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Top Class Car for MOT Test

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Top Class Car for MOT Test

Top Class Car for MOT Test
Top Class Car for MOT Test

Top Class Car for MOT Test

Bentley Continental GT MOT Test at Pellon Tyres: A Touch of Class

At Pellon Tyres in Halifax, we see a wide variety of vehicles arrive at our doors, ranging from small runabouts to family workhorses and everything in between. However, occasionally something truly unique happens that halts us in our tracks. Recently, one of those infrequent occasions occurred, and I simply must tell you about it.

It wasn’t just any old automobile this time; it was a **Bentley Continental GT**, and not just any old fancy car. This beauty belonged to a local Halifax businessman and was a **100-year anniversary edition**. I have to admit that the entire team gathered to admire it when it came in for its **MOT test**.

 An Appropriate Example of British Artistry

For those who are unaware, Bentley has been a car manufacturer for more than a century. Since W.O. Bentley created the original Bentley company in **1919**, this unique model actually commemorated **Bentley’s 100-year anniversary**. The earliest Bentley vehicles, renowned for their racing heritage and true beasts at Le Mans in the 1920s, were driven by the wealthy “Bentley Boys”.

With its precision hand-built construction, 6-litre W12 engine (not a typo!), and more technology than you’d find on a spaceship, the Continental GT is a representation of **modern British luxury** in the current era. With quilted leather, polished wood, and even small details like the renowned Bentley “B” sewn into the seats, the inside is like being in a five-star hotel.

This one in particular included a special edition finish, gold embellishments, and the **celebration “Centenary” badging**. Let’s just say that parked in our MOT lane, it left quite an impression.

Top Class Car for MOT Test
Top Class Car for MOT Test

A Highlight of Halifax: From Mills to Motors – Top Class Car for MOT Test

It’s amusing to consider how times have changed. Halifax has traditionally taken pride in its working-class heritage, which includes factories, mills, and the Piece Hall—all of which were established via honest, hard work. Therefore, it’s good to see a local boy succeeding and having fun while riding in such a piece of automotive history. The tale of Bentley itself serves as a reminder that British engineering is still a proud profession.

And seeing a Bentley like this in our region of Yorkshire demonstrates just how far this town has come in fusing success from the contemporary world with heritage. A short distance away is the **Shibden Hall estate**, the former residence of Anne Lister (also known as Gentleman Jack), which now attracts visitors from all over the world. What a spectacle it would be to drive a Bentley GT through Halifax’s twisting hills!

The MOT test: From the Fundamentals to Bentley – Top Class Car for MOT Test

When this Bentley arrived for its **MOT test**, I was struck by how advanced the test had become. Back in **1960**, when Harold Macmillan was prime minister and a pint cost around a shilling, the **MOT (Ministry of Transport) test** was first implemented.

At first, it only applied to vehicles older than ten years and simply examined the fundamentals like steering, lighting, and brakes. However, with more cars on the road than ever before, the tests have gotten more and more rigorous over time, and with good reason.

Even luxury vehicles like this Bentley are now scrutinised in the same way as the typical Ford Fiesta. We inspect the brakes, lights, tyres, suspension, emissions, and more. Indeed, if a premium car isn’t up to par, it can still break down. Fortunately for the owner of this particular GT, the Bentley performed flawlessly, demonstrating its impeccable maintenance.

Top Class Car for MOT Test
Top Class Car for MOT Test
Concluding Remarks: A Day to Recall – Top Class Car for MOT Test

Having worked in this trade for as long as I have, I must admit that you never cease to be amazed by the variety of cars that pass through your workshop. This Bentley Continental GT, however, was unique. Doing the MOT on such a premium motor is a true jewel and a proud occasion for the team.

It also made me realise how crucial it is for us to keep automobiles safe on the road, whether it’s a Bentley valued at hundreds of millions of dollars or a 10-year-old Corsa that transports the children to and from school. The MOT is the ultimate leveller, and we continue to give each vehicle the same consideration and care.

Here’s to many special visits! You know who to call if you live in Halifax and want your pride and joy properly cared for!

