All Car Repair Articles

All Car Repair Articles

of course car repairs are what we call a “bread and butter” job. Hence, i thought that i would show a video to demonstrate the things that our technicians have to do when repairing a car.
We often have our customers ringing us. Significantly, they ask the question, “how can i tell if my car needs repairing”. Therefore, I usually answer with the same explanation. You’ll know when the vehicle requires attention! So, when a car eventually arrives in the workshop. We treat it with extreme care and attention.

Thefts of Catalytic Converters

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Thefts of Catalytic Converters

Thefts of Catalytic Converters
© Can Stock Photo / Kinek00

Thefts of Catalytic Converters

So, I have found over many years that anything metal left about and outside the premises will very quickly be stolen. In our part of Yorkshire there are people in transit van pickups, constantly driving around looking for anything metal to collect. In some instances metal objects are even stolen.

Indeed a friend of mine was recently given a metal greenhouse for the garden. Unable to erect it straight away, he left the greenhouse on the lawn close to the erection site.

Would you believe it! The following day the metal greenhouse had vanished. We now who did but the police were not interested. Anything left outside that is metal will be stolen. It has all a value and is worth the risk to these people, who make their living from other people’s misery.

Exhausts were once the target.

About twenty years ago we had to build a special locked up compound to keep all our metal scrap secure from theft. Attempts to steel our scrap metal were common place. This leads up to the present day and catalytic convertors.

The unexpected and inconvenient realisation that someone has tampered with cars exhaust system. While you are asleep in bed is something that every owner of a motor vehicle dreads.

In recent years, there has been a huge rise in the Thefts of Catalytic Converters. We know because many of our customers have become victims of this crime.

So, now this has developed into an ongoing issue that is difficult to control. This article delves into the why, how, and preventative measures that can be taken regarding the persistent tide of criminal activity.

Catalytic converter thefts have become an epidemic in recent years.

Theft of a catalytic converter is considered a more serious offence than a minor theft. It’s an epidemic that’s spreading all across the world.

The exhaust emission control system, which is an essential component of every contemporary car, has become a rising target for thieves. The reason why? The precious metals that are contained within. Criminals can make a lot of money by stealing catalytic converters since they contain high-value materials like platinum, palladium, and rhodium.

What’s Behind the Recent Uptick in Stolen Catalytic Converters?

Why has there been such a significant increase in the number of Thefts of Catalytic Converters? Looking at supply and demand can reveal the story. When emission rules are tightened all around the world, there will be an increased demand for these valuable metals. Meanwhile, dealers on the illegal market want converters because of the value they have for recycling, which adds gasoline to the fire of criminal activity. To put it another way, these sneaky and quick-moving criminals will consider your parked car an easy target.

How Criminals Steal Catalytic Converters is the Headline of This Article

Thieves are known for their meticulous methods. A seasoned criminal can remove a catalytic converter from a vehicle in a matter of minutes, frequently without being discovered. They will use simple tools to get beneath your vehicle, make quick cuts, and then get away with the prize. Who was the victim? You are now stuck with a high repair price and a car that sounds like a raging monster when it drives.

Theft of Catalytic Converters: Preventative Steps

Awareness is a powerful tool. The power of knowledge might be your greatest asset. Investing in a security system, such as alarms, cameras, or parking in well-lit, frequented locations, can serve as powerful deterrents to potential criminals. Some people even go so far as to choose catalytic converter protection devices, which is a more direct technique. Another possible solution would be to engrave the vehicle identification number (VIN) onto the converter. This would make the car less desirable to potential Thefts of Catalytic Converters and would make it simpler to locate if it were stolen

.

The thievery of catalytic converters is not a minor annoyance.

It’s an ongoing issue that requires constant care. Your vehicle can be protected from becoming a victim of this crime if you take preventative steps and maintain a state of vigilance. Always keep in mind that the cost of prevention is almost always going to be less than the cost of replacement. A Last Plea for Help in the Fight Against the Thefts of Catalytic Converters.

It is absolutely necessary to maintain a step advantage in this day and age of escalating Thefts of Catalytic Converters. Maintain an up-to-date knowledge base, make an investment in preventative measures, and check that your vehicle is secure. Let’s make it more difficult for these thieves to get away with their crimes and help put an end to this persistent problem.

Theft of catalytic converters, vehicle theft, preventative measures, and exhaust systems are some of the keywords that might be used here. thefts of catalytic converters, which cars are least likely to have catalytic converter stolen, catalytic converter theft prevention, catalytic converter theft Cambridge, catalytic converter lock fitted price. catalytic converter theft in uk.

Catalytic Converter Care

Catalytic converter thefts- on “significant” rise – Garagewire

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Catalytic converter thefts

Catalytic converter thefts

So, this is a follow-up to a recent post that I did about cat/converter thefts from the Halifax area of the UK. Unfortunately, this problem is nation-wide. Because of the make-up of these catalysts, they have become an easy target to steal. Cats contain precious metals that are in short supply. Consequently, illegal thefts are becoming commonplace.

