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Engine Carbon Clean Service-Pellon Autocentre in Halifax UK can now offer this Engine Cleaning Service

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Engine Carbon Clean Service

Engine Carbon Clean Service

All these new procedures have come about by a change in the MOT testing rules from May 2018.  So, from May 2018 the smoke test limit for Euro 6 and some Euro 5 diesels will be halved. This also ties up with the number of cars that have been having there DPF’s (Diesel particulate Filters) removed completely. So it will now be an MOT test failure if your vehicle does not have an EGR valve fitted and has had it removed.

Of course this will affect drivers who have bought a second hand car and are unaware of its removal. In a statement obtained by Garage Wire the online care repair specialists,  a Department of Transport  spokesperson said:

“We are taking strong action to stop the removal of DPFs. “We expect future changes to the MOT emissions test for diesel vehicles, due to come into force by May 2018, to make it easier to detect vehicles with failing or removed DPFs.”

CONTAMINATION AND ITS EFFECTS ON AN ENGINE

Fuel and Oil are an organic matter, when they are burnt or left to naturally degrade they form contamination, this adheres to different components within the engine, namely:

Over the last 20 years, engines have become more complex and the tolerances within the engine have become finer. As a result, it takes just a small amount of contamination to adversely affect engine performance.

Pellon Autocentre invest in a new Carbon Clean machine

Of  your vehicle can now fail the emissions part of the MOT Test due to the new stricter smoke test that comes under the Euro 5 and Euro 6 lowered limits. So to keep up to speed we here at Pellon Autocentre have invested in a new machine for cleaning up your vehicles engine. This can be done in conjunction with a regular service or to just get your vehicle through the MOT tests stricter emission rules.

Modern engine design, coupled with a drive to reduce harmful emissions, has led to a significant increase in contamination related issues such as

  • Blocked DPF’s
  • Fouled Fuel Injectors
  • MOT emission failures

The Tec4 Carbon Cleaning Machine, backed up with our unique marketing package, allows you to fix these issues with minimal fuss and promote a preventative maintenance solution.

Some of the text in this post and the video was kindly provided by Tec4.

mot testing and car servicing

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

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Car Servicing under Warranty

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

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

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

This was not acceptable to the EU.

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

More reading…European Union Auto legislation

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

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

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

The EU legislation states that all car makers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

car servicing

Neglect car servicing-at your own peril – Daily Nation-Pellonautocentre

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Neglect car servicing

Daily Nation Neglect car servicing at your own peril Daily Nation If you simply asked a garage for a major car servicing, and handed the car over with a flat spare, one rear wheel five psi below pressure, feathering wear on one front tyre tread, a screw…

Eric Roberts‘s insight:

 Neglect car servicing advice from Africa

I know that I keep going on about how important car servicing is. But its good advice when I see other countries preaching the same thing. So this article comes from Africa! Giving the  motorist some good points that affect all car drivers. Importantly to have your car serviced. Of course, there may be some serious underlying problem with your car.

Especially, about hidden problems that you do not know about. Significantly, that a service should pick up. The main neglect that we come across is Car Brakes problems, for example leaking brake cylinders that are undetected could lead to a sudden brake loss, and heaven knows what that could cause, so please have your car servicing done at regular intervals. Please do not Neglect car servicing?

If you would like some advice  about your cars servicing intervals then here you are .

From my advice I would like to stress that the newer your car is then the fewer services the car will need. Most of today’s modern cars that our customers drive are supposed to be serviced every 12000 Miles Per Year. Or at least once a year. Some of the older models require more Servicing a Car, but we tend to check out the service booklets and service the cars accordingly.

After three years, your car should have averaged say 12000 miles every year, but many drivers do not do that amount of miles, so in that case i would advise you once again to stick to the mileage regime and not the time scale. In my opinion it is best practice to stick to the cars service manual. If you do Neglect car servicing and exceed the miles, say if you use your car for work purposes then you should have the 12000 mile service once a year, or at least make sure that the car has a major service.

But most importantly please make sure that the car has the oil and filter changed, as oil contamination can always run into other more major problems. Also check the time or mileage that your timing belt needs changing, this can be the major problem if you Neglect car servicing , if your car requires it, most do and have a brake check. if you have a 12000 mile yearly service, then all this will be taken care of.

mot test-Online Bookings on Increase

Independent Car Care centres-The Benefits of Been an Independent to our Customers

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Independent Car Care centres

Independent Car Care centres-Cars are among the most essential parts of our lives.

