modern tyres, which are known as **steel-belted radial tyres**. By strengthening the tire, these steel belts help it keep its form, withstand punctures, and last longer.

Prior to steel belts, earlier tires were constructed with **cross-ply (bias-ply) construction**, which involved crisscrossing layers of fabric to add strength. However, they made cars feel unsteady at greater speeds, were less stable, and tended to wear out quickly. The industry underwent a revolution when **steel-belted radial tyres** were introduced, enhancing handling, safety, and fuel efficiency.

A Brief Overview of Radial Tyres with Steel Belts- Steel-belted Radials

The first steel-belted radial tyres were created in France by Michelin in **1946**. The French swiftly adopted the new radial technology, while the rest of the world stuck with bias-ply tyres. The advantages were obvious: **radial tyres provided better grip, increased fuel efficiency, and lasted longer**.

Steel-belted radials had become popular among European and Japanese manufacturers by the 1960s. The transition was slower in America, though, mostly because large tyre manufacturers were reluctant to give up their traditional production techniques. Radial tyres **improved fuel economy by lowering rolling resistance**, but they weren’t widely adopted until the oil crisis in the **1970s**.

Nowadays, practically all tires on the road are **steel-belted radials**, demonstrating how durable and successful this design has been.

Steel-belted Radials
Steel-belted Radials

What Leads to Steel Wires Visible Through a Tyre? Steel-belted Radials

Although they strengthen tires, steel belts should **never be visible**! It indicates that the tyre is **totally worn out** or damaged if the wires are visible. These are the most typical reasons:

The outer rubber layers of a tire will gradually **grind away**, revealing the steel belts underlying, if the tire is pushed for an extended period of time after the tread has worn down.
– In actuality, tyres should be replaced before they reach the legally required minimum tread depth of **1.6mm**. They should **never** be driven below that amount.

2. Under-Inflation—There is excessive wear on the edges** of the tread when driving with low tyre pressure.
– The steel belts, which are often found on the tyre’s outer edges, become visible when the rubber wears off more quickly.

3. Excessive inflation—Steel wires protrude in the middle of the tyre due to **severe wear in the centre of the tread** caused by excessive air pressure. Regularly checking tyre pressure and adhering to the manufacturer’s suggested settings are essential.

4. Wheel Alignment Issues—One side of the tire may deteriorate significantly more quickly than the others, exposing the steel.
– This problem can be avoided with a quick **wheel alignment check**.

5. Hard Driving and Burnouts—Aggressive driving techniques, such as strong cornering, abrupt braking, and burnouts, or high-performance vehicles, can quickly wear tires down to the steel belts.
– Owners of sports cars should pay special attention to tyre wear because strong vehicles place **a lot of stress** on the rubber.

6. Driving on a Flat Tyre—When a tyre is **completely flat**, the sidewall may rupture, and steel wires may become visible.
– Never drive on a flat tyre; have it fixed or changed right away.

7. Low-cost or part-worn tyres—Some low-cost tyres **have less tread depth or wear resistance**, which means they might deteriorate to the steel belts considerably more quickly.
– Cheap tyres may seem like a good deal, but their rapid wear and tear might jeopardise safety.

What Takes Place If You Continue to Drive on a Tyre with Steel Wires Visible? Steel-belted Radials

You should **stop driving immediately** if you observe steel wires passing through a tyre. Due to the tyre’s loss of structural integrity, it may:

Experience a total blowout at any time.
Lose grip and make cornering and braking very risky.
Inflict harm on your wheels, suspension, or steering parts.

The significance of **regular tyre checks** is something we continually emphasise at **Pellon Tyres**. Replacing a tyre **before** it reaches this hazardous condition is far preferable to running the risk of an accident.

Concluding Remarks—Pay Attention to Your Tyres!

Though they are **the only thing keeping your car linked to the road**, tyres are frequently disregarded. It’s important to replace them right away if you see steel wires showing through, bald patches, or uneven wear.

