This is great news. Especially for us tyre retailers that run a legitimate business. As a result, we are all sick to see all the back street tyre shops. Hence, that have recently opened, selling part worn tyres.
We all know that most of the old tyres that these people sell are “Illegal”. Even more annoying, is that members of the public buy this rubbish for their vehicles.
I see this every day. Drivers think that they are saving money. However, it has been proven many times that this is false economy. In addition, we have had many disillusioned drivers calling into my depot here in Halifax UK.
Disillusioned,
because the tyre that they have just payed £20 for, only lasted them for two weeks. As a result, we examine many of the tyres that we remove. Hence, after being bought as part worn tyres.
Most of these tyres were the pits? They were just over the legal limit with cuts and cracks all over the tyres and many our well over the age limit. Including the sidewalls and the tread areas. The people who sell these tyres should be banned from been in business. In fact I have visited countries such as Egypt. These back street places resemble such third world countries.
Part Worn Tyres Targeted
As an industry we have fought for years to make tyre safety a priority. Including, tyre tread depth and rules about repairing tyres and the age which tyres should not be fitted. People who sell illegal part worn tyres should be closed down. I frequently pass these places and it makes me cringe.
Thus, when I see regular motorists have these tyres fitted to their cars. Also I often see taxis having these death traps fitted. As I have said on many occasions. Then I do not mind the sale of “legal” part worn tyres being fitted.
But looking at the state of these places
then I very much doubt that anything about these companies will be carried out legally. Including, public liability insurance and many other things that we legitimate businesses have to provide to be able to trade with a clear consciousness.
Furthermore, this advice also applies to the owners of motorhomes and towed caravans and trailers. In addition, all vehicles that could be stood for long periods. Of course, and then take off on a journey. Consequently, the tyres on these vehicles are also exposed to the sun. For this reason, tyres that are exposed to the sun then suffer from cracking.
This cracking can be seen and identified in this video. Therefore, it is worth a look at the video. Millions of people set off this time of year. Subsequently, take a summer break. As a result, our roads are full of caravans, campervans, and motorhomes. Nothing wrong with that? As long as the owners make safety checks. Especially on their crucial tyres. Including a visual inspection and checking the tyre pressures.
Caravan Tyres Season Again
I find it incredible when I see a caravan smashed to pieces after an accident. Many of these accidents are caused by tyre blowouts. For this reason, every year we see our customers bringing in tyres that have been torn to pieces after a deflation on the motorway. Undoubtedly, there are many such incidents that go unnoticed. Ownership of one of these vehicle should mean total responsibility from the owners for safety concerns.
Millions of caravan and motorhome are responsible people.
Unfortunately, it is the few irresponsible drivers that give the majority a bad word. Another important thing that I feel I should mention.
To sum up, make sure that the tyres on your vehicle match the correct load ratings for your specific vehicle. Especially if you own a larger vehicle. You can be sure that your load rating will be higher than, say, a standard car tyre. Please check, and if you are not sure, ask your local tyre centre for advice.
https://www.pellonautocentre.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/motorhomes-posts.jpg405607Eric Robertshttps://www.pellonautocentre.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/pellon-tyres-logo-509x321.jpgEric Roberts2024-10-22 19:42:312024-10-22 19:42:31Caravan Tyres Season Again
Of driving your car along the road only to find that when you apply the Failing Brakes,
you hear a tremendous “grinding”noise problems
Of course winter is always a bad time for our customers with brake problems. Specifically, because drivers use their brakes much more often. Especially, if the weather turns wild. Snow and ice make drivers doubly aware of the driving conditions. Consequently, they use the brakes twice as much as they would in say dry sunny summer conditions.
Eventually the brake pads will wear away. In many cases the pads wear down to the extent of wearing out altogether thus causing Failing Brakes ! Frequently, only leaving the metal part of the pads in tack. Of course this is the time when the grinding noise can be first heard by the driver. So, causing panic as this is often accompanied by brake warning lights illuminating on the cab dashboard !
Drivers panic !
