Of course, this is of no great surprise to me. So, in the trade, we refer to old tyres as “Casings”. It’s been a few years since the law clamped down on suspecting criminals who were doing anything to get rid of scrap casings. I will explain how it works. The old tyre that come of our customers car are “worthless”. When remoulding was popular, many of them were used to recycle the old casings into remoulds.
However many changes have brought an end to this in countries like the UK. Modern cars with many different tyre sizes have brought an end to car tyre remoulding. Cheap tyres from China have made remoulding into a lost cause. The remoulded tyres were costing as much as a new tyre. So it made no sense to buy remoulds when new tyres were available at a lower price.
Problems for tyre dealers
Consequently, this developed into a problem for us tyre dealers. However, companies set up to recycle the old tyres. Machines that ripped apart the old tires did this. Thus separating the rubber from the steel wire to recycle wherever possible. Rubber chippings from this process is going into the production of many new products. Including adding it to tarmac for new road building.
However, as in anything where money is concerned
criminals became involved. As a tyre retailer, we now have to pay at least £1 for every casing removed from our premises. The system was government-regulated, with various forms to fill in any time casings were removed. This worked well until the underworld became involved.
Criminals began forging documents
pretending to be legitimate casing collectors. So a truck load could easily be worth, say, £500 . The conmen would also ask for cash, which for some reason, the dealers paid. The old tyres were then disposed of in many different ways. In fact, a guy in West Yorkshire rented part of an airfield and just simply stacked the millions of old tyres on the old runway.
The pile became larger ang larger and so did the guys bank account. All his paperwork was forged and nobody thought anything about it!
He was eventually found out and sent to prison. However, this kind of thing never went away, right up to this latest find in Scotland.
Around 10,000 tyres dumped at a disused farmyard barn in Port Glasgow have been abandoned by a criminal network, an investigation has found. The tyres were dumped at a derelict farm with one barn overflowing with
MOT Testing at Pellon Tyres—Keeping Halifax Drivers Safe and Legal
MOT Testing Halifax UK
It’s that time of year again when the little sticker on your windscreen reminds you that your car’s MOT is due. At Pellon Tyres and Autocentre, we’ve been testing, servicing, and keeping Halifax drivers safe on the roads for over 30 years.
We’re not just a tyre centre—we’re your local DVSA-approved MOT testing station. Whether it’s your family run-around, a work van, or your teenager’s first car, we’ve seen and tested the lot. MOTs are part of everyday life for most motorists, and like it or not, you need that pass certificate to stay legal and avoid points or fines.
Why Book Your MOT with Us? MOT Testing Halifax UK
We don’t do gimmicks or silly sales pitches—we just do the job right. Here’s why local folk trust us with their MOTs:
Experienced testers – Our MOT testers know what they’re looking for and explain everything in plain English.
Fair and honest assessments – If your car fails, we’ll show you exactly why and give you options without pressure.
Free retests—Fail the first time? No worries—we offer a free retest if it’s fixed here within 10 working days.
One-stop shop – Need new brakes, a new tyre, or a quick exhaust repair? We’ve got the ramps and the parts on hand.
Local and friendly— We’ve been part of Halifax life since 1989. We know your car’s not just metal—it’s your school run, your work commute, and your lifeline.
Common MOT Fails We See MOT Testing Halifax UK
Here in Halifax, the hills, the potholes, and our lovely damp weather mean we often see the same culprits for MOT fails. These include:
Worn tires—check your tread and sidewalls! If you’re short on supplies, we have an extensive selection available.
Broken springs or shock absorbers – That rattle over bumps isn’t just annoying; it could be dangerous.
Exhaust issues—we’ve welded and replaced plenty of flexi pipes, back boxes, and leaky joints.
Lighting faults – A blown brake light or dodgy number plate bulb is an easy fix but a common failure.
We identify brake issues, such as worn thin pads and corroded discs, before they lead to serious trouble.
What to Expect on the Day MOT Testing Halifax UK
It’s straightforward. Book online or give us a bell. We’ll slot you in, test your car (takes about 45 minutes), and have you back on the road. You can wait in our warm reception with a cuppa, or drop it off and pop back later.
We’re based on Pellon Lane, Halifax—easy to find and with good parking. Our regulars come from all over: Boothtown, King Cross, Sowerby Bridge, and beyond. Some even nip in while doing the big shop at Lidl across the road!
What About Electric and Hybrid Cars? MOT Testing Halifax UK
We’re seeing more and more electric and hybrid vehicles turning up for their MOTs. And yes—they still need testing every year after they’re three years old, just like any petrol or diesel.
The good news is there’s no emissions test for fully electric cars, but everything else still gets checked: brakes, suspension, tyres, lights, wipers, seatbelts—the works. We’ve already tested everything from little Nissan Leafs to bigger plug-in SUVs, so you’re in safe hands.
If you’re unsure about what’s involved or have questions about your EV’s battery or braking system, just give us a ring—we’ll talk you through it without the jargon.
Book Your MOT Today MOT Testing Halifax UK
Don’t leave it to the last minute. Our schedule becomes busy, particularly in March and September when vehicles with new registration plates are due for their MOTs. Book online now at 👉 www.pellontyres.co.uk Or give us a call on 01422 351314
We’ll look after you—and your car.
https://www.pellonautocentre.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/pellon-tyres-logo-509x321.jpg00Eric Robertshttps://www.pellonautocentre.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/pellon-tyres-logo-509x321.jpgEric Roberts2025-07-31 04:10:212025-07-31 04:44:25MOT Testing Halifax UK
Most female customers are very confident when buying anything, including having their car repaired.We now even have more female
So in general then I think that the garages who try to deceive female customers off. Of course, will be dishonest and also try to pull the wool over the eyes of all their customers ? men and women. “THESE GARAGES ARE A FOOL TO THEMSELVES”. So, our lady customers know when they are not been told the truth.
Hence, if the price looks and sounds wrong, then it probably will be wrong.
We are not currently members of Unipart Car Care Centres. Having regular Servicing tips meetings and contacts with other garages.
It is our experience that ourfemaley customers make up 60% of our total customer base. So, if a garage wants to keep this very important customerbase,e then the ladies have to betreatedt in the correctmanner,r especially by our mechanics..
Female customers look for a trustworthy garage- Servicing Tips for Women
Believe me the ladies know what they are on about and would not go to the garage with their car that they did not trust. So, if they thought that they had been ripped off, they would not go back there a second time. Another addition to this story is that we now have an increasing number of female mechanics, with many Motor Mechanic Jobs going to females.
Incidentally, they are just as competent as male mechanics and are probably more sensible. A strange thing happened the other day? a lady customer who was in for an MOT test asked us the price of a service to go with the MOT test. The lady agreed to the price and we duly did the work;The lady was happy with the job and the price paid and went home satisfied. About an hourlater, the ladies husband rang us up and told us in no uncertain words that we had RIPPED his wife off. WOW.
HERE IS A SECOND OPINION…Servicing Tips for Women
“You don’t ‘suggest’ a price to the garage looking to do the work, whether you know a bit or not. There is a price for the part(s) and a price for the labour. The part(s) you can research, but they may be privy todiscounts, etc. that you aren’t due to trade links, and the labour charge you either agree to or don’t.
You could dispute the number of hours charged, but if you think it would take a shorter time, do it yourself. What a daft American study from three probably biassed and slightly bitter women who have fallen foul, in theiropinion, of the motor trade”…
https://www.pellonautocentre.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/car-repair-garage.jpg331444Eric Robertshttps://www.pellonautocentre.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/pellon-tyres-logo-509x321.jpgEric Roberts2025-07-30 19:39:032025-07-30 19:39:03Servicing Tips for Women
We’ve had a good number of Ford Focus vehicles arrive at Pellon Tyres in Halifax. Since its debut in 1998, the Focus has been a steadfast favourite on UK roads, so it’s really no surprise. It’s a dependable workhorse, a family-friendly hatchback that can handle both a lengthy road trip and a short trip to the grocery store. However, we discovered that even the reliable Focus can experience occasional problems when a recent customer brought one in with grinding brakes.
The Issue of Grinding
When the driver used the brakes, this specific Ford Focus made a noise that sounded like a metalworking factory. Grinding sounds are never a positive sign, and it was simple to identify the cause once we got it up on the lift. In fact, the front brake discs and pads were dangerously old and in poor condition.
The metal backing plate may scrape against the disc due to worn brake pads, which reduces braking effectiveness and produces that terrible grinding sound. In addition to being a typical example of wear and tear, it serves as a reminder of the significance of routine maintenance. If left unchecked, this might have resulted in an accident or, worse, a far more expensive repair.
Ford Focus Front Brakes Overhaul
A Brief Overview of the Ford Focus Tradition
In the world of automobiles, the Ford Focus is somewhat legendary. Thanks to its cutting-edge engineering and contemporary style, it quickly became popular and replaced the Escort in the late 1990s. Its many revisions have kept up with the times while maintaining its original formula of reasonable performance, affordability, and usefulness.
The focus is all around Halifax and the United Kingdom. Whether you’re taking the kids around Calderdale or heading up to the Yorkshire Dales for a weekend escape, this type of vehicle is suitable for any kind of lifestyle. We manufactured the third generation model in our shop between 2010 and 2018. Even though these cars are reliable and sturdy, they are not unbeatable like other cars.
Why Do Brake Issues Like These Occur?
Brakes may experience issues for a number of reasons. The issue with our customer’s Focus stemmed from normal wear and tear. If not replaced immediately, brake pads will naturally deteriorate over time and begin to eat away at the discs. However, additional elements may also be involved:
1. Habits of Driving: Your brake pads will deteriorate more quickly if you use your brakes a lot, which could be the result of aggressive driving or a lot of city driving.
2. Halifax’s hilly terrain: Pay attention to our local roadways. Your brakes may suffer from the high slopes in Halifax and the neighbouring Pennines, particularly if you ride them frequently on the descents.
3. Inexpensive Components: Occasionally, consumers choose less expensive brake components. Although it may save a few pounds up front, this frequently results in less dependable brakes and faster wear.
4. Neglected Maintenance: By neglecting regular maintenance, possible problems like this one may go undiscovered until they become serious ones.
Ford Focus Front Brakes Overhaul
The Solution-Ford Focus Front Brakes Overhaul
The The solution for this focus was straightforward.To make sure the automobile was operating at its peak again, we replaced the front brake discs and pads with high-quality parts. The buyer drove away satisfied and, most importantly, safe after a full test drive on the local roads, during which the brakes operated flawlessly.
A Concluding Remark-Ford Focus Front Brakes Overhaul
Don’t overlook odd sounds coming from your car! For instance, grinding brakes are an indication that anything is amiss, and the longer you wait, the more harm you’ll probably cause. Whether your vehicle is a Ford Focus or something else entirely, we at Pellon Tyres in Halifax are committed to helping you maintain it in optimal condition. Over time, routine maintenance and prompt action in reaction to odd noises can save you a tremendous deal of trouble and money.
Furthermore, nobody wants to be caught on Halifax’s mountainous roads with shoddy brakes; let’s face it. Always exercise caution and seek professional assistance if you have any doubts. Let’s turn on the kettle!
Well, we’ve finally experienced some summer weather here in Halifax—genuine sunny days that might make you feel like you’ve mistakenly arrived in Spain!ly arrived in Spain! With the heat comes the moment when you step into your car, turn on the key, and anticipate a refreshing blast of cold air, only to be met with a sigh of disappointment.
We’ve had quite a few customers popping in recently with air con complaints. Most of the time, it’s nothing major—the gas has just run low and needs topping up. Your car’s air conditioning system, like anything else, needs a bit of TLC to keep working properly.
The proud owner presented us with a beautiful red Jaguar just the other day. After conducting a thorough inspection, we discovered that the condenser was malfunctioning. A quick replacement later, and the air con was back to its full icy glory. This resulted in another satisfied customer and a car that is now ready for summer driving!