If you are uncertain about the condition of your tyres, stop by **Pellon Tyres in Halifax** and let us check them for you. We also provide **free tyre inspections**. We’ll make sure you’re driving safely on the right tires for your car, whether you drive a high-performance sports car, a family SUV, or a small hatchback.

Be careful and **pay attention to your tyres!** 🚗💨

 

Michelin Tyres For Nissan GT Sports

Michelin Tyres For Nissan GT Sports

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Michelin Tyres For Nissan GT Sports

tyre maintenance
Michelin Tyres For Nissan GT Sports

Michelin Tyres For Nissan GT Sports

A near-miss at Pellon Tyres involving a Nissan GT-R sports car with dangerous tyres

An automobile that draws attention occasionally pulls into our garage. It was a gorgeous **Nissan GT-R** this time, a real beast of a vehicle that had stopped in for a routine tyre check. Or so the proprietor believed!

With a reputation for lightning-fast speed and incredibly precise handling, the GT-R is a serious piece of equipment. However, even the world’s greatest sports car is only as good as its **tyres**, and what we discovered was shocking.

Michelin Tyres For Nissan GT Sports
Michelin Tyres For Nissan GT Sports

Steel Wires in Dangerous Tyres Are Revealed!

We soon discovered that two of the tyres were in **a very unsafe state** as we examined the vehicle. The steel wires inside were **poking through** because the rubber was so worn down! For a high-performance vehicle like the GT-R, where grip is crucial, this is a recipe for catastrophe.

When we pointed out the damage, the owner was shocked. Because sports cars like this **put a lot of stress on tyres** and deterioration can begin sooner than expected, he had likely been unaware of how bad they had gotten.

Michelin Tyres For Nissan GT Sports
Michelin Tyres For Nissan GT Sports

Why Do Tires Get Damaged Like This?

A tyre may wear down to the steel belts for a few reasons:

1. Severe Under-Inflation: When tyres are regularly operated at low pressure, the outside edges deteriorate quickly, resulting in **exposed wires** in the sidewall area.
2. Over-Inflation—Conversely, excessively hard tyres may cause the tread’s centre to wear away too soon, leading to similar problems.
3. Aggressive Driving: Although a car such as the Nissan GT-R is built for speed, the rubber will be worn down far more quickly than it would be on a normal vehicle due to **hard acceleration, abrupt turning, and forceful braking**.
4. Incorrect Wheel Alignment: Uneven tyre wear results from improper alignment. This can occur even more quickly in a performance car because of the **high speeds and loads** applied to the tyres.
5. Track Days and Hard Use: Many owners of sports cars take their vehicles to the track for enjoyment, which is fantastic, but if they are not watched, it can **shred tyres in no time**.

In this instance, the tyres were destroyed by a combination of **aggressive driving and under-inflation**. We typically recommend routinely checking the pressures, especially on a car like this one, and the owner acknowledged that he hadn’t done so in a while.

Michelin Tyres For Nissan GT Sports
Michelin Tyres For Nissan GT Sports

Putting on a New Pair of Michelin Tyres-

After removing the hazardous tires, we installed a brand-new pair of **Michelin high-performance tyres**. One of the best options for a vehicle like the GT-R is Michelin, which provides **excellent grip, durability, and handling—exactly what a vehicle with more horsepower** under the hood needs!

We provided the owner some sound advice on **regular pressure checks and tyre maintenance** after fitting, and we checked the alignment to make sure the new tyres would **wear evenly**.

Michelin Tyres For Nissan GT Sports
Michelin Tyres For Nissan GT Sports
A Contented Client Leaving in Safety- Michelin Tyres For Nissan GT Sports

The owner drove off with **a big smile** when everything was resolved, and more significantly, with a car that was safe to drive. Knowing that we have contributed to the maintenance of a high-performance vehicle on the road is always gratifying.