So, the noise comes from the metal part of the worn out pads grinding on the metal brake discs eventual causing Failing Brakes. Resulting in the horrific noise when the brakes are applied. Significantly, this happens many times and We are now finding that we are seen an increase in drivers calling into our Halifax garage with this problem. With with Failing Brakes that are rattling and banging. Many of our customers are lady drivers (about 60% we estimate).
Not being sexist but the lady drivers do appear to panic more when this bad brake experience happens. Finding out that when you apply the brakes. Then you can hear a tremendous “grinding”noise. As a result, coming from your car. This can be a harrowing and frightening experience. Especially, to a first time driver.
When this happens all the customer wants to do is stop their car. Of course and then, getting it to a garage as soon as possible. As I have siad earlier, these days as well as the noise, then a warning light will illuminate. Hence, on the dash-board. Making the experience twice as daunting.
Customers just want their vehicle putting right !
So, in really severe cases of total brake failure, then a recovery is often required. Drivers just dont want to drive their cars that are making such a terrible noise. So, the cars are just left with us to do whatever is needed to make their vehicles roadworthy again ! The cost of the repairs does not seem to be a problem. Because, this important part of the car and the brakes must be fixed at all cost.
Why let the brakes get to this stage ?
This is the bit that I don’t understand ! I believe that the main reason for the customer grinding brake problem is a lack of car servicing. Thus allowing their cars to become beyond the stage of proper safety levels (when the pads are completely worn down and they become metal on metal with the Discs). Dangerously, this problem occurs mainly because the vehicle had not been serviced the year before.
Customers now lead very busy lives ! So, it is not surprising when we tell them that their car has not been serviced for over two years. I must admit that I am in this bracket ! Consequently, because of a missed service then parts that need replacing such as brake pads . So, are neglected and wear out causing the grinding problem. Customers do not usually miss servicing on purpose !
So, there was a time when our customers would miss a service for financial reasons. In recent years we have found that this has become less of a problem. Money is much easier to access, so important things such as servicing their car has become less of a problem.
Missing a service is false economy !
However a modern safe guard has become the annual MOT Test and servicing. Expressly, the modern way is to have a service when the vehicle is in for its annual MOT test. So, to help drivers, many garages like ourselves. Offer a service and MOT package that is in the financial reach of most card drivers. Of course, this package ensures that things that could be missed due to neglect can be spotted and put to rights.
Including the cars braking system. When the brake pads are not completely worn down then we can advise the car owners and they can be changed before the dreaded grinding noise emanates.
So, when the car is in fir a service/MOT, and we find that the Brake Pads are getting low. Then we report back to the client with an advisory. Of course with the permission of the car owner ! The parts will be changed on the service making the car safe again, and up to scratch. If the owner does not have their vehicle serviced and the Failing Brakes are neglected, then the problem of low pads will then be spread to the other parts, namely the brake discs.
Of course, other brake problems could also occur. Including, seized up brake calipers, or leaking brake cylinders and damaged ABS warning wires.
Failing Brakes problems could have been avoided.
As an example to what I was saying earlier in the article! One lady customer brought her BMW Mini in to us with a Brakes problem. Closely examining the Mini we found that she required discs and pads on the front. Including a set of pads on the rear. The lady could not understand this ! Explaining that she we had only just serviced the car a couple of months previously.
Much surprised! We subsequently,checked the records on our computer system. She was horrified to find that the last service was carried out 18 months ago ! Time had flown by and she had missed her annual service completely. Needless to say that she apologised, paid her bill and went on her way. Of course ,we do send out reminders to our customers, but it had slipped her mind.
I do believe that motorists are becoming more aware and educated about the need for regular car servicing as a preventative measure to Failing Brakes. Especially before the dreaded grinding brake scenario occurs!
The Value of Equipping Your Van with Heavy Duty Shock Absorbers
Hi there, fellow owners of vans! Driving in Halifax or traversing the meandering lanes of the Yorkshire countryside, you are aware of how unpredictable our roads can be in the UK. You could be driving on a smooth freeway one moment and have to avoid potholes the size of a small pond the next. Heavy duty shock absorbers, the unsung heroes of your van’s suspension system, come into play in this situation. Let’s examine the importance of these bad boys for your vehicle.
