MOT Test Combined with Car Servicing

MOT Testing Halifax area: Dont GO To Your Local Council

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MOT Testing Halifax area

MOT Testing Halifax area
MOT Testing Halifax area

MOT Testing Halifax area

MOT Testing Why You Should avoid Your Local Council

So, I am now the owner of my garage, Pellon Tyre, and Autocentre, which have been operating for over 40 years. As a result, I have tried to build up a reputation that is second to none. Over the years, we have built up a fantastic reputation and trust.

We have always been straight and honest with our customers. Hence, I personally have been the owner of this garage here in Halifax. For the past 25 years,. In that time, we have carried out thousands of MOT tests. Of course, we have always used our best discretion. Carrying out MOT testing. Having always had the customer’s best interests at heart.

Over the years, we have only had one small dispute with a customer. Subsequently, that was the fault of our tester at the time. Replacing him as soon as we could. Thus, at the moment, we only have two testers. Ryan Linton, who, in my opinion, is a first class mechanic,. Naturally, a person, and has worked for me for 22 years. We now have a second tester, Mr. Dale Linton.

The point that I am getting at is the massive effort that we at Pellon have put into our garage and MOT testing service, MOT Testing Halifax area

This was, in my opinion, undermined. So, when I heard a guy being interviewed on Radio 2. This presenter was from a website telling us how we can save money. Advising the listeners to go to the local councils. Thus, for their car MOT testing,. Because if they went there,.

Then they would not be taken for a ride or ripped off. Consequently, he was basically saying that MOT centres are vehicle testing stations. So those who carry out MOT testing fail the cars intentionally. In order to give themselves the work of repairing the car.

This could not be further from the truth. VOSA DVLA MOT Testing Rules statistics. Show that privately owned testing stations. As a result, you are more likely to pass the car than fail the car. The money website claims that the local council runs testing stations.

Therefore, they are more likely to pass your car than a private garage. Such as the  likes of my own garage in Halifax. So what they are saying is we are corrupt. By failing cars just to get the mechanical work.

Local Council want private MOT Testing stations to test taxis? MOT Testing Halifax area

Other things that I am not happy with are the good reviews that they say they have had from customers of the local council testing stations. One says that they fitted a light bulb and then they passed the car, the council test stations do not do any mechanical work whatsoever, so this was porky.

Another one stated that his car had failed at a private garage and the car needed £400 spent on it to pass the test, so the guy took his car to the council test station, and they passed it without any problems.

I frankly do not believe what they say, I agree that we are not all squeaky clean in the garage trade, but we are well regulated by VOSA, and if the figures for different failures do not look right, then VOSA will give you a visit and try to see whats going on.

Council testing stations used to charge the full going rate for MOT Testing, MOT Testing Halifax area

But I rang around today and found out that they have now started to discount the tests, I think that they are under pressure to do more testing from the cash strapped councils. In fact, we did get a notification asking us if we would like to carry out testing on behalf of the council, but I declined the offer as we are busy enough anyway.

Another problem with the local council test stations is that if your car fails, then you have to go to a garage for the work to be carried out, and then they have to go back to the council for a re-test. This is a long way around when a private garage will, in most cases, have done the work on the car the same day, saving the customer time and money.

MOT testing station owner Eric Roberts . MOT Testing Halifax area

There is no evidence at all to back up the money website’s claims. Fundamentally, there are no statistics from VOSA showing that MOT testing stations carry out repair work. So, more cars fail than council-run MOT testing stations.

It is really clear that going to a MOT only testing station. Such as the council’s operations. Is likely to incur considerable cost and personnel inconvenience. Especially if the car fails on a minor fault, such as a light bulb, and has to make another appointment for a re-test.

VOSA is the government department in charge of MOT testing. Importantly, we are always watching out for garages. bad practices and make regular visits to offending garages. MOT garages are also given colour codes that relate to their testing standards. Green is the best, then Amber, and the worst standard is Red.

So, these are the ones that the ministry keeps a careful eye on. It is worth finding out what standard of the testing station is, before you book your car in. I am proud to say that we at Pellon Autocentre are in the best lane, the green lane.

MOT testing station

Pellon Tyre and Autocentre offer car and van servicing and repairs to all makes of vehicles. MOT Testing Halifax area

Comment from Jim McMasters –

As the owner of an older car I have been tempted to use the Council test stations. This year I had two MOT tests by two different independent garages. Garage No 1 failed the car on rear brake pipes and front and rear brake hoses with both front suspension bushes advisory – cost of repairs £344 inc MOT.