If you drive a sports automobile, pay attention to your tires! For a free inspection, bring your vehicle to **Pellon Tyres in Halifax**. We’ll make sure your tyres are safe and suitable for the road, whether you drive a high-performance vehicle or a daily commuter.

Michelin Tyres For Nissan GT Sports
Michelin Tyres For Nissan GT Sports

Be careful and pay attention to those tyres!

 

 

Exploding battery

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Exploding battery

Exploding battery!
Exploding battery

Exploding battery

You wouldn’t want to encounter the following in your own garage, by the way. This is a classic instance of a battery that has made the decision to waver significantly. Our customer approached us, slightly perturbed, and stated that the battery was defective. I’m willing to wager that this was not their initial intention when they obtained it.

At this moment, we are examining what is commonly referred to as an “exploded” battery

. It is somewhat misleading in that there is no tangible detonation as depicted in films. Quite literally, it appears to have experienced a calamitous internal hissy fit and been unable to hold itself together. This occurs when the internal components, which are intended to be separate and comfortable, determine they no longer prefer to be apart and combine in an, um, less-than-ideal fashion.

It is, however, extremely uncommon;

When it does occur, there are several potential causes. Overcharging is a prevalent factor; consider consuming an excessive amount of food on a daily basis while expecting your trousers to remain in place; something must yield. Alternately, a short circuit may occur, which is analogous to connecting the incorrect ends of a pair of jumper cables by accident; negative sparks will erupt.

This means that our customer,

as well as anyone else in a similar situation, requires a reliable substitute; this is precisely where we enter the picture. We will ensure that they obtain a high-quality battery that meets their requirements, and we will also discuss maintenance tips to prevent them from ever having to observe the internal workings of their battery externally again.

Keep in mind that the battery is the beating core of your vehicle.

Maintain it charged without overcharging it, and it will serve you with the utmost loyalty of a Yorkshire Terrier. Furthermore, should you have any uncertainties, feel free to visit our garage or explore our battery-selling websites. We have the knowledge and equipment necessary to propel you along the winding roads of the United Kingdom.

Solar Storage Batteries

Battery Storage systems

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Battery storage systems

Battery Storage systems
Battery Storage systems

Battery Storage systems

Because of the way that we built our national power plants. Interestingly, in some cases over a hundred years ago. Importantly, will have to change in the future! Of course, to meet our electrical needs. So for the production of solar energy and its distribution. Through our home solar panels collections and solar collection farms. Including the wind turbine installations.

So the original “national grid” plants were originally owned by the government. But in recent times, were privatized here in the UK by the Conservative government. Of course, led by “Margret Thatcher“. These massive coal and gas powered installations distributed power all over the “British Isles“.

Subsequently, many of the power stations were located in coal mining areas of Yorkshire. Importantly, where the coal was transported locally. Resulting in the electricity being sent across the country. Carried on massive power line systems. Then diverted into smaller sub-stations. So, then before distributed to homes and businesses. Of course, usually in an underground power network.

Things are about to change: Battery Storage systems

In recent times we have seen massive investment into the solar energy collecting market. Including, the introduction of new technologies.  Such as wind turbines and solar panel farms that turn the sun and the winds energy into producing electricity. Most people will now have seen these giant turbines across the countryside of most countries.

Technological advances

including battery storage systems will soon mean that things may have to change in the near future. Importantly, for these nationalized electric companies. Increasingly, as the end consumers start to install solar systems to their homes. Including many businesses across the world.

The price of fitting

a solar system to your roof has come down dramatically. mainly because things have become mass produced and affordable. Helping people reduce their electric bills. The only other problem has been that the power produced could not be stored! Until recent years when battery storage systems have become widely available. So, becoming more easily installed using a few simple instructions.

Advantage to isolated communities- Battery Storage systems

This has become of great benefit to cut off people who live in the country. Or in larger countries the “wilderness” . Of course,who are now able to make the production of electricity.  Storing it for the night use when the sun goes down. This can also lower the cost of their energy . Consequently, which has gradually become one of the most expensive household items in recent years.

