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3 Critical Car Maintenance Tasks You Cant Afford To Skip

3 Critical Car Maintenance Tasks

3 Critical Car Maintenance Tasks

3 Critical Car Maintenance Tasks
3 Critical Car Maintenance Tasks

3 Critical Car Maintenance Tasks


Number Plate Maintenance

Regular car maintenance is crucial for your vehicle’s longevity, safety, and optimal performance. Just as our bodies need routine check-ups, cars require regular attention to prevent minor issues from becoming major, costly problems down the line.

In this article, we’ll discuss three critical maintenance tasks that you can’t afford to skip, from regular oil changes that keep your engine running smoothly to tyre checks that ensure your safety on the road. Uniquely, we’ll touch on the often-overlooked topic of number plate maintenance, which is vital for legality and identification purposes. 

Number Plate Maintenance– 3 Critical Car Maintenance Tasks

Maintaining the visibility of your number plates is crucial for legal and identification purposes. Dirty or obscured plates can lead to fines or penalties in many jurisdictions, as they hinder recognition by traffic enforcement cameras and law enforcement officials. Regular cleaning should ensure that your plates remain visible and legible.

There are situations where you might need to get new number plates. These could be due to damage, wear, or if they’re lost or stolen. Sometimes, existing plates may fade due to exposure to harsh weather conditions, making them difficult to read. In such cases, you should promptly order replacement number plates.

Getting new number plates also comes into play if you want to personalise your car with a unique registration number, which can be an expression of your personality or a way to make your vehicle more distinctive. Regardless, remember to always comply with the specifications and requirements set by local laws when replacing your number plates.

Regular Oil Changes– 3 Critical Car Maintenance Tasks

Changing your car’s oil regularly is one of the most important things you can do for your engine’s durability and efficiency. The engine oil lubricates the moving parts, reducing friction and wear, thereby preventing overheating and potential engine damage.

Over time, the oil becomes dirty and less effective due to the accumulation of dust, dirt, and other contaminants. This degraded oil can’t adequately protect the engine, leading to reduced performance and potentially severe engine damage. 

Regular oil changes ensure your engine runs with clean, effective oil. This keeps the engine healthier and enhances fuel efficiency, resulting in smoother rides and fewer frequent visits to the gas station. Regular oil changes are a small investment that pays off in the form of a longer-lasting, better-performing engine.

Tyre Checks– 3 Critical Car Maintenance Tasks

Maintaining correct tyre pressure, regular rotation, and alignment are vital aspects of car maintenance, significantly affecting safety, fuel efficiency, and tyre lifespan.

Correct tyre pressure ensures optimal contact between the tyres and the road. This provides better grip, reduces tyre wear, and enhances fuel efficiency. Under-inflated tyres can overheat and cause blowouts, while over-inflation reduces grip, affecting braking and handling. 

Regular tyre rotation, typically every 5,000 to 7,000 miles, balances tyre wear, helping all tyres to wear evenly and prolong their life. Alignment checks are also crucial, as misaligned tyres can lead to uneven wear, poor handling, and decreased fuel efficiency.

Driving on worn tyres is hazardous as it diminishes traction, increases stopping distances, and can lead to tyre failure. Regularly inspect tyres for tread depth and any signs of damage to ensure safe driving. Proper tyre maintenance saves money by extending tyre life, improving fuel economy, and ensuring safer journeys.

car maintenance checklist, types of car maintenance, car maintenance checklist pdf, car maintenance schedule, car maintenance schedule by mileage.

Mazda Brake Calipers Badly Corroded

Mazda Brake Calipers Badly Corroded

Mazda Brake Calipers Badly Corroded
Mazda Brake Calipers Badly Corroded

Mazda Brake Calipers Badly Corroded

Brake Binding Issues:

A Mazda’s Story of Callipers and Corrosion

This garage tale of mine, demonstrates the significance of regularly monitoring your car’s brakes. A customer complained about a problem with the brakes when they brought their Mazda into the garage the other day. They said that after a time of driving, they could smell something slightly burning and that the car felt slow, like it wasn’t coasting as it should. Not at all encouraging indications!

We quickly determined that the problem was a classic case of brake binding. Who’s at fault? brake callipers will rust. I’ll explain why it’s so crucial to pay attention to your brakes and why the unfortunate Mazda needed new callipers.

What Does Brake Binding Mean? Mazda Brake Calipers Badly Corroded

When you remove your foot off the brake pedal but your brakes don’t fully release, this is known as brake binding. This implies that even when you are not braking, the pads remain in contact with the disc and produce friction. That burning smell was coming from the friction, which may also produce excessive heat and make the car feel sluggish. It can do major harm to your entire braking system, not just your brakes, if ignored.

 Why Did the Brakes on the Mazda Bind? Mazda Brake Calipers Badly Corroded

The corrosion in the brake callipers of this specific Mazda was the main source of the issue. When you depress the brake pedal, the calliper—a component of the braking system—pushes the brake pads against the disc. The pads stay in touch with the disc if the callipers seize up because they are unable to retract all the way, which is exactly what happened in this instance.

You may be wondering, “How does corrosion cause this?” at this point. The conditions in West Yorkshire are ideal for the emergence of brake issues such as these. More moisture exposure is a result of our wonderful British weather, particularly during the wetter months. You’ve got a recipe for rust and corrosion on all kinds of auto parts, including the brake callipers, when you add in the salt and grit that are thrown on the roadways throughout the winter.

Typical Reasons for Brake Binding

Mazda Brake Calipers Badly Corroded
Mazda Brake Calipers Badly Corroded

Brake binding can happen for a few different reasons, though the rust in this Mazda was the cause of the issue. Let’s examine a few of the primary offenders:

1. Failed or clogged callipers: As the Mazda demonstrated, callipers that corrode or seize will not retract correctly, allowing the pads to drag against the disc. This frequently happens as a result of ageing over time, exposure to water, and road salt.

2. Retained Brake Discs: Sometimes the brake pads themselves become trapped instead of the callipers. The pads may become stuck in contact with the disc as a result of rust, dirt, or debris obstructing their ability to move freely.

3. Brake Hoses That Collapsed: Brake hoses may deteriorate or internally disintegrate with time. This can leave the brakes partially pressed because the hydraulic pressure doesn’t release properly after braking.

4. Dangerous or Unclean Brake Discs: Your brake discs’ extreme wear or rust buildup may also be a factor in why the pads aren’t releasing easily. The pads may grip unevenly as a result of uneven discs.

How the Brake Issue on the Mazda Was Resolved- Mazda Brake Calipers Badly Corroded

We replaced the corroded callipers on the Mazda with new ones after determining the problem. To ensure that everything else in the brake system was in working order, we carefully cleaned and inspected everything. The car operated as it should once the callipers were changed, allowing the brakes to release smoothly. No more burnt smell, no more lethargy, and—above all—no more brake binding!

The Value of Continual Brake Inspections

This story serves as a reminder of how crucial it is to have your brakes inspected frequently, especially if you notice anything unusual. Since your car’s brakes are among its most important safety components, you can’t afford to ignore issues like binding.

The weather and road conditions in Halifax and around Yorkshire can be rather hard on cars, and it’s not just potholes that cause this. During the winter, road salt, moisture, and grime all contribute to the deterioration of brakes. For this reason, having your brakes inspected before and after the winter months is a smart idea to do at least twice a year.

 Indications That Your Brake May Not Be Working Correctly-Mazda Brake Calipers Badly Corroded

Here are several indicators that your car may have brake binding if you’re concerned about it:

Car Seems sluggish: Brake binding may be the cause of your car’s inability to coast or sensation of being held back, even when you’re not applying the brakes.

Charging Aroma: This is a serious red flag that something is off. Your brakes may be overheated if you smell burning after driving, especially if it was a lengthy drive.

Overheating from the Wheels: If one wheel is hotter than the others after driving, it’s probably the brake on that wheel binding.

Grinding or Squeaking Noises: The sound of the brake pads rubbing against the disc when they shouldn’t be could be the source of strange sounds made while driving.

Concluding Remarks

Brakes are an important component that you cannot ignore. If the owner of this Mazda had not seen the early indicators of brake binding, the vehicle might have found itself in a much more dangerous situation. Thankfully, it’s back on the road and safe and sound after new callipers were installed.

Do not hesitate to stop by the garage (Pellon Tyres and Autocentre, Halifax, UK), if you see any of the indicators I’ve given or if your brakes need to be checked. We’ll make sure your brakes are in excellent shape so that you and other drivers on the road may drive safely, whether you drive a Mazda, Ford, or any other make. And believe me, once winter arrives, you’ll be glad you took preventative measures to avoid any potential brake problems!

