Even more concerningly, nearly one in ten (8.49%) automobiles failed the test on at least one harmful item, which is close to a third of all vehicles that failed the MOT the first time. Up to 2.57 million automobiles and vans with potentially harmful flaws will be on the roads as a result of reducing the MOT testing period to every two years.
Vehicles frequently fail MOT testing on safety-relevant components.
According to DVSA data, 7% of vehicles fail due to brake issues, another 7% due to tyre defects, and 10% due to suspension defects.
“This might actually be hazardous for motorists, bikers, and pedestrians, and we might see cars on the roads with significant flaws. And this suggestion won’t make any difference in terms of the expense of living.
Less frequent vehicle maintenance is comparable to putting off going to the doctor. So, just like with medical problems, things can get much worse if you wait. Shopping around will, for the most part, save you from having to pay the whole £54.85, the maximum a MOT may cost, and you may be able to prevent a hefty payment by catching it early, according to Karen Rotberg.
Drivers should keep their cars up-to-date regarding parts failures- Insane MOT Test Proposals
Even though some of the more critical flaws could be very expensive to fix, extra costs could be avoided with early intervention. For instance, if brake discs are damaged by metal-on-metal contact,. While the brake pads are entirely worn down. So, the braking discs must also be changed (typically costing hundreds of pounds). Simply keep an eye on your brake pads!
Neglect can cause damage to many different parts of a car. In addition to the brakes,. Damaged suspension parts can cause uneven tyre wear and hasten the need to replace the tyres. Remember the pothole crisis! It hasn’t gone away. While tyres that are not properly inflated will use more petrol and diesel and have a shorter lifespan.
67% of drivers, according to research by BookMyGarage.com. Then, schedule servicing at the same time as their MOT. This also applies to us here at Pellon Autocentre in Halifax, UK. This means that there is a good likelihood that many car maintenance tasks will go uncompleted as well. Which could result in higher costs for drivers owing to accelerated engine wear and increased fuel consumption.
27% of drivers fail to check their tyres! Insane MOT Test Proposals
In addition, 27% of drivers do not check the condition of their tyres, and 58% do not check to see if their lights are functioning, according to a BookMyGarage.com survey of 2,000 drivers.
“We are very much in favour of initiatives that relieve the expense of living; we recognise that there is true difficulty at the moment,” Rotberg stated. However, the government’s eye-catching measures hide the possibility that drivers may end up paying much more than necessary.
The best way to save money is to shop around for the best deals in your area. Additionally, a yearly MOT is essential for both safety and the expense of driving in the long run.
Insane MOT Test Proposals
Plans to relax the frequency of MOT tests to help ease the cost-of-living crisis have met strong criticism from across the motor industry. The Independent Garage Association (IGA) warns that the “dangerous” plan would fail to
https://www.pellonautocentre.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/pellon-tyres-logo-509x321.jpg00Eric Robertshttps://www.pellonautocentre.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/pellon-tyres-logo-509x321.jpgEric Roberts2025-11-23 18:56:422025-11-24 15:00:49Insane MOT Test Proposals
ABS Braking Systems Today—How Modern Cars Keep You Safe on the Road
When ABS braking systems first appeared on mainstream cars, most drivers thought they were a bit of a gimmick. These days they’re an essential part of a car’s safety system, working quietly in the background every time you hit the pedal. Yet many drivers still aren’t sure how ABS actually works or what affects its performance. As someone who sees brake issues, tyre wear, and ABS faults every single week at Pellon Tyres in Halifax, I thought it was time to take a closer look.
What ABS Actually Does: ABS Braking Systems Today
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is designed to stop your wheels from locking when you brake hard. Locking wheels means skidding, and skidding means zero steering control. ABS steps in by rapidly pulsing the brake pressure on each wheel—far quicker than a human could pump the pedal—so the wheels keep turning just enough to maintain grip.
In real terms this gives you two big advantages:
You can steer while braking, avoiding hazards.
Your car often stops quicker and in a straight line on most road surfaces.
In today’s traffic, that can easily be the difference between a near miss and a major accident.
Modern ABS – Smarter, Faster, and Linked to Other Systems
Today’s ABS isn’t a standalone gadget. It’s linked to a whole host of systems:
Traction control, preventing wheel spin
Electronic Stability Control (ESC), keeping the car stable in a skid
Brake Force Distribution, balancing braking across all wheels
Automatic Emergency Braking on newer cars
The wheel-speed sensors and control units are far more accurate than they used to be, and modern systems can monitor individual wheel grip in milliseconds.
Even electric cars rely heavily on ABS integration to work alongside regenerative braking, so the system has become more important than ever.
When ABS Can Feel Different: ABS Braking Systems Today
Most of the time ABS gives you shorter stopping distances, but there are situations where you’ll feel it working harder:
Loose gravel and deep snow—a locked wheel can dig in, so ABS may take slightly longer to stop, but it gives you steering control.
Polished ice—ABS prevents total lock-up, but grip is still almost zero.
