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Customers Satisfaction Ratings-Blowing our own Trumpet! Pellon Auto Centre Halifax UK

Customers Satisfaction Ratings

Customers Satisfaction Ratings

I must admit that in most of my years as a garage owner then customer satisfaction ratings were never known. Of course up to the advent of the modern computers then there was no such things as ratings fro your customers. So its become a thing of the future! And why not. Importantly, it is one of the best indicators that your business is doing well. Whatever type of product or service that you are selling.

Another happy positive is that when you have high ratings then its no coincidence that your business will be thriving. Anyhow thats my experience! Consequences, also set out other parameters, that give will the thriving business the best results. In my opinion number one factor is having the right staff. Especially when in the garage situation.

Garage owners just dont get it !

Of course the  garages of today have got a lot to thank for the starting of the “Kwik-Fit” era. Coming out of an American idea from the infamous Tommy Farmer, then fast fits brought the garage industry into the 21st century. Incidentally we do still have the dirty back street type of garages and scruffy second hand tyre shops for all to see. However the garages that prosper will have all the right mixtures of ideas and cleanliness that the modern driver s are looking for. This also reflects on the particular garage businesses ratings of customer satisfaction.

These days of consumerism mean that we all have to try harder, be more polite and generally “bend over backwards”. So to keep our ratings high. Consumers are very savvy  and will freely give a business a good review. Strangely enough there does not seam to be a middle of the road review! At least not with us at Pellon Autocentre. Most reviews are in fact 5 stars which is excellent for us. However, we get the odd customer who will give us just a 1 star rating.

I must confess that I used to hate this. Although very rare then it is all part of system. We will never please everybody! Now I take the time to look into this. So, when we receive a low rating then I now investigate the poor result. Then first thing that hits me is that my excellent staff always know about the circumstances. I truly believe that there is a certain type of person who is never going to be happy.

Whatever and wherever they go, these people are trouble.

So, I know before I say anything that my staff know exactly what has happened. Believe me or not it is always the customer that has caused the problem leading to them giving us a 1 star rating. Importantly, we do make mistakes! After all we are only human. But a good garage will handle any problem in the correct manner. Always changing a possible bad situation into a good outcome. This includes all our garage services and products. Including tyres and associated services. and MOT testing.

Finally we do have good reviews on Google and Facebook. But in my opinion our online tyre portal www.pellontyres.co.uk is the most accurate and is not open to any low score abuse from “keyboard warriors”. Subsequently, trying to knock your reputation by giving a false low score. Bellow I have published our excellent results and would like to thank our great customers. So, for taking the time and energy to give us the results that all businesses dream about.

Net Promoter Score Results

What does your NPS score mean?

Your NPS score tracks customers on how they represent your company to their family, friends and colleagues.

  • A negative score means you have more Detractors than Promoters and your organization is unlikely to grow.
  • A NPS score of above 0 is considered to be good.
  • A NPS score above 50 is considered to be exceptional. This also indicates that awareness of your organization will grow through word-of-mouth marketing.

The NPS score is calculated by subtracting the percentage of Detractors (those who scored your fitting centre as a 0-6) from Promoters (those that scored your fitting centre as 9-10). This generates your Net Promoter Score.

Many Thanks from me and all my excellent staff for their contribution to having great Customers Satisfaction Ratings.

Eric Roberts

Audi TT Hand-Brake Failure

MOT tester fined £1,300- for issuing fraudulent certificates

MOT tester fined £1,300

MOT tester fined £1,300

An MOT tester who issued false MOT certificates at a Surrey garage was hit with a £1,300 fine and 200 hours of community service. On January 4, Benjamin Aaron Sinclair pleaded guilty in Guildford Magistrates Court to seven offences of fraud by false representation. I must confess that it must be a nightmare when this sort of thing happens in your garage and MOT centre.

Many years ago, I had to advertise for an MOT tester, because the one I had left to go work in a larger main dealer garage. The grass is always greener! The applicants were not what i was looking for. However I manged to select one and crack on with the Testing.

At first I thought he was trustworthy. However, we heard a couple of rumours from people in the trade and discovered otherwise. he was as crafty as a fox. However we managed to catch him fiddling a non MOT item and was dismissed immediately.

Since then I have always trained my MOT testers and promoted within. Ryan Linton and Dale Linton are my long term testers. Alternating the testing with other management skills.