Virtually everyone owns their own vehicle. Whether it is for public use or private use. To ensure that your vehicle maintains its pristine condition. So, it is essential to periodically visit  to your Independent Car Care centres. Car care centres are ideal destinations for repairing and maintaining vehicles. There are numerous benefits that vehicle owners attain when they take their vehicles to these dealers.

  1. The first benefit is that these centres possess expert mechanics. Who have mastered every minute detail about automobiles. This lets them handle any form of issue with your vehicle. Consequently, they may undo most significant damages to your automobile. They typically repair, check or service your batteries, wiper blades, tyre pressure, clutch, lights, brakes and engine. These repairs will ensure that your vehicle remains pristine. That will protect it from the strain it typically faces.
  2. The second benefit is that the mechanics offer peace of mind . They have mastered virtually everything about vehicles due to their immense experience along with their training. Whatever make or model your vehicle might be. The mechanics know all of its workings. To them, it is irrelevant whether your vehicle is vintage, rare or foreign. They also possess all the ideal pieces of equipment. Along with tools to repair or to service your vehicle. They guarantee that your vehicle’s condition will improve. Hence, the mechanics offer peace of mind as you remain assured that they are the most ideal experts to handle your vehicle.
  3. The third benefit is that these care centres mechanics are cost-effective. Their charges typically reflect the type of repair or service they perform. If your vehicle has sustained extensive damage or requires extensive servicing. So, their services will reflect that. In fact, their charges are often reasonable with immense damages. Likewise, their charges are relatively minute if your vehicle does not need plenty of work. The mechanics, in addition, are insured. This means that they will not charge for any issues that may arise when they attempt to repair or service your vehicle.

Car care centres offer more care for your car

The fourth benefit is that the mechanics offer additional services. For instance, if your car has broken down somewhere and you cannot move it, you may hire them to tow your vehicle. This will be considerably more affordable and convenient than paying an independent towing company. The mechanics also offer ideal advice. Your vehicle may require new parts like brakes or headlights. If so, these professionals may offer advice on the type of  Online Catalogue are most ideal. For instance, there are brand new spare parts that are considerably expensive. But are essential for certain parts, like gearboxes. There are also recycled spare parts which are affordable and may be ideal for parts like headlights. They may also offer advice on whether a particular component needs to be repaired or if it requires replacement. Independent Car Care centres advice is primarily to suit you and your budget.

On the whole, Unipart car care centres are ideal centres for having your vehicle repaired or serviced. They are affordable and effective. We have now left the Unipart scheme and it will make no difference to our customer service going forward.

Brake Servicing

Dangers of Driving with Faulty Brakes

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Dangers of Driving with Faulty Brakes

Dangers of Driving with Faulty Brakes

As we all know, driving with faulty brakes can be extremely dangerous. Of course, not only for you, but also for other motorists. Worn or damaged brakes can reduce stopping power. Therefore, it would be more difficult to stop the vehicle in an emergency. In this post, we will discuss some of the risks associated with driving a car with worn or damaged brakes. Importantly, that’s why it’s important to have your brakes checked and replaced as soon as possible.

One of the main risks associated with driving with faulty brakes is increased stopping distance. This is a slow process and is not detected by the driver. As the brake pads wear down, they become less effective at stopping the vehicle, which can lead to a longer stopping distance. This can be especially dangerous in situations where an emergency stop is needed. Emergencies, such as when a child runs into the street or a car in front of you suddenly stops.

Another risk associated with driving with faulty brakes is decreased control.

So, If the brake pads are worn or the brake disc (rotor) is damaged, the vehicle may not stop as smoothly or as easily as it should. This can make it difficult to control the vehicle. Especially in tight turns or on wet or slippery roads. Driving with faulty brakes also increases the risk of collision. If the brakes fail completely, the driver may be unable to stop the vehicle, which can lead to a collision. Additionally, if the brakes are worn or damaged, the driver may not be able to stop the vehicle in time to avoid a collision.

Brake pads can also seize due to a lack of servicing. This, in fact, is what happened to me. I was coming up to a zebra crossing on my way home from a day trip to Blackpool, UK. Although the crossing was empty, I applied my brakes. The car did not come to a halt; instead, it continued on its way. My brakes had seized on! I was an apprentice mechanic at the time and pulled up as soon as possible. The brakes were red-hot and untouchable. After jacking up the car and removing the wheels, I was able to release the brakes, and we were able to drive home cautiously.

Another risk is that, when the brake pads are worn out

So, they need to work harder and hotter to perform their function, this can cause the brake disc to warp, which can lead to the need of changing both brake pads and discs, adding more cost and time to the repair. Indeed this is a very common problem. Our customers leave the brake pads too long and this eventually leads to them wanting both pads and discs. It is important to have your brakes checked and serviced regularly.