At Pellon Tyres and Autocentre, we offer full air conditioning system checks and re-gassing services. It’s a quick job that makes a huge difference, especially if you’re planning any summer road trips. A well-maintained system keeps you cool and helps demist your windscreen in winter too—so it’s useful all year round.
Jaguar in for Aircon Condenser
How Does Air Con Work in a Car? Jaguar in for Aircon Condenser
In simple terms, your car’s air con works by removing heat and moisture from the air inside the vehicle. The system relies on a special refrigerant gas, a compressor, a condenser, an evaporator, and a few other components. Over time, the refrigerant can leak out or become less effective, which is why your cold air turns lukewarm—or disappears altogether.
The condenser, like the one we replaced on the Jaguar, is a key part. It’s like a mini radiator that cools down the gas from the compressor and turns it back into a liquid. Blockage or damage prevents the system from performing its function properly.
Other common air con faults include: Jaguar in for Aircon Condenser
Leaking pipes or seals
Faulty compressors
Blocked or dirty cabin filters
Electrical issues with fans or switches
It’s blowing warm air instead of cold
There’s a musty or damp smell coming through the vents
It’s making odd noises when switched on
The windows are fogging up more than usual
It hasn’t been serviced in a couple of years
Customers, particularly those in newer cars with automatic systems, often fail to recognise the need for system checks. However, rest assured that we are always available to provide a thorough explanation and inspection.
Jaguar in for Aircon Condenser
Why Bother? Jaguar in for Aircon Condenser
Apart from keeping you cool and comfy, a working air-con system helps keep the car safer. It clears steamed-up windows fast in winter, stops you from getting drowsy in hot traffic, and even filters out some pollen and dust—handy for anyone with hay fever.
Therefore, if your car’s air conditioning system is malfunctioning, whether it requires a simple re-gas or a more complex repair such as the Jaguar’s condenser, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We will address the issue and ensure you return to driving in comfort.
Stay cool! We’ll take care of the problem and make sure you can drive comfortably again.
A Bit of History About Pellon Tyres
Pellon Tyres has been part of the Halifax community since 1989, when I took over a small section of the company from a retired chap who was sadly retiring due to illness. Back then, it was just a modest little garage, but over the years we’ve gradually expanded, bit by bit, to take over the full site we have today.
We have always operated as a family-run business, supported by a loyal team that maintains a strong focus on providing good, honest service. From puncture repairs to MOTs and everything in between, we’ve grown into a trusted local name—and we’re proud to still be here helping drivers from Halifax and beyond, more than 30 years later.
https://www.pellonautocentre.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/pellon-tyres-logo-509x321.jpg00Eric Robertshttps://www.pellonautocentre.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/pellon-tyres-logo-509x321.jpgEric Roberts2025-07-30 04:45:182025-07-30 05:39:07Jaguar in for Aircon Condenser
Car Air conditioning brings many problems for their drivers
Car Air conditioning
Car Air conditioning
Here in Halifax in the UK, we are experiencing a particularly warm and pleasant summer. We are at the moment in the middle of the main holiday season and trade can be a little hit and
miss. Many of our customers have had their cars serviced in preparation for their summer holidays, so the servicing side of the business can be a little slower this time of year.
However, one of the things that have kept us going in this hot summer is the number of cars with Car Air conditioning systems that break or have never worked for years.
The hot weather makes them dig deep into their pockets and have theair con Operating Systems serviced or repaired. The cars that come to my garage with problems are usually older cars and some come to us complaining that they are having strong smells coming from inside the car.
This is due to the Car Air conditioning system not been used often
with a build-up of nasty’s in the evaporator located just behind the dashboard, this consists of molds, fungi and bacteria, that can cause some drivers to feel ill. This problem can be remedied by using an anti-bacterial spray which should get your car back to smelling fresh again.
Unfortunately, the Car Air conditioning system in cars are not covered by warranty and the system will need servicing from time to time when the gas starts to deplete and the air con system stops working properly, leaving the driver hot and sweaty.