Big mismatches in tyres — worn, mixed, or cheap tyres confuse the sensors and reduce efficiency.
That last point is a big one — because your tyres and your ABS are a team, and if the tyres can’t grip, ABS can’t do its job properly.
Tyres and ABS: Why the Right Rubber Matters
ABS relies on the tyres maintaining contact with the road. That means:
Good tread depth
Correct tyre pressures
Correct tyre size (especially on cars with fancy electronics)
Matching tyres on each axle
At Pellon Tyres in Halifax, we regularly see cars where the ABS is fighting a losing battle because the tyres are poor quality or badly worn. Regular checks, wheel alignment, and choosing a proper brand — not the nameless budget stuff — make a huge difference.
If you drive in winter or spend time on hilly Yorkshire roads, you’ll feel the benefit of fitting a quality all-weather or winter tyre, which gives the ABS system the grip it needs in bad conditions.
Looking After Your ABS System: ABS Braking Systems Today
ABS systems are reliable but not indestructible. Here’s what to keep an eye on:
ABS warning light on your dashboard — don’t ignore it
Corroded or damaged wheel-speed sensors
Broken wiring after pothole impacts Incorrect tyre sizes confusing the readings
Low brake fluid
If your ABS light is on, your car will still brake—but without the safety net. It’s worth popping into Pellon Tyres for a quick check rather than risking an emergency.
ABS Braking FAQ: ABS Braking Systems Today
1. Does my car fail its MOT if the ABS light stays on? Yes. If the ABS warning light is illuminated, the car will fail its MOT because the system is classed as a major safety feature.
2. Is ABS supposed to buzz or vibrate when it activates? Yes. A pulsing feeling through the pedal is normal — it means the ABS is kicking in and preventing wheel lock.
3. Can worn tyres affect how well the ABS works? Absolutely. Low tread, uneven wear, or cheap part-worn tyres can all stop ABS from gripping properly on wet roads.
4. Is it safe to drive with the ABS light on? The car may still brake normally, but the anti-lock function isn’t working. Braking distance increases, especially in wet weather.
ABS Matters More in Halifax Than You Might Think With our steep hills, tight back roads, and long wet spells, ABS plays a huge part in stopping safely. Whether you’re coming down Boothtown Road in the rain or braking on black ice towards Sowerby Bridge, a properly working ABS system can make the difference between a clean stop and a collision.
New laws are making car manufacturers vastly reduce the emissions of new models that they produce. One of the ways to do this is by fitting complicated exhaust after-treatment units to their cars. It means that new low-sample oil must be used to protect these units. New laws will be coming out in 2014 to reduce emissions even further. For further reading, follow “Diesel net”.
Another large change that is now becoming more common is the development of the “extended service intervals”, This means that the car owner needs to use special long-life oils to meet the extra demands of the longer service intervals. Most service centres will have the computer technology to state the exact oilthat the car requires, but things are becoming more difficult for the DIY motorists amongst us.
New Diesel particulate filters Law: Indeed, using the wrong oil in your car can cost you around £2500
For a new engine unit, this is the average cost of a family-sized saloon engine replacement. I am not trying to scaremonger, but the stuff in your engine is becoming more critical. The number of 5W-30 oil types now used on modern cars has increased dramatically; this is because of the number of reasons introduced by the car manufacturers.
Any motorist getting this wrong will end up in trouble and possibly with a large bill. It is now becoming more important to have your vehicle serviced at a reputable service centre. Even an engine service will be better than nothing. Do not forget that good service centres will have all the help from the oil companies to make sure that they get the correct product for their car.
The wrong oils will block up your diesel particulate filter or poison your three-way catalytic converter, all at a terrible cost. Also, do not forget to get the correct oil mix, for example, synthetic or semi-synthetic oils. Or even diesel or petrol oils, all have different properties, so if in doubt,. So, have your car serviced by professionals, and don’t take the risk of a damaged engine.
Indeed! Now, let’s explore the realm of Diesel Particulate Filters (DPFs) and their mechanisms for minimising vehicle emissions, with a hint of local relevance.
Ensuring Air Quality: The Role of Diesel Particulate Filters (DPFs) in Maintaining Clean Air in Halifax and the UK
Located in the centre of Halifax and around the United Kingdom, our passion for automobiles is boundless. However, we are also becoming more conscious of the imperative to maintain clean air. An approach we are employing is the utilisation of Diesel Particulate Filters, commonly referred to as DPFs. These innovative devices serve a crucial role in mitigating emissions from vehicles powered by diesel engines, resulting in cleaner roads and fresher air.
European Union Car Servicing
Grasping the Fundamentals: Diesel particulate Filters Law
DPFs function as the respiratory system of your diesel car, and this is the mechanism by which they operate:
Capturing Particulate Matter: During the operation of your diesel engine, it generates minuscule particles referred to as particulate matter (PM). These particles significantly contribute to the contamination of the air. This is the point at which the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) becomes relevant.
It is an intelligent apparatus integrated into the exhaust system of your vehicle. The Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) effectively collects and retains hazardous particulate matter (PM) particles when exhaust fumes flow through it.
