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mot test-Online Bookings on Increase

MOT Testing Halifax-Why You Should NOT GO To Your Local Council-They are closing them down anyway?

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MOT Testing Halifax

 Latest update is that The Vehicle and Operator Services Agency ( VOSA ) has closed. It’s been replaced by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency ( DVSA ).

MOT Testing Why You Should avoid Your Local Council

So, I have now been the owner of my garage, Pellon tyre and Autocentre has now been operating for over 40 years. As a result I have tried to build up a reputation that is second to none. Over the years we have built up a fantastic reputation and trust.

Because, we have always been straight and honest with our customers. Hence, I personally have been the owner of this garage here in Halifax. For the past 25 years. In that time we have carried out thousands of MOT tests. Of course, we have always used our best discretion. Carrying out MOT Testing. Having always had the customer’s best interest to heart.

Over the years we have only had one small dispute with a customer. Subsequently, that was the fault of our tester at the time. Replacing him as soon as we could. Thus, at the moment we only have two testers. Ryan Linton, who in my opinion is a first class mechanic. Naturally, a person and has worked for me for 22 years. We now have a second tester Mr Dale Linton.

The point that I am getting at is the massive effort that we at Pellon have put into our garage and MOT testing service,

This was in my opinion undermined. So, when I heard a guy been interviewed on radio 2. This presenter was from a website telling us how we can save money. Advising the listeners to go to the  Local Councils. Thus, for their car MOT testing. Because if they went there. Then they would not be taken for a ride or ripped off. Consequently, he was basically saying that we MOT Centres Vehicle Testing Stations. So that carry out MOT testing fail the cars intentionally. In order to give themselves the work repairing the car.

This could not be further from the truth. VOSA DVLA MOT Testing Rules statistics. Show that privately owned testing stations. As a result, are more likely to pass the car than fail the car. The money website claims that the local council run testing stations. Therefore, are more likely to pass your car than a private garage. Such as the  likes of my own garage in Halifax. So what they are saying is we are corrupt. By failing cars just to get the mechanical work.

Local Council want private MOT Testing stations to test taxis?

Other things that I am not happy with are the good reviews that they say they have had from customers of the local council testing stations. One says that they fitted a light bulb and then they passed the car, the council test stations do not do any mechanical work whatsoever, so this was a porky.

Another one stated that his car had failed at a private garage and the car needed £400 spending on it to pass the test, so the guy took his car to the council test station and they passed his without any problems. I frankly do not believe what they say, I agree that we are not all squeaky clean in the garage trade but we are well regulated by VOSA and if the figures for different failures do not look right ,then VOSA will give you a visit and try see whats going on.

Council testing stations used to charge the full going rate for MOT Testing,

But I rang round today and found out that they have now started to discount the tests, I think that they are under pressure to do more testing from the cash strapped councils. In fact we did get a notification asking us if we would like to carry out testing on behalf of the council, but I declined the offer as we are busy enough anyway.

Another problem with the local council test stations is that if your car fails, then you then have to go to a garage for the work carrying out and then they have to go back to the council for a re- test. This is a long way round when a private garage will in most cases would have done the work on the car the same day, saving the customer time and money.

MOT testing station owner Eric Roberts

There is no evidence at all to back up the Money websites claims. Fundamentally, there are no statistics from VOSA that MOT Testing stations that carry out repair work. So,  fail more cars than council run MOT testing stations. It is really clear that going to a MOT only testing stations. Such as the council run operations. Is likely to incur considerable more cost and personnel inconvenience. Especially if the car fails on a minor fault, such as a light bulb and has to make another appointment for a re-test.

VOSA the government department in charge of MOT testing. Importantly, are always watching out for garages. With bad practices and make regular visits to offending garages. MOT garages are also given colour codes that relate to their testing standard. Green is the best, then Amber, and the worse standard is Red. So, these are the ones that the ministry keep a careful eye on. It is worth finding out what standard the testing station is, before you book your car in. I am proud to say that we at Pellon Autocentre are in the best lane, the Green lane.

MOT testing station

Pellon Tyre and Autocentre offer car and van servicing and repairs to all makes of vehicles. 

Comment from Jim McMasters –

As the owner of an older car I have been tempted to use the Council test stations. This year I had two MOT tests by two different independent garages. Garage No 1 failed the car on rear brake pipes and front and rear brake hoses with both front suspension bushes advisory – cost of repairs £344 inc MOT.