*Pellon Tyre and Autocentre, Halifax* **Eric**

 

Motorists Cant Afford Next MOT

DVSA on MOT fraud

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DVSA on MOT fraud

DVSA on MOT fraud

DVSA on MOT fraud
DVSA on MOT fraud

The DVLA’s Big Push Against MOT Dodginess



Ladies and gentlemen, if you’ve ever considered cutting corners when it comes to your car’s MOT, think again! The DVLA is on a mission, and it should make all of us sit up and pay attention. We’re talking about a crackdown on MOT fraud, which has gone under the radar for far too long.

The MOT (Ministry of Transport) test is a yearly checkup for your car to verify it is safe and roadworthy. It’s as British as drinking tea and grumbling about the weather, but unfortunately, certain shady dealings have tarnished its reputation.

The DVLA, which is in charge of maintaining

Our vehicle and driver databases have had enough. They’re stepping up their efforts to catch and prosecute individuals and garages who issue false MOT certifications. It’s serious business: faking a MOT is not only illegal, but also dangerous.

Let’s not forget: a MOT is more than just a piece of paper. It ensures that your automobile will not abruptly lose control in the middle of the M25. An MOT protects you and other road users by ensuring that your brakes, lights, tyres, and other critical components are in good working order.

But why is there such a sudden focus on MOT fraud? It turns out that the number of bogus MOT certificates circulating around has been increasing, which is cause for concern. This isn’t just a few sour apples; it’s an entire orchard’s worth of danger. The DVLA’s campaign aims to eliminate these illicit acts and restore trust in the MOT process.

What does this mean for you. DVSA on MOT fraud

the average driver? First and foremost, it is more crucial than ever to use reliable garages for your MOT examinations. Look for establishments with positive reviews and strong reputations. Remember, if an offer appears too good to be true, it generally is. Cheap and cheerful is one thing, but unreasonably low MOT prices should raise red flags.

But it is not all doom and gloom. This crackdown is actually good news for most of us who follow the rules. It means safer roads, fewer unsafe cars, and a more equitable system for all. Plus, let’s be honest, knowing your car is truly roadworthy relieves stress.

Motorists Cant Afford Next MOT

MOT Testing Halifax area

Now, for a little history lesson: DVSA on MOT fraud

Did you know that the MOT test has been around since 1960? The Ministry of Transport put it into place and initially applied it to vehicles older than ten years. Nowadays, your automobile needs its first MOT after three years, but back then, the roads were filled with historic cars that needed a little more TLC to keep them running safely.

So, as we move forward, DVSA on MOT fraud

Remember the DVLA employees who work tirelessly to keep our roads safe. When it comes time for your MOT, keep in mind that it is more than just a check-box exercise. It is our common responsibility to keep the good old British roadways safe for all.

Remember, if you ever need a battery or a reputable garage in Halifax, you know who to call. Stay safe on the roads, and help the DVLA maintain motoring above board and as honest as a Yorkshire handshake.

The DVSA has announced plans to crackdown on MOT fraud and increase the number of prosecution cases. The plans, published this week in the DVSA’s latest business plan report, suggests the agency will increase its use

Source: DVSA confirms crackdown on MOT fraud

mot testing and car servicing

Car Servicing Tips: Six Easy Steps

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Car Servicing Tips

The foremost thing that you should do is follow the car manufacturer's maintenance schedule
The foremost thing that you should do is follow the car manufacturer’s maintenance schedule

Car Servicing Tips

Significantly, a visit to your local car repair shop can be even more stressful. say, than a trip to the dentist. Perhaps you won’t suffer physical pain. However, your car repair bill can sometimes skyrocket. Frighteningly, this can leave your wallet or purse feeling pretty empty. including leaving you with a bad taste in your mouth. 

The best way to try to avoid costly repairs – Car Servicing Tips

So, the best thing to do is practice preventative maintenance and follow car service tips to keep your car in the best possible condition.

The foremost thing that you should do is follow the car manufacturer’s maintenance schedule. Of course, that will be outlined in your owner’s manual. The best guidelines are always the ones that are recommended. Of course, by the manufacturer, and if those instructions are not followed.