Unfortunately, we are experiencing many of the thefts coming from Honda car models. Luckily, some customers are covered by their car insurance, but many are not. Going forward, it would be worth drivers checking out their insurance companies. Hence, to see if they are covered or not!

Of course, this type of practise is nothing new. Catalytic converter thefts

Consequently, I know of a company in the Elland industrial area of West Yorkshire that was badly hit. So, for ease of access to there vans, they were kept parked outside. Drivers made early starts, giving the drivers a quick turn-around in the early morning.

However, one Monday morning, the drivers turned up only to find that the whole fleet was stripped of their catalytic converters. What a horrific find ?

According to recent reports, catalytic converter thefts have been on the rise in the United Kingdom.

This is due to the fact that these devices, which are used to reduce harmful emissions from vehicles.

are, of course, made of precious metals. important, such as platinum, palladium, and rhodium. In order to prevent these thefts from occurring. Then it is important to take precautions. Cleverly, such as parking in a well-lit area or in a locked garage.

Catalytic converter including exhaust thefts have been on the rise here in West Yorkshire and the rest of the UK. Once again, the converters are made of precious metals, such as platinum and palladium, which have been rising in value.

The thieves are targeting vehicles that are easy to access. Of course, such as those that are parked on the street or in public parking lots. Even in well-lit areas, thieves have the uncanny ability to crawl underneath a vehicle and remove the catalytic converter without detection.

Some well-lit car parking areas have had multiple thefts in one fowl swoop by the thieves.

Cat/converter thefts have dramatically increased since June with the number cases of reported to be “significant”. Crimes dropped to just 52 in April from over 400 at the start of the year in January but

Source: Catalytic converter thefts on “significant” rise – Garagewire

mot testing and car servicing

Car Servicing Advice 2

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Car Servicing Advice 2

Car Servicing Advice 2
Car Servicing Advice 2

Car Servicing Advice 2

An answer to the popular question “do I have to service my new car at the dealership?” straight from the horses mouth, Guelph Hyundai’s very own Service Adviser.

Car Servicing Advice 2: If you require  car servicing or car repairs,. The answer is NO?

“If you are a garage  with a good reputation, then the answer is to keep a warranty valid. So, the customer must perform all of the maintenance that is required. Of course, as specified in the owner’s manual, to maintain the vehicle’s warranty”

This applies in the USA and also here in the European Union. Including here in Halifax, Yorkshire, UK.

We are all covered by a right to repair law. Allowing us to repair cars that are still under warranty. Thus, as long as the service parts fitted are up to the same standard,. Hence, the ones fitted as original equipment by the car manufacturers.

This also applies to any new equipment that the car makers may bring out. Of course, they must release the patents for the aftercare garages . Or be able to repair and service the cars.

This prevents a closed-shop scenario from being created. Consequently, the new cars are going to the main dealers only.

Toyota is having to release many patents to do with EV cars. So that your regular garage can have a chance of repairing them.

https://www.pellonautocentre.com/do-you-have-to-have-your-car-servicing-done-by-the-main-dealer/

Car servicing your new car Do you have to use the main dealer?

The straight-forward answer to this is no! You do not have to take your car back to the franchise car dealer from where you bought it. The problem that we get at my garage here in Halifax, Yorkshire, UK, is that many of the public think that you have to return to the garage from where you purchased the vehicle  to have a car service.

The franchise dealer will not, of course, tell you this when you buy the car because they obviously want your business. But in many cases, this could be inconvenient for the new car owner. We have many very satisfied customers who do not want to take their cars anywhere else, for repairs or for car servicing.

There are a few rules that you should follow. Car Servicing Advice 2

If you do go to your independent garage, they must adhere to a few rules. These rules were set out by the EU when the right to repair ruling first came out, and I think that this is something similar in the USA, with their “right to repair bill.”.

Firstly, they would like the garage to be of good standing and probably affiliated to a trade organisation that gives the garage some credibility. Another way to check if your local garage has good standing is if they are an MOT testing station, here in the UK.

These accreditation’s will ensure that your car will have car servicing and repairs carried out to the right standards.

Another consideration to take into account is that you should check to see if your local garage uses car service parts that are as good as the manufacturer’s original equipment standards. Most quality garages will do this as a second nature and use either OE parts (oil filters, etc.) We use a top-quality brand called “Blue Print,” which is guaranteed to be just as good as the OE parts supplied by the main dealer garage.