Interestingly, I have electricity-collecting panels on my roof.

Selling the electricity back to my provider. Thus reducing my electric bills by half. Here in the UK, we are limited to the number of solar panels to one roof. For this reason, I don’t think that we are allowed to be self-sufficient. Of course, by producing all our own electricity. However, some countries are different. Such as the USA, where consumers can go their own way.

In many people’s opinions, the day is not too far away when our roof panels will generate electricity, which will be stored in a battery storage system. The householder will own an electric car, and along with powering the rest of the house, the battery bank will also charge your car battery at night, making you totally self-sufficient in electric power.

As I have said this is a perfect scenario for the perfect little houses in a perfect little village, but what about the rest of the population who live in multiple units and don’t even have their own roofs? Could we be looking at communal units of solar panels and storing the electricity in a battery bank, or is that a dream?

Island communities go solar-sufficient- Battery Storage systems

Perhaps not, because I have heard of some island communities that have become self-sufficient by using this method. The batteries are packed into a 20-foot cargo container, and the battery Storage systems will store electricity to be used at night. This also eliminated power failures due to storms and broken cables causing outages. The sun-reliant system was fitted using up-to-date technology and now works perfectly, leaving the island self-sufficient by using the sun’s energy and storing it in batteries.

My interest in all this is

that I sell solar storage batteries. Subsequently, I am very interested in the whole sun collection project. I cannot see the end of the national grid model! But alterations are going to have to be made in future. So, to accommodate the public’s wishes to produce their own electric power on their own premises,. Neither do we know what new future technologies will be available. Especially for collecting the sun’s power. Significant ideas are coming along all the time.

There is one thing for sure that governments are going to have to face:. Give this greenhouse gas  problem much thought in the years ahead. Of how we use the power of our sun in years to come.

suzuki-swift-tyre-check

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suzuki-swift-tyre-check

suzuki-swift-tyre-check
suzuki-swift-tyre-check

suzuki-swift-tyre-check

Suzuki Swift Tyres and Halifax’s Early Winter Rush – A Busy Start to the Week at Pellon Tyres

Monday 17th November turned out just as we expected here at Pellon Tyre & Autocentre — absolutely heaving from the moment we opened the shutters. As soon as the weekend’s weather forecast mentioned the chance of snowfall later in the week, the phones started ringing and the forecourt soon filled up with drivers wanting checks, winter tyres, and quick advice before the cold snap settles in.

To be fair, anyone who lives around Halifax, especially up the hills towards Mount Tabor, Wainstalls, Mixenden, or Queensbury, knows exactly why people take these warnings seriously. We’re perched right on the edge of the Pennines, and that means winter arrives here earlier than it does for much of the country. You can have bright sunshine down in Brighouse or Elland, while we’re brushing snow off the forecourt up here at Pellon Lane. It’s the price we pay for living in such a cracking bit of Yorkshire — stunning scenery, but hills that love to surprise us!

suzuki-swift-tyre-check
suzuki-swift-tyre-check

A Suzuki Swift in for a Free Tyre Check

One of the first visitors of the day was a lovely lady who called in with her Suzuki Swift tyre check. With the cold weather looming, she wanted peace of mind, and that’s exactly what our free checks are for. The work was carried out by Ben, our latest recruit and a cracking lad. He’s already proving himself to be a proper asset to the team — steady hands, sharp eyes, and plenty of confidence for someone new to the trade.

Ben soon spotted that two of the tyres were below the legal limit, and because the Swift is a light little car, good tread depth makes a massive difference to grip, especially in wet or snowy conditions. He also noticed the alignment was slightly out — hardly unusual given the potholes we dodge every day in Calderdale!

We talked her through her options, and she chose two 185/55×16 RoadX tyres, which are excellent value and ideal for everyday driving around Halifax’s hills and bends. Once fitted and aligned, the car was good to go — safe, steady, and ready for whatever winter throws our way this week.

suzuki-swift-tyre-check
suzuki-swift-tyre-check

Why Early Winters Matter for Tyre Safety: suzuki-swift-tyre-check

Anyone who’s lived up here long enough will remember winters like 2010, 2013, and even the big freeze of the mid-80s, when Halifax and the surrounding villages were blanketed for weeks. The cold settles in fast on our high ground, and once the wind blows in across the Pennines, it turns wet roads icy in no time. Good tyres aren’t a luxury in this part of Yorkshire — they’re genuinely essential.

That’s why we always see a big burst of activity after the first whisper of snow. Drivers who live up steep roads such as Claremount, Norton Tower, or Boothtown know how easily a bit of snow turns into a sliding session if tyres are worn. It’s the same story every year: the forecast comes out, everyone remembers last winter, and suddenly Monday morning is full to the brim!

A Bit of Suzuki Swift History—With a Local Touch

The Suzuki Swift has become a familiar sight on Halifax roads over the years. First introduced in the UK during the 1980s, it quickly built a reputation as a small, reliable, no-nonsense little car — perfect for nipping up and down the steep streets of the upper Calder Valley. Plenty of first-time drivers in Halifax have cut their teeth on a Swift because they’re cheap to run, easy to insure, and surprisingly tough for a small hatchback.

By the early 2000s, the Swift gained more modern styling and better handling, winning fans across Yorkshire. It became popular with commuters heading along the A629, students travelling between Halifax and Huddersfield, and families who needed something compact enough for town but nippy enough for our twisty country lanes.

We’ve seen hundreds of them through our doors over the years — from older models needing exhausts and brakes to brand-new ones in for winter tyres. They’re dependable little cars, and with good tyres on, they handle our hilly Halifax roads far better than you might think.

suzuki-swift-tyre-check
suzuki-swift-tyre-check

Keeping Halifax Drivers Safe This Winter

So as winter sets in—early, as usual—it’s a good reminder for drivers around Halifax, Sowerby Bridge, Luddenden, and beyond to get their tyres checked. A quick look at tread depth can prevent a nasty skid, especially when the temperature drops below freezing.

You can always call in to us for a free tyre check; no appointment is needed. We’ll make sure your tyres, pressures, and tread are safe for the season — and if you want winter tyres or all-weather options, we’ve plenty in stock.

Oil Filter Collapse

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Oil Filter Collapse

Oil Filter Collapse
Oil Filter Collapse

Oil Filter Collapse

The Value of Routine Maintenance: A Peugeot Partner Case Study from Halifax’s Pellon Tyres

We recently had a Peugeot Partner vehicle come in for a standard service at Pellon Tyres in Halifax. As part of our routine inspections, we removed the oil filter and found it in terrible condition—old, worn out, and clearly beyond its time for a change. This incident is a clear reminder of the importance of routine maintenance for all vehicles, but particularly for dependable vans like the Peugeot Partner.

What Causes Oil Filters to Degrade? Oil Filter Collapse

Because they capture dirt, debris, and metal particles that naturally build up in engine oil over time, oil filters are essential to maintaining the engine’s cleanliness. A car may have a number of issues if its oil is not changed for an extended period of time.

Clogging: The filter gets clogged when impurities build up, which lowers the engine’s oil flow. Increased friction and wear on important parts may result from this.

Filter Material Breakdown: The paper component of the filter may degrade over time, letting unfiltered oil flow through the engine and causing more contaminants.

Oil Degradation: Without frequent replacement, oil loses its lubricating qualities and becomes a viscous sludge that further impedes oil flow and increases the risk of engine damage or overheating.

Neglecting Oil Changes and Its Effects: Oil Filter Collapse

Given the Peugeot Partner’s degraded and outdated filter, it appeared that the car had outlived its stated servicing interval. The engine must work harder when filters and oil aren’t changed on time, which might result in:

Fuel consumption rises as a result of the engine’s decreased efficiency due to dirty oil.