Your warranty may be voided for future repairs.

Although we are here in Europe,. You are allowed to have your car repaired and serviced. As a result, by law, it must be performed by a reputable garage using original equipment service parts and oils. So, without breaking your warranty agreement, a reputable garage would be one that operates under the  MOT testing station scheme.

Always be sure to change fluids

regular servicing
Regular servicing is important

Naturally, things like brake fluid, filters, and spark plugs– Car Servicing Tips

(if equipped) should be what the manufacturer recommends. It is also a good idea to upgrade your motor oil to a higher-performance synthetic oil, which can help prevent certain problems and also improve your car’s overall performance. We keep several types of oil on hand for servicing, as specifications are changing all the time, but using synthetic oil is not a bad thing and will cover most modern engines.

Always be sure that your tyres are correctly inflated. Car Servicing Tips

This is especially important because tyres with too little or too much wear can result in excessive wear from bad handling and may cause a tyre to blow out. It is often recommended that you check your tyre pressure every time you go to the gas station. While this may seem excessive, you won’t be sorry that you have kept your tyres correctly inflated and therefore safer.

For reasons of both safety and the expense of new tyres, the extra effort is well worth it.

If you notice any unusual noises coming from your car, there may be engine problems! While driving along, check your owner’s manual for information. Quite often, noises are perfectly normal, and there is no need for concern. Your owner’s manual information section will let you know whether or not a visit to the auto centre is necessary.

Use a reputable garage for your car repairs


Cars and Climate Change

Hybrid Car Servicing 2024

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Hybrid Car Servicing 2024

Hybrid Car Servicing 2024
© Can Stock Photo /

Hybrid Car Servicing 2024

regular maintenance for my hybrid vehicle


Even if your car might benefit from the newest hybrid technology, it still makes sense to have annual maintenance performed on it. By doing so, you can make sure your hybrid is operating without a hitch and find any little faults before they turn into major ones. The mechanics working on your hybrid will do electrical and mechanical inspections to ensure that it is running as efficiently as possible and to help you get more mileage out of it.

let us discuss the distinctions in maintenance requirements between hybrid vehicles and conventional petrol or diesel engines, with a particular focus on the United Kingdom.

To begin with, the situation is analogous to contrasting apples and pears.

Both are automobiles, but their mechanisms differ. Similar to those opulent Prius models, a hybrid vehicle consists of both an electric propulsion system and a conventional internal combustion engine (diesel or petrol). So, with regard to conducting a thorough examination, there are a few additional components that warrant attention.

Batteries: This is the crucial one. Hybrid Car Servicing 2024

Hybrids are powered by enormous batteries that do not resemble those advertised on our websites, but are considerably more intricate. They contribute to the vehicle’s slight electric propulsion. It is imperative to conduct routine health checks on these batteries. It differs significantly from a standard 12-volt system found in combustion vehicles.

Brake Wear:Hybrid Car Servicing 2024

A small amount of positive news follows. By virtue of employing regenerative braking, hybrid vehicles are marginally more gentle on the brake pads and discs. This ingenious technology recharges the battery during braking. Thus, you may discover that you need to apply the brakes less frequently than with a conventional motor.

Engine Wear:Hybrid Car Servicing 2024

An unexpected turn of events. Because the electric motor in a hybrid performs a portion of the work, the petrol or diesel engine is not consistently operating at full capacity. This can result in reduced deterioration, comparable to opting for the bus rather than the daily walk to the pub.

Fluid Inspections:

The customary oil and coolant inspections remain available. However, bear in mind that some hybrids have a unique coolant for the battery pack; therefore, also monitor that.

Diagnostic Checks:

As the engine’s technology advances, you’ll be required to bring in a sophisticated device to ensure everything is in order. It resembles a visit to the doctor, but for automobiles.

Hybrid maintenance in Halifax or any other city in the United Kingdom is not incomparable to conventional maintenance, but it does have its peculiarities. It is similar to a traditional Yorkshire pudding, but with an innovative ingredient that keeps things intriguing while maintaining the pudding’s heartiness and familiarity.