Garage No 2 failed the car on front and rear brake pipes and the suspension bushes and said the brake hoses were advisory with mild corrosion on the ferrules and discoloration of rear indicator bulbs which had been replaced by Garage No1 the year before – cost of repairs £601 inc MOT.

The only thing that puts me off using the Council testing stations is that if you fail you then have to fend around for someone to fix the car within the retest period which takes time and I’ve found some garages don’t want to do brake pipe jobs if they are busy with bolt on type repairs. So I think you make a fair point in favour of the independent garage for practical purposes but as my example shows, there is a lack of consistency with garages both in testing and pricing.

Bridgestone Concept Tyres

Type of Tyres- a Woman’s Guide to help increase tyre knowledge for safer driving

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Type of Tyres

A Women’s guide about tyres and helpful tips

Not all Type of Tyres are created equal. Yes they are all round- at least they should be if they are in good condition. But there are a variety of Type of Tyres for a variety of uses, situations and road conditions. So before you buy just any tyre, buckle up and listen up and learn a little more  about tyres for your car and safety.

Summer  Tyres

These are the standard type of tyres that are supplied on most vehicles when we purchase them. They are all Type of Tyres that can handle well in both average wet and dry conditions. The water channels that you see in the tread area of the tyres allow for normal traction (meaning they grip the road in normal summer weather) during rainy weather they can cope with average type rain fall and the spray that is associated with this.They are the average Type of Tyres for normal weather conditions. This type of  tyres will be on the car when you buy a new one.

All Terrain and Off Road Type of Tyres

If you’re a woman who likes to use her vehicle for off road driving regularly. These would be the tyre for you. These are usually fitted onto mostly SUVs and light trucks. Of course, such as Land Rovers. About tyres explains the fact that sidewalls of these types of tyres are stronger than the summer tyres. Featuring large tread block patterns that deflects mud and slush from the contact patch. Improving grip on loose sand or gravel. Hence, when you go on your off road excursions. The best type of scenario for these type of tyres, would be one that the farmers wife may use.

Winter Tyres

If you are in an area with chilly climes with snow and ice and low temperatures. So, winter tyres would be your best friend. These will ensure more traction on snow and ice. The main difference between all season tyres and winter tyres is in the type of rubber that is used. Winter tyres would need to grip the ground more to keep the vehicle in control so the rubber that is used is mixed with silica. These type of tyres keep flexible at low temperatures enabling the tyre tread to grip in the cold conditions and are used during winter conditions.

So when should I change my tyres?

There are several things to note that would indicate that it is time to replace your tyres. Here are the most easily observed ones:

•  Tyre tread– The pattern that you see on your wheels is called the tread. Its primary function is to divert water from beneath the tyre to improve traction and maintain smooth handling. If your tyre tread has been worn down to 1.6 mm or less, it can no longer perform this function effectively and this could cause the car to skid on wet surfaces and cause hydroplaning, where your  car loses and control and can cause a crash. For safety reasons, it is recommended that you change your tires at a tread depth of 3 mm.

 Tread wear- Observe how the wear on your Type of Tyres look. The pattern of the tread wears can also indicate other problems which may have caused them such as under inflation, which can cause wear on the outer edges of the tread and leave the central tread area less worn.

While knowing when to replace a tyre is good stock knowledge to have at your disposal, the best authority to determine whether your tyres need replacing would be an expert tyre dealer. A dealer who would have the experience of the use of a variety of tyres across a variety of brands on a variety of car models.

car brakes problem

Mercedes Vito Brakes Job Turns up Horror Shock Absorber

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Mercedes Vito Brakes

So, I must admit that I am a great fan of the Vito van. Because, a few years ago then I owned a beautiful red Mercedes mini-bus. Fortunately,  the vehicle was very reliable. Requiring very little maintenance apart from the normal servicing and the usual tyres and other renewable. As most of my readers now know then my wife and I had eight children. So we needed a large vehicle to transport the family about.

We also did much travelling! Especially, to France, where we spent most of our summer holidays. Unfortunately, the only downside came when we tried to sell the Vito. Positively, it was in great condition. Being a garage owner, then we had the van service at very regular intervals. Brakes were a prime consideration. Because the safety factor when travelling long distances.