Garage No 2 failed the car on front and rear brake pipes and the suspension bushes and said the brake hoses were advisory with mild corrosion on the ferrules and discoloration of rear indicator bulbs which had been replaced by Garage No1 the year before – cost of repairs £601 inc MOT.

The only thing that puts me off using the Council testing stations is that if you fail you then have to fend around for someone to fix the car within the retest period which takes time and I’ve found some garages don’t want to do brake pipe jobs if they are busy with bolt on type repairs. So I think you make a fair point in favour of the independent garage for practical purposes but as my example shows, there is a lack of consistency with garages both in testing and pricing.

catalytic converter

Nissan Navara-Blocked EGR Valve

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Nissan Navara-Blocked EGR Valve

Nissan Navara-Blocked EGR Valve

So, we are now starting to increase our work-power after the drop in business due to the “Corona Virus” pandemic. Importantly cars are now been driven after the long lockdown. Because vehicles of many shapes and technologies have been stood about unused then different problems are occurring. The other day was no exception with various cars turning up. Including a Nissan Navara with engine running problems.

The Navara was suffering from a few problems! Mainly suffering  from a reduction in power. Hence the car was struggling to accelerate without much power. Immediately, we suspected a problem with the EGR valve. Importantly, EGR valves play a vital role in controlling your vehicles exhaust emissions. Introduced to aid vehicles that are controlled by strict emissions regulations in place.So, our laws governing this come from the European Union at the moment.

However like most mechanical and electrical parts can eventually go wrong! Including this Nissan Navara. So here at Pellon-Autocentre, Halifax, then we make sure that we have all the latest electronic diagnostic tools and associated equipment. Of course all my regular customer know that we have a team of highly trained technicians. Categorically, enabling our staff to diagnose and treat any EGR valve problems.

Exhaust Gas Recirculation Valve (EGR)

There is no doubt that the EGR valve is an important part when it comes to the smooth flow and running operations of the modern car engine.  Failure of this valve can lead to a reduction in power as in the Nisan presented to us. Other problems ensuing will include a reduction in fuel efficiency, the vehicle will start using more fuel. This problem is often picked up on the MOT emissions test. Causing the vehicle to fail the test due to emissions failure.

The EGR valves eventually get sooted up. Especially when the vehicle is only used locally. Of course, motorway driving increase the heat of the engine and therefore keeps the soot level down by burning the soot off.

So, this Nissan was found to have a very heavily sooted up EGR valve as seen in the image. After cleaning with a special fluid the EGR valve worked fine and the Nissan was back to normal running, including fuel efficiency.

Eric Roberts

 

 

 

mot test-Online Bookings on Increase

MOT Testing Re-starts- After lockdown restrictions relaxed

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MOT Testing Re-starts

Drivers can have there cars tested

Despite the government giving motorists a six-month extension to their MOT due date, Of course, during “lockdown.” Importantly, many people want to keep their cars in good, safe condition. So, it is possible to still have your MOT test at the original due date. Here at Pellon Autocentre in Halifax, we are now carrying out MOT Testing for many of our more responsible customers.

Of course, we must adhere to social spacing and Corona virus regulations. However, with a little thought from both our staff and our customers, this is doable. Happily, we have discovered that the customers prefer to leave their cars with us. Prior to the pandemic, most drivers wanted to remain with their cars after lockdown while the MOT test was carried out. So, as I have said! They now prefer to leave the vehicle with us, and we call them with the test results.

mot testing

Old favourites turn up for there regular test

Of course, we often see the same cars year after year. Many of these cars are classics and vintage cars. Although legally, these vehicles are no longer required to pass a test. Then the owners prefer to stay safe and have their precious cars tested. Of course, these cars are their owners’ pride and joy. Also they find that having an MOT test carried out reduces their insurance for the year.

Of course, having the cars tested ensures that they are roadworthy and safe to use on our busy roads. In fact, two of our old favourites turned up for a test on the same day. First came the wonderful vintage Bentley Roadster. I believe that this car may be worth a fortune. So, after lunch, a wonderful red Jaguar was left with us for testing in the afternoon. Amazingly, both these cars passed the test with flying colours! They always do! Their owners keep these vehicles in first-class condition, and it is very rare that the cars require any work to pass the MOT test.