Your garage mechanic can check the thickness of your brake pads, discs, and other brake components and determine if they need to be replaced. Here at Pellon Auto Centre in Halifax, UK, we carry out this work on the car’s main service. As I’ve already said, having your brakes checked and serviced regularly can help them last longer and make sure they keep working right.

In conclusion, driving with faulty brakes can be extremely dangerous, and it’s crucial to keep them in good working condition. If you notice any signs of wear or damage, such as squealing or grinding noises, Whether you have reduced stopping power or a soft brake pedal, it’s important to have your brakes checked and replaced as soon as possible. Checking and fixing your brakes on a regular basis can help you find problems before they get worse and can also make them last longer. I know from experience, it’s not very good when you press the brake pedal and the car doesn’t stop. Believe me!

Pellon tyre online tyres and car repairing servicing

European Union Car Servicing-2010 E.U. Rules about garage working practices?

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To bring this post forward to 2020, then we are at the beginning and the end of Britain being in the European Union.

European Union Car Servicing; Equality was the key word for car servicing

European Union Car Servicing Rules were up for renewal in May 2010. The standards were all about setting out the rules. Consequently, to take into account the huge amount of trade competition, Of course, there is a fair distribution of new motor vehicles in the automotive industry. Including technology and potential replacement parts, as well as reasonable provisions for car servicing (car service costs). repair and maintenance sectors of the common market. This is part of the scheme to protect smaller auto companies. As a result of being treated unfairly in terms of the free flow of information, Of course, from the car makers to the rest of the car sector.

The markets for competition for new cars was thought to be healthy in the new car sector. But the garage repair and for spare parts distribution was not as intense. This is meant a danger to motorists who could be harmed by anti-competitive practices. Importantly, that would push up repair bills. The car servicing and garage Repair industry are very valuable for motorists if it was not for the EU rule the price of car servicing would go sky high, as much as 40% (predicted by the EU)

Many motorists are already feeling the effect of increasing car servicing and repair costs

Because of rising oil costs and the existing recession. So they are more price-sensitive. Tending to own much older cars that need more regular car servicing. The EU have put in place a much stricter set of rules. Governing these automotive markets that will make it easier to enforce the new regulations. One of the problems that were a specific issue. Of course, was that car makers were holding back technical information. Not releasing some of the specific parts to the aftermarket. Including, also refusing to honour car warranties. Because motorists were having their vehicles repaired at independent garages. Not the main dealers where the cars were bought.

Independent garage facilities and repairers are very important. Because they give a better choice to motorists. Keeping the cost of services and repairs very competitive. So, by placing pressure on the car manufacturers, Including, main dealers and authorized repair networks. Independent service centre has been set up to give the independent garages a nationwide service to their customers.

It is also very important that garages can get the technical information necessary

Of course, to do the repairs and carry out the work on increasingly sophisticated cars with increasing amounts of equipment, due to stricter emission and greener controls, this to me is what is not happening, we at Pellon auto centre here in Halifax are forever coming across new fault codes in the engine management systems that our machines can not correct, because the car manufacturers have so called updated them, they are always moving the gate posts to try to outfox us and our computers. Most garages are buying new diagnostic machines and computer-based analytic equipment that can plug into the database of most cars computer systems. Because of the new European Union Car Servicing directive, the majority of new cars coming onto the market will be able to be serviced at independent garages and auto centres.

The other European Union Car Servicing rules are the parts used in servicing are compatible with the manufacturers and main dealer components, for example, an oil filter must be of the same quality as a manufactures oil filter. This is now carried out at most independent garages, we always use equal quality parts or we use parts from the main dealers themselves, most service parts are actually made by the same company that supplies the car manufacturers, a good example is LUK clutches. They make clutches both for the replacement market and the car makers.

Are the new rules working for the car servicing sector ?

 The new rules will help to enforce the competition for the independent garage, auto centre, and parts outlets. They are designed to help create a level playing field between the replacement car section and the car manufacturers, which will help drive down the cost of servicing the community of Europe and the UK.

This ruling is now two years old and although things appear to be going to plan, the speed of the development of EV cars is outstripping the rules on sharing the technology from the manufacturers. One example is the advent of the Li-On batteries fitted to the electric cars. These batteries are now Leased to the car owners when they buy a new car. Is this how the car makers are going to get around the European Union Car Servicing laws, in my opinion I think it is ?.