So, we advertised the van in all the usual places. Including online web sites. Finally we received an offer from a taxi guy from Chester. The price he offered was below the price that we were asking but we reluctantly let the Vito go.

Same colour Vito in for Brakes

Last week when visiting the garage in Halifax . So, I noticed a red Vito on one of the ramps having some work done. Significantly, the rear wheel were removed and the brake calipers were hanging down. Dale one of my mechanics was working on the van at the time. Asking what was wrong , Dale explained that the van had braking problems and indeed required a full brake rebuild on the rear brakes.

However when removing the rear wheels then Dale discovered an horrific problem ! The rear shock-absorber had completely broke off and was just hanging there! This can be clearly seen in the above image. Unfortunately, the break was from part of the chassis. Serious rotting had taken place in the shocker mounting area. Welding was not an option ! So, to correct this problem then a complete new chassis box section would have to be engineered. Consequently, this is above our remit and would have to be done by a specialist body repair shop.

After contacting the customer we were instructed to carry on with the Mercedes Vito Brakes. As a foot note the customer said that he had never any banging or strange noises at all. I find this hard to believe with a shocker hanging down ?

First Time Drivers Guide: What To Look For In Your First Car

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First Time Drivers Guide: What To Look For In Your First Car

First Time Drivers Guide

First Time Drivers Guide: What To Look For In Your First Car

Getting on the road to purchasing your first car is both exhilarating and a little scary. As a first-time driver, it’s essential to equip yourself with knowledge about the automotive world. Start by understanding the type of car that suits your needs—are you looking for a compact city car or something more spacious?
You need to familiarise yourself with basic car terminologies, from horsepower to fuel efficiency. Research the most common makes and models in your price range, and consider factors like maintenance costs and reliability. By grasping these basics, you’ll be better prepared to make an informed decision and enjoy a smoother buying experience.

Trusting Dealerships For Great Deals

The key to a successful purchase lies in identifying dealerships with a strong reputation. Start by seeking recommendations from friends and family, as personal experiences often provide the most genuine insights. Online reviews and ratings can also offer a glimpse into a dealership’s credibility and customer service.
service. Dunwell Motor Group in Ipswich is a prime example of a reputable used car dealership, and their selection of nearly new Hondas in Ipswich are all perfect first cars for new drivers.

When considering nearly new cars, it’s crucial to find dealers that offer comprehensive vehicle histories, ensuring the car hasn’t been involved in any major accidents or faced significant issues. Additionally, reputable dealers often provide warranties or guarantees, giving you added peace of mind.

Remember, while great deals are enticing, they shouldn’t compromise the car’s quality or safety. By prioritising trustworthiness and transparency in dealerships, you’ll not only secure a fantastic deal but also invest in a vehicle that serves you reliably for years to come.

Budgeting For Your First Car; First Time Drivers Guide

Stepping into the world of car ownership requires careful financial planning. As a first-time driver, it’s crucial to set a realistic budget that encompasses not just the upfront cost of the car but also ongoing expenses like maintenance, fuel, and insurance. Begin by determining how much you can comfortably spend.
afford without straining your finances.

Consider factors like monthly income, savings, and other financial commitments. It’s also wise to allocate a portion of your budget for unexpected repairs or servicing. When exploring financing options, be wary of deals that seem too good to be true; always read the fine print and understand the terms.

Remember, the most expensive car within your budget might not always be the best choice. Prioritise reliability, fuel efficiency, and low maintenance costs. By setting a well-thought-out budget and sticking to it, you’ll ensure a smooth and financially sound transition into car ownership.

The Rising Cost Of Car Insurance; First Time Drivers Guide

Car insurance is an indispensable aspect of vehicle ownership, offering protection against unforeseen mishaps. However, in recent times, the UK has witnessed a surge in insurance premiums.

According to the Association of British Insurers (ABI), the average annual private car insurance premium escalated by 7% between April and June 2023, reaching £511. This marked a significant 21% increase from the average premium in the second quarter of 2022.

Several factors contribute to this rise, including the escalating costs of repair work, influenced by the increasing prices of paint and materials.

Additionally, the average premium for drivers renewing their coverage saw an uptick, while those on new policies experienced a more modest increase.

It’s essential for drivers, especially first-timers, to be aware of these trends, shop around for competitive rates, and consider factors beyond just the premium cost, such as coverage extent, to ensure comprehensive
protection. From understanding the basics to navigating insurance premiums, being well-informed ensures a seamless experience. Prioritise safety, budget wisely, and choose reputable dealerships.