Regeneration Process: DPFs do not possess magical properties. Over time, the airways might accumulate obstructions from the trapped particles.
This is the point at which the regeneration process begins. The engine management system of your car checks the condition of the DPF and periodically increases the exhaust temperature to incinerate the particles that are trapped in it.
It is like thoroughly cleansing your DPF.
Incorporating a Regional Influence: Diesel particulate Filters Law
Diesel-fueled machinery has been present in significant amounts in Halifax, which is known for its prosperous industrial past. Diesel engines have had a substantial impact on our community, influencing many industries, such as textile mills and transportation. Currently, by using Diesel Particulate Filters (DPFs), we are actively contributing to the improvement of air quality in our historic streets.
The advantages:
DPFs effectively decrease the release of noxious pollutants, such as soot and particle matter, guaranteeing improved air quality for our communities.
Fuel Efficiency:
Cleaner engines typically exhibit higher fuel efficiency, resulting in cost savings at the fuel station. This situation is advantageous both for your finances and for the natural world.
DPFs contribute to the longevity of your vehicle by promoting engine cleanliness and minimising mechanical deterioration.
In conclusion: Diesel particulate Filters Law
As citizens of Halifax and the UK, it is crucial that we persist in adopting technologies such as Diesel Particulate Filters. These initiatives not only help improve air quality but also support our dedication to conserving our local heritage and promoting a sustainable future for future generations.
When driving your diesel-powered vehicle, keep in mind that the DPF is actively working to maintain clean streets and fresh air in Halifax. This is a modest but important contribution towards a more environmentally friendly and healthier city.
So, when you own a garage in the same town as the main dealer,
. You are more likely to get second- and third-hand cars in with problems. Of course, rather than the customer taking their car back to the usually more expensive main dealer,. And why not? In most cases, we have just as good equipment and knowledgeable staff as the main dealers anyway. If we get stuck with a technical problem,. Importantly, we also have a network of people who specialise in the making of cars. So from where has the problem arisen? So, we can always rely on their help if such an occurrence arises.
The problems that can happen are usually electrical, and although we have an array of scanners and computers, they don’t always get down to the problem, so we have to seek help from a friend who is a specialist in that field. This, however, did not apply to one of the jobs that a customer left with us the other week.
The Peugeot 206 started OK but did not pull on hills. Peugeot 206 Misfiring
The car was a Peugeot 206 2001 model and had started up in the morning with no problems. At first, the car drove along OK, but after about ½ an hour, the car started to lose power. The Peugeot 206 misfiring was still driveable, but he did notice a lack of power?
The car was also able to accelerate away when required, but his foot was down to the floor. He said that he thought that the car was asking for more fuel and had to keep it in lower gear, say third instead of fourth. He said that a few years ago, the 206 had a catalytic converter failure, and the symptoms felt very similar.
The guy left the Peugeot 206with us, and Ryan decided the best plan was to plug the car into our scanner and see if anything showed up there. We often get similar problems with these
Sometimes the owner says that the engine feels like it is misfiring
Such as a guy who recently called in with his 206 GT. This one ended up having an injector problem, and we fixed it accordingly.
The scanner we used was a Solus Pro from Sun Equipment. Subsequently, we came up with the fault code R0270 in the injector cylinder 4 circuit. This was a very clear indication of what the problem was .
So, we contacted the customer: Peugeot 206 Misfiring
with a price so that we could go ahead with the job. One important thing to remember about these injectors. Significantly, on French cars such as the Peugeot 206, they are changed as follows:. Firstly, the number 1 injector is at the gearbox end. Secondly, the number 4 is at the driver’s side. Importantly, it is easy to replace the wrong one.
It has been known that the wrong injector has been changed?
Say number 2 could be mixed up with number 3. This would mean that you may have changed the injector but would still end up with the same engine problem, and this has probably happened hundreds of times to DIY car repairers.
After we were given the go-ahead by our customer, Ryan ordered the new part and fitted it upon its arrival. The code error was then cleared, and the Peugeot 206 was back to normal and collected by its happy owner.
Pellon Tyre and Auto-centre offer car and van servicing and repairs to all makes of vehicles.
Wexford to Halifax – Another Customer Travels for Pellon Value
You’d think after all these years in the tyre trade that nothing would surprise me… but no. Every so often, something happens at Pellon Tyres that makes me smile and reminds me why we’ve built such a loyal customer base.
This week we had another long-distance visitor – and this chap came even further than the lad from the Isle of Arran. This one travelled all the way from Wexford in Ireland.
Yes… Ireland!
Wexford to Halifax
A Kia Sportage, a Family Visit, and Halifax Prices That Can’t Be Matched
The story began when my manager received a phone call from a friendly Irish fella who was planning to visit family over here. He runs a Kia Sportage, and like a lot of people these days, he’d been shopping around online for the best tyre prices.
It didn’t take him long to realise something:
Our prices in Halifax were cheaper than the ones he was getting in Ireland — even after ferry trips and travel costs.