In any case, what are shock absorbers? Vans require Heavy Duty Shocks
Let’s first examine the true function of shock absorbers. To put it simply, they maintain the tyres on your van in contact with the road. Shock absorbers cushion the blow when your van hits a bump, pothole, or even a naughty speed bump, preventing your van from bouncing around like a pogo stick. This translates into increased safety, smoother rides, and better control.
What Makes Heavy Duty? Vans require Heavy Duty Shocks
So why would one choose high duty shock absorbers over ordinary ones? It’s likely that you’re transporting heavy things in your van for work, whether they be goods, equipment, or tools. Better stability and control are offered by heavy duty shocks, which are made to support the additional weight. Here’s why they are revolutionary:
Enhanced Handling of Loads: The weight of your cargo is specifically supported by heavy duty shock absorbers. For lighter loads, standard shocks may be sufficient, but when transporting heavier items, you need something that can withstand the most pressure. Even with everything stacked inside, your van will stay steady thanks to heavy-duty shocks.
Increased Sturdiness: Vehicles aren’t always treated well on our local roads. Because heavy duty shocks are designed to resist challenging circumstances, they last longer and cost less to replace. Consider them an investment in the future of your van.
Enhanced Quality of Ride: Nobody like a rough ride. Heavy-duty shock absorbers smooth out your travels, which is great for your back and any fragile items you may be transporting. The ride quality has improved, whether you’re driving longer distances or just around town.
Enhanced Security: It’s crucial to maintain control and stability, especially when operating a vehicle that is fully loaded. Heavy-duty shocks lessen the possibility of rolling or swaying, especially while turning sharp corners or travelling on rough terrain. You and other drivers will drive more safely as a result of this.
The Halifax Component-Vans require Heavy Duty Shocks
Let’s make it more accessible. We know that the roads in Halifax can be a little unpredictable. Driving can be a bit of an adventure because of the sudden potholes, small lanes, and steep hills and descents.
If you equip your van with heavy duty shock absorbers, you’ll be more equipped to handle any challenges that our local roads may present. You’ll also discover that negotiating the Calderdale terrain is more easier and more pleasant thanks to the increased stability and control.
Fitting Them: Do It Yourself or Hire a Pro?
You may be thinking if you really need a professional or if you can fit these yourself. Even if some of you do-it-yourselfers might feel capable of doing the work, I would suggest hiring an expert to complete it. A proper installation is essential to guaranteeing the shocks work as intended. Furthermore, who needs the hassle of a poorly executed do-it-yourself project?
Concluding Remarks about Vans require Heavy Duty Shocks
To put it briefly, heavy duty shock absorbers are an absolute must for any van owner who values longevity, comfort, and safety. Getting them will improve your van greatly whether you use it for travel or work, especially on our erratic British roads.
Ask about Vans require Heavy Duty Shocks the next time you’re in for maintenance or feel like the bumps are getting to you a little too much. Both your back and your van will appreciate it!
I’ll see you on the Halifax roads, and have a safe journey!
So, to be honest, this is nothing new to me. Monroe shock absorbers have an online lookup system that tells which shocks go onto which van. So I really dont know what the problem could be.
Perhaps the smaller parts chain are supplying spurious makes of shockers that are cheap and should only fit lighter vehicles. Hence, I am not really sure. Here at Pillon Autocentre in Halifax, we only use honest and reliable parts companies for our replacement parts, including new shockers!
Of course if they are cheap then the probably will be cheap and not suitable for the customers van. Like everything else in this world then you pay for what you get! Surprisingly, shock absorbers appear to last longer than they used to do back in the day. Better manufacturing techniques seam to have made them last longer and they are not much of an MOT Test failure any more.
The explosion of eCommerce and consumers’ increased demand for convenient delivery and on-site service is also seeing demand rise for the repair and maintenance of these vehicles, experts at Monroe say. As one example, shock
So this is about the wrangling that continues about our MP’s trying to convert the MOT testing gap to two years. Utterly stupid, in my opinion! These MP’s should visit testing stations to see how a modern-day car can deteriorate over the current one-year period. So, two years would just mean many more dangerous cars on our roads.