Increased wear and tear: Unfiltered impurities hasten engine deterioration, which may necessitate expensive repairs.

Possible malfunctions: In severe situations, a blocked filter may potentially result in total engine failure.

The Local Aspect: Driving Conditions in Halifax Are Important- Oil Filter Collapse

Vehicles frequently encounter difficult driving conditions in Halifax, including steep hills and stop-start traffic. Because of the additional pressure these conditions place on the engine, routine maintenance is even more crucial. Vans like the Peugeot Partner are essential to businesses that depend on them in order to prevent unplanned downtime.

Avoid Skipping Your Service—It Will Pay Off! Oil Filter Collapse

We at Pellon Tyres consistently emphasise the value of regular maintenance, particularly for commercial vehicles with significant mileage. Maintaining regular oil and filter changes helps your car stay dependable and fuel-efficient while also extending the life of your engine.

Now is the perfect time to schedule a service if you have been putting it off or are unaware of when your last one was. Regular oil filter maintenance is a minor investment that may save you a lot of money over time. Don’t let a neglected oil filter lead to expensive repairs.

Come see us at Pellon Tyres in Halifax for skilled maintenance and knowledgeable guidance. We’ll make sure your car remains in excellent condition and prepared for anything the roads may bring!

car brakes problem

Brake Juddering Causes: What is it?

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Brake Juddering Causes

Brake Juddering Causes
Braking Problems Highlighted

Brake Juddering Causes

Foot pedal vibrations lead to the brake juddering experience

So, one of the first signs of Brake Juddering Causes. Firstly, you can feel a vibration coming through your foot pedal. Secondly, when you press the clutch pedal,. So, brake and stop your car. Some of our customers say that it was a long drawn-out process. Eventually, though, the brake began to get worse. Including the vibrations starting to come through the steering wheel.

Unfortunately, some of our customers think-Brake Juddering Causes

that the vibration is a wheel balancing problem! We also have to check out the problem with a correct diagnosis. However, a braking problem will usually come through the brake pedal. So then this is a sure sign of a brake problem.

Unfortunately, one of the main causes of brake jerks comes from elderly drivers. Significantly, they always cover the brake pedal with their right foot. This applies to manual gear changes or automatic; they are what I call “ride the brake” Some drivers also do this with the clutch, but that’s a different article to cover.

What happens if you ride the brake? Well, one of the problems is that you are applying extra pressure to the brake pads that are constantly in contact with the brake discs (brake rotors in the USA). These in turn heat the discs, and the discs then warp and go out of shape.

Brake juddering is a bigger problem in hilly areas

In my opinion, though, driver fault is not the main reason for warped brake discs. I think that the main cause is the terrain. We here in Halifax are in a hilly area, and we get a high occurrence of warped brake discs and brake juddering faults from our customers.

In areas where there are very steep inclines, drivers are more likely to keep their foot on the brakes. Some of the hills in the Hebden Bridge area are like alpine passes with 180-degree bends to contend with. When you come down these roads, you have to keep the car in low gear and be prepared for a vehicle coming up the hill without braking all the time.

This constant braking is what overheats the discs and causes them to warp and vibrate, giving your brake pedal. Some garages have a machine that will skim the brakes and stop the vibrating, but I think that once they have overheating, they do not work to their full potential, and a new set of pads and discs is the best option.

Brake Juddering Causes

Improved brake technology-Brake Juddering Causes

Over the years, car manufacturers have brought in new technology to balance out the disc overheating problem and try to eliminate the brake jerks. Including different metals that can stand more heat and also the disc parts

that now come out with holes drilled in the metal at calculated intervals for heat dispersal. This can work very well; you can see brake discs actually glowing red hot on some motorsport cars when they have to brake very often at high speed; some can be seen to be glowing white hot in the dark.

This has the same effect as a regular car driven by a regular driver. So, try to avoid heavy braking, especially at high speed.  Keep your distance, and try not to brake heavily. When you are driving down a steep hill, use a low gear and use the car’s engine as a brake. Try not to press the brake pedal constantly.