MOT Testing Re-starts

Importantly, if you drive your car on the road, you should have the car tested when it is actually due. Please don’t rely on the government’s extension time. Because your insurance company would be furious if the vehicle you were driving had flaws that caused a collision!

catalytic converter

Catalytic Converter Care-Regular Car Servicing can help look after your Cat

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CATALYTIC CONVERTER CARE; Why does car servicing affect your Cat?

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 care, (CAT) is a crucial part of your vehicle. Therefore, 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, (very expensive to replace).

Your cat’s primary job is to clean 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 to 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.

Catalytic Converter Care

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

Catalytic Converter Care

So, since writing this post then 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 gases 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 vehicles engine before emitting the gas into the atmosphere. I t may be interesting to know that the catalysts are made up using some precious metals.

Precious metals used in catalytic converter

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

Pellon tyre online tyres and car repairing servicing

Right to Repair Law- Could Brexit Affect our Right to repair Laws?

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Right to Repair Law

Right to Repair Law; The European unions block exemption rules regarding “garage servicing” came up for revue in May 2010.

The reform was all about setting new rules to take into account the intensity of competition on the markets for the distribution of motor vehicles and spare parts. Also for the provision of repair and maintenance services. It covers cars, trucks and buses, and all types of garage small or large.

The Commission found that competition in the market for the sale of new vehicles is strong. In this light, the current sector-specific rules create an unnecessary straitjacket that prevents

car manufacturers from organising their distribution systems as they see fit. The European Commission has therefore aligned the rules applicable to motor vehicle distribution. This applies with those that apply to distribution agreements in other sectors but with a three-year transition period to allow dealers to adapt to the new measures.

Right to Repair Law

Competition on the markets for repair and maintenance and for spare parts distribution is less intense. This is a risk to consumers who may be harmed by anti-competitive practices. This could push up Car Repair Costs when Servicing a Car. The garage Repair and maintenance industry is very important for consumers. Not only for reasons of safety and reliability. But also because repair bills account for 40% of the total cost to car owners. Unlike car prices, the cost of the average repair job and  servicing has actually risen over the past years.

Consumers are feeling the effect of rising repair bills. This also includes  servicing costs during the present crisis. They are more price-sensitive and drive older vehicles that require more regular maintenance. The EU Commission has put in place a tougher regime for these markets. They will make it easier to enforce the rules. Particular problematic issues include holding back technical information and not releasing spare parts, and refusing to honour warranties when consumers have their cars repaired at independent garage servicing facilities.

Independent garages and repairers such as Pellonautocentre are important because they give more choice to consumers. This helps to keep the price of  servicing and repairs competitive by putting pressure due to competitive pricing against main dealers. Also to  authorized repair networks. But for this to happen it is essential that garages can get the technical information necessary to do the repairs and carry out the work on increasingly sophisticated cars with increasing amounts of technology.

Right to Repair Law

Withholding “technical information” will be dealt with directly under the EU Treaty rules on restrictive business practices (Article 101) since. The manufacturers , spare parts and repair shops generally have a larger market share in excess of 30%. In addition, Guidelines also being brought in contain detailed clarifications. As to the notion of technical information, cross-referring to Regulation 715/2007 on type approval of certain cars and all subsequent implementing regulations.

New rules will assure that garage servicing companies have access to technical information for models which are type-approved after 1 September 2009. By making a clear link with the 2007 car type-approvals Regulation. The EU Commission will ensure both consistency as regards access to technical information. For cars put in circulation before that date and allow the presentation of technical information to evolve and continue in line with technical progress.

The EU Commission remains committed to vigorously enforce the rules on access to technical information. This was demonstrated in four cases brought in 2007. This was to ensure that car manufacturers disclose the necessary information to independent repairers and garage servicing facilities. Garages the likes of Pellonautocentre.in the Calderdale area of West Yorkshire.

Right to Repair Law

By strengthening the enforcement of competition rules. Including the garage servicing sector and maintenance and spare parts markets. These new laws will contribute to creating a level playing field between car manufacturers and spare part producers and garage servicing.  Thus contribute to lower prices for spare parts. This has to be very good news for the garage servicing , garage repair and spare parts industry. This result must give great pride. To all the different groups and individuals that spent hard earned money lobbying and writing to their EU and local MPs. These new laws are similar to the “right to repair” laws in the USA.

The new “Motor Vehicle Block Exemption Regulation“,  will continue to help lower the cost of” GARAGE SERVICING” for 13 years until 2023.