 

Brakes Job on Ford Focus

Brakes Job on Ford Focus

Brakes Job on Ford Focus
Brakes Job on Ford Focus

Brakes Job on Ford Focus

The Story of How Alex Resurrected a Ford Focus at Our Halifax Garage

Eric Roberts Says


Hi there! You’re in for a treat if you enjoy motoring stories or are an enthusiast about cars. Allow me to take you behind the scenes of a recent project that happened in our beautiful Halifax, where the intricacies of car maintenance collide with the rich history of our community.

Since the loss of my dear wife Michelle, I have decided to become more proactive and spend a little more time visiting and blogging about my garage. Just the other day, I turned up with my mobile phone and took some pictures of my staff working on customer cars.

Alex is one of my long-term mechanics, and of course, he is a very experienced mechanic.Today Alex was working on a nice-looking red Ford Focus.

It began with a normal, breezy West Yorkshire morning.

Halifax’s streets were filled with people going about their daily business, and the air was clean. At that point, a Ford Focus drove into our garage. It was bright red and in good condition; indeed, it had the allure that Ford vehicles are known for. The owner, a man from the area, was eager to restore his car’s brakes to their former glory, and Alex is the perfect person to do so.

As some of you may know, Alex is somewhat of an automotive expert. His hands have worked on more customers vehicles than we’ve enjoyed hot dinners, and he has an excellent eye for detail. This Ford Focus required more than just a fast fix—a complete brake refurbishment. We’re talking about new discs and pads—the whole nine!

The procedure was quite careful. Brakes Job on Ford Focus

Alex began by evaluating the state of the old and perished brakes. It’s similar to archaeology; however, he was going through layers of deterioration rather than uncovering artefacts from the past. He discovered that the pads were completely worn out and the discs were far past their best due to years of use. It was obvious that this vehicle had seen some exciting times traversing Halifax’s hilly terrain.

Each of the new discs was spotless and shining. Brakes Job on Ford Focus

Alex fitted them with an accuracy that only came from years of practice. The pads followed, fitting snugly against the discs as though they had always been there. Seeing all the parts come together is a stunning sight, reminiscent of Halifax’s own Piece Hall makeover in that it takes something with history and breathes new life into it.

Now that the new brakes were installed, it was time for the crucial moment. Alex drove the Ford Focus to the end of Pellon Lane for a test drive. I wish you could have seen the smile that says, “It’s a job well done,” when he returned. With our tiny streets and steep inclines in Halifax, the car handled like a dream and stopped on a sixpence—exactly what you need.

Brakes Job on Ford Focus
Brakes Job on Ford Focus
There was more to this project than merely a car repair.

It was about giving someone in our community back a little bit of magic in their daily lives. This type of good workmanship fuels our enthusiasm for what we do at the garage. Every car that leaves our shop, whether it’s a Ford Focus or something else entirely, has a little piece of Halifax in it, which is a testament to the quality and care we stand for.

So keep in mind that Alex and our staff are prepared to work some garage magic on your cherished car the next time you hear a slight squeak or Noisy Car Brakes- from your car. Here in Halifax, we preserve the past by repairing cars one at a time. Be careful when driving!

car brakes problem

Brake Failure in Preston

Brake Failure in Preston

Brake Failure in Preston
Brake Failure in Preston

Brake Failure in Preston

Despite how crucial they are, vehicle owners frequently ignore brakes.

For my part, I was just as guilty of this when I was younger and a junior mechanic. Back in the sixties, when I was just starting out as a mechanic, my boss Peter let me use his car for the day. He gave his blessing, but stressed the importance of checking the brakes and oil before heading to the British seaside resort of Blackpool.

As a newly qualified driver, I was going the maximum allowed speed of 30 miles per hour through the town of Preston as we drove back from Blackpool. Back then there were very little motorways and the route home took us on the main highway and through the town of Preston. Cruising down the high street, I should have been able to stop easily when I got to the pedestrian crossing. As I tried to use the brakes, though, they slid straight to the floor, and I had a terrifying rush of fear, as the car failed to stop.

first ever drive out of Yorkshire. Brake Failure in Preston

I veered off the road and crashed onto the sidewalk to avoid hitting a pedestrian crossing the street. To slow the car, I pumped the brake pedal rapidly, creating enough resistance to bring the vehicle to a halt. Once my pals and I moved the car a hundred yards down the road to a mechanics shop, I lifted the hood and saw that the brake fluid level was at zero and a chill went down my spine.

Luckily, we were able to get topped up with Brake Fluid, so we replenished the reservoir and pumped the brakes till they worked again. Although it was a scary ordeal, we eventually made it back to Yorkshire. Having learned my lesson the hard way about the importance of working brakes, I swore never to let it happen again. Here are a few things you need to know about brake maintenance before setting out on a trip.