As you embark on this exciting chapter, let these insights guide you to a wise and rewarding decision. safety code for new drivers, learning to drive, insurance as a firsttime driver, ultimate guide for new drivers.

mot testing and car servicing

Car Servicing under Warranty-Do You Have to Have Your Servicing Done By the Main Dealer ?

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Car Servicing under Warranty

Your car servicing can be carried out when the car is  under the manufactures warranty

So, as a garage owner of long standing ! This is a question that I am always asked. Albeit too late to benefit my garage. Of course, when customers come to us for say a tyre fitting. Naturally, then they sometimes ask us what the price of a service would be for their car. Some customers then say that we can’t do the car  servicing ! Because the car is under the manufacturer’s warranty. Subsequently, they must take their cars to the main dealer (franchise garage).

This ruling was brought out in the European Union (EU) in 2010 .  As an update to previous legislation. Consequently, this is similar to the American version of “Right to repair act”. It was brought up to date to prevent the car manufacturers from protectionism. Including, diverting the cars that they made to their franchise dealers. Thus not allowing any work to be passed onto the independent garage sector. While the vehicle was still under warranty. This also would have included Prestige Car Servicing. Giving the main dealer garages the monopoly for all the work. Whilst the car was still in the warranty period.

This was not acceptable to the EU.

So, as car repair bills were then accounting for 40% of running and owning a family auto. Unfortunately, the costs were going to rise in future years. In my opinion this legislation was not very well publicized. Because the general public do not know much about the fact that you can take your vehicle to a reputable independent garage. Finally, even if the car is still under the makers warranty scheme.

More reading…European Union Auto legislation

Car owners are still told that they must return their cars to the franchise dealers for servicing. Including out of warranty repair work. Including, such things as brake pad replacements and other wear and tear items. Tragically, or else if they don’t it will affect their cars warranty. This is simply NOT TRUE?

A couple of my customers have told me recently that this is what the salesman had told them, when they had bought their new vehicle. One was a guy with a BMW, who told him that the car

had to be serviced by the BMW garage to keep the cars warranty. Another woman customer had bought an Audi TT from the local Audi franchise and they told her the same. I am not sure if it is a lack of knowledge by the car salesman, but I suspect that they must be trained to say these things.

The EU legislation states that all car makers

So, have to offer the least, a two year unlimited mileage warranty on all their cars. This starts from the day the car is first registered. These car sales people should know the law and I am sure the same thing is applicable in the USA, as I stated under their “right to repair laws”. The two year minimum warranty ruling also applies if the car changes ownership within the warranty period.

The 2010 EU ruling along with previous legislation has been around for quite a while now and all franchise garages know that you cannot force a new car buyer to return the car for all its car servicing or brake work.  Enabling the car to retain its warranty. The only stipulation is that the independent garage that is carrying out the service should carry out the work according to the cars manufacturing service manual and also use service parts of the same quality as the original equipment fitted the vehicle.

One that may be recommended by your family or friends. If possible look out for a garage that is one of the “good garage schemes”. My garage is a member of one of these schemes and you may think that I am blowing my own trumpet.

But in my opinion ! Standards are high and customer care is a priority at most of these regulated garages. I must stress though, that if a part is found to be faulty . Then the franchise dealer has the right to repair the van under the terms of the car warranty. In my opinion this entirely fair and reasonable. Because it will the manufacturer who will be paying for the faulty parts being repaired. Consequently, they need to have proper procedures in place and a correct paper chase

This post does not cover warranties that are sold by a third party. Including, extended warranties offered by the garage that have sold the car. So, my advice is to be careful with that situation. Some of these other types of warranties that are not under the regulations covering the manufacturer’s warranties may require you to have your car serviced at the dealership where the van was bought.

We recently had this type of problem with a car that had a worn out clutch.

The lady customer brought the car to us for a new clutch fitting. Unfortunately, and did not tell us that the car was still under warranty. She genuinely thought that she did not have to pay for the clutch fitting. Unknowingly, and that we could claim the money back from the car manufacturers. After a long argument and many phone calls to the main dealer she finally paid us for her clutch fitting and went away a very confused and disgruntled lady, never to be seen again.

This was a perfect case of the car owners, not knowing about their cars warranty procedures.

“Under EU law, you may invoke your guarantee at any dealer in the manufacturer’s network, regardless of the EU country in which you bought the car. So if you buy your car in Germany and take it back with you to France. So, you go to a car dealership for that make of car close to your home to ask for a manufacturing fault to be remedied (within the guarantee period), rather than travelling back to Germany”…http://europa.eu/youreurope/citizens/vehicles/cars/faq/index_en.htm 

car brakes problem

Jaguar XF Brake Problems: Hub Rusting the Main Culprit?

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Jaguar XF Brake Problems

Jaguar XF Brake Problems
Jaguar XF Brake Problems

Jaguar XF Brake Problems

We are fortunate to have a few of our customers who own a Jaguar XF.

So, like most older guys, I have always been a keen fan of Jaguar cars. Going back to when I was a young man working in a garage as an apprentice mechanic,. We were fortunate enough to have some wealthy customers. Importantly, who could afford to buy new Jaguars from time to time.

One of them was one of the directors of the Fox’s biscuits empire. Hence, who was one of the Fox families. Luckily, he always had four or five new cars on the go at once. Consequently,who always kept us busy with the servicing and repairs.

Jaguars have always appeared to have brake or tyre problems. So, throughout their history,. I can remember when, in the late 1960s, the new  XJ4 came onto the market. This car sported wonderful flared arches. Including new 6×15-inch wheels that were fitted out with a new tyre from Dunlop Tyres. Subsequently, the tyre size was ER70VR15.

These  tyres were especially designed for Jaguars by Dunlop. Jaguar XF Brake Problems

Dunlop was developing tyres with Jaguar engineers. Who at that time was a major force in the UK tyre market? Importantly, this car also came out with disc brakes all around.

I always remember the problems that the XJ4’s were having with vibrations. Annoyingly, coming through brakes and the steering wheels. Firstly, it turned out that one of the problems was engine vibrations. So, Jaguar engineers tried out many things. Of course to try and correct the problems.

I then worked for National Tyre Service, which Dunlop owned entirely. It was our task to try to balance the wheels to our best ability. But in those days, we did not have the sophisticated electronic equipment that we use in today’s cars. In fact, we had to take the cars to the Dunlop garage in Leeds. Strangely, at the time, this was done in secrecy.  Because of the huge problem that Jaguar was having with these vibration problems.

I was once able to stop and watch the engineers go to work balancing the wheels. Jaguar XF Brake Problems

The balancing was carried out on a special machine that I had never seen before.  It must have been brought to Leeds from the Dunlop factory. The most amazing thing was that the Dunlop technician actually skimmed some of the tread off the tyres. Trying to make them

rounder. I certainly know that all this was hush-hush. Incredibly, so not to affect the reputation of Jaguar and also Dunlop. I believe that Jaguar had to do all sorts of things to correct the vibrations problem !  An excellent article about the early Jags can be found on…Aronline .

Back To the future with the Jaguar XF. Jaguar XF Brake Problems

As I have said before,!  We have three or four customers that come to us for servicing. Including other jobs done on their Jaguar XF. We have had a couple of these with complaints about brake vibrations and a droning noise. One of our customers came in with brake problems similar to the others.

This one was a bit different in that the problem  did not occur  when he was doing high speed ,the car was smooth, but when he started to slow down to about  60 mph and then 40 mph the vibration and droning noise would start to happen.

The problem is, like so many of these things, that when we road test the cars the problem never shows itself up, the car plays mind games with the owners. This particular car was taken back to the main dealers, but we now know that the braking and droning noise is now a recognised fault, the cause is thought to be the disc brakes or hub run out.

Another Jaguar XF that we were servicing was found to need discs and pads all round.

We contacted the customer, who kindly gave us the go-ahead to do the job. He gave us his consent, and we carried out the brake work. About three months later, the car had developed a slight brake vibration, and he left the car with us for examination. This all reminded me of our problems with the XJ6 and Jags in the 1960s.

We road tested the car, and sure enough, the brake pedal did vibrate slightly. We could find nothing wrong, and true to our warranty policy we suspected that the discs could be faulty and  ordered a new set of discs.

Our supplier agreed to change the discs and accordingly sent us a new set. The New Jaguar XF discs fit onto the hub and we noticed that a slight amount of rust had formed on the outer part of the hub; this can be seen on the pictures that we took.

We think that we cured a previous Jaguar XF by removing any rust and thoroughly cleaning the hubs

Of course, before refitting the brakes discs. When we did this on this particular Jag, it appeared to solve the problem. So, we cleaned off any rust that had formed on the hub. Thus, we re-seated the discs and re-fitted the replacement discs. Ryan Road tested the car, and all was well. The car had no brake vibrations, and so far, it appears to be working fine.