For some reason motorists in the UK, where we have four seasons a year switch off their air con systems in the winter time. I do not think they know that you can run the air con and the car heater at the same time and also the smaller cars with the lower engine capacities will use much more fuel and so they switch the air con off.
Car Air conditioning system can dry out if not used
This result is that the system will dry out and start to damage some of the internal parts. Including small “O”, rings that act as seals within the air con system.
These are normally lubricated by the “PAG OIL” that circulates within the system when the air con is in use. The consequences of this are the refrigerant gas that is confined to the system . So,will leak out through the broken “O” ring. Causing it not to work.
To find where the leak is we have to re-gas the system . So,and try to find the leak with a special chemical .That we use to show us where the leak is and then repairing the fault.
In fact, this was the case just the other day. A customer called into to see us with a problem with his Car Air conditioning. In fact, it was not working at all.
The car was an older Volvo V40 and the customer always switched the air con off in winter. The car was five-year-old and so we started the process of re-gassing the system. So, in order that we could find out what the problem was.
Indeed, we used our special leak-detecting tool.
Finding out the place where the gas had leaked more or less straight away. The problem was due to his air con system drying out. Breaking one of the “O” ring seals.
This is a common thing with most cars. If the engines do not run then the hoses and other rubber parts will dry out and perish, because of no lubrication exactly the same as the air con system, the “PAG OIL” circulates in the system and oil all the parts when the system is running.
The particular “O” ring was located in the high-pressure pipe part of the condenser which had to be removed and a new one fitted. Here at Pellon Autocentre can repair most models of cars air con and heater systems in the Halifax area of West Yorkshire.
Many other things can go wrong with air con
but I will cover those when and if they happen in other blogs.
The new “O” ring was fitted and the driver drove away much happier with his nice cool Volvo.
Pellon Tyre and Auto-centre offer car and van servicing and repairs to all makes and models of vehicles. Significantly, we also sell tyres online from our website www.pellontyres.co.uk . Finally, by using the tyre selector and choosing your tyre size.
Could this be the beginning of the end for Wiper Blades?
WIPER BLADES
Of course, when you fit a new set of wipers. Definitely test out the wiper blades before using them in real rain situations. Therefore,you can go to a car wash or spray your car down with a water hose. Of course then click the wiper switch. Hence, you have successfully install your new set of windshield blades if all goes well.
Usually there is a locking mechanism that attaches the windshield wipers to the wiper arm. Of course, which is in turn, connected to the blade motor. Unlocking this portion will enable the old wiper to come loose. Consequently, all you have to do is snap the new one in place. Then lock the mechanism up again. Ensuring that the replacement wiper is secure.
Just like anything else, the very best windshield wiper blades can be very expensive. Since there is usually a rainy season, possibly in winter and autumn. Of course, one can buy winter wipers for that one time of the year. Then wait until the next year to buy new ones. Also they can be an MOT test failure!
MODERN WIPER BLADES can be expensive?
It is no secret that some of our jet planes do not have Flat Wiper Blades fitted, but use another method of clearing the winter weather from their windscreen.
The windscreen is kept clean by an instrument called an “Ultrasonic Transducer” which sends ultrasonic sound waves across the windscreen surface that clears all screen from such things as snow and insects apart from the normal rain. Another added bonus to making the car lighter would be that the cars would not need a wiper motor and the cables and things that go with it.
This would be great for use on today’s cars as it would also increase the effect a more efficient air flow, as the car is driven along, making the car more aero- dynamic and also more fuel efficient due to slightly less drag, as the screen would be cleared instantly all the time and not just when the Flat Wiper Blades were applied.
I have a friend called Peter, who would not clear the windscreen until the very last minute that he could not see the road in front of him. This system would keep his screen clear all the time, thus reducing the chance of an accident happening because of the lack of vision.
WIPER BLADES invented in the USA by a lady driver?
Just for the record the Window Wipers blades that we use today were invented by an American lady, she was called Mary Andersonand the idea came to her whilst she was on a trip to New York, when she noticed that the early car drivers were sticking their heads out of the door windows, so that they could see where they were going when it rained.