He’d already heard good things about us from a mate of his who’d lived in West Yorkshire years ago (word gets around!), so he booked in for a full set of tyres:
🟢 4 x 225/60R17 Comforser tyres 🟢 Wheel alignment while he was here
A proper job, done properly.
Why People Travel for Tyres: Wexford to Halifax
You might wonder why people cross borders and seas just for tyres — but once you’ve spent decades in this trade, the answer is simple:
Honesty, fair prices, and proper workmanship.
It doesn’t matter if you’re from Mixenden, Mirfield, or County Wexford — people know when they’re getting looked after. And once they know, they come back. Even if “coming back” involves a ferry, two motorways, and a visit to family.
What really makes me proud is that the chap trusted us enough to include a wheel alignment too. Anyone can sell a set of tyres, but taking the time to make sure the steering and tyre wear are spot on… that’s where the real value comes in.
Extra Paragraph – Wexford Customer Story: Wexford to Halifax
A similar thing happened only a week or so later when another long-standing customer got in touch — this time from Wexford in the Republic of Ireland. He’d bought a Kia Sportage after moving across the Irish Sea but still preferred to sort his tyres here in Halifax when visiting family. Prices in Ireland can be eye-watering compared to the UK, so he took the opportunity to call into Pellon Tyre & Autocentre for a full set of 225/60R17 Comforser tyres and a wheel alignment before heading back to the ferry. Wexford is a beautiful place — rolling farmland, coastal lanes, and proper rural driving — so he wanted tyres that offered good grip, durability, and value for money. Even after adding the travel costs, he told us he still saved a tidy sum by coming to Halifax, and more importantly, he knew the job would be done properly. It’s great to see customers who’ve moved abroad still choosing to come “home” to us for their tyres.
A Few Words About Comforser Tyres: Wexford to Halifax
Comforser tyres have become a popular choice for drivers who want decent performance without paying top-end prices. They’re what I call a solid mid-range tyre — not dirt cheap, but very good value for the money. Over the years we’ve fitted loads of them here at Pellon Tyres, especially on family cars, SUVs and crossovers like the Kia Sportage.
They offer a comfortable ride (the clue is in the name) and good wet-weather grip, and they tend to wear evenly when looked after with proper alignment — something we always recommend. For customers who rack up plenty of motorway or rural miles, they’re a sensible option that doesn’t break the bank. That’s exactly why our Wexford customer went for a full set: reliable, affordable, and ideal for the mixed driving you get on Irish roads.
That’s the Pellon way.
The document titled Wexford to Halifax addresses the importance of sourcing tyres in Halifax, particularly for Kia Sportage vehicles. Consumers seeking affordable options may explore tyre prices in the UK, including competitive deals from Pellon Tyres Halifax. Additionally, the comparison of tyre prices between Ireland and the UK could influence purchasing decisions, prompting travel for tyres if advantageous. Ensuring proper wheel alignment in Halifax is also essential for optimal vehicle performance, alongside the pursuit of cheap tyres in Yorkshire and Comforser tyres to meet diverse needs.
https://www.pellonautocentre.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/pellon-tyres-logo-509x321.jpg00Eric Robertshttps://www.pellonautocentre.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/pellon-tyres-logo-509x321.jpgEric Roberts2025-11-22 15:17:422025-11-22 16:11:02Wexford to Halifax
Halifax to the Isle of Arran – A Customer Who Never Forgot Pellon Tyres
Every now and again something happens at the garage that reminds me why I’ve loved this trade for so long. We’re used to customers popping in from Sowerby Bridge, Elland or perhaps the odd one from Leeds who works in Halifax – but this week brought a surprise that really made my day.
Early on Monday morning, the phone rang. My manager, Debbie, answered, expecting the usual run of winter tyres and MOT bookings. Instead, the chap on the other end started by saying:
“I used to live in Halifax… about thirteen years ago… but I’m phoning you from the Isle of Arran.”
Now, the Isle of Arran isn’t exactly round the corner. It’s a beautiful Scottish island, rugged, hilly, windswept and totally different from our Yorkshire valleys. But despite being miles away, this customer remembered Pellon Tyres as the place he trusted most for honest advice and fair prices.
You can’t buy loyalty like that.
Halifax to the Isle of Arran
Choosing the Right Tyres for Island Life: Halifax to the Isle of Arran
He went on to explain that he now works outdoors on the island, often in fields and on rough terrain, and drives a Toyota Land Cruiser — the ideal vehicle for that kind of lifestyle. The only problem was finding the right tyres for such varied conditions.
Local prices on Arran were steep, and the choice wasn’t great. So he did what many people do: he rang his old trusted garage back in Halifax for advice.
After a proper chat with the lads in the office and going through all the options, he settled on the Toyo Open Country A/T 265/65R17—a cracking all-terrain tyre that’s perfect for the mix of fields, farm tracks and steep island roads. Not a full-blown winter tyre, but with enough bite and strength to cope with the rugged landscape.
A proper working tyre for a proper working vehicle.