However, as this attached article states, the motor industry are fighting to knock this stupid idea on the head. I drive for my business and often depart at 4.30 in the morning. The roads are very busy and in my opinion, we are heading for a complete 24-hour period of heavy traffic.
Ask any truck driver!
No longer can you drive in the UK through the night to try to avoid heavy traffic. It is with us now. So testing cars over a two-year period is a no-brainer, and the idea should be scrapped immediately for safety’s sake alone.
Along with this article, I can only hope that the recent conservative re-shuffle will kill the two-year MOT tests stone dead and that common sense prevails.
Two-Year MOT Tests
The MOT test is an annual safety inspection that is mandatory
for all vehicles in the United Kingdom that are older than three years. Ensuring that vehicles on the road are in good condition and do not endanger other road users is of the utmost importance. The proposal to transition this to a biennial inspection was made in an effort to alleviate financial strains on drivers and decrease the operational burden on garages. It seems reasonable in theory, correct?
Nonetheless, this is not a novel concept. Similar suggestions have occasionally surfaced, frequently in an effort to cut costs and streamline operations. Recently, a number of members of parliament have revisited the notion, arguing that it might save motorists a little bit of fuel. However, it is not devoid of controversy.
Contrarians express significant apprehensions. Two-Year MOT Tests
regarding the implications for road safety and the environment. They believe that extending the time between inspections could result in a greater number of high-octane vehicles with underlying problems such as worn tyres or faulty brakes travelling around. This has the potential to increase accident rates and potentially impact air quality if emissions are not routinely inspected.
Safety experts and the automotive industry have had a somewhat divided reaction.
While there are individuals who believe that modern vehicles, which are indeed improving in dependability, may not require such frequent inspections, others emphasise the critical nature of routine surveillance in ensuring public safety. It is a timeless struggle between savings and safety, and striking the proper balance is no easy task.
The proposal has not been implemented as of yet. Two-Year MOT Tests
It appears to be in a “let’s think this through” phase as opposed to “full steam ahead.” The government must diligently assess the potential advantages in relation to the potential drawbacks. Before finalising a change, they would also be required to consult with a variety of stakeholders, including automobile associations and road safety charities.
It appears that the concept is currently being deliberated and has not yet been finalised. It is uncertain whether this will transition to a higher frequency or remain at rest. Any change to something as critical as the MOT testing regime, however, will undoubtedly require careful consideration in order to ensure the safety of all road users.
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 Roberts2024-10-21 07:42:132024-10-21 07:42:13Two Year MOT Tests
Of course, this is nothing new. In my opinion, the main reason is that the car manufacturers have failed their duty of care! Cars no longer have spare wheels in many cases. Drivers are left with either nothing at all or a can of inflation fluid. Some vehicle are fitted with skinny-looking spare wheels. On the, say, posher part of the car market, many have run flat tyre systems.
Cars are also fitted with TPMS systems. These light up when a tyre is deflated and under pressure. As the owner of a busy retail tyre outlet here in Halifax, UK, I must stand up for the customers. Subsequently, I find that most car owners are concerned about the condition of their tyres.
Like many other things in life, we always get people who dont give a damn about their tyres or rod safety in general. These are also the people who think nothing about fitting worn tyre and the dangers that these can bring to our busy roads.
Drivers are now forced to join the national breakdown services because of the lack of spare wheels in millions of cars. It was originally done to lower the weight of the cars to reduce emissions. But this must have also increased the profit margins ?
Tyre issues
More than 41,500 people broke down on National Highways roads last year because of tyre issues – that’s more than 20 per cent of all breakdowns. National Highways, which is responsible for motorways and major A
Tyre Problems: An Ongoing Challenge for Breakdown Services in the UK
The mere notion of a flat tyre or a blowout causes much perspiration among drivers in the United Kingdom. Notwithstanding progress in vehicle technology and tyre longevity, tyre-related issues continue to constitute a significant proportion of breakdown service calls throughout the United Kingdom. This enduring concern not only induces inconvenience for motorists but also presents significant perils to safety.