If you stick to the rules and make sure that the car servicing booklet that is provided in every car is kept up-to-date, then you will have no problems if you have any warranty issues. By the way, if you do have a warranty problem, then you should return the car to the franchise dealer from where it came.

mot testing and car servicing

Good News for Garages: 2024

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Good News for Garages

Good news for garages
© Can Stock Photo / XXLPhoto

Good news for garages

Just as I expected, the news is that consumers are keeping their vehicles longer at the moment. Importantly, I am old enough to know that this is always the case when any sort of crisis occurs! This time it is the “Covid 19” pandemic that we are having to face. So, in other years, we have had to suffer from financial downturns. However, this time, it’s a health issue.

“Why People in Halifax are Holding onto Their Petrol and Diesel Cars Longer Than Ever Before”

We have observed an intriguing pattern in recent times in the middle of Halifax, where the hilly terrain meets the busy streets. Locals appear to be more devoted to their tried-and-true petrol and diesel vehicles than in years past. Why is there a change in the way people own cars? Halifax locals and others throughout the country are choosing to hold on to their ICE cars for longer and longer periods of time for four distinct reasons.

Virus COVID-19 and Its Effects:Good news for garages


The worldwide pandemic had a significant impact on many other aspects of our lives, including our driving habits. Because of the unknowns caused by COVID-19, many are clinging to their petrol and diesel vehicles. Due to the numerous limitations and lockdowns, many of us opted to work from home or reduce our driving. Some others started to question whether they really needed a new automobile or if going electric was the right choice.

People in Halifax, where a strong sense of community is valued, questioned the usefulness of owning a car. More and more individuals started taking public transit or carpooling, and many found out they could extend the life of their current vehicles by cutting back on mileage.

The ebb and flow of electric cars:Good news for garages

The emergence of electric vehicles (EVs) promised a cleaner, more environmentally friendly future for transportation. The shift to EVs, however, has lagged below expectations. The incessant concern of where to plug in, limited charging infrastructure, and range anxiety were all issues that early EV adopters had to cope with.

Halifax residents have been cautiously welcoming the electric car revolution. Many locals are holding out hope that the electric vehicle sector will continue to develop, leading to better products at lower prices. Many people still have a soft spot for conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, particularly those that are dependable and easy to use.

Local History & Nostalgia:Good news for garages

Halifax is a city that loves its traditions and looks back on its legacy and history. Many locals have sentimental attachments to their classic petrol and diesel vehicles, which have been in the family for decades. As we travel through the Yorkshire countryside and the meandering roads of the Calder Valley, these cars become more than just a mode of transportation; they become members of the family.

An effective way to connect with readers and bolster the argument for retaining cherished ICE automobiles is to incorporate local history into your articles. For example, you could mention the old textile mills or the famous Halifax Piece Hall.

Finally, we must not forget the financial issue

which is an important consideration. Individuals are meticulously considering their spending habits during these uncertain times. A new vehicle, particularly an electric one, might represent a considerable financial commitment. For the time being, many locals are deciding that keeping their current petrol or diesel vehicles is the more economical option.

Incorporating local cost-of-living information and people’s frugal strategies to extend the life of their present vehicles would be great additions to your piece.

As a conclusion, there are a number of factors

contributing to the prolonged duration of petrol and diesel vehicle ownership in Halifax. Regardless of the reasons why, like economic concerns, a sense of nostalgia, the changing electric car scene, or the effects of COVID-19, the passion for internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles is strong in our picturesque part of the UK. As you meander around the picturesque streets of Halifax, you’ll surely come across numerous beloved vintage vehicles, each one preserving a piece of our community’s history.

When there is a crisis, do businesses and regular workers always pull in their horns?

It is not the time to go out and buy a new car. especially with people not knowing whether they will have a job at the end of it all. Drivers are choosing to keep their old vehicles under the premise that “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” It’s better to spend a few hundred pounds on new tyres or a service than thousands on a new car.

This is welcome news to me as the owner of Pellon Tyre and Autocentre. Knowing that this pandemic will also slow down the rush to car electrification, MOT testing is expected to remain at a high level, and our customers are certainly buying lots of tyres here in Halifax, UK.

Nowadays, Brits maintain their personal vehicles for longer.

In fact, according to the most recent statistics, the age of vehicles on the road is almost 12. That is significantly older than historical averages. Some dealers could be unsure about whether the epidemic will have any further effects on this psychological trend

MOT tests the ever-improving vehicle technology that makes them last longer.

Some people like not having a car payment, so they aren’t in a rush to buy something brand new. But in the current economy, a growing number of people are saying no to trade-ins for a number of different reasons.

Given the recent wave of furloughs and fears about job security,. Some people might be reluctant to invest money in a new car. Some people may no longer need to drive because they are working from home on a longer-term basis.

Owners of vehicles can decide not to do any unneeded shopping for a lengthy period of time if they are worried about the threats to the public’s health. The current lack of new inventory is another factor.

People might be delaying their purchases of new vehicles until next year because there won’t be any inventory for 2020. Dealers would want to prepare for individuals retaining their automobiles much longer than previously if these factors are added to an upward growth trajectory.