The EU Commission will constantly monitor the situation in the markets for motor vehicle and spare parts distribution, as well as in the market for the provision of repair and maintenance services including garage servicing companies. The EU Commission will also monitor the application of the Regulation, in cooperation with National Competition Authorities and stakeholders. Once again the UK garage and motor industry can continue to work hard and give the public the service and competitive pricing they deserve.

Pellon Tyre and Autocentre thinks that the Right to Repair Law, coming from the EU will be kept when our government decides on which legislation to keep and throw out.

mot test-Online Bookings on Increase

Online Bookings on Increase-Online servicing and repair jobs surging with 205% increase

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Online Bookings on Increase

Online Bookings on Increase

So this is no surprise to me! Having an online booking system is part of our customer care system. Of course not only for booking in jobs but also for keeping records of our customers purchases for warranty purposes.

In fact, we have two online booking systems! On is for our MOT testing customers and we also have a tyre lookup and booking in system online.

Garage work provider, WhoCanFixMyCar.com has reported a 205 per cent surge in jobs requested, rising from 27,000 in April to 85,000 in September. After initially seeing repair requests grind to a complete stop, the uncertainty of

Eric Roberts was not very pleased at the decision to stop MOT testing altogether during the recent covid 19 pandemic. Testing was suspended for six months and a massive backlog later on in the year certainly kept us on our feet. Going forward to the spring of 2021 then things have now settled down and testing is back to normal. So, our garage customers have been very helpful and understanding during this horrible pandemic.

Social distancing and masks wearing is still common practise and we have had no problems with complying with the law.

Source: Online servicing and repair jobs surging with 205% increase – Garagewire

mot test-Online Bookings on Increase

MOT Garages that are removed from MOT testing scheme to be made public

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DVSA have agreed with Ministers to make the information publicly available following the announcement by Justine Greening MP in 2012, of the Governments’ commitment to the Garage Customer Experience.

Eric Roberts‘s insight:

MOT Garages testing station, owners opinion

So, as the owner of an MOT centre then I am not quit sure what this will achieve. Consequently, I know that there are thousands of normal garages. Strangely, who claim that they do MOT testing. Incredibly, but in fact do not. What they do is to take their customers car to an approved MOT  testing station. Consequently, having what we call “a trade test” carried out.

Of course, I am not saying that the car will not be tested correctly? But the test is not carried out by the garage and the car is not in their control. Subsequently, if the driver has an issue then he can not take it up directly with the testing station.

Customers should look out for the official MOT testing sign,

Concerned car owners should look out for an official MOT sign ! Usually outside the garage premises at the roadside. So looking the same as the one in my above image. Some garages have sort of look alike signs, but are not official testing stations.

I can only think that garages who have lost their  license to test cars because of a bad disciplinary record, still carry on taking cars in for testing, but have a trade test done at another official testing station, under the pretense that they still have a testing license, or simply do not remove their MOT Garages signs as if their still testing.

A list of banned testing sites will be published but i wonder who will read them?.

Hi I would like to introduce myself. Working in the Garage and tyre and Battery business now for 40 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.

mot test-Online Bookings on Increase

MOT Testing Halifax-Wheels and Tyres-Explained

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Pellon Autocentre is an MOT Testing Halifax station with over 20 years experience.

MOT Testing Halifax is part of a series of explanations. About, how the MOT Rules works to keep your car safe and legal. When you prepare your car for the MOT test, the follow advice will apply. Especially, when dealing with wheels and tyres. The first thing to check are the wheels. As a result, if you have alloy wheels. Because, you should check for serious damage and cracks. Also, you must have a full set of wheel nuts fitted. If your car has steel wheels and plastic hub caps. Of course, the nuts will not be checked by the tester. Thus, they will only be checked if you remove the hub caps before the car is tested.

If any nuts are missing then this will result in a failure.

According to the DVLA MOT Rules. The tyre condition is very important. Testers look for any side wall damage and for any cuts or damage to the tyre tread. The tester will also check the tread depth. Using his official tread depth gauge. The legal limit is 1.6 mm across three-quarters of the tread width . This can be detected by a visual look at the tyres. Of course, before you present the car for a test. Tyre manufacturers build into the tyre treads a wear indicator bar. For when the tyre wears down to the bar a bald patch is visible. Police officers also use these bars as away of a quick check of tyre condition. Especially, when stopping a motorist for a check over.

Spare wheels and tyres are not part of the MOT test,

MOT Testing Halifax. You may not present a car for a test with a temporary spare on the car.Also, you must present the car with the best four wheels and tyres on your car. Tyre sizes are checked on the car on the same axle. But other information such as load ratings are not checked.Because, this is deemed as too technical. As a result, some cars may break the law. They are not part of an MOT test and therefore will not fail.
It is always good practice to have your car checked out or have a service when you have your car tested, this will ensure that your car is legal and safe. Pellon Autocentre is leading MOT Testing Halifax area.

Pellon Tyre and Autocentre offer car and van servicing and repairs to all makes of vehicles. 

mot test-Online Bookings on Increase

Financial support for independent garages-IGA calls on government to provide ongoing financial support

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Financial support for independent garages

Financial support for independent garages

I must agree with the actions of the IGA (Independent Garages Association). After all in my opinion they do have a valid point. Although we here at Pellon Autocentre in Halifax UK are not members we are all in the same boat. Since the beginning of the MOT covid restrictions in 2020 we have all lived in a “topsy turvy land” of boom and bust MOT testing.

Consequently, we have  lost out with many customers because we could not cope as a small garage during the MOT test peaks. This meant lost revenue as customers had to abandon their regular testing stations. Of course because they were too busy. In normal times we have a booking in and customer reminder system. That will balance out any peaks and troughs during a normal business year.

The six month whammy that hit us by the Government has thrown all this to the wind. We should be receiving some sort of financial help to help us balance our books in the next few years. I myself think that the rate relief scheme would be the best way forward. Not all garages are in trouble but a balanced aid package would be a good idea.

I am pleased that the IGA have come forward on all our behalf’s and we fully support their actions. Especially in these important times when all independent garages will also suffer from the governments incessant drive to get us all driving the dreaded electric cars which I hope will fail.

The Independent Garage Association (IGA) has written to the Chancellor of the Exchequer, the Transport Secretary and other Ministers, urging them to put a financial support package in place for garages. The trade body argues that

Source: IGA calls on government to provide ongoing financial support for independent garages

mot test-Online Bookings on Increase

MOT Test Safer Roads-The annual MOT Test make our roads a safer place to drive on.

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MOT Test Safer Roads

MOT Test Safer Roads

Some motorists may think that the ministry of transport (VOSA) are in a money making  racket. Because you have to take your car to be MOT tested every year to pass a roadworthy test. But they do not see that having those MOT tests, . Actually help prevent accidents and cut down on road deaths by keeping badly maintained vehicles off the road.

By carrying out an MOT test every year on vehicles that have been on the road for three years from their first registration, VOSA has successfully managed to lower the number of unsatisfactory cars on the road, making things safe for the rest of us.

So if you have had your car for at least three years then you need to find your nearest MOT test  station and have your car MOT tested. The easiest way is to book online, you can search for MOT Halifax if you need to find your nearest testing station if you live in the Calderdale area of West Yorkshire.

MOT Test Safer Roads-Any testing station?

It is possible to take it to any testing station to have it tested there.Consequently, you can be on your way home soon after you get a test completed. The only thing you need to know. Hence, is that they are a fully accredited testing station. Able to carry out a thorough and legal test. It is also important that they don’t let you get away with small mechanical faults. Of course that would affect  the road worthiness of your vehicle.

After all, this will defeat the whole purpose. Thus, of having the tests carried out in the first place. You want to make sure that your vehicle gets through the test as smooth as possible. As a result, there are many checks that need to be performed. During the MOT Test , your car has to meet the standard. So, for ,these checks. Consequently, you will be ready to go home in no time with a pass. The bodywork on your car needs to be in good condition. Therefore, no rusting or rotten holes. The fuel system, emissions tests and exhaust system. All needs to be good working order without any excessive CO2 than is required.

MOT Test Safer Roads-Your car could fly past the MOT test

Seat belts and seats must not be rotted and be able to keep you secured. Your brakes must still have enough pads left in them before the next brake check, and your tyres need enough tread to make sure you have the minimum legal requirements. . Make sure your lights and indicators are in good working order and your wipers must be in good condition to ensure they clear the windscreen when it is raining and the rubber blades are in good shape. Your steering and suspension need to be within regulation standards to make sure you are able to control the movement of the vehicle no loose worn parts. Your registration, plates and Vehicle identification need to be in good order as well. So look after your car and it should fly through the MOT Test Safer Roads.