What Makes Tyre Problems So Frequent?
The spectrum of tyre issues extends from gradual punctures and tread degradation to more severe blowouts. The causes of these problems are diverse, but frequently include:
Low Maintenance:
A significant number of motorists disregard routine tyre inspections, disregarding the criticality of tread depth and tyre pressure. Such carelessness may result in untimely deterioration and hazardous road conditions. Pavement Conditions:
Debris, potholes, and uneven road surfaces are all potential sources of significant tyre damage. Particularly in areas with inadequate maintenance or following severe winters, British roads can be a minefield for tyres.
Age and Garment:
Tyres deteriorate naturally with use and age. Particularly when damp, the rubber loses its elasticity and the treads deteriorate, diminishing the tire’s ability to adhere to the road. The Consequences for Breakdown Services
Breakdown services are dispatched to thousands of tyre-related incidents annually in the United Kingdom. Tyre issues are among the main causes of stranded vehicles, according to the RAC. This phenomenon not only imposes a burden on service resources but also hinders their capacity to address more critical emergencies.
Safety Issues
Significant safety implications result from tyre failures. Tyre damage or inadequate maintenance can result in a loss of vehicle control, particularly when travelling at high velocities on highways. Not only does the vehicle with the defective tyre face danger, but so do other motorists.
Suggestions for Motorists
To mitigate the likelihood of tire-related malfunctions, drivers are recommended to:
Check Routinely: Conduct routine inspections of the tread depth and tyre pressure. It is advisable to replace a tyre well in advance of the legal tread wear threshold of 1.6mm. Age Monitoring: Regardless of tread wear, tyres ought to be replaced every five years as a result of the detrimental impacts that ageing has on rubber. Travel Prudently: Vigile deceleration and abrupt stops should be avoided, as they can accelerate tyre degradation. Additionally, driving slowly over substandard surfaces can prevent unanticipated damage. A View Looking Forward
Despite ongoing advancements in tyre technology,
The enduring challenge of maintenance and awareness persists. By means of educational campaigns and consistent reminders concerning the significance of tyre inspections, the frequency of tyre-related callouts could be diminished. Furthermore, advancements in puncture-resistant materials and tyre durability may ultimately reduce the frequency of these failures.
To conclude,
Tyre maintenance is an essential component of road safety, not merely a means to prevent the inconvenience of a punctured tyre. Drivers can promote a safer voyage for all by adhering to basic tyre maintenance procedures, which effectively mitigate the likelihood of mechanical failures. At this time, tire-related issues remain a significant obstacle for breakdown services in the United Kingdom, highlighting the critical nature of sustaining education and awareness regarding this matter.
Most people know what a brake disc is. Of course, they learn this through experience gained throughout their motoring life. The brake discs are known in America as “Brake Rotors”, I say this
because of my American readers. Just in case they dont know what I am referring to,.
The discs are the large metal discs that you see on most cars. Hence, when the wheels are removed,. For this reason, there job is to stop the car when the brakes are applied. Thus, they are grabbed by the brake pads. At great pressure to stop the car. This action causes friction and wear on the discs. Consequently, with constant use and heat buildup,.
replacing warped brake discs
Over time, the Disc Brakes will slowly wear down. Most manufacturers of these discs recommend a minimum thickness of wear. when a skilled autocenter examines your brakes Then the discs will be measured to see if they are below the thickness limits. Therefore, customer will then be advised?Hopefully, the warped brake discs will be changed.
Discs come in all types of designs. Although the discs fit the regular family saloon car,. Hence, are usually of the conventional solid steel discs type. Although many cars are now coming out on vented discs,. This was an improvement to help dissipate the high amount of heat that the discs generate in heavy usage. In my opinion, these vented discs wear more quickly than the solid discs but do not warp as much.