And While He Was At It… Another Set for His Other Car! Halifax to the Isle of Arran
A couple of days later, he rang back again—not only did he want the Toyos for the Land Cruiser, but he also wanted a pair of Yokohama Geolandar 225/55R18 for his other car.
Why? Simple:
Even with the delivery cost, our price was cheaper than buying tyres on the island.
Times may change, electric cars may come and go, but one thing stays the same: Yorkshire folk (even the ones who’ve migrated north of Hadrian’s Wall!) never forget where they get good value for money.
A Little Bit of Halifax on a Scottish Island: Halifax to the Isle of Arran
I love stories like this because they show what proper, old-fashioned customer service can lead to. This chap hasn’t lived in Halifax for more than a decade, but he still remembered the friendly welcome, fair pricing and honest advice he got when he used us years ago.
We always say that tyres aren’t just black round things — they’re a lifeline. They keep you safe whether you’re coming down the steep cobbles of Halifax Old Town, trundling up the A629 to Keighley, or crossing a misty moor track on the Isle of Arran.
And it’s good to know that our little garage on Pellon Lane is still the place people turn to… even if they now live on a remote island surrounded by seals, cliffs and the wild Atlantic!
If You Need Tyre Advice – Whether You’re in Halifax or Honolulu – Give Us a Bell
Whether you’re just up the road in Mixenden or you’ve moved halfway across the UK, we’re always here to help. We’ve supplied tyres to customers in France, Spain, Scotland, and now Arran—but nothing beats the warm feeling of a Halifax lad remembering where he got looked after properly.
If you need advice on all-terrain tyres, winter tyres or just something sensible for everyday use, pop in or give us a ring:
https://www.pellonautocentre.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/pellon-tyres-logo-509x321.jpg00Eric Robertshttps://www.pellonautocentre.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/pellon-tyres-logo-509x321.jpgEric Roberts2025-11-22 10:57:222025-11-22 11:28:21Halifax to the Isle of Arran
Can Your Car Insurance Be Affected by the Tyres You Have on Your Car?
Most drivers never give their tyres a second thought beyond making sure they’re legal and have a half-decent amount of tread. But here’s something many don’t realise—your car insurance can be affected by the tyres you fit, and in some cases it can even invalidate a claim. It sounds a bit over the top, but insurers take tyres very seriously, and for good reason.
Safety First — and Insurers Know It: Winter Tyres Insurance
Your tyres are the only part of your car that actually touch the road, so anything that affects grip, stability, or stopping distance will naturally be a concern for insurers. If a crash happens and your tyres are found to be illegal, unsafe, or unsuitable for your vehicle, the insurer can argue that the car wasn’t being used in a roadworthy condition.
That can lead to reduced payouts — or, in the worst case, no payout at all.
This is the big one. If your tyres don’t meet the legal requirements, you’re technically driving a vehicle that isn’t roadworthy. That includes:
Tread depth below 1.6mm across the central 75%
Bulges, cuts, cords showing, or structural damage
Wrong tyre size or load rating for your car
Mixed tyres that aren’t allowed (for example: mixing cross-ply and radial)
If you were involved in an accident and the police or insurer found any of the above, you could find your claim refused — and even pick up points, fines, or both.
Modifications: Bigger Wheels, Off-Road Tyres & AT Tyres
In recent years a trend has grown for fitting:
Oversized wheels
All-terrain (AT) tyres
Mud-terrain tyres
Custom aftermarket sizes
These aren’t illegal — but many insurers class them as modifications. And they absolutely must be declared.
If the car came from the factory on road tyres and you’ve swapped to chunky AT tyres (very common in Land Rovers, Hilux, and SUV models), an insurer may see that as:
A performance change
A handling change
A risk factor
A replacement cost increase
Failing to declare a modification, even an innocent one, can void a policy.
Here at Pellon Tyres we see this a lot — customers upgrading to AT tyres for farming work, rural living, or winter safety, without realising they have to tell their insurance company.
Most insurers are absolutely fine with it once you’ve told them. But if you don’t tell them… you could be asking for trouble.
Cheap Part-Worn Tyres — Another Risk Area: Winter Tyres Insurance
Many insurance assessors frown on part-worn tyres. Strictly speaking, they’re legal if properly tested and stamped — but many aren’t. If your car is inspected after a crash and it’s found to be on unsafe or incorrectly marked part-worns, an insurer can argue “negligence”.
Again, this can reduce or invalidate a claim entirely.
Seasonal Tyres — Winter & All-Season Tyres Are Fine
A common question we get asked in Halifax is whether swapping to winter tyres affects insurance. The answer is simple:
No — as long as the tyre size and load/speed rating match the vehicle requirements.
Most UK insurers actively support winter tyres because they improve safety in cold weather. Just make sure the tyres are:
Correctly rated
Fitted as a full set
Not oversized
Final Advice — Simple Steps to Keep Your Insurance Safe: Winter Tyres Insurance
To keep yourself fully covered:
Always fit the correct-sized tyres
Maintain at least 1.6mm tread depth (preferably 2 mm+)
Avoid mixing random tyre types
Declare any upgrades, AT tyres, or wheel size changes
Avoid dodgy part-worn tyres
Keep your tyres inflated correctly
Insurance companies want a roadworthy car. As long as your tyres are legal, properly fitted, and correctly declared, you’ll never have a problem.
So, I always find it strange to hear my customers say, “Will my car be insured if I fit winter tyres?” I used to think that they were joking at first. But for some reason, they were very serious. Apparently, it was something that they had read in a national newspaper. When I checked this out, it said that if you modify or change your car from the original specs,. So, then you should inform your insurance company. Subsequently, you could not be insured in case you had an accident.
I suspect that this covers thousands of motorists. Importantly, driving about today, “with what they would consider minor adjustments” to their cars. Of course, such as fitting winter tyres or a “go faster stripe” down the side.
There is no doubt that winter tyres do affect your car’s performance. However, only for the better! By making the car drive with better control and brakes. Especially in winter weather, from rain to ice and snow. As long as you stick to the same size and the advised load rating for your car. Then you should be fine and proud to fit the winter tyres.
Insurance companies should give you “discount” for fitting winter tyres – Winter Tyres Insurance
Even this year, our customers have asked about the effect winter tyres can have on their insurance. So I thought that I would look into it a little deeper and write an article about the subject. In my opinion, I think that you should get a rebate from your insurance company. Of course, if you make your car safer by fitting winters to it. In fact, the big debate for me is, “Are cars with illegally worn tyres insured?” and the answer is no. But I will look at that in a future article.
The problem has also become an issue with the insurers themselves. Consequently, after a deluge of enquiries from worried car owners. Strangely, they thought that they would not be insured if they fitted these tyres to their car. According to the Association of British Insurers (ABI), the problem has been taken up with its members. So, now over 90% have agreed that they will not increase premiums. Happily, for their customers, they fit the correct winter tyres on their vehicles.
Winter tyres much safer – Winter Tyres Insurance
They also agreed to fit winters to their car. So, it made for better road safety over the winter period. In fact, many of the other European countries make it a law to fit winters between November and March of the following year, so why should the British motorists be penalised?
A statement from the ABI says, “Often motor insurers will not charge an additional premium when their insured customers use winter tyres, provided that they meet and are fitted in accordance with the vehicle manufacturers’ specifications and are in a roadworthy condition.”
If you are unsure about your own insurance company’s stance on the matter, then you can either ring them up or go to the ABI website, where insurers who comply with the “good to fit winter tyres” rule are listed. The web address is “ABI a guide to winter tyres“.
Winter tyres will not incur additional insurance costs.
As I stated earlier in this article,. So, the insurance companies often increased the cost of your insurance if you modified your car in any way and did not inform them; things like an upgraded, modified engine spring to mind. They regarded you as being more likely to have an accident if you had modified your car, and your car may have become a bigger target for car thieves, so an extra premium would have been charged.
At first when winter tyres became more popular, the insurance companies gave out mixed messages, but the ABI can now confirm that winter tyres are a safety issue and are a great improvement when fitted to your car during the winter period.
My own advice would be to inform your insurance company that you are fitting winter tyres. You will not have to pay any extra premiums. Some companies do require you to inform them; a list can be found on the ABI website. Nick Starling, ABI’s director of general insurance, said, “Insurers do not want to penalise motorists who take steps, like fitting winter tyres, to improve their safety on dangerous winter roads. Last year cold weather came early, and there was some uncertainty for customers about the insurance implications of fitting winter tyres. This commitment clarifies the position for motorists.”
Always fit the same size or a size recommended by your tyre dealer if a direct replacement cannot be found.
A good tyre retailer will have a website where you can legally convert important information, and insurance providers ought to accept it.anies. Some insurance companies, such as Tesco and The Co-operative Insurance Company, state that you are alright to fit winters, but you should not oversize them. Oversizing tyres is not a good thing anyway?
Pellon Tyre and Auto-Centre offers car and van servicing and repairs to all makes of vehicles. Finally, we are still the Nokian tyre dealers for the Calderdale area of Yorkshire.
The Vauxhall Corsa is indeed a very popular little car,
Especially with female drivers. The little car also makes a good city car, with very little problem when getting around town and parking. The Corsa is well known for its light steering;
(power steering), which makes the little car easy to manoeuvre, along with its good rear-end visibility, makes the car easy to park, and is a favourite with the lady drivers.
Vauxhall introduced the car in 1993, and it has proven to be a very successful model for the sizable automaker. The car has also remained cheap to buy, both new and second-hand. We recently purchased a Vauxhall Corsa from one of our lady customers to be used as one of our courtesy cars, and it has proven to be a little gem and popular with our lady drivers, who use the car when leaving their own car for servicing or repairs.
The Corsa has a few drawbacks- Vauxhall Corsa Fails MOT Test
Size-wise, this car is not for taller people. Also, the car is very cramped when driving with four adults (two fronts and two rears). Additionally, they are also not very suitable for out-of town open-road driving. Significantly noisy due to road and engine noise. Also, they do not corner very well. Especially with a full car of adults.
