Car service including free battery repair?

AJ Automedics delivers battery support in conjunction with routine service, fault finding and repair, thanks to CTEK’s PRO25SE

AJ Automedics is a successful automotive workshop established 2010, which, through a lot of commitment and hard work from the team of expert technicians has earned an excellent reputation for honest, reliable garage services in Durham and throughout the North East of England and even has regular customers from Europe.

AJ Automedics are proud to be part of the Autocare network of carefully selected garages, meaning that the team of technicians have access to regular Autocare training, and are experts in working on all makes and models of vehicle.

The business has a large purpose-built workshop, fully-equipped with an MOT testing facility, with the capability and equipment to be able to repair and service all makes and models of cars and commercial vehicles. The facility also has the capacity to cater for large vehicles such as mini-buses, motorhomes, caravans, ambulances, trucks and horseboxes.

AJ Automedics are also Electric Vehicle Approved (EVA), they have been assessed against a set of standards for automotive workshops which recognise a business’ excellence in the electric vehicle sector. This EVA badge of approval gives peace of mind that you, as a consumer, are dealing with an expert in the electric vehicle sector. The team consists of technicians with the qualifications, skills and knowledge to service and repair hybrid and electric vehicles.

Late in 2023 the business acquired a CTEK PRO25SE, capable of delivering up to 25A of battery support power in the workshop, along with fully automatic 8-step charging and maintenance, and 6M cable for maximum flexibility. Previously having used an older alternative, the workshop was on the lookout for a more reliable battery support unit to ensure a stable power source for vehicