hyundai-i30-pothole-broken-spring

hyundai-i30-pothole-broken-spring

hyundai-i30-pothole-broken-spring
hyundai-i30-pothole-broken-spring

hyundai-i30-pothole-broken-spring

Halifax Potholes Claim Another Victim – This Time a Hyundai i30 at Pellon Tyres

If there’s one thing you can rely on in Halifax these days, it’s rain, hills, and potholes big enough to rattle your teeth. And here at Pellon Tyre & Autocentre, we’re seeing the results on a daily basis. Springs snapping, steering arms bending, tyres bursting – it’s becoming part of the morning routine.

This week brought yet another unlucky driver through our doors, this time in a Hyundai i30. Same culprit as usual: a hefty pothole somewhere on their commute. It seems no matter whether you’re coming down Wade Street, heading up to Illingworth, or cutting across Pellon Lane, you’re bound to encounter a crater that could pass for the entrance to a coal mine.

A Rough Ride for the Hyundai i30: hyundai-i30-pothole-broken-spring

The i30 arrived with the driver shaking her head. She’d hit a pothole at the bottom of King’s Cross Road and immediately heard a strange clatter from the front of the car. She described it as “an old saucepan being thrown around under the bonnet”—which gave Dale and the lads a good laugh, but she wasn’t far off.

Up on the ramp it went, and within minutes we saw it:
The front coil spring had snapped clean through.

It’s a sight we’re getting used to now. Once that cold weather sets in, the roads around Halifax start breaking up faster than we can say “tracking adjustment”. And when a spring breaks, it doesn’t take much imagination to feel the shock the driver must’ve had.

We sourced the correct spring, whisked it onto the car, checked the rest of the suspension, and sorted the tracking to make sure there were no hidden nasties. Within the hour, she was back on the road, relieved it wasn’t something worse.

hyundai-i30-pothole-brokeen-spring
hyundai-i30-pothole-brokeen-spring

Why Springs Keep Snapping Around Calderdale: hyundai-i30-pothole-broken-spring

Living around the Calder Valley, we’re used to harsh winters. Frost one day, rain the next, followed by a freeze so sharp it stings your fingers when you open the car door. All that freeze-thaw plays havoc with the tarmac.

The result?

  • Springs snapping

  • Tyres splitting Suspension clunks

  • Buckled wheels

  • Steering that pulls all over the place

It’s no wonder our ramps have been full of suspension jobs lately. The Hyundai i30 is a sturdy bit of kit, but even a good car can’t fight back against a deep Halifax pothole.

hyundai-i30-pothole-brokeen-spring
hyundai-i30-pothole-brokeen-spring

A Bit of Hyundai History in the UK: hyundai-i30-pothole-broken-spring

Hyundais have come a long way since they first appeared on British roads. Many remember the early models from the late 1980s and 90s, basic but solid little runarounds that did exactly what they said on the tin.

The real turning point came in the early 2000s when Hyundai began building cars to genuinely compete with the big European names. The Hyundai i30, launched in 2007, was a huge step forward — roomy, reliable, and backed by that legendary five-year warranty that turned a lot of heads.

British drivers loved it, especially those in hilly areas like Halifax, where you need a sensible car that grips well and doesn’t drink too much fuel. We see loads of them in the workshop — usually for normal wear and tear, not because they’ve let anyone down.

Keeping Halifax Drivers Safe This Winter

If you’ve hit a pothole and your car starts doing something out of the ordinary—knocking, pulling, rattling, or riding unevenly—don’t leave it to chance. A broken spring can dig into a tyre if left long enough, and that’s a breakdown nobody wants on a cold winter’s night up on the moors.

Just call in, and we’ll take a quick look. No fuss, no pressure — we’d rather spot an issue early than see someone stranded.

A Little Escape… Away From Halifax Roads!

While chatting to the i30 owner, she laughed that she’d “rather be anywhere other than driving around Halifax in winter”.
If that sounds familiar, remember that spring isn’t too far off—and our Thornwick Bay holiday home on the Yorkshire coast is perfect for a quiet break once the weather brightens. There’s a lovely page on the Lucky Paws site about Flamborough’s coastal walks, ideal for planning ahead.