If your hybrid is still covered by a warranty, you must follow the recommended maintenance schedule to maintain your coverage. A complete service history can also significantly raise the resale value of your hybrid car.

choices for servicing my hybrid vehicle at Pellon Auto Centre Halifax UK


A full hybrid servicing option is available from Pellon and may be added to our Bronze, Silver, or Gold servicing packages. An annual service serves as a health check to make sure the fundamentals and hybrid technology are in excellent condition. For a comprehensive package that provides peace of mind while driving and helps you save time and money, we can also add a cheap MOT.

In addition to a thorough diagnostic health check, our hybrid inspections also look for damage to cables and connectors, provide an inverter coolant report, and check for brake binding. The hybrid service component can enhance any of the following services:

Eric Roberts‘s insight:

Winter is on its way ?

This article is from the “Good Garage scheme” . Thus, pointing out to the motorist the severe weather conditions that could be imminent. Of course, that may lie ahead. Frighteningly, with the  effects that a severe winter could have on your car. Importantly, if you did not prepare for it by servicing your hybrid car before the winter arrives,.

So, helping the consumers- Hybrid Car Servicing 2024

by offering an MOT test and service for just about the £100 mark, all inclusive. This offer is for most small and medium-sized cars, and we will carry out your hybrid servicing.

Of course, on their cars for the winter ahead. This offer also includes a brake check and topping up your anti-freeze levels to the correct winter levels. So you won’t be the one with a frozen engine. We also give your battery a good check-over. For fear that, you will not be late to work because your cars battery has failed you.

Of course, it is now 2024

Insane MOT Test Proposals

Annual MOT Testing

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Annual MOT Testing

Annual MOT Testing
Annual MOT Testing

Annual MOT Testing

Happily, as I have said before, this is a great time to be involved in the auto trade. Of course, as the owner of a successful auto centre. Then we take every day as it comes.  Consequently, apart from the work that we have booked in for that day. So, we had a run of cars that were all affected by “pothole” damage.

So, the first car was a Ford Fiesta !

Suffering from a broken coil spring . Caused by running into a pothole ! Incredibly, the second was a Vauxhall Corsa, with yet another broken coil spring . Unluckily, the spring had also penetrated the front tyre ! Once again, caused by hitting a pothole !

Thirdly, the damaged car was a VW Sirocco that hit a pothole and bent his steering arm. Urgently, we managed to fit these cars in between our car services. Consequently, those were already booked in . Happily for the customers, we managed to carry out the repairs, and we all had a good day !

After lunch, we had another bit of excitement for me. Annual MOT Testing

Unbeknownst to me, we had two vintage cars booked in for their annual MOT tests. Significantly, the first car was a regular one for us. So, it was a Rolls Royce tourer. It had a 5.6-litre engine and was built in 1936. Of course, the car easily passed the test.

Apart from a brake switch light, which we repaired on site. The company that owns the vehicle always gives their car a pre-MOT test. Of course, before it is brought into us for the MOT test. But the brake light switch must have been overlooked.

The second car that turned up was a black A35 Austin saloon.

It was manufactured in 1958 (I was ten years old then Respectfully, the great, great aunt of the woman who now owns the car was the previous owner.r ?

So, the aunt passed the car on to her niece, who later died. Subsequently, the car was then passed onto her niece, who is the current owner. Incredibly, the car was last serviced in 1990. Having only done 2000 miles, (it was then used to tootle around town. The car has a 948-cc engine

with drums on the front brakes. Including an old-fashioned rod braking system at the rear.

The car was then mothballed for the last ten days in a barn- Annual MOT Testing

So the latest in a line of nieces decided to bring it out and restore the car. She asked for the service of a local mechanic, who looked at the car to assess its condition. Incredibly, the  car only required a new battery and started up the first time. Urgently, the brakes needed some work done on them! Then he handed the car over to us for its MOT test. Lastly, the brakes were sorted using parts from an old MG Midget. Pleasantly, the engine was in immaculate condition and had only done 6,000 miles.