However, despite this, the little super mini is very popular amongst younger people. As this is the first car that many first-time drivers can usually afford , Corsa’s can be found at bargain prices, and as I have said earlier, the lady drivers love to drive them around town, and they are easy to park.
The running costs of these little cars are one of its assets
the little 1.0-liter cars can do as many as 50 mpg and the diesel versions can come up figures of 60 mpg, making the car a good
choice for the economically minded driver. The insurance is also very low; most normal-sized engine cars come into the lowest insurance groups possible. The Corsa is also cheap to service, making the car, as I have said earlier, cheap and economical to run, favouring the money-conscious lady drivers and the young first-time car buyers.
Vauxhall Corsa cars have had several factory recalls- Vauxhall Corsa Fails MOT Test
These little cars are usually trouble-free when it comes to mechanical problems, apart from the usual wear and tear items such as tyres, exhausts, suspension, and brake parts, but there have been a few recall problems with cars between 2000 and 2006.
The following problems included: air bag problems due to faulty software; faulty seat adjustment catches and springs, causing the seat to move or not lock;
steering wheel problems- Vauxhall Corsa Fails MOT Test
the centre nut that holds the steering wheel in place was not tightened correctly, causing the steering wheel to wobble. The early Corsa had also cam-belt problems; they should be changed every 40,000 miles promptly, or a damaged engine could follow,
One of our long-standing lady customers dropped off her car for a service and an MOT test. She said that the car was in excellent condition and should pass the test. Dale Linton tested the car and found that all sorts of things were wrong. The steering and suspension had lots of play in them; the car also had a broken spring and also failed the emissions test.
We always call our customers before working on their car and we always save the old parts for them to look at.
The Vauxhall Corsa Fails MOT Test. Requiring new front control arms (known as wishbones to some people). Including a new spring and a new lambda sensor. The lady said that she could hear some knocking coming from the front of the Vauxhall Corsa. When she drove over speed bumps, she did not think much about it. She gave us permission to complete the work. So, new control arms were fitted.
We know that you can fit new control arm bushes.
But this takes much longer, and by the time you have removed the old bushes and fitted new ones,. Of course, we can fit a complete new arm. The costs work out about the same because of the labour factor.
We fitted a new lambda sensor and a new spring. So, before MOT re-test the Vauxhall Corsa and then service it. The car is now a far better ride than when she brought it in and the lady customer noticed this and thanked us for our great service.
https://www.pellonautocentre.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/car-suspension-only.jpg300400Eric Robertshttps://www.pellonautocentre.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/pellon-tyres-logo-509x321.jpgEric Roberts2025-11-21 18:39:382025-11-21 18:39:38Vauxhall Corsa Fails MOT Test
Another Busy Day at Pellon Tyres – This Time a Noisy Nissan Micra!
Just when we thought the day couldn’t get any busier with all the broken coil springs coming through the workshop, another job rattled its way onto the forecourt—quite literally. This time it was a Nissan Micra, and we didn’t need a stethoscope to know what was wrong. The poor thing was roaring louder than a motorbike, and you could hear it before it even turned into Pellon Lane.
With all the pothole jobs piling up, we weren’t surprised to see yet another victim of winter weather and rough Calderdale roads. But this one wasn’t suspension-related — it was the exhaust system making all the fuss.
A Noisy Arrival at the Garage
As soon as the Micra swung onto the forecourt, Dale looked up from the ramp and said, “That’ll be the exhaust, no doubt about it.” He wasn’t wrong.
The driver – a young lad from Mixenden – climbed out, shaking his head. “It started off as a little noise,” he said, “but by the time I got to Halifax, it sounded like Concorde taking off!”
Up on the ramp it went, and the fault stood out straightaway: a clean break in the exhaust pipe, just ahead of the back box. The metal had rusted away completely, worn thin from years of muck, salt, and wet weather. Once a weak point gives way, the exhaust basically splits, and the car becomes louder than a rugby crowd at Headingley.
nissan-micra-exhaust-halifax
A Straightforward Fix
Exhaust jobs can be tricky depending on the age of the car, but this one was nicely behaved. After a good soak with penetrating oil and a bit of persuasion, Dale and the lads had the old section off in minutes. We fitted a new piece, clamped everything securely, checked for leaks, and made sure the rest of the system was in decent condition.
The difference was instant. From a deafening roar to a quiet purr in under an hour.
The lad was well chuffed, saying he didn’t realise how peaceful the drive home should actually sound!
new system ready to be fitted
Why Exhausts Suffer in Halifax: nissan-micra-exhaust-halifax
It’s no surprise we see so many broken exhausts at this time of year. Halifax roads gather everything from grit to puddles, and all that moisture sitting on the pipes causes rust. Combine that with pothole impacts and winter frost, and an older exhaust doesn’t stand much of a chance.
If any of these crop up, it’s worth nipping in. We can spot a crack or rust patch in minutes.