 

Fire risk In VW Group Cars

Fire risk In VW Group Cars

Fire risk In VW Group Cars
Fire risk In VW Group Cars

Fire risk In VW Group Cars

This article is now old news, original article was on April 12, 2022. However, we are still hearing about fires caused by the batteries in EV and PHEV vehicles across the world. Most recently, Luton Airport parking area.

“Safety First: A Closer Look at the Recent Plug-in Hybrid Vehicle Recall”

It is crucial to keep our consumers updated about the latest automotive world advances in Halifax, where we have been serving the community with our garage business and advertising websites that offer batteries.

Our focus today is on a worldwide recall of around 10,000 plug-in hybrid electric cars (PHEVs). manufactured by Audi, Volkswagen, Cupra Seat, and Skoda due to fire safety concerns. Now that we’ve established that this is a problem, let’s look at additional instances where EV batteries caught fire.

Recall Across the Globe-Fire risk In VW Group Cars

Imagine a fleet of elegant PHEVs from brands like Skoda, Cupra Seat, Volkswagen, and Audi gracefully cruising the beautiful highways of Halifax and beyond. Among our local clients, these vehicles are highly favoured for their fuel efficiency and reputation as eco-friendly options.

A number of worries have been voiced in light of recent events.

Because of a possible fire hazard, the automaker is recalling around 10,000 PHEVs around the world. This recall is evidence of our unwavering dedication to prioritising safety above all else. The significance of our clients’ road safety is paramount to our garage business.

The worldwide effort to resolve any issues with the batteries in these PHEVs includes the recall.

Although these kinds of accidents are very troubling, it is important to remember that the car industry is always working to improve safety standards and quickly fix any problems that may arise.

Interesting Facts About Halifax’s Automobile Past

As we go into this worldwide recall, it’s interesting to consider Halifax’s own automotive past. From the humble beginnings of the motor industry to the cutting-edge, environmentally sensitive cars of today, our town has seen it all.

Lots of influential car dealerships had their start in Halifax in the early 1900s, when the city was still relatively young. Although these garages, the latest being Dews Vauxhall dealership, have closed their doors for good, the creativity and forward momentum that characterised our community are a lasting tribute to their legacy.

Additional Incidents Involving Batteries- Fire risk In VW Group Cars

Although the most recent recall is noteworthy, events involving electric vehicle batteries have garnered attention on multiple occasions. Plug-in hybrids and electric vehicles (EVs) that are part of this recall rely on lithium-ion batteries, which aren’t always trouble-free but are usually reliable.

The famous electric vehicle manufacturer Tesla was involved in one noteworthy event. A London parking lot fire involving a Tesla Model S in 2019 garnered headlines all around the United Kingdom. These incidents are infrequent, but they show how serious battery safety is for both companies and customers.

Conclusion: Making Safety a Top Priority-Fire risk In VW Group Cars

Finally, the recent worldwide recall of PHEVs from Audi, Volkswagen, Cupra Seat, and Skoda shows how seriously the car industry takes safety. If we want to keep our cars on the road in a way that doesn’t harm the environment and doesn’t endanger Halifax citizens, we need to keep up with news like this.

Even though events involving EV batteries are uncommon, they highlight the importance of constantly improving battery technology and safety regulations. Our garage is committed to preserving the quality of our clients’ vehicles, increasing road safety, and adding to Halifax’s illustrious automotive heritage while we adapt to the dynamic world of automotive innovation.

Safety is of the utmost importance when it concerns your car. Keep yourself educated, practise safe driving and continue to confidently navigate the picturesque roads of Halifax and surrounding areas of beauty.

Around 10,000 Audi, VW, Cupra Seat and Skoda plug-in hybrids (PHEV) are being recalled over concerns about a fire risk. It’s part of a global recall which totals more 100,000 PHEVs produced by the carmaker. An insufficiently

Source: Fire risk prompts UK recall of 10,000 Volkswagen Group hybrid cars

halifax-pothole-spring-repair

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.

Anti-Lock Brake Systems: ABS

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 it when a customer contacts my garage for a brake problem to be 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. A 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.

Anti-Lock Brake Systems
Anti-Lock Brake Systems

In any normal driving situation, Anti-Lock Brake Systems

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 exerted 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 practise 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 reset 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 that carries out checks for high standards of equipment and workmanship.

ABS FAQs:

Q: What are the most common symptoms of ABS problems?
A: Warning lights, grinding noises, pulsing brakes, or increased stopping distances.