Passed mot test with flying colours

The old Austin had a new 063 ApolloPower battery fitted and passed the mot test in tip-top condition apart from some very slight corrosion I will see it driving up and down the street of Halifax here in West Yorkshire, UK this summer. I just love these cars with a bit of history and a story behind them. The A35 was also fitted with cross-ply tyres to the front and radials to the back.

car brakes problem

Car Brakes-Friction Zone

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Car Brakes-Friction Zone

Car Brakes-Friction Zone
Car Brakes-Friction Zone

Car Brakes-Friction Zone

Brake Problems Never Come at a Good Time

You’d be surprised how often it happens. A customer rolls up to our garage, leaves the keys on the counter, and says, “It’s making a terrible noise from the front end, Eric – can you have a listen?”

Sure enough, a loud bang, grind, or rattle is usually the first sign that the brakes have had it. Sometimes the pads have worn down to the metal, other times the discs are badly corroded. Either way, it’s not something you want to leave too long – especially with Halifax’s steep hills and stop-start traffic.

Why Brake Issues Peak in Spring: Car Brakes-Friction Zone

We always notice a spike in brake repairs come springtime. My theory is simple – during the winter months, drivers use their brakes far more often. Cold weather, slippery roads, and plenty of short trips mean the pads and discs take more punishment.

Then, by the time spring arrives, the wear has caught up with them. A simple job like changing a set of brake pads can turn into a bigger repair if left too long – with new discs, or worse, a seized caliper often being needed.

That’s why I always tell customers: don’t wait for the noise. Pop in for a quick free brake check. It takes us minutes, and it could save you a much bigger bill later on.

The Ageing Car Parc – Good News for Garages

Across the UK, people are keeping their vehicles longer, and Halifax is no exception. With the price of new cars still sky-high and insurance costs through the roof, it makes sense to maintain what you’ve already got.

Older cars naturally need more care, especially when it comes to friction components like brakes, clutches, and tyres. These parts wear out over time, but they can usually be replaced quite economically.

At Pellon Tyres, we’ve seen a steady increase in older cars coming in for brake pad replacements, new discs, and full brake overhauls. It’s part of the natural cycle of keeping a car roadworthy. And honestly, I think it’s a good thing – people are taking better care of their vehicles, rather than throwing them away too soon.

How to Spot When Your Brakes Need Attention: Car Brakes-Friction Zone

Here are a few tell-tale signs to look out for:

  • A grinding or squealing noise when braking
  • The steering wheel vibrating when you slow down
  • The brake pedal feeling soft or going further down than usual
  • Pulling to one side under braking

If any of these sound familiar, bring your car in for a look. We offer a free brake inspection, and you’ll get a no-obligation quote before we do any work.

A Nationwide Guarantee with Local Service

As proud members of the Independent Car Care Centres (I.C.C.C.), we offer a nationwide guarantee on all our brake work. So even if you’re travelling outside Halifax, you’ll still be covered at any I.C.C.C. member garage.

But best of all, you’ll still get that friendly, down-to-earth service we’re known for here at Pellon Autocentre. Whether it’s new pads, discs, or just a quick check, we’ll make sure your brakes are safe, quiet, and ready for the road ahead.

Keep Your Car in the Safe Zone: Car Brakes-Friction Zone

So, if you’re one of the many drivers keeping your car a few more years, remember – don’t ignore your brakes. They’re the most important safety feature on your vehicle, and they need looking after.

Next time you hear a rattle, squeak, or grinding sound, don’t panic – just swing by Pellon Tyres. We’ll soon have you out of the friction zone and back on the road safely.

See on www.tirebusiness.com

Second-hand tyres

1 in 10 thinks the MOT test is only an OPTION?

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1 in 10 thinks the MOT test is only an OPTION?

1 in 10 thinks the MOT test is only an OPTION?
1 in 10 thinks the MOT test is only an OPTION?

1 in 10 thinks the MOT test is only an OPTION?

Millions of UK motorists are clueless

about the legal requirement for MOT test, insurance, and road tax (Mot’s only cover approx 20% of your car being checked, but servicing covers approx. 70%, as I was told when I last…

As the owner of an MOT test station. 1 in 10 thinks the MOT test is only an OPTION?