Almost four million of the nation’s drivers have opted to keep their car for longer after spending money on repairs and maintenance, new research shows. The study for Kwik Fit, shows that the third of drivers

Source: Repair investment prompts 3.8 million owners to keep their car for longer – Garagewire

Nissan Navara Clutch replacement

Fiat Punto Clutch problems

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Fiat Punto Clutch problems

Fiat Punto Clutch problems
Fiat Punto Clutch problems

Fiat Punto Clutch problems 

So, recently, we have noticed that we have done more than our fair share of clutches. Especially on the Fiat Punto model of car. Interestingly, I decided to do a little research. Finding some real horror stories. Subsequently, going back to the 2002 Punto models.

One unlucky customer was in for a car service. The owner of a “52” plate Punto 8 valve version. He complained to me about several problems that he had encountered. Including a very bad transmission judder and other small irritants. Unpleasant things, such as engine noises and various oil leaks,. Recently, he had just had a clutch fitted! But 1400 miles later, the juddering had returned.

Checked out his car on Fiat forums: Fiat Punto Clutch problems 

Inquisitively, he too looked up the Fiat forums. Noticing the number of Fiat owners who were experiencing various clutch problems on their Punto’s. So, the cars came mainly from the main dealers. Coming from different parts of the country. However, it looked as though Fiat knew about the problem. Subsequently, I did little about the Punto problem.

Interestingly, other Fiat owners were experiencing problems. Especially with a low-biting clutch pedal and rattling noises. Increasingly, when changing gears,. It sounded as if there was a broken spring rattling.

This can be a common sign that you have a clutch that needs changing.

But disgruntled customers did not get much joy from Fiat. Indeed, many Fiat drivers opted to have their clutches changed by an independent garage. In some cases, a mechanically minded friend or relative was called in to help ?

Other owners complained about their  pedals becoming hard when pressing to change gear. This then developed into them hearing scratching and clicking noises coming from the pedal area of the car. Once again, this is a sure sign that you need a replacement In fact, this is similar to the latest customer car that we fitted a new clutch to the other weekend, and sure enough, when we stripped it down, the Punto needed a new clutch.

Fiat Punto clutch went again after only 2 weeks: Fiat Punto Clutch problems 

Thank goodness the one that we did the other week was good, and the car ran well after we fitted it with a new clutch, but for some owners, that was not the case. One unlucky gut had recently had a new clutch fitted, only to find that a few weeks later, the same problems had come back to haunt him.

The car had also had a new clutch pedal fitted, but after a few weeks, it once again became difficult to change gear, back to the same problem as the pre-new clutch?

The problem turned out to be Fiat Punto Clutch problems ,

with the clutch bleeding. The mechanic who repaired the car did not know how to bleed the clutch because the Punto’s do not have a normal bleeding nipple system as do many other models of cars, and for some reason some air had entered the fluid system of the clutch, making it difficult to change the gears again.

Fiat Punto Clutch problems 
These Fiat Punto Clutch problems were corrected by the garage.

Who had just fitted the new clutch, and the mistake was just put down to a lack of Fiat Punto experience. So, this can very often happen in a garage that repairs mixed makes of cars.

Going back to the Fiat Punto Clutch problems, in my garage. Well, it was only the second clutch that this particular car had fitted since 2004 (ten years), so I do not think that that was at all bad.

The job of fitting a Fiat Punto clutch is one of the easiest to do, and the car was back on the road in a couple of hours. The customer was delighted, and off he went, a few hundred pounds lighter, but happy?

Pellon Tyre and Auto-Centre offer car and van servicing and repairs to all makes of vehicles. We are not now members of Unipart Car Care centres and give a nationwide guarantee for all our work and parts.

Broken Spring Problem

Shock Absorbers Nissan Micra

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Shock Absorbers Nissan Micra

Shock Absorbers Nissan Micra
Shock Absorbers Nissan Micra

Shock Absorbers Nissan Micra

The most frustrating thing about shock absorbers and struts (which are basically the same thing) is that they are sealed units and although they are classified as maintenance-free, they will

very often start to leak. In some countries, shock absorbers are known as dampers because that is exactly what they do: they damp down and level out the bumps that your car is picking up as it drives along the road.

Depending on the model of your car, Shock Absorbers Nissan Micra

If you are not sure what this is, then you can perform a simple bounce test. All you have to do is press the corner of your car a few times with your body weight and then stop the bouncing.

Once you stop,

your Nissan Micra should settle back down straight away. If it bounces again more than twice, it will very often start to leak. In some countries, shock absorbers (Nissan Micra) are known as dampers and require changing. You do this procedure on each corner, bouncing the car and then releasing it.

In my opinion, this is not a very satisfactory way of checking your shock absorbers, but at the moment, I have not seen a satisfactory machine that will do the job. The best machine I’ve ever seen and consequently purchased was a tester from SUN Equipment.