Q: Is it safe to drive with faulty ABS?
A: It’s possible, but not recommended, because the wheels can lock under heavy braking.

Q: How long does ABS diagnostics take?
A: At Pellon Tyres we can test your ABS system in around 30 minutes.

Need tyres or brake repairs in Halifax? Call Pellon Tyres on 01422 351314 or visit us on Pellon Lane.

If you’re heading over to the East Yorkshire coast this year, take a look at our Lucky Paws Holiday Home in beautiful Thornwick Bay.

steel-wires-tyre-danger-halifax

Steel-belted Radials

Steel-belted Radials
steel-wires-tyre-danger-halifax

steel-wires-tyre-danger-halifax

Steel Wires Showing Through Your Tyres? The Hidden Danger Halifax Drivers Can’t Ignore

Every week at Pellon Tyre & Autocentre, we see all sorts of tyre problems — bulges, punctures, splits, the odd nail, and plenty of pothole damage thanks to our lovely Calderdale roads. But every now and again, someone pulls onto the forecourt with something far more worrying.

The tyre is so worn or damaged that the steel wires inside the tyre are actually sticking through the rubber.

When that happens, you don’t need a pressure gauge or a tread depth tool — the tyre is completely finished, unsafe, and ready to blow at any moment.

It’s something we’ve seen quite a bit over the years, so here’s a simple explanation of what causes steel wires to appear and why Halifax drivers need to act fast when it happens.

steel-wires-tyre-danger-halifax
bald tyres to be replaced

What Are Those Steel Wires, Anyway? steel-wires-tyre-danger-halifax

Modern tyres are built using what’s known as steel-belted radial construction. Underneath the rubber you can see, there are layers of:

  • Strong steel belts
  • Reinforced fabric
  • Rubber compounds designed for grip and stability

The steel belts give the tyre its strength and shape, especially at motorway speeds, and help protect it from punctures. Without them, the tyre would simply collapse under the weight of the car.

Back in the old days, cars used cross-ply tyres, but they wore out quickly and didn’t handle well at higher speeds. Things changed when Michelin introduced the first steel-belted radial tyre in 1946. Europe and Japan adopted them quickly, while the Americans took a bit longer — only switching properly after the 1970s oil crisis.

Today, virtually every car in Halifax is running on radial tyres with steel belts.


So why do the steel wires start showing? steel-wires-tyre-danger-halifax

The short answer?
Because the tyre has completely worn out or suffered severe damage.

Here are the most common reasons we see in the workshop:

1. Driving on Bald Tyres

The tread wears away, and eventually the outer rubber disappears completely — leaving the steel belts exposed.
Many drivers don’t realise tyres should be changed well before they reach the legal limit of 1.6mm.

2. Under-Inflation

Low pressure wears out the edges of the tyre quicker.
Eventually the rubber thins, breaks down, and the wires poke through.

3. Over-Inflation

Too much air puts all the pressure on the centre of the tread.
We’ve seen steel belts showing in a perfect strip down the middle of the tyre!

4. Wheel Alignment Problems

Halifax is notorious for potholes, and a heavy bang can knock the tracking out.
This makes one side of the tyre scrub away fast — often right down to the steel.

5. Hard Driving

Wheelspins, cornering fast, burnouts and harsh braking can rip through rubber in no time.
We see this more on hot hatches and performance cars.

6. Driving on a Flat

When the sidewall collapses, the inner structure tears, exposing the steel layers.

7. Cheap or Part-Worn Tyres

Some low-quality tyres don’t last long.
A ‘bargain’ tyre can end up costing more if it wears down to steel before you realise.


Is It Dangerous to Drive with Steel Wires Showing? steel-wires-tyre-danger-halifax

Absolutely.
If you can see wires, the tyre is on the verge of total failure.

That means:

  • A blowout can happen at any moment
  • You’ll have poor grip, especially in wet Halifax weather
  • Steering and braking become unpredictable
  • You can damage your wheels, suspension or bodywork

We always say at Pellon Tyres:
If you can see wires, the tyre is finished. Do not drive on it.

Even driving slowly to the garage can be risky — so if in doubt, give us a ring and we’ll advise the safest option.


Regular Checks Save Money (and Stress!) steel-wires-tyre-danger-halifax

Most tyre problems we see could have been avoided with a quick glance every few weeks.