If you and your passengers value your lives, you should never go out on a long trip without first checking the brakes.

Here are six good reasons to inspect your brakes before every long trip:Brake Failure in Preston

  1. By performing routine inspections of the braking system, one can prevent brake failure by finding any issues before they become serious. Finding issues before setting off on a trip is preferable to discovering them mid-trip.
  2. To guarantee effective stopping, make sure: In order to stop your car, you must first apply the brakes. If they are in good working order, you won’t have to worry about being able to stop in time to avoid a collision.
  3. You can keep your brakes going for a lot longer if you perform routine maintenance on them. Such as checking for and replacing worn brake pads and shoes. In the long term, this can help you save money by reducing the need for costly brake repairs or replacements.
  4. Overheated brakes pose a serious threat to safety, especially while driving uphill or pulling a heavy trailer. If you give your brakes a once-over before you head out, you can keep them from overheating and still use them when you need them.
  5. Improving the vehicle’s overall performance is a side effect of maintaining healthy brakes.

Your car will be easier to manoeuvre and more stable to drive.

Brake Failure in Preston
Brake Failure in Preston

Checking your brakes before starting off on a lengthy trip is crucial for your peace of mind. Confidence and security when driving are greatly enhanced when you know your brakes are in good working order.

Brake inspections should be part of a driver’s routine maintenance .Brake Failure in Preston

because they literally have life-and-death implications. As specified by the VOSA MOT test, the British MOT test has contributed significantly to the improvement of road safety in the UK. Because they were traditionally located beneath the vehicle, unprotected from the elements, checking the brake pipes was a hassle. They have a special coating of wax, oil or even plain grease to keep the elements at bay.

Even with this safeguard, brake pipes can rust and leak braking fluid over time, causing the brakes to gradually fail. By performing routine checks on your brake pipes, you can prevent something similar to what happened to me in Preston.

mot testing and car servicing

Local Auto Centre

Local Auto Centre


Your Local Auto Centre will advise on timing belt change times

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure Waterloo Record Some of the most important maintenance services to have regularly performed at Local Auto Centre on your car include tyre rotation, four wheel alignment, transmission service, differential service,…

EricRoberts‘s insight:

Car servicing

So. this is a great saying ! and of course it is correct:an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”. Of course, the moral of the story is all about having your car serviced at your Local Auto Centre. So, by doing so, you are taking a preventative measure to find future faults and possible failures.

Importantly, things like rotating your tyres, wheel alignment, checking brakes and steering before a more major fault appears will be checked out at your local service centre.

Of course, you should also be advised. Especially about the time that you should have your timing belt changed. Hence, this is very important . Because it could mean a massive bill . Of course, for a new engine fitting . Thus, should you fail to change your timing belt.

Especially at the correct time. Please make sure that you have a regular service carried out on your car at a Local Auto Centre, Here in the UK, I recommend that you go online to find a Local Car Care Centre in your local town or look out for tyre prices online.

Back after Corvid 19

So, like many other auto centres then we are back to full strength. We have suffered the same millions of other small businesses. However we are pleased to say that our service and tyre business is picking back up nicely.

I would like to thank all our loyal customers for their support both now and in the future.

So here at Pellon, we have a great tyre price portal called www.pellontyres.co.uk.

EricRoberts‘s insight:

Car servicing

So. this is a great saying ! and of course it is correct”an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”. Of course the moral of the story is all about having your car serviced at your Local Auto Centre. So, and by doing so you are taking a preventative measure finding future faults and possible failures. Importantly, things like rotating your tyres, wheel alignment, checking brakes and steering before a more major fault appears, all these things will be checked out at your local service centre.

Of course, you should also be advised. Especially, about the time that you should have your timing belt changed. Hence, this is very important . Because it could mean a massive bill . Of course, for a new engine fitting . Thus, should you fail to change your timing belt . Especially, at the correct time. Please make sure that you have a regular service carried out on your car at a Local Auto Centre, here in the UK I recommend that you go online to find a Local Car Care Centre in your local town or look out for tyre prices online.

Back after Corvid 19

So, like many other auto centres then we are back to full strength. We have suffered the same millions of other small businesses. However we are pleased to say that our service and tyre business is picking back up nicely.

I would like to thank all our loyal customers for their support, both now and in the future.

So here at Pellon, we have a great tyre price portal called www.pellontyres.co.uk.

See on www.therecord.com