Warped Brake Discs
The warped brake discs will go out of shape for many reasons , but the main reason is what I call “normal wear and tear” , This is caused by the exposed discs coming into contact with water, During in heavy rain, the discs constantly heat up and cool down when in contact with the water. This year has been particularly bad for warped brake discs replacements due to our record wet year here in the UK. The discs produce a high spot, which over time causes them to develop a “high spot,” and eventually the discs will warp.
This warped brake discs can be felt through the brake pedal when you are pressing the brakes and will get worse, making driving feel uncomfortable. If this is not seen, it is possible that the discs can break up into pieces, often causing distress to the driver.
Some sportier car models have to have perforated discs fitted as an added bonus in keeping the discs cool when heavy braking and have to be re-fitted with the same type of discs.Discs are very important and can not be messed about with, except for upgrades.
Warped Brake Discs How do I look after my brake discs ?
The answer really is to have your car regularly maintained. Most goodAutocentres will offer their customers a free brake check. Also, you should have your car serviced at least once a year; this will include your brake check and any problems will be noted and presented to you as a recommendation.
It is then up to you to have the problems fixed before you run into more problems.
I have noticed recently that the customers with brake problems are the ones that did not find time to have their car serviced, and the cost doubles because of the extra problems that a set of worn-out pads would have if discovered on a service.
The Reasons Independent Garages Are Preferable to Bigger Garage Companies in the UK for MOT Tests
Greetings, fellow admirers of automobiles! Let’s discuss something personal today: the MOT test. We are all aware that maintaining our cherished cars’ roadworthiness and safety is an annual ritual. But have you ever wondered why so many of us in the UK choose to take our cars to independent garages for this crucial check-up instead of the big-name chains? Let’s examine the factors that make many people choose our neighbourhood’s independent garages.
The Individual Touch-Independent garages lead MOT testing
The individual attention that independent garages provide is one of their main selling points. You’re not just another number when you visit a neighbourhood garage. The mechanics actually care about giving you excellent service; they frequently recall your car’s peculiarities and know you by name. This tailored approach is really beneficial, particularly for something as significant as a MOT exam.
Transparency and Trust
When it comes to car maintenance, trust is important. Transparency and trust have been the cornerstones of independent garages’ reputations. Local garages depend on word-of-mouth referrals and repeat business, unlike larger chains that could push pointless repairs or extras. They are more likely to provide you with an accurate estimate and reasonable prices, making sure you only pay for what is required to pass the MOT.
Encouragement of the Local Economy-Independent garages lead MOT testing
Selecting an independent garage also helps the community’s economy. Many of these garages are long-standing, family-run establishments that serve the neighbourhood. Purchasing locally promotes local companies, which in turn sustains employment locally and enhances the general well-being of the community. Everyone wins in this scenario!
Knowledge and Background
Independent garages frequently hire highly qualified and knowledgeable mechanics. With decades of experience in the field, many of these mechanics are well-versed in a wide range of makes and models. This knowledge is crucial for identifying and resolving problems that may come up during a MOT test. Additionally, they frequently take a more adaptable and creative approach, coming up with solutions that larger businesses might not have thought of.
Competitive Costing-Independent garages lead MOT testing
Let’s face it, most of us consider cost to be a major consideration. Prices for MOT tests and repairs are typically more competitively priced at independent garages. They can maintain lower costs since they don’t have the overhead associated with managing a massive chain, which is a huge benefit for customers. You receive excellent service without having to pay a premium fee.
Regional Expertise
Local garages are uniquely positioned to comprehend the particular conditions and difficulties of the region. For example, Halifax has its fair share of small alleys, high hills, and erratic weather. Local mechanics can offer guidance and services catered to our particular needs because they are knowledgeable about how these things effect cars. When it comes to making sure your automobile is ready for the MOT test and beyond, this local knowledge truly makes a difference.
Practicality and Adaptability
Booking your MOT test at a time that works for you is made easier by the more flexible scheduling choices that independent garages frequently provide. Compared to larger chains, they are typically more accommodating and recognise that life may be stressful. Your neighbourhood garage probably has the capacity to accommodate you without any issues, whether you require an early morning appointment or a late afternoon one.