Of course, I do believe these figures from the excellent Auto Express magazine. Significantly, this article makes for interesting reading ! Stating that 10% of UK motorists . Many car owners do not know that the MOT test is compulsory ! Importantly,  on cars that are over three years old,.

The British government is computerising the vehicle system. Including the whole system of car insurance and road tax, along with the DVLA MOT Rules. In my opinion, they would be better off aligning the three systems. This, of course, would make it much easier to regulate and also easier for vehicle owners to use.

1 in 10 thinks the MOT test is only an OPTION?
1 in 10 thinks the MOT test is only an OPTION?

So, it is impossible to have one thing without the other ! 1 in 10 thinks the MOT test is only an OPTION?

Of course, at the moment, they are not aligned . Incredibly, you could have a car insured without an MOT test. In my opinion, this will be the government’s aim. Because at the end of this year, the road tax disc will be abolished and the system will go online. To make it easier for UK motorists, the List of New MOT Rules and  details will probably have to be entered along with the insurance details. Thus tightening up on the whole system, which is at the moment flawed.

Today, in 2024, this will have all been implemented. 1 in 10 thinks the MOT test is only an OPTION?

Therefore, no UK vehicles have to show a tax disc ! Vehicle data is all computerised and also available at any time for police officers to check.

Hi I would like to introduce myself. Working in the Garage and tyre and Battery business now for 45 years. So. Working for a couple of national tyre companies before starting my first business. Of course, I now own a company here in the UK called Pellon Tyre and Auto-centre. Blogging about anything to do with cars and their related products. Naturally, that will help my business.

See on www.autoexpress.co.uk

 
Insane MOT Test Proposals

Dodgy MOT fraud crackdown

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Dodgy MOT fraud crackdown

Dodgy MOT fraud crackdown
Dodgy MOT fraud crackdown

Dodgy MOT fraud crackdown

As the owner of a UK MOT testing station.

Then I just fail to understand the number of MOT stations that have been shut down for fraudulent activities. According to the attached article, there are 143 testing stations. Of one type or another have had there testing facilities removed. Consequently, I am not able to carry out any more MOT tests.

The public is now able to report stations that they feel are not truthful in one way or another. Probably leading to more investigations. The end result was a station losing its MOT testing status. The mind boggles when you realise the importance of such a great system for testing vehicle safety here in the UK.

I believe that we have to be totally honest with both the DVSA and the public who bring their vehicles to us for a honest and reliable MOT test. We do hear of horror stories coming from customers with a long list of improper failures after a test on their cars.

Could things get worse !

What frightens me the fact that we are heading in for an economic downturn. So putting pressure on people to fail cars for the sake of more income. I have been in this industry for 50 years or so now and seen all this kind of thing before.

Larger companies with massive overheads will be under even more pressure to increase their sales and profit margins. Recently, a good friend of mine decided that he had enough sales pressure from the large garage network that he worked for.

Encouraging the workers below him to report car faults that did not exist.

He did not mention specific MOT jobs but you could not rule this out. Customers were told that things needed replacing when they were perfectly fine. We have all heard of this, yet the companies keep on trading when the little guys get hit.

Finally, as long as we keep up our good reputation,

for honesty when testing cars and doing everyday servicing work, then to hell with the rest. We will not be involved in any dodgy MOT fraud crackdown.

Dodgy MOT fraud crackdown
Dodgy MOT fraud crackdown

The DVSA has published its annual report, outlining its 2020-2021 activities. Some 40,490,000 MOT certificates were issued from 2021-22, up from 38,790,000 in the previous period. Following on from the DVSA’s Beat the Rush campaign in 2020, the

Source: MOT fraud crackdown remains key focus for DVSA

Pellon tyre online tyres and car repairing servicing

Unexpected car repair costs

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Unexpected car repair costs

Unexpected car repair costs
Unexpected car repair costs

Unexpected car repair costs

Britains Motorists: Unexpected car repair costs

British motorists forked out hundreds of pounds last year repairing whining engines, wonky wheels and patching up scrapes and dents, according to a recent…

EricRoberts‘s insight:

British drivers have put off performing routine maintenance on their cars.