We now think that this could be a problem if you are lucky enough to own one of these fine cars. Please make sure that the hubs where the discs fit are totally cleaned and look like new, because any rust build up will cause the disc to run out of line, only a fraction, but we feel it would be enough to cause a brake vibration on the Jaguar XF when the pedal is applied.

Eric Roberts

Nissan Navara Clutch replacement

Ford Focus Clutch: Diesel TDi 2004—with Clutch Problems.

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Ford Focus Clutch

Ford Focus Clutch
Ford Focus Clutch

Ford Focus Clutch

So, over recent years, I seem to have had a run of cars with clutch problems. Consequently, that has been brought into my garage, Pellon-Autocentre, here in Halifax, UK. I think that most garages will have these kinds of cars with different problems. Sometimes it may be brake problems or sometimes we have a run of exhaust pipes dropping off. This particular time, there have been clutch problems.

Yesterday was no exception? Sure enough, first thing in the morning, an AA transporter turned up on the forecourt. So, with a silver car strapped to the back,. Fortunately, an old customer of ours was in the car. When his Focus was unloaded. He came into the reception to explain what had happened.

He told us that he had recently been working away in the south of England. While he was away, he started to have problems with his clutch. He told us that one morning he was driving to work from his accommodation and called in for some diesel. When he arrived back at the car, the biting point of the clutch was very close to the car floor. Also, the rest of the pedal was very sloppy and loose.

He managed to drive the car to his job, Ford Focus Clutch

Subsequently, he is a builder for an housing association. Who own properties all over the UK, the head office is here in Halifax .He sometimes has to work away to help sort problems out. Although he was having great difficulty selecting his gears. When he first bought the  Focus about 18 months earlier he was told that the car had recently been fitted with a new clutch ! Of course, this was one of the reasons that he had bought the car. Visibly, it appeared to be in good condition.

He called out a local garage that topped up the slave cylinder. I was also telling him that the clutch pedals on these Fords have a black plastic hinge-type thing attached to it. Importantly, this is what pushes the master cylinder in. This hinge is attached to the  pedal by a metal rod. The hinge is held in by a clip and it is this clip that can come off. So causing the cars clutch problem. The garage resolved this, and for a few days, everything appeared to be fine with the Focus.

Ford Focus driver could smell clutch fluid? Ford Focus Clutch

He noticed a slight smell coming from the car’s cab, but he did not know what it was. It was apparently clutch fluid that had leaked from his previous problem. The guy told us that after the

garage reportedly had sorted the Ford Focus 1.6 TDCi problem out, but the car gear change was still a bit lumpy. After the job was complete, the guy decided to risk it and drive the car back home to the north via the M1.

He decided to call in at the services for something to eat and a rest. On his return to the car, he found that once again the clutch pedal was down to the floor pan of the car, but unlike before there was no bite at all on the clutch. His company had provided their staff with AA breakdown cover, for their employees who traveled away to work, and so the guy promptly called the AA out to the services.

Inspected by the AA

The AA man inspected the cars clutch cylinder to check the level, but soon noticed that the cylinder was empty of fluid. He said that the Ford  was susceptible to these type of  problems and diagnosed a broken master cylinder. There was nothing that he could do as far as road side assistance, and so he proceeded to load the car onto the back of his transporter in order to take the car to the garage of his choice, which was our garage in Halifax.

When I proceeded to put the car on lift, I found that clutch fluid was seeping out at the bottom of the clutch housing through one of the vent holes that are there to collect dust and dirt to evacuate the housing. We diagnosed the problem as a master cylinder failure and reported back to the customer, who by this time had borrowed one of our courtesy cars and gone back to work somewhere here in Yorkshire.

We removed the Ford Focus gearbox and clutch housing to reveal yet more problems?

The engine was dropped, as was the gearbox. Removed, and then the Ford Focus clutch housing was separated. Revealing the clutch assembly. We found that the hydraulic cylinder bearing had, in fact, a broken seal and needed replacing. Then we found that although the Focus diesel should have been fitted with a duel mass flywheel,. Subsequently, this car had been converted to a solid single flywheel.

Including a normal-type clutch plate and to make matters worse! Incidentally, both were damaged. The flywheel was broken, and the clutch plate was worn out and also needed replacing.