While employed by Godalming Garage Ltd in Godalming, Surrey,

The tester was accused of granting MOT certificates to seven vehicles without executing a test in order to profit financially. The offences happened last year between February 18 and April 6. I am amazed at these people thinking that they can get away with these things. MOT testers are very well monitored at all times. Both by the ministry and also in house as in this case at Godalming garage.

Magistrates also ordered Sinclair to pay £1,300 in costs and a £95 surcharge for victim services, along with 200 hours of unpaid labour to be completed within the next 12 months. GW Podcast: Appreciating the influence of data from the garage workshop
The DVSA registered 1,324 incidents of MOT Fraud between 2021 and 2022. Out of these, 351 cases in 2017 and 710 in 2018 were the most serious cases including dishonesty and negligence, representing a considerable increase.

The DVSA has the authority to prevent anyone from taking tests.

This to me is the worse part. This type of thing brings shame to your garage, just for a few extra pounds in your pocket. MOT testers are hard to find these days. So, there is no need to try a fiddle your employee’s out of a few pounds. However some people are like that and are never satisfied with whatever pay they get at the end of the week.

288 authorised examiners were barred from the MOT programme in 2021, and a total of 127 authorised examiners were prohibited from operating Vehicle Testing Stations.

This includes suspensions for 185 tester cases and 85 authorised examiner cases involving the most serious offences, like dishonesty and gross carelessness.

An MOT tester has been slapped with a £1,300 fine and 200 hours’ community service for issuing fraudulent MOT certificates at a Surrey garage. Benjamin Aaron Sinclair admitted seven counts of fraud by false representation at

Source: MOT tester fined £1,300 for issuing fraudulent certificates

MOT Test Combined with Car Servicing

DVSA Reflects on 2022 MOT changes

DVSA Reflects on 2022 MOT changes

The DVSA evaluated "changes and enhancements" it made to the MOT during the course of the previous 12 months.
MOThe DVSA evaluated “changes and enhancements” it made to the MOT during the course of the previous 12 months.

6 Reasons to have your car tested on time

  1. It is a legal requirement to have an MOT test done on your vehicle if it is more than 3 years old.
  2. An MOT test checks that your vehicle is safe to drive on the road, so it is important to make sure that it is done on time to ensure the safety of you and other road users.
  3. If you do not have a valid MOT certificate, you could be fined up to £1,000, and your insurance may not be valid.
  4. An MOT test can identify any issues with your vehicle that need to be fixed, so it is a good opportunity to get any necessary repairs done before they become more serious and expensive.
  5. Having an MOT test done on time can help extend the lifespan of your vehicle by ensuring that it is well maintained.

If you are planning to sell your vehicle, a valid MOT certificate can increase its value.

DVSA Reflects on 2022 MOT changes

The DVSA evaluated “changes and enhancements” it made to the MOT during the course of the previous 12 months.

A new status page for MOT digital services, including MTS and MOT reminders, was introduced at the start of 2022.

The new page displays information on the services in real-time, including whether any of them are down for maintenance or other reasons.

In order to make the AEDM’s responsibilities more apparent, the role was reviewed in March.

More than 97% of MOT testers completed their annual training and assessment in April, which was a record-high completion percentage for the DVSA.

To enable AEs to verify that their testers had finished their evaluation, changes were made to the MTS.

Basic disclosure checks for some MOT testers

Of course, all newly trained MOT testers, were also implemented by the DVSA in the same month.

Prior to conducting a demonstration test, a basic disclosure certificate, often known as a DBS check, must be presented.Additionally, it implemented new off-site inspections and conducted connected equipment research with MOT shops.

The DVSA upgraded and made it simpler to book MOT demonstration tests online in September.

In order to inform drivers of the additional features added to the MOT reminders and MOT history services, the agency launched a new campaign in October.

It is now simpler for drivers to access and print their MOT certificates, as well as monitor and modify their MOT reminders. “We couldn’t have accomplished these improvements without your cooperation and support, so thank you from everyone at DVSA,” a DVSA spokeswoman said.

“We anticipate expanding on this effort in the coming year.”

mot test fruad

The DVSA has reflected on “changes and improvements” that it made to the MOT in the past 12 months. The beginning of 2022 saw a new status page for MOT digital services, including MTS and MOT

Source: DVSA celebrates 2022 MOT changes

catalytic converter

Catalytic Converter Care: Regular Servicing can help your Cat

Catalytic Converter Care

Catalytic Converter Care
Catalytic Converter Care

Catalytic Converter Care

This is an interesting point; I suppose that regular car maintenance has an effect on all your car parts in the end. Your catalytic converter (CAT) is a crucial part of your vehicle. Therefore, it is fitted with your engine and the rest of the exhaust system. Thus, some are attached to the manifold, onto the engine; these are known as manifold cats, and some are fitted at the end of a short front pipe on the rest of the exhaust system.

Bigger models of cars sometimes require two cats; cars such as BMWs and MERCs usually have two cats fitted, which is very expensive to replace.

Your cat’s primary job is to clean up the engine particles that the engine omits. Catalytic converters are made out of ceramic. Thus, with added precious metals (another reason why catalytic converter care is critical),. Naturally, filter the dirty particles from your engine. Thus reducing the pollutants from entering the atmosphere, this helps us to clean the environment and is part of the UK MOT test.

Bibliography: “Cleaner Roads and Greener Halifax: The Crucial Role of Catalytic Converters in Our Modern Vehicles”

To begin,
Consider this: You become enthralled by Halifax’s breathtaking scenery and rich history as you drive along its winding roads. The catalytic converter, a small marvel concealed beneath your vehicle, is the last thing on your mind. However, what is it precisely, and why should we be concerned with it in contemporary automobiles?

In essence, what is a catalytic converter? Catalytic Converter Care


A catalytic converter, colloquially known as a “cat converter” or even “cat” for short,. So it is an extraordinary apparatus concealed within the engine compartment of your vehicle. Its critical function in mitigating detrimental emissions consequently contributes to the enhancement of air quality in our picturesque northern town of Halifax.

With its picturesque moors and serene pastures, Halifax has a long history of embracing the natural environment. However, as the number of vehicles on our roads continues to rise, air pollution has become a concern. In such situations, catalytic converters are of great assistance.

Catalytic converters are engineered to convert noxious byproducts of combustion into substances that are less hazardous. Catalytic Converter Care

These organisms fulfil the role of environmental protectors by facilitating the conversion of carbon monoxide (CO) to carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides (NOx) to nitrogen (N2), and unburned hydrocarbons (HC) to carbon dioxide and water (H2O). This chemical ingenuity guarantees that the emissions from our vehicles are considerably less detrimental to the atmosphere.

The unique combination of natural beauty and historical significance in Halifax is a treasure that every local holds precious. It is crucial to preserve our environment for the benefit of future generations. Automobile catalytic converters are a minute but crucial component of this endeavour.

One might imagine traversing the picturesque landscapes of Brontë Country or admiring the cobblestone streets of Halifax’s town centre while travelling. Knowing that catalytic converters help to preserve the local environment by reducing the amount of air pollution that our vehicles emit, we can do so with greater peace of mind.

Regulatory Standards: Catalytic Converter Care

The United Kingdom, including Halifax, strictly adheres to the government-established emissions standards. Contemporary vehicles are not merely permitted to have catalytic converters; they are mandated in order to satisfy these standards. Noncompliance can lead to monetary penalties and sanctions, thereby underscoring the importance of these consequences.

Fuel efficiency and performance: Catalytic Converter Care

Catalytic converters have the potential to enhance fuel efficiency and overall vehicle performance when operating at peak efficiency. They optimise our journeys throughout Halifax and further by ensuring that the combustion process is thorough and environmentally friendly.

In conclusion

As a result, adding catalytic converters to modern cars is a key way to protect Halifax’s beauty and appeal, going beyond just being a technological necessity. These discrete devices assist us in diminishing our ecological impact, adhering to regulatory requirements, and travelling through our cherished city in a more environmentally friendly and fuel-efficient manner.

Therefore, the next time you drive through Halifax in your vehicle, spare a moment to recognise the catalytic converter that quietly operates beneath the surface to ensure that our roads and air remain fresher. This is an additional method by which we can enhance the quality of life and ventures in our community.

Salutations, esteemed drivers from Halifax, and may our forays consistently be mindful of the ecological impact of our vicinity!

Your cat will only work correctly if the engine operates with the correct ratio of air to fuel. Naturally, this was where your car service comes in.

Most cats take care of themselves: catalytic converter Converter Care

So, since writing this post, the catalytic converter has become even more important. Especially with the tightening of exhaust emissions regulations coming from European governments. Of course, this important filtering of the gas system is on every new petrol and diesel car produced these days. So, diesel cars and vans call them the “particulate filters“.

However, they work very similar to each other, filtering out poisonous gases from the vehicle’s engine before emitting the gas into the atmosphere. It may be interesting to know that the catalysts are made up of some precious metals.

Precious metals used in catalytic converter

So, one of the main reasons that many catalytic converters are stolen  from vehicles. Thus, many of them contain some rare metals. Given these points, the main metals are rhodium, palladium, and platinum.

MOT Test Combined with Car Servicing

DVSA on MOT fraud

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.

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

Low Tyre Pressure Costs you Money

Motorists Cant Afford Next MOT

Motorists Cant Afford Next MOT

Motorists Cant Afford Next MOT
Motorists Cant Afford Next MOT

Motorists Cant Afford Next MOT

Yorkshire may be a lovely location to drive, but nothing makes a car owner groan more than when the time for their yearly MOT arrives. The MOT (Ministry of Transport car test inspection) is a required exam to make sure that vehicles are safe for you and other drivers, but it is frequently a stressful activity that can severely deplete your financial resources.

Fortunately, there are drivers who take the MOT test very seriously

Of course, and save up to make the necessary repairs should the vehicle need some. In fact, I can truthfully say that many of our MOT customers are happy to have their cars tested to ensure their safety.

Our Yorkshire roads and motorways have become extremely busy in the years after COVID. So safety is paramount. Fortunately, as I have said, most people do think it is a responsible part of their lives to have the MOT test carried out promptly and on time.

In fact here at Pellon Autocentre, Motorists Cant Afford Next MOT

We have a system for contacting our customers and letting them know that the test is imminent. It is very rare that the customer misses the opportunity to book the test with us. Therefore ensuring that their vehicle can be tested promptly and have any required work carried out in the same period.

Of course, we may be the lucky ones! Motorists Cant Afford Next MOT

Poorer areas of the UK may be suffering far worse than others. Hence the number of cars going without tests.

There are also people who do not have the right priorities and prefer to spend their money on other things. Rather than the car’s MOT Test.

The MOT test was first performed after a vehicle turned ten years old and then once a year after that. It was once only a straightforward test of the vehicle’s brakes, lights, and steering.

The vehicle testing age was dropped to seven years the following year. Motorists Cant Afford Next MOT

As a result of the “ten-year test’s” high failure rate. By 1962, receiving a tax disc required both passing a commercial vehicle exam and having a valid certificate. The testable age was reduced to one year for taxis, ambulances, and large vehicles with at least eight passenger seats in 1983.

Many other changes have been made, but that’s for another day!

Four in ten motorists fear they can’t afford their next MOT and half of them admit they would continue to drive their car anyway, new research has found. The Halfords research, which was carried out in

Source: Next MOT “unaffordable” for 40% of motorists, research finds

mot testing and car servicing

Car Servicing Tips: Six Easy Steps

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

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: Two Old Timers-Call Into Pellon Auto Centre

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 car was owned by the great, great aunt of the woman who now owns the car ?

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-Entering the FRICTION ZONE — Older vehicle PARC sees increase in Car brakes sales

Entering the FRICTION ZONE — Aging vehicle parc ripe for car brakes sales Car Brakes-Entering the FRICTION ZONE

Tire Business

“Where before when a vehicle reached 10 years or 11 years, consumers were thinking of selling it, now they’re thinking of, ‘How can I keep my car going?

Eric Roberts‘s insight:

This is a very in depth articles about car brakes

Un-reasonably,  car brakes are very often taken for granted. So, in other words car owners will just pull into your garage and leave their car. Because there is a banging or rattling noise coming from the front of the car.

This is usually a good indication that the brakes have failed, or are failing ! But brake jobs do follow a pattern.

The spring time is usually the time for our customers car brakes to start going wrong . So, and needing repairing. Of course, in my opinion I think that it is because that drivers use their  brakes. Of course, much more in the winter months and therefore the brake pads and discs .

Drivers almost always wait until the last minute to have them repaired and consequently cause more damage to the brakes.

For example a simple job like a set of brake pads replacing may turn out to be more complicated and end up the car needing new discs, or a seized up brake caliper.

This will result in a larger garage invoice for the customer. The secret is to get a free brake check at your local garage. most garages here in the UK will give a car a free brake check and give the customer a quote for the required work. We are members of the Independent Car Care Centres who also offer a nationwide guarantee throughout the UK and a free brake check on all makes and models of cars.

All this culminates as a good time of year for doing brake work, especially the many older cars that our customers are now hanging on to longer and having them repaired instead of replaced.

See on www.tirebusiness.com