So, in this good article,. hence the “countrywide independent garage scheme” . They carried out a straw poll of 100 UK motorists. Consequently, they found that many of them had car repair bills of up to £500! In fact, 64% of them, to be precise. Of course, this is no surprise to me . I believe that many UK motorists have failed to have their cars serviced in the past two years.

This neglect will lead to all kinds of problems affecting  their cars and the cars performance. We see the effects of this all the time, but I think that the most common problem is the brakes. If the cars brakes are checked on a service, then the usual things that need replacing are the pads, this together with a good brake cleaning is usually all that is required. The problem then is that if the car is not serviced, then the Brake pads wear even further down before getting down to the metal plate. This then affects the brakes especially the Disc Brakes.

New Brake Discs and Car Brake pads are fitted- Unexpected car repair costs

then becomes metal on metal then the discs get damaged and they may need replacing. Other problems include the brake cylinders overheating and leaking and the problems can go on and on, always leading to a bigger repair bill for the UK motorists.

This is also a problem with the modern engines. The engines these days are controlled by a computer system in the car and if the filters and oil are not changed then the parts that are part of the engine management system can start to fail and the engine light will illuminate in the cars dashboard, often causing panic amongst the drivers who come into us garages to have the problem checked out. Sometimes the problem is a simple one and the car only requires an oil and filter change and other times it could be more complicated, but in the main most of the causes are due to the car not having a service and general neglect.

Although we are not members of the country wide garage scheme, we are not now a member of the Unipart Car Care Centres (UCCC), but we all share the same thoughts and know what the problems are likely to be if the car is not serviced.

Mot will find any mechanical problems- Unexpected car repair costs

Another slightly worrying trend amongst car drivers is the concept of using the annual MOT Test as a gauge for the condition of their car. The MOT test is not the same as having a regular service, and although the test is fairly strict it is not the same as having a good service say once a year. The UK motorists  can then keep an eye out on such things as your oil levels and tyre pressures and check your own light bulbs.

We all understand that money is tight, but in my opinion, the failure to service your car will lead to UK motorists having bigger problems and bigger repair bills.

Fast forward to 2024, and prices are still rising. Oil prices have risen to new highs . Different car models now require different oils. Hence, retailers have to keep larger stocks to satisfy the needs of their customers.


Why Are Oil Prices So High Now? Advice for Garages and Vehicle Owners


Anyone who has recently looked at the news or entered a garage may have noticed the dramatic increase in oil prices. This increase in oil costs has been perplexing and expensive for a lot of drivers and companies, particularly neighbourhood garages like Pellon Autocentre in Halifax. What, then, is the true cause of this sharp increase in expenses?

An Overview of the World Oil Market
Comprehending the intricate network of worldwide components that impact oil prices can aid in clarifying the reasons behind the increased cost of motor oil or filling up your car. In general, several factors influence oil prices:

Dynamics of Supply and Demand: The fundamental economic idea of supply and demand lies at the core of oil pricing. Oil prices typically increase when output declines as a result of choices made by OPEC (Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries) or geopolitical concerns. Prices, on the other hand, typically decrease when there is an excess. Recently, prices have increased as a result of production reductions and a recovery in post-pandemic travel.

Geopolitical Tensions: Political upheaval frequently occurs in areas with significant oil deposits, which has the potential to interrupt oil supplies. For instance, developments in the Middle East may have an instant impact on world oil prices.

Economic Sanctions and Policies: Sanctions imposed on significant oil-producing nations, such as Iran and Russia, have the potential to limit their oil exports, so reducing world supply and driving up prices.

Currency fluctuations: Because oil is traded in US dollars, shifts in the dollar’s value may have an impact on oil prices. When the value of oil declines relative to other currencies, demand and prices rise.

Effect on Local Auto Repair Shops and Drivers- Unexpected car repair costs

Rising oil prices have two effects on neighbourhood garages like Pellon Autocentre, which is located in Halifax’s historic centre. First, as motor oils and lubricants become more expensive, service providers’ profit margins are squeezed. Second, increased costs may cause consumers to spend less on auto maintenance, which could have an impact on the industry.