As a result, the first wiper blades were very simplistic. Just a metal arm device with a rubber blade. Operated manually by the driver. Thus, using a sort of lever inside the car. The invention was first thought of in 1903.By 1916 her invention became standard on all production cars in the USA. Only a year later in 1917 the first automatic wipers were invented by another lady in America called Charlotte Bridgewood, these were known as the (Charlotte Bridgwood’s “Storm Windshield Cleaner”).
Charlotte invented this electric wiper system whilst she was the president of the” Bridge-wood Manufacturing company” in New York.
The Mclaren super car maker to end the wiper blade.
Rumours are rife that the McLaren car maker is considering introducing this type of technology into their new models. It would be great to see if this idea works, but not if you are a wiper blade manufacturer.
https://www.pellonautocentre.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/first-wiper-blades.jpg400267Eric Robertshttps://www.pellonautocentre.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/pellon-tyres-logo-509x321.jpgEric Roberts2025-07-29 07:39:552025-07-29 07:39:55WIPER BLADES-Things of the Past?
Things that motorists still ask for when having a car repair.(Car Hand brake)
Consequently, this is an article about some of the things that motorists ask for or ask us to check. Hence, when they leave their car with us for servicing. I have to admit that most of these guys are male. Thus, from the older generation of motorists.Naturally, who remember some of the problems that they used to encounter in the past. Of course, on some of the older model cars that were driven then.
Therefore,one of the most asked questions is “Can you just adjust my Car Hand brake”. This comes from the days when I was a young mechanic. So all you had to do to adjust the hand brake on most regular cars. Was to take out a split pin, and turn a screw thread. Of course, to either lengthen or shorten the hand brake cables.Thus giving you more leverage from the handbrake in the brake shoes.
When the handbrakes finally snapped with rust or age. Then, all you had to do was replace it with a new cable,”simple”. This type of hand brake system was always failing. Especially, when you pulled on the hand brake.So, the cable would snap. This, was responsible for many an accident.With cars parked on hills running away. However, this is the type of Car Hand brake that some motorists think their car is fitted with. Thus,thinking that it is only a ten minute job to adjust (at probably no cost to him ).
(Parking Brake)
As the modern car progressed. So it was clear that better braking systems had to developed. As a result, cars were getting faster, then they had to stop more efficiently and quickly. This brings us up to date. Consequently, with more and more car manufacturers using discs on all four corners of their cars. Not fitting the drums system at the rear. (Some newer cars still have drums at the rear, but more are favouring four wheel disc systems, for greater braking efficiency). Modern cars also have a separate handbrakes system. Including, their own drums system. Thus, working in conjunction with the rear discs. of course, which are virtually a separate system from the main brakes. Many cars are now fitted with duel cables. So, that are better protected from the outside elements (corrosion) .Most Car Hand brake on modern cars are much more complicated to service. Of course, now are one and two hour jobs to complete. Some smaller cars have still got rear drums. A Car Hand brake that works by connecting to the Rear Brake Shoes. Requiring freeing off from time to time. Also and lubricating as part of a regular service. But I am afraid that the cables still seize up and have to be come to us for a Car Hand brake Cable Replacement from time to time especially as the car gets older.
brake is now a different animal?
In the more up to date modern car with disc brakes all round there is an additional lever and cork screw mechanism that is added to the calipers piston. When the driver pulls the hand brake on in the car, the lever forces the cork screw against the same piston that activates the foot pedal system.
This system also has problems with seizing parts and will take more than ten minutes to free off and lubricate for further use. There are other systems such as used by Volvo, that incorporate a separate drum with its own Ferodo Brake Shoes that is connected to the rear discs, this can also be a long job to service correctly.
To summarise the “can you just adjust my Car Hand brake” days are over, we as a garage need to take more time to repair and adjust the modern car hand brake system and indeed what we do is to offer a separate service just to do the cars braking system justice and to offer a first class brake service.
https://www.pellonautocentre.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/brakes-pads-only.jpg396800Eric Robertshttps://www.pellonautocentre.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/pellon-tyres-logo-509x321.jpgEric Roberts2025-07-28 19:39:302025-07-28 19:39:30Car Hand brake- Car Repair MYTHS ? Hand Brake (Parking Brakes) Customers always want it Checking?