A simple check can spot:

  • Uneven wear
  • Low pressure
  • Cracks or splits
  • Nails or screws
  • Thinning tread

We also offer free tyre inspections at Pellon Tyres — no appointment needed.


A Halifax Note – Bad Roads Don’t Help!

Our local roads take a beating, especially through winter. Whether you’re heading over to Mixenden, taking the winding roads to Sowerby Bridge, or dodging the craters around King Cross, your tyres are taking constant abuse.

It’s one of the reasons we stay so busy—Halifax drivers simply drive on tougher roads than most towns.


Planning a Break After All This Tyre Trouble?

If the state of the roads is getting you down, remember spring isn’t far off.
Our Thornwick Bay holiday home will be open for bookings again soon, and the Lucky Paws site has a lovely page about the Flamborough Head coastal walks — perfect for a peaceful escape once the weather brightens.

 

Michelin Tyres For Nissan GT Sports

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

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.

Battery Storage systems

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

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.

Collapsed Oil Filters Explained

Collapsed Oil Filters Explained

Collapsed Oil Filters Explained
Oil Filter Collapse

Collapsed Oil Filters Explained

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? Collapsed Oil Filters Explained

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: Collapsed Oil Filters Explained

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 – Collapsed Oil Filters Explained

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.

Why Modern Oil Filters Still Fail – And What Drivers Must Watch Out For in 2025

Even though oil filter technology has improved hugely over the years, we still see collapsed filters in the workshop at Pellon Tyres from time to time. It’s nowhere near as common as it used to be, but when it does happen, the results can be expensive — especially on modern engines with tight tolerances and high-pressure lubrication systems.

One of the biggest causes in recent years is extended service intervals. Many drivers are stretching their oil changes far beyond manufacturer recommendations, either because of busy lives, cost-saving attempts, or misleading dashboard indicators. Sadly, oil doesn’t last forever. Once it breaks down and becomes thick and tar-like, the filter simply can’t cope. The material clogs up, oil flow is restricted, and the filter collapses inward under suction.

Here in Halifax, we see it most often during winter. Cold mornings thicken older oil even further, and it only takes one hard start on a freezing day for a weakened filter to give up completely. Yorkshire hills don’t help, either — long climbs up to places like Sowood, Mount Tabor or Southowram demand good oil pressure, and a struggling filter won’t keep up.

Another developing issue is cheap unbranded filters sold online. Some look the part but use very weak internal supports or poor-quality paper. They’re fine when new, but a few thousand miles later they can collapse without warning. This is why we always recommend sticking to respected quality brands and changing the filter every time the oil is changed — no exceptions.

Collapsed Oil Filters Explained
Collapsed Oil Filters Explained

What Drivers Should Look Out For

If you’re unsure whether your oil filter is starting to fail, look out for the following signs:

  • Sudden ticking or tapping from the engine
  • Oil pressure warning light flickering
  • Poor performance when cold
  • Metallic humming from the oil pump area
  • Oil that looks very dark, thick, or sludgy

Any of these symptoms mean get your car checked straight away. A collapsed filter can starve an engine of oil in seconds — and no modern engine will survive that for long.


How We Diagnose Oil Filter Collapse at Pellon Tyres

At Pellon Tyres we’ve seen hundreds of these over the years across every type of vehicle — from little Peugeot and Toyota engines right up to big BMWs and Mercedes models. Our process is simple:

  • Check the filter condition
  • Inspect oil pressure using professional gauges
  • Look for sludge contamination
  • Confirm the correct oil grade (a major cause of issues!)
  • Replace filter and oil with quality approved products

We also check for early signs of internal damage. Catching the issue early can save Halifax drivers a small fortune in engine repairs.

If you’re unsure whether your filter is up to scratch — or if you haven’t had an oil change for a while — just book in with us. It’s always cheaper to service a car than to rebuild an engine!

Q: Can a collapsed oil filter damage my engine?
A: Yes. Loss of oil pressure can cause serious internal engine damage within minutes.

Q: What causes an oil filter to collapse?
A: Sludged oil, long service gaps, blocked filter media and low-quality unbranded filters are the most common causes.

Q: How often should I change my oil and filter?
A: Most cars should be serviced every 6,000–10,000 miles, or sooner if mostly used on short trips.

Q: How do you diagnose oil filter collapse at Pellon Tyres?
A: We check filter condition, oil pressure, oil grade, and inspect for sludge or early internal engine damage.