We phoned the customer on his mobile! Of course, he was not very pleased to say the least. Having, expected the clutch to last him more than the 18 months that it had lasted since he bought the car. The old parts were saved for the customer to look at as we always do. Another small problem also occurred? We had some difficulty matching a new single clutch plate with a new solid flywheel, as the old one was a cheap clutch plate and had no part numbers on to match a new one.

With the help of the motor factors we were able find the correct parts and rebuilt the whole assembly. The car works fine now and the customer went away highly delighted, after his initial shock.

The diesel Ford Focus can be converted to a solid single-clutch system, Ford Focus Clutch

When the customer had left I looked at some Ford forums about the conversion to a single clutch assembly and the general consensus is that it is fine to do it. In fact Ford transits can be converted by using genuine Ford parts. That is made especially for these conversions. Also I have heard that many taxi companies convert their taxis to the single clutch system.

For more Ford Focus clutch problems,

Eric Roberts

batteries

Car batteries-Cold weather- and your car: How to keep your battery from dying

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AA is getting a record number of calls for storm-related problems with nearly half being for dead batteries.

Another warning to vehicle users! Have their car batteries checked before the winter and you will reduce the risk of being caught out in a snow storm?

Of course, Car batteries and Cold weather do not mix! It would be like your battery sitting in a fridge. I am sure that it does happen to some people. Remember that when it is cold we use all the electrical appliances in your car. Importantly, if your battery is not up to scratch. Then it will let you down and it could let you down in an isolated place. Frighteningly, or a snow drift if you live on the east coast of America. Of course, with the massive snow falls that they are having at the moment.

Batteries let you down when you least expect it

After years of experience of selling car batteries. I know that it is the last thing on a drivers mind when they set off on a journey. It is like any other battery situation, you only know about it when the battery runs out of power. The best example which happens in most households is the mobile phone. Specifically when the phone  goes flat! It is total panic and the phone must be charged up at all costs.

Fortunately your car battery is a better engineered system. It will probably never let you down in a five year period. However, when it does, you will be in the wrong place at the wrong time. Of course, in most cases it will not be a simple case of charging it back up again.

Statistically your regular car batteries would fail in the cold winter months. This would always apply when I was first time Lucas battery retailer in the 1970’s. I would stock up in the summer time when the battery companies would always have a quantity deal, all ready for the winter explosion of car battery sales. The first cold spell in November would bring in number of cars with our first rush of flat Cheap Car Batteries, it never failed us.

Since the early days car batteries have changed

There were a couple of marked differences concerning car batteries then compared to modern day cars. First the car manufacturers would make millions of one model of car. Say Vauxhall made millions of Vivas and Cavaliers. Including, Ford made millions of Escorts and Cortina’s. Then of course came the original Minis. They outcome of this was that the size and part number of the batteries were all the same. The 038 battery fitted almost every car other that the Fords. Opting for square bolt on terminals part numbers 037 and 085, later the 065 battery became more popular.

As years went by we started to import many makes of cars from the Far East. Such as Toyota, Nissan at first and then many more cars came into the UK. This had a massive effect on battery sizes and part numbers. Making the car batteries market more specialised.

This is where I made am good business decision! Deciding to make the battery market a key part of my business strategy. Although I did not know it the time this decision gave me contacts that were to last me right up to today.

Car batteries remained much the same

Significantly, the only thing that changed was the different terminals. Including, the physical sizes of the batteries. Of course, battery plates, became a new mix of alloys and lead alloys. So, companies the likes of Lucas batteries became one of the first to introduce practically sealed batteries that were maintenance free. Of course, there were no screw tops on the Car batteries. Consequently, for the driver to check the acid levels.

Also there was the evolution of the cars. Cars were now coming out on more sophisticated electrical systems, which required car batteries with more power. We found that a difference in the old type battery and the new type of battery was that the new types of battery did not give you much time after failure, one morning the battery light would come on in your car and you would need a new battery, there and then; you do not have the time any more.

This is why it is important to check the battery before the winter time and when the car has a service. The Car batteries-Cold weather that I have recently seen in the east coast of the USA makes me cringe at the number of drivers who must have been stuck in their cars with a dead battery. Remember they will let you down when you least expect them to! Car batteries do not give you much time. Subsequently, batteries now fail very rapidly, not giving the driver much time. So, to have a new battery fitted after the failure of the old battery.

Simply, lack of change time is now affected by the large amount of electrics that a modern car has on-board!

Right to Repair Law

Punctured Tyre: Lady Drove over 20 Miles on a Flat Tyre?

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Punctured Tyre

Punctured Tyre
Punctured Tyre

Punctured Tyre

The female customer drove over 20 miles on this punctured Tyre ?

This is one of the strangest stories I have heard in the past two years. A lady customer called in to claim that she had a service done 

to her Audi estate about a month ago, and the car was now acting very strangely. She said that when the car was going around the bend, she could feel it swaying slightly, but it was steering perfectly normal on the straight roads. We asked her how long the car had been doing this and she said that for a couple of days or about twenty miles. We went to put the Audi on the ramp, but noticed the car was sloping to one side ?.

When we checked, she had a tyre that was completely ripped off on one of the side walls.

This punctured tyre had in fact been driving with the same characters as Continental Run Flat Tyres for more than twenty miles. The lady customer had not suspected anything because the car had not swerved violently or even veered from side to side, as you might expect from a big car such as the Audi estate.

The Punctured Tyre is the one shown in this blog, and the ripped-off sidewall can be easily seen. Credit should also be given to the Continental Sports Contact that took the battering; although not run-flat, it did remarkably well.

So to follow up on this ! Have you noticed all the old tyre treads and pieces of rubber tyre treads ! That are present on the sides of the roads and motorways. Especially car tyre treads.

 

Pellon Tyre and Auto-centre offer car and van servicing and repairs to all makes of vehicles. We are members of Unipart Car Care Centres. Giving a nationwide guarantee for all our work and parts. Of course, we also sell run-flat tyres online, such as Bridgestone safeguard tyres.

Of course, from our website, www.pellonautocentre.com, by using the tyre selector and choosing your tyre size. We offer courtesy cars to local motorists who need to go to work and leave their car with us for work. We are also an official MOT testing station and are members of Motor Codes, which carry out checks for high standards of equipment and workmanship.

Caravan tyre Pressures

Bridgestone Run Flat-Original Equipment run-flats are now on par with conventional tyres.

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Bridgestone Run Flat

Bridgestone Run Flat
Bridgestone Run Flat

Bridgestone Run Flat

Bridgestone OE run-flats now on par with conventional tyres – test – Tyrepress.com Tyrepress.com Run-flat tyres have often been blasted for the inferior comfort they deliver, however a recent European test gives hope that puncture avoidance may no…

Eric Roberts‘s insight:

Of course, as many of you motorists know ! Who happen to own a car with run-flat tyres. So these tyres can be very noisy.

Naturally, this is mainly due to the very hard and rigid side-wall. Consequently, that helps the car tyres act as a semi solid structure. Enabling the run-flats to stay in a straight line when the tyre is de-flated.

Bridgestone tyres have managed to minimise this hard ride by using different compounds in crucial areas of the tyres. Thus enabling them to work at a much lower tone and also give the driver a more comfortable ride.

Can run-flats be repaired ? Bridgestone Run Flat

One of the grey areas is Bridgestone Run Flat. Of course, whether or not they can be repaired ? simple answer is that they can in fact be repaired. So as long as it is within the parameters of a normal road tyre,. As long as the repair is within the legal tread area. So, the Bridgestone Run-Flat Technology tyres may be repaired. But only in certain conditions (Depending on the distance and at what speed the car was driven after the puncture occurred).

Significantly, if the tyre has been driven on whilst run-flat ! Then we will not repair the Bridgestone Run Flat. So if the customer just notices a nail or screw in the tyre, then we will repair the tyre. By using conventional tyre repair methods. If in doubt,! You should consult your nearest run-flat authorised dealer to have your tyres inspected. Of course, Pellon Tyres is in the Halifax area of the UK.

Before attempting.

a Bridgestone Run Flat repair, consult the vehicle owner’s manual for restrictions. The vehicle manufacturer may restrict the use of repaired tyres on its vehicles. For more information, click here

Eric Roberts…

Pellon Tyre and Auto-centre offer car and van servicing and repairs to all makes of vehicles. Members of Unipart Car Care centres and give a nationwide guarantee for all our work and parts. We also sell Bridgestone car tyres online from our website, www.pellontyres.co.uk. So, by using the tyre selector and choosing your tyre size,. We offer courtesy cars to local motorists who need to go to work and leave their car with us for work. We are also an official MOT testing station and are members of Motor Codes. Finally, they carry out checks for high standards of equipment and workmanship.