Establishing Connections-Independent garages lead MOT testing
You establish a rapport with your neighbourhood garage over time. You get to know them, and they get to know you and your car. It’s difficult to find trust and dependability in larger chains, but these relationships promote them. It’s consoling to know that your mechanic actually wants the best for both your safety and the operation of your vehicle.
Independent garages lead MOT testing
Final Thoughts
In summary, independent garages provide a degree of individualised care, credibility, knowledge, and neighbourhood support that larger chains are unable to match. Many people choose them for MOT tests because of their flexible scheduling, affordable prices, and local expertise. So why not give your neighbourhood garage a try the next time your car is scheduled for a MOT? You’ll receive excellent service while also contributing to your community.
Let’s keep our local companies prospering and our cars roadworthy!
So, MOT testing has cleared the backlog caused by the pandemic, and we are now testing at a level that is comparable to post-pandemic figures. Of course, it is not all over yet, but as a garage and MOT station, we are all safe and happy to see all our customers again.
This is a great article. Hence, and only emphasises the reason why many small garages are doing so well. Nonetheless, we should keep up with our high standards of customer service. Of course, we would be nothing if it was not for our staff. Staff and training are in my opinion, one of the most important factors. Thus of running a busy successful garage business.
Indeed, without good, reliable staff, you may as well forget it. For this reason, our customers return time and time again. Please read the article; it is filled with many interesting facts about your local independent garage. To be a successful MOT centre, honesty is the key word.
Another interesting MOT testing article about a dishonest tester working for Halfords.
https://www.pellonautocentre.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/canstockphoto88031629-scaled-e1704782691464.jpg333500Eric Robertshttps://www.pellonautocentre.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/pellon-tyres-logo-509x321.jpgEric Roberts2024-10-19 19:39:062024-10-19 19:39:06Independent garages lead MOT testing
So, I suppose this lesson that I am about to teach you could be a lesson for all types of business, not just garages! This type of customer has always been a laughing point when the garage guys meet over a pint of beer!
Subsequently, we vey often get onto the customer who calls into the garage and says ” could you just fit a set of front brake pads, or could you just fit me a “head light bulb”. Yes these are just customers you have to avoid!
The sign in the car window that I have used as the image for this post.
Unquestionably, this says it all. Admitably, not all small jobs go wrong! However, your staff must be made of the customer who just pops in and they are tempted to fit the “small job” between customers that are already booked in.
So the number of times that these so-called “small jobs” have been fired would amaze you. Of course, the latest and most common one is “can you just fit a light bulb“. This is one that you need to watch out for! Some are relatively easy to fit. However, many are also a nightmare, requiring half the cars front end to be stripped down before the bulb can be fitted.
Another similar problem is the “can you fit my own brake pads “customer.
This is a temptation to a new garage owner. So a customer walks in with new set of usually cheap brake pads and asks you if you can just fit these! As tempting as it may be, we never fit customers own parts. Consequently, you will always find that its not just the pads that are gone. So, then you are in a dilemma. Probably one that you never needed. Garages and similar industries cant do “right for wrong”!
Garage Owners Beware
So we all know the other problems
associated with the simple job of just fitting a set of brake pads. Anything can go wrong, and believe me, it often will. My advice is to stay clear of these customers.
Established garages will know all their good customers and will generally be too busy to accommodate the “can you just” brigade. My advice is to stay clear of these people and politely say that you are fully booked and, in any case, do not fit customers own parts.
Driver of the Peugeot 406 could not switch off the engine
Peugeot 406 Lights
Subsequently, the first time that we saw this particular car was when it was in for an MOT test. Gloomily, the owner said that the car would probably fail the test. Because some of the lights were not working as they should! However, the owner’s disappointment came to an end when the car passed the test.
Surprisingly, contrary to what we thought, all the lights were indeed fine. In good working condition. The weather at the beginning of the year. Indeed, it was warm and sunny. The customer picked up his car ! and we heard nothing from the customer or his Peugeot 406 (with the suspected lights problem).