You drove the car onto vibration plates

which shook the suspension very violently and then suddenly stopped. The action of the shock absorbers was then recorded on paper printouts via an ink needle, similar to the ones used in hospital heart machines. If the pattern was tight, then the car shock absorbers were good; if they were wide, then the shocks needed replacing.

This was a great machine because it produced a print out so that the customer could see the state that his shocks were in. Ironically, Kwik-Fit scrapped the machine after I sold them the business, and I don’t believe they are still in production.

How do shock absorbers work? Shock Absorbers Nissan Micra

Some cars never have their shocks replaced, but with age, the ride of your car will get bumpier and the steering will be all over the place when cornering, although this is sometimes

blamed on the car’s tyres; it is more often than not the shock absorbers that need changing.

As I have said earlier, the most common problem is the fact that they leak oil.

Of course, this can also be found in a suspension check! If this is the case, then they will need to change. Any kind of shock absorber works on the same basis. There is a piston rod that enters a chamber that is filled with oil. The piston has oil seals to prevent leakage.

The weight compresses the piston, which then absorbs the force of the car and the road. Your shocks take all the up-and-down pressure (bumps), and the car’s chassis remains level, or as level as possible, while driving along.

When the shocks are worn or broken, you will get an uneven ride in your car. I think that the worst culprits for this are cars that are used as taxis. You can often feel the older cars bouncing up and down as you drive along, and apart from alcohol, I am convinced that this is one of the reasons that people are sick in the back of a taxi.

Shock Absorbers- Nissan Micra
Struts are normally fitted at the front of cars and are fitted inside a coil spring unit.
These are known as McPherson struts.

and just like shock absorbers, they can leak oil. These struts, along with the springs that they are inserted into, can very often break, and the symptoms  are rattling and banging noises coming from the car when going over bumps in the road. This is another problem that the potholes can cause. “Broken springs”

An old perennial that keeps cropping up is that when a shocker has to be replaced,

should it be replaced in pairs? In my opinion, this is a grey area. The manufacturers always recommend that you fit two, and I think that this is the perfect scenario, but in practice, the customer wants to get away with having to spend as little as possible, and in general, only one is fitted.

The rule to this is simple: if your car is relatively new, then just change the one; the one on the other side should still be good, but if the car is an older model, then you should change the shocks on each side of the same axle, backs or fronts. This will give you an even ride and more stable cornering.

Normal shocks are fairly easy to change for the home mechanic

But the struts are more difficult and require some special tools, such as spring compressors, so I would take your car to a local garage for the work. Shock absorbers, nissan micra Om, Shock absorbers nissan micra cost; Replacement shock absorbers nissan micra.

Nissan Micra shock absorbers, Nissan Micra price, Replacement shock absorbers, nissan micro, Best shock absorbers for the Nissan Micra, nissan Micra shock absorber price.

Block Exemption Regulations

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Block Exemption Regulations

Block Exemption Regulations
Block Exemption Regulations

Block Exemption Regulations

“The Impact of Motor Vehicle Block Exemption on Local Garages in Halifax, UK”

Located in the vibrant town of Halifax, UK, where the past and modernity harmoniously coexist, there exists an inconspicuous saviour dedicated to maintaining the reliability of your faithful mode of transportation. I am referring to the nearby autonomous automobile repair shop, the friendly establishment one frequents when their vehicle needs some tender, loving care.

However, it is important to note that a significant portion of their capabilities can be attributed to a regulatory framework known as the Motor Vehicle Block Exemption Regulation (MVBER). Let us explore the realm of MVBER and examine its impact on the operational efficiency of our nearby automobile repair shops.

What does MVBER stand for? Block Exemption Regulations

MVBER, although its name may be lengthy, is a revolutionary tool for independent garages such as the one I own in Halifax. These regulations grant garages the authority to retrieve current data from car manufacturers. This implies that they have the ability to effectively repair and maintain any brand or type of vehicle, similar to the nearby car dealership.

Dismantling the Obstacles

Prior to the emergence of MVBER, independent garages frequently encountered a formidable obstacle: obtaining the necessary technical information to effectively repair contemporary automobiles. Automobile manufacturers possessed exclusive access to this valuable collection of data, creating a challenging environment for local garages to compete on an equitable basis. However, MVBER revolutionised the situation.

Currently, independent garages in Halifax and other areas have the capability to directly obtain crucial information, such as service schedules, diagnostics, and repair instructions, from the car manufacturers. This implies that your nearby automotive repair shop is capable of handling a wide range of vehicles, including both classic Mini cars and cutting-edge Teslas. There is no necessity to undertake the lengthy journey to the dealership, as your reliable local technician is capable of meeting your needs.

Community champions- Block Exemption Regulations

Regarding trust, your nearby automotive repair shop serves a purpose beyond mere car maintenance. It is a fundamental cornerstone of the community. In Halifax, where we have a strong sense of pride in our past, our garages contribute to our collective identity.