Check Your Levels: Before Hot Weather Driving – Essential Safety Tips for UK Motorists
When the sunshine finally arrives in Yorkshire — usually all at once — drivers start heading off on day trips, coastal runs, and long weekends away. But every year we see the same thing here at Pellon Tyre & Autocentre: cars arriving in our bays suffering from problems that could have been easily avoided with one simple reminder…
👉 Always check your levels before you set off.
Hot weather puts extra strain on your engine, cooling system, brakes, tyres… basically everything. A five-minute check on your driveway can save you a world of trouble later on — including breakdowns, overheated engines, or worse.
Let’s go through the essentials.
1. Engine Oil Levels – The Lifeblood of Your Engine
Your engine oil is the number one thing that keeps everything running smoothly, especially when temperatures rise. Oil thins out when hot, so if your level is already low, your engine has to work twice as hard.
Most modern engines now use synthetic oiland specific grades designed to protect the engine at high and low temperatures. If you’re unsure which oil your car needs, don’t guess — pop down to Pellon Autocentre, or check your handbook.
Key tip: Always check your oil when the engine is cold and parked on level ground.
Check Your Levels
2. Coolant Levels – Crucial in UK Heatwaves: Check Your Levels
Coolant prevents your engine from overheating. In hot weather and slow-moving traffic (and we all know Yorkshire gets its fair share on bank holiday weekends), coolant is absolutely vital.
If your level is low, your car can overheat surprisingly fast. This can warp your engine head, damage gaskets, and cost thousands in repairs.
A quick top-up before setting off makes all the difference.
3. Washer Fluid – Don’t Get Caught Short on Motorways
It sounds simple, but drivers forget. Dust, pollen, insects, sea spray near the coast — they all smear across the windscreen and can completely block visibility.
You don’t want to be scrambling for a bottle of water to pour over the screen on the hard shoulder.
4. Tyres – The Most Important Part of Summer Safety
This is the part we see go wrong most often.
Hot roads + under-inflated tyres = tyre blowouts.
Your tyres are made using heat processes, so when they’re already warm and the tarmac heats up to 50°C or more, the pressure inside rises. If the tyre is already weak, worn, or under-inflated, it can explode.
We see plenty of customers every Monday with blown tyres that could have been prevented.
Avoid part-worn tyres. They might look like a bargain, but you don’t know where they’ve been or what damage they’ve suffered.
A quality new tyre — even a budget one — is always the better and safer choice.
Set off earlier or choose a quieter route when possible.
7. Basic Summer Safety Checks Every Driver Should Do
Before you head out:
Check all fluid levels
Top up washer bottle
Test wipers
Check lights
Inspect tyres and pressures
Make sure your spare wheel or repair kit is ready
Ensure your breakdown kit and phone are charged
Five minutes now can save you hours later.
Local Yorkshire Weather Challenges: Check Your Levels
Here in Halifax and across West Yorkshire, the landscape adds extra strain:
Steep hills
Stop-start driving
Sudden changes in weather
Heavy traffic through towns like Huddersfield and Bradford
Cars overheat faster in this environment, making level checks even more important.
Final Thoughts – Check Your Levels & Stay Safe
Hot weather is great, but it brings challenges for both drivers and vehicles. A few simple checks can prevent breakdowns, extend the life of your engine, and keep your family safe.
If you’re unsure about anything — from tyres to oil grades — we’re here to help at Pellon Tyre & Autocentre in Halifax, ready to get you sorted quickly and safely.
Stay cool, stay safe, and enjoy the sunshine whenever it decides to arrive!
As we always remind our customers here in Halifax, looking after your car in hot weather isn’t just about topping up the odd fluid — it’s about keeping the whole vehicle calm and comfortable when the temperatures shoot up.