Peugeot turns back up with a central locking problem- Peugeot 406 Lights
So, we did not see the car again until later in the year. Turning up again with an unrelated problem. Hence, the central locking was not working as it should ? We checked out all the likely things and found nothing to miss. When the car was in our hands, the central locking was working fine. Subsequently, we could not find any problems.
The customer collected his Peugeot 406 back home, and sure enough, he returned with yet another problem ! The car’s side lights were in a permanent position. In other words, they were switched off but remained on (if you get what I mean) .So,once again, we checked all the likely culprits. Including the fuses and switches, and everything was just fine. Significantly, the car was having a number of “lights and other electrical problems” at differing times (very strange). When investigating, we found this clip from another Peugeot owner with similar problems in the forum of the Peugeot 406 web-site…
“Then, with the car locked, the brake lights came on. Then went off, then glowed dimly then stayed on. At this point I pulled the fuses for the brake lights and nothing at all happened. The lights stayed on. Disconnected the battery and then reconnected. Lights stayed off until I tried the brakes with the ignition on. “I removed the BSI (with the battery disconnected) and (with battery back on) turned on the ignition to find all the lights still lit up. Must be the dash board. Out with the dash on with the soldering iron.
Every pin and connection to the dials. Put back in; no joy. Brake lights are on with or without the dash board. removed the brake light switch. (What a swine that is to remove!)—lights still on! I looked for all the earth points around the car. I got to the drivers foot well and I could hear a buzzing noise. Could it be a relay?”…
Of course, this was a problem that we had not come across before. Surprisingly, the whole thing came to a head when the car engine would not switch off ! To stop the engine from running, we had to stall the car’s engine. Amazingly, we just could not find a problem.
Had to call in an a Citroen/Peugeot expert ! Peugeot 406 Lights
As a last resort, I had to call for help and enlisted the help of a mechanic friend called Richard. Richard had heard about this problem before and went straight to the foot well of the driver’s side.
The weather was terrible for a couple of weeks prior to the cars problems occurring ! Torrential rain and wide-spread flooding were a national problem ! Because of all the heavy rain here in the UK, the footwell had become flooded. Consequently, when we lifted the carpet at the driver’s side, we found a wet, soggy mess.
Peugeot 406 wiring was rotten with the wet ?
Specifically, the Peugeot 406 lighting and engine problems were found . Subsequently, the plugs that connected the wiring together were perished and rotten. Of course, causing all the short-outs and strange electrical things to happen. Firstly, we drilled a hole to release the water . Secondly, we re-wired the damaged wires together. So, it was very time-consuming, but a good job was done. We still do not know where the water is getting in, but I have added some advice from the Honest John website…
“Dry the interior out; remove all mats. Stay inside the car while a friend gently sprays a hose, one section at a time, for several minutes. Wait a few minutes, then inspect. Make sure you train the water on the sunroof, side windows, light clusters, rear hatch, doors, and main windscreen; these are the common areas that could leak. After a thorough dowsing, gently bounce rear and front of car to dislodge any water that may be sitting somewhere inside. Also, covering the dry car interior carpets with newspaper will show the presence of water and possibly the direction of the leak if you have a dark trim”…http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=48178
Water can cause many electrical problems in your car ? Peugeot 406 Lights
Thinking back the cars owner could relate the problems after we had had heavy rain fall. So, when the water leaked into the car then it shorted out some of the cars electrics . Of course if any water enters the car then much damage can occur. It even happened recently to a nearly new Ford transit delivery van that I bought from the local Ford dealer.
Apparently, unknown to me, the van had a new windscreen fitted before we bought the van. On a recent delivery to a customer in Lancashire, I experienced a very heavy period of rainfall. Surprisingly, the van came to a sudden stop ! Fortunately, I had just pulled off the M56 motorway. So, the engine was completely dead , refusing to start !
After a couple of hours of waiting, the RAC guy turned up and recommended that I be towed to our base in Halifax, UK. To our horror we found that the windscreen had been incorrectly fitted and water had entered the cab onto the ECU (Vans computer). So, after the shock and a couple of thousand pounds lighter, the van is now back on its delivery runs !
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