It’s not all bad news, either. Garages can seize this challenge by doing the following:

Educating Customers: Take advantage of the price increase to inform consumers about the advantages of routine auto maintenance for maximum fuel economy. This aids in long-term cost savings and boosts customer loyalty and trust.

Encouraging High-Quality Products: Stressing the value of utilising premium oils, which may initially cost more but end up being more cost-effective over time because of their longer change intervals and improved engine protection.

Diversifying Services: Providing a selection of services, such as air filter changes or tyre checks that can increase fuel efficiency, to assist clients in managing their vehicles more cost-effectively.

A nod to Halifax’s heritage with a local touch- Unexpected car repair costs

A little amount of local character is added, and it’s interesting to see how important effective transportation used to be to some of Halifax’s old businesses, like the wool trade. Similar to how horses and waggons needed to be well-maintained to ensure smooth cargo transportation, modern car owners and garages need to adjust to fluctuations in oil prices in order to retain vehicles in optimal operating condition. It carries on Halifax’s long-standing tradition of resilience and adaptability.

Last Words
The sudden spike in oil prices serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of international markets and the interdependence of local economy and world events. Navigating these turbulent waters can be made easier for drivers in Halifax, Pellon Autocentre, and garages by being aware of the bigger picture of the economy, being proactive with auto maintenance, and remaining educated. The town’s drivers and companies need to change along with it over the years.

Being on top of things is crucial to preventing the impact of rising prices on your pocketbook, whether it’s monitoring world events that influence the supply of oil or just selecting the proper oil for your car.

See on www.easier.com

Good Garage

State of the Auto repair Industry

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State of the Auto repair Industry

State of the Auto repair Industry
© Can Stock Photo / XXLPhoto

This is in reply to your tweet, “Why Your Employees May Be Looking to Quit.”.

State of the Auto repair Industry

I am going to try to answer this complex question! As the owner of a small garage in the county of West Yorkshire, UK, there are many factors. Long-term, then, it all boils down to how you or your management treat people (your staff, of course).

In my opinion, this is why small and medium garages have always come out in the best health when times get tough. I have now been running my garage for almost fifty years. Many of my staff are long-term employees.

These good people are diamonds and should be looked after all along the way. Millions of small and medium garage and autocentre owners will know exactly what I mean.

We all hear horror stories about how the national garage chains treat there staff. Forcing them to work extra hours and always having to sell addons when they are not required.

Customers are not stupid-State of the Auto repair Industry

I always make sure that my staff is looked after so they, too, can make a good living out of the business. Some owners prefer to do this illegally . However, I prefer to use various bonus schemes. I must emphasise that these bonus schemes are not tied down to any targets in any way.

All my married staff have settled into nice homes and have a good standard of living. This is how it should be. The only thing that I ask is that they are polite and helpful to the customers. All my staff are taught to be multi-taskers.

Not only do they do the job of repairing cars, but they can also take the customers through the whole procedure of paying for the work done, issuing sales invoices, and dealing with credit card payments.

I find that this gives the staff and the customers a better shopping experience due to the personal contact. Another thing I ask for is that my staff have total access to our computer system and can also answer any phone calls.

We do have receptionists and depot managers- in the Auto repair Industry

However, should they be busy or on another call, then any member of staff can take the call and have the power to deal with the customer if they can. Customers are not stupid; they can see that my garage is a well-run and happy operation.

We are not perfect, and sometimes we do get a bad apple. However, they are sussed out early, and it is usually through my staff.

I could go on for ages, but to bring things up to 2022, where we are now, then we do have staffing problems going forward !

At the moment, because people are keeping their cars longer, we are packed out of the Auto repair Industry

We are also an MOT testing station and are booked up for three weeks at the moment. I am struggling to find at least two new members of staff.

It looks like younger people do not  want to get their hands dirty anymore. My only hope for the state of the auto repair industry is for some return to the apprenticeship schemes we had in days gone by.

Once you get them then you must work hard to keep them ?