Modern engines run much hotter than older ones, and that means coolant levels, oil quality and even brake fluid condition become far more important on long summer drives. If you’re unsure which oils or fluids your particular model needs, you can always look on our Pellon website for guidance: 👉 https://www.pellontyres.co.uk
Check Your Levels
Another thing worth checking before you set off is your car battery. Many people associate battery failures with winter, but the truth is that heat damages batteries too. Hot weather increases evaporation inside the battery, which leads to sulphation and a sudden loss of performance.
We regularly see cars turning up at the garage after a long trip to the coast with warning lights flashing, simply because the battery has overheated. A quick battery check can save you from being stranded on the roadside.
You should also keep an eye on your brake performance during hot spells. Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, and when temperatures rise, this moisture can heat up and cause brake fade.
If your brake pedal feels spongy after a steep drive through the hills around Halifax, it might be time for a fluid change. The DVSA also reminds drivers that braking efficiency is a key MOT requirement — worth reading here: 👉 https://www.gov.uk/getting-an-mot
Finally, let’s not forget about summer fuel economy. Many drivers notice their MPG dropping during warm weather, often because the car is working overtime to run the air-con while crawling through traffic.
Poorly inflated tyres can make this even worse. By keeping your pressures spot-on and your tyres in good condition, you’ll save money, improve handling, and reduce the risk of a blowout. You can find more tyre advice and booking options on our site: 👉 https://www.pellontyres.co.uk
Hydrogen fuel cell cars could be here sooner than you think ?
Of course, plans are already being set out to build a network of Hydrogen Fuel Cells filling stations. These filling stations will start out across London . Of course, and then across the whole of the UK. In my opinion this will be great news.So these cars will be sold as an alternative to the Lithium-Ion battery cars. That are out at the moment and of course the so called dirty oil based fuels. Such as petrol and diesel.
Hyundai is creating the vehicle. Naturally, the company hopes to build over a thousand of these cars by 2015. The hydrogen fuel cell engine has been developed in many different countries. I am very impressed by the work done in Australia at RMIT University in Melbourne, Australia. I have linked a video demonstrating how a hydrogen fuel cell engine works. Made by RMIT University…http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U7_QYTAi1-E
Hydrogen makes up about 75% of the universe that we all live in.
We all know that eventually fossil fuels will run out. Although the timing of this has probably been extended. Significantly, by the advent of “Fracking”. Both in the USA and here in the UK,(although on a much smaller scale). This may have prolonged the life of the combustion engined car .So, that we are all familiar with, or at least be part of the fuels mix in the long run.
Of course hydrogen is a much more efficient fuel than fossil fuels. The process of passing hydrogen through a fuel cell is much more effective than the petrochemicals. Consequently, used in the conventional fossil fuel engines. That we still use today in large numbers. Also unlike the electric powered cars, hydrogen can store the energy that it creates.
Another great advantage of fuel cells is that they produce “zero emissions and will not pollute the planet, giving us all a greener future. This hydrogen fuel cell is moving forward, and not all electric cars have been produced at the moment, although I still think that electric cars will be part of the mix.
Hydrogen Fuel cells
Six hydrogen cars filling stations for London to start with
The main aim will be to open over a million Hydrogen Fuel cells facilities and eventually the hydrogen pumps will integrate with regular pumps selling petrol and diesel on the forecourts of large companies such as Salisbury and Morrison’s super markets, which are showing great interest in the new programme of hydrogen expansion.
The expected cost to fill your car with hydrogen will be around the £40 mark, which will give you about 400 miles in the new Hyundai ix 35. This will be about the same range as conventional fossil fuel-powered cars and a great advantage over electric cars, which at the moment can only travel short distances before requiring a recharge of their car batteries. The new ix3 5 drives without any noise and only emits water from the exhaust. It has no gearbox and has a drive selector, like an automatic gearbox.
It will take time to establish itself,
but to me, this technology, Hydrogen fuel cells, will be a winner? It sounds almost too good to be true ?
Another great web-site to check out about Hydrogen powered cars is…http://www.planete-hydrogene.com/en/hydrogen-energy-1/hydrogen-powered-car/how-it-works-1.html
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