A Little History of the Nissan Micra in the UK: nissan-micra-exhaust-halifax
The Nissan Micra has been a firm favourite on British roads for decades. It first appeared here in the early 1980s, winning drivers over with its reliability, tiny running costs, and simple engineering. The K10 model especially earned a reputation for lasting forever — you still see them in the wild if you’re lucky.
By the time the early 2000s rolled around, the Micra had become a proper household name, especially amongst first-time drivers, retirees, and anyone wanting a cheap and cheerful runaround. They were built at Nissan’s Sunderland plant for years, helping to cement Nissan as one of the UK’s major car manufacturers.
Even today, the Micra remains a common sight around Halifax, and they come through our workshop regularly — usually for simple jobs like exhausts, brakes, or tyres.
It’s one of those dependable little cars that just gets on with the job.
Thinking Ahead to Spring: nissan-micra-exhaust-halifax
As I chatted to the Micra’s owner while Dale finished the job, he said he couldn’t wait for the warmer weather—fewer potholes, fewer breakdowns, and a chance to get out and about without freezing. That reminded me that our Thornwick Bay holiday home will soon be open again for spring and summer stays. There’s a lovely page on the Lucky Paws site showing the Flamborough walks — well worth a look if you fancy a peaceful getaway after a winter of dodging potholes and exhaust-rattling roads!
Halifax Potholes Claim Another Victim – This Time a Hyundai i30 at Pellon Tyres
If there’s one thing you can rely on in Halifax these days, it’s rain, hills, and potholes big enough to rattle your teeth. And here at Pellon Tyre & Autocentre, we’re seeing the results on a daily basis. Springs snapping, steering arms bending, tyres bursting – it’s becoming part of the morning routine.
This week brought yet another unlucky driver through our doors, this time in a Hyundai i30. Same culprit as usual: a hefty pothole somewhere on their commute. It seems no matter whether you’re coming down Wade Street, heading up to Illingworth, or cutting across Pellon Lane, you’re bound to encounter a crater that could pass for the entrance to a coal mine.
A Rough Ride for the Hyundai i30: hyundai-i30-pothole-broken-spring
The i30 arrived with the driver shaking her head. She’d hit a pothole at the bottom of King’s Cross Road and immediately heard a strange clatter from the front of the car. She described it as “an old saucepan being thrown around under the bonnet”—which gave Dale and the lads a good laugh, but she wasn’t far off.
Up on the ramp it went, and within minutes we saw it: The front coil spring had snapped clean through.
It’s a sight we’re getting used to now. Once that cold weather sets in, the roads around Halifax start breaking up faster than we can say “tracking adjustment”. And when a spring breaks, it doesn’t take much imagination to feel the shock the driver must’ve had.
We sourced the correct spring, whisked it onto the car, checked the rest of the suspension, and sorted the tracking to make sure there were no hidden nasties. Within the hour, she was back on the road, relieved it wasn’t something worse.
hyundai-i30-pothole-brokeen-spring
Why Springs Keep Snapping Around Calderdale: hyundai-i30-pothole-broken-spring
Living around the Calder Valley, we’re used to harsh winters. Frost one day, rain the next, followed by a freeze so sharp it stings your fingers when you open the car door. All that freeze-thaw plays havoc with the tarmac.
It’s no wonder our ramps have been full of suspension jobs lately. The Hyundai i30 is a sturdy bit of kit, but even a good car can’t fight back against a deep Halifax pothole.
hyundai-i30-pothole-brokeen-spring
A Bit of Hyundai History in the UK: hyundai-i30-pothole-broken-spring
Hyundais have come a long way since they first appeared on British roads. Many remember the early models from the late 1980s and 90s, basic but solid little runarounds that did exactly what they said on the tin.
The real turning point came in the early 2000s when Hyundai began building cars to genuinely compete with the big European names. The Hyundai i30, launched in 2007, was a huge step forward — roomy, reliable, and backed by that legendary five-year warranty that turned a lot of heads.
British drivers loved it, especially those in hilly areas like Halifax, where you need a sensible car that grips well and doesn’t drink too much fuel. We see loads of them in the workshop — usually for normal wear and tear, not because they’ve let anyone down.
Keeping Halifax Drivers Safe This Winter
If you’ve hit a pothole and your car starts doing something out of the ordinary—knocking, pulling, rattling, or riding unevenly—don’t leave it to chance. A broken spring can dig into a tyre if left long enough, and that’s a breakdown nobody wants on a cold winter’s night up on the moors.
Just call in, and we’ll take a quick look. No fuss, no pressure — we’d rather spot an issue early than see someone stranded.
A Little Escape… Away From Halifax Roads!
While chatting to the i30 owner, she laughed that she’d “rather be anywhere other than driving around Halifax in winter”. If that sounds familiar, remember that spring isn’t too far off—and our Thornwick Bay holiday home on the Yorkshire coast is perfect for a quiet break once the weather brightens. There’s a lovely page on the Lucky Paws site about Flamborough’s coastal walks, ideal for planning ahead.
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