Have your brakes inspected at regular intervals-Brake Juddering Causes

when the car is serviced. Of course, the garage will pick up any worn discs or pads. Importantly, we can even spot a disc that has been overheated in the past.  Because the disc has a blue-colored sheen on it. Remember, like many other things to do with a car, prevention is better than cure.

Pellon Tyre and Auto-centre offer car and van servicing and Car Brake Repairs to all makes of vehicles.

Nissan Navara Clutch replacement

Fiat Punto Clutch problems

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Fiat Punto Clutch problems

Fiat Punto Clutch problems
Fiat Punto Clutch problems

Fiat Punto Clutch problems 

So, recently, we have noticed that we have done more than our fair share of clutches. Especially on the Fiat Punto model of car. Interestingly, I decided to do a little research. Finding some real horror stories. Subsequently, going back to the 2002 Punto models.

One unlucky customer was in for a car service. The owner of a “52” plate Punto 8 valve version. He complained to me about several problems that he had encountered. Including a very bad transmission judder and other small irritants. Unpleasant things, such as engine noises and various oil leaks,. Recently, he had just had a clutch fitted! But 1400 miles later, the juddering had returned.

Checked out his car on Fiat forums: Fiat Punto Clutch problems 

Inquisitively, he too looked up the Fiat forums. Noticing the number of Fiat owners who were experiencing various clutch problems on their Punto’s. So, the cars came mainly from the main dealers. Coming from different parts of the country. However, it looked as though Fiat knew about the problem. Subsequently, I did little about the Punto problem.

Interestingly, other Fiat owners were experiencing problems. Especially with a low-biting clutch pedal and rattling noises. Increasingly, when changing gears,. It sounded as if there was a broken spring rattling.

This can be a common sign that you have a clutch that needs changing.

But disgruntled customers did not get much joy from Fiat. Indeed, many Fiat drivers opted to have their clutches changed by an independent garage. In some cases, a mechanically minded friend or relative was called in to help ?

Other owners complained about their  pedals becoming hard when pressing to change gear. This then developed into them hearing scratching and clicking noises coming from the pedal area of the car. Once again, this is a sure sign that you need a replacement In fact, this is similar to the latest customer car that we fitted a new clutch to the other weekend, and sure enough, when we stripped it down, the Punto needed a new clutch.

Fiat Punto clutch went again after only 2 weeks: Fiat Punto Clutch problems 

Thank goodness the one that we did the other week was good, and the car ran well after we fitted it with a new clutch, but for some owners, that was not the case. One unlucky gut had recently had a new clutch fitted, only to find that a few weeks later, the same problems had come back to haunt him.

The car had also had a new clutch pedal fitted, but after a few weeks, it once again became difficult to change gear, back to the same problem as the pre-new clutch?

The problem turned out to be Fiat Punto Clutch problems ,

with the clutch bleeding. The mechanic who repaired the car did not know how to bleed the clutch because the Punto’s do not have a normal bleeding nipple system as do many other models of cars, and for some reason some air had entered the fluid system of the clutch, making it difficult to change the gears again.

Fiat Punto Clutch problems 
These Fiat Punto Clutch problems were corrected by the garage.

Who had just fitted the new clutch, and the mistake was just put down to a lack of Fiat Punto experience. So, this can very often happen in a garage that repairs mixed makes of cars.

Going back to the Fiat Punto Clutch problems, in my garage. Well, it was only the second clutch that this particular car had fitted since 2004 (ten years), so I do not think that that was at all bad.

The job of fitting a Fiat Punto clutch is one of the easiest to do, and the car was back on the road in a couple of hours. The customer was delighted, and off he went, a few hundred pounds lighter, but happy?

Pellon Tyre and Auto-Centre offer car and van servicing and repairs to all makes of vehicles. We are not now members of Unipart Car Care centres and give a nationwide guarantee for all our work and parts.