These establishments are not merely commercial enterprises; they serve as a valuable repository of local expertise and foster social bonds. Your neighbourhood mechanic serves as more than simply a service provider; they are also a companion with whom you may discuss recent repairs and reminisce about past experiences.

The Effect on Halifax

What is the direct impact of MVBER on Halifax? Suppose you possess a vintage Rover, a valuable artefact from the era when the town thrived as a centre of industrial activity. With MVBER, your local garage can conveniently access up-to-date technical data to ensure optimal performance and maintenance of your classic vehicle.

If you possess a contemporary BMW or Jaguar, you can be confident that they are capable of doing such tasks as well, eliminating the need for you to travel to a dealership in a different city.

MVBER has equalised the competitive landscape by equipping autonomous garages with the necessary resources to provide for the inhabitants of Halifax and maintain our cherished vehicles in operation. It is not solely a matter of convenience, but rather a matter of bolstering local enterprises and safeguarding the allure of our community.

To summarise, Block Exemption Regulations

Halifax’s independent garages have a purpose beyond mere car repairs. They play a crucial role in our community, connecting the divide between the past and the advancements of today. MVBER has enabled these local individuals with the ability to obtain the necessary information to maintain your vehicle in optimal condition, irrespective of its brand or kind.

When you next visit your reliable mechanic in Halifax, bear in mind that MVBER is diligently working in the background to guarantee they possess the necessary equipment to maintain our vehicles’ optimal performance and contribute to the prosperity of our town.

The existing Motor Vehicle Block Exemption (MVBER) should be replaced with an updated UK-specific Motor Vehicle Block Exemption Order (MVBEO) and stay in place until 2029, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has recommended. The CMA

Source: CMA recommends new UK-specific Block Exemption regulations

First Time Drivers Guide

V W Problem Heater: VAG cabin heating problem

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V W Problem Heater

V W Problem Heater
Secure Your New Vehicle

V W Problem Heater

Importantly, this also includes the following car models: Audi A3 (8V chassis), VW Golf (mk7), Seat Leon (5F chassis), Skoda Octavia (7N chassis).

So, this article explains the repair instructions for a problem with the vehicle’s heater not working correctly. Fixing the heat exchanger blockage fixes the problem and is explained in this attached article!

Resolving Cabin Heater Problems in Volkswagen, Audi, Seat, and Skoda Automobiles

Greetings, esteemed group of automotive aficionados!

Presently, we shall delve into a prevalent concern that may induce chills within your Volkswagen, Audi, Seat, or Skoda. You need not worry if you’ve ever been stuck in a chilly vehicle with a cabin heater that simply won’t turn off; we’ve got your back.

Although several automobile models- V W Problem Heater

such as the Skoda Octavia (7N chassis), Audi A3 (8V chassis), VW Golf (mk7), and Seat Leon (5F chassis), have pleased numerous motorists. Even the most technologically advanced systems can occasionally fail to keep you warm and cosy.

The Issue: Cabin Heater Difficulties


Consequently, what exactly are these cabin heaters? Frequently, the problem arises due to an obstruction in the heat exchanger. This vital component can become clogged with grime, debris, and corrosion over time, impeding the proper circulation of hot coolant and the subsequent heating of the cabin.

However, have no fear, as resolving this issue is not as difficult as it may appear. Instructions on how to restore the functionality of the cabin heater are as follows:

Equipment and Materials Required: V W Problem Heater

Protective mitts and eyewear
One-dish pan
Set of sockets
The clasp pliers for hoses
A brand-new heat exchanger (available at dealerships for Volkswagen, Audi, Seat, or Skoda)
A kit for refrigerant funnels
New coolant (specific to your vehicle model)
First Step: Safety-First
Before beginning any work, ensure that your vehicle is situated on level ground and that the engine is completely cool. Gloves and protective eyewear are required, as you will be handling coolant.

(2) Remove the coolant


Identify the coolant discharge plug or valve located on the radiator of your vehicle. Carefully open the drain while positioning the drain pan underneath in order to extract the coolant. Be sure to dispose of the used coolant in accordance with the correct procedures.

Access the heat exchanger in Step 3.


There may be instances where accessing the heat exchanger requires the removal of interior ornamentation or panels. Consult the service manual for your vehicle model for specific instructions.

Step 4: Hose Disconnection

Identify the hoses connected to the heat exchanger and release and remove them using the hose clamp pliers. Anticipate the possibility of residual refrigerant escaping.

Remove the old heat exchanger in Step 5.


Remove the old heat exchanger’s mounting brackets by unbolting them. Remove it with caution from the vehicle.

Install the new heat exchanger in Step 6.


Install the newly installed heat exchanger and fasten it using the provided mounting fasteners. Reattach the hoses, ensuring that the hose connectors are used to secure them.

Step 7: Coolant Refill


Refill the coolant system with the proper coolant for your vehicle using the coolant funnel kit. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding the correct coolant composition and quantity for your vehicle.

Eighth Step: Bleed the Air


Fuel the engine and allow it to operate while the heater is engaged. This will assist in the evacuation of any air pockets present in the system. Monitor the level of coolant and replenish it as necessary.

Step 9: Conduct a heat test


After the level of coolant has stabilised, inspect the cabin heater. Warm air should begin to enter the interior, signifying that the heat exchanger obstruction has been cleared.

Everyone, that concludes it! V W Problem Heater

By employing some do-it-yourself expertise and the proper equipment, it is possible to resolve the issues with the cabin heater in your Volkswagen, Audi, Seat, or Skoda and resume comfortable travel experiences. Keep yourself toasty outside!

Opus IVS has released details of the diagnostic support its IVS 360 VAG team offered to a technician requiring assistance with intermittent heat problems. Job sheet Makes and models: Audi A3 (8V chassis), VW Golf (mk7), Seat

So, looking back to the good old days,

. Then the modern driver knows nothing about car heating problems. As an old but active garage owner, I can go back in time to when certain cars were equipped with a blanket.

Yes, a blanket was provided to put over our laps, keeping us warm. Heaters were very finicky and fragile, often failing to work at all. Especially in cold winters. My first job as an apprentice mechanic brought me into contact with the first British Leyland minis.

These little cars were also freezing cold, with very ineffective heater systems that often failed the driver. Thankfully, things have changed a style including the addition of air conditioning to most car models these days.

Source: Problem job solved: VAG cabin heating not getting hot – Garagewire

4 x 4 vehicle-general tyres

Toyota RAV 4 Poor Acceleration Problems

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Toyota RAV 4 Poor Acceleration

Toyota RAV 4 Poor Acceleration Problems

Toyota RAV 4 Poor Acceleration Problems
Toyota RAV 4 Poor Acceleration Problems

Toyota RAV 4 problem just happened overnight

So, as I have said before, one of the great things about owning a garage. Importantly, there is a diversity of jobs that we can encounter. Hence, in any busy working week,. This past week was no exception. One of our lady customers called it with her car, a Toyota RAV 4 !

Alarmingly, the reason was that the car was performing badly when trying to overtake. Especially when she put her foot down, the car was very slow to respond.

She had a new Duel Mass Flywheel fitted about six months ago ! Interestingly,  she had wondered if this could have anything to do with the car’s recent problem?

The Toyota RAV 4 was fitted with the 2.0D-4 D engine. Importantly, she had not experienced many engine problems in the past. In fact, apart from the clutch, the car had been trouble-free.

Ryan road tests the car ! Toyota RAV 4 Poor Acceleration Problems

Ryan, our workshop manager, took the car out for a test drive. So he noticed that the engine warning light was also illuminated . So on his return, he plugged the car into our diagnostic machine. I found that the code PO627 came up. When we looked up the code fault on our diagnostic site,. Then it stated that the problem could be a couple of things.

  1. The internal fuel was below the target fuel pressure that it should be, despite the engine ECU opening the Suction Control Valve (SCV)
  2. Fuel blockage.

Toyota RAV 42.0 D Engines are fitted with a Denso electronic high-pressure fuel pump.  Controlling the fuel rail pressure and the volume of fuel are both replaceable items. Denso also make the Fuel Pressure Regulator (we call it the SCV) that can cause power problems with the Toyota RAV4

Problems.

Ryan suspected it to be the SCV, and this was confirmed by a quick phone call to a friend of ours who specialises in diesel engines and fuel pumps. He told us that the SCV valves had given him the most problems with this particular RAV 4 engine fault, and so we took it upon ourselves to tackle this particular problem.

A new SCV ordered for the Toyota RAV 4: Toyota RAV 4 Poor Acceleration Problems

We contacted the customer with a price. Reluctantly, she gave us the go-ahead to carry out the necessary work on the car’s engine. We could only buy the SCV parts from the Toyota dealership. Unfortunately, they were not available from any of the local factors.

The first part of the job was to remove the two bolts that fasten the radiator expansion tank to the car. Allowing you more room to work. Importantly, you can see this in the picture the arrow is pointing to ! Where the fuel pump is located. Down near the yellow dipstick top. Ryan then had to remove the air intake/inter-cooler pipe.

The only difficult thing that Ryan could see was the location of the pump and where the SCV’s were located; they were located at the back of the pump, making the job a little fiddly.

When the new Toyota RAV 4 valves arrived,. Hence, they were both coloured differently. So, one was green and the other red. It was important that the new ones fit where the old ones had come from.

Hence the colour coding.

The valves are held into the pump by two heavy duty Allen screws each and were eventually freed by using an heavy duty Allen key type bit that fitted into an impact wrench set, with an extension tube to give him some leverage. This did the trick and the screws finally gave in to the pressure.

An important thing to watch out for is that the valve seats have two O-rings. These O-rings must be replaced and refitted into the valve seats; Ryan lubricated them when fitting them back, before the new valves were fitted back onto the pump.

Possible loss of fuel ! Toyota RAV 4 Poor Acceleration Problems

Another observation is that you will lose a small amount of fuel when doing this job, so protect the immediate area of the pump with some old cloth to soak up the diesel that comes out and you will not make a mess on the rest of the engine or the garage floor. We also thought it would be worth fitting a new fuel filter, and so we did.

When Ryan completed the work

he then re-set the Toyota RAV 4 engine diagnostic trouble codes , with our engine diagnostic machine and it then only took a couple of attempts to re start the engine. Because there would have been a little trapped air in the system from when the valves were removed. If you are doing this job at home inn one of these vehicles, we do recommend that you keep everything as clean as possible and do not let any dirt or other contamination onto the new valves.

The job only took about an hour

Including the ordering of the parts. Later the car was road tested and found to be cured of the problem. Happily, our lady customer picked up the Toyota RAV 4 paid us and went on her way a happy customer.

This problem can also be found on the following Toyota models

Toyota Avensis 2.0 D-4D (CDT220) 1999>2003,Toyota Avensis Verso 2.0D-4D (CLM20) 2001>2005,Toyota Corolla 2.0 D-4D (CDE110) 2000>2001,Toyota Corolla Verso 2.0 D-4D (CDE120) 001>2004,Toyota Corolla 2.0 D-4D (CDE120) 2001>2007 (90bhp & 109bhp),Toyota Previa 2.0 D-4D (CLR30) 2001>2007. This information is from Blue Print.

car suspension parts

Fibreglass Coil Springs

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Fibreglass Coil Springs

Fibreglass Coil Springs
Shock Absorbers Update

Wow ! I could not believe it when I first heard about the new development in automotive coil springs.

Fibreglass Coil Springs

So, coil springs have always been one of the most likely components to fail the British MOT test. Because they are stuck beneath our cars. Subsequently, they are open to everything that the elements and the roads have to throw at them. After all that, they are expected to help take the strain off the car. Of course, when going over bumpy roads and also cornering and generally helping our cars give the owners a comfortable ride,.

The springs are open to rusting and, at the same time, cope with the horrendous roads, full of potholes and generally in bad condition. The coil springs usually meet their end when the car does drive over a pothole and one of the coil springs breaks. Some rattle and bang, but some break off at the top or bottom and are not detected until the dreaded MOT test or they are sometimes spotted on a service.

Coil springs have been around ever since I can remember and much longer

But now there is a new kid on the block: a coil spring made out of glass fibre and epoxy resin (FRP). These new springs are everything that the old steel versions are not. They are weather-proof, which means that they will not rust, and they are chemical-proof and almost unbreakable.

The other added bonus is that they weigh a lot less than their conventional steel counterparts. The FRP springs also consume much less energy than their steel cousins.

This new technology has been developed by the Sogefi Group, which is very well known for their innovations and new developments in the auto industry, and they have now come out with this excellent coil spring product that I am sure will sweep the world and replace its steel counterparts.

The Sogefi group has specifically set out to create a replacement product for the steel coil spring and come out with something that is half the weight, which, along with other lighter materials, will help cars become more eco-friendly with less fuel  consumption than when fitted with conventional steel coil springs. Another plus point for the FRP coil springs will be the fact that they can be mass produced.

I am not sure that it will be a good thing for our garage businesses: Fibreglass Coil Springs

As replacing the coil springs, one of the main suspension parts, is part of our bread and butter income, if this helps the consumer, which I am sure it will, then I am all for progress and moving forward . I must admit, I have noticed that the steel-made coil

springs seem to be getting thinner in stature and not as robust as the ones that we have been replacing, so it might be time for a change, and who knows if they do break on impact . Because they are made of glass fibre and epoxy resin, they may just be repairable.

This material has been around for some time now and is very flexible and repairable. I was also wondering if we would still have to use our coil spring compressors. So, to remove and fit a replacement spring? probably. I also wonder if our replacement Fibreglass Coil Springs suppliers will have to keep both types of spring manufacturer products in stock, and will one replace the other?

Ford KA in for suspected broken coil springs. Fibreglass Coil Springs

This leads me to my next little snippet. About a car that was left with us the other day . So, with a knocking noise coming from the front of his car,. The car was an old-style Ford KA 1.3 (2006) with a petrol engine. The noise wasn’t easy to find ! Happily, we found that a broken spring was the culprit.

I have read about the new style of FRP replacement Coil Springs. I cannot find where it tells us about their strength. Hence, whether or not Fibreglass Coil Springs will outperform steel ones. But changing the steel spring has certainly become good business for us. So only time will tell.

We got permission to change the broken spring from our customer, and the job was done. The KA was picked up later that day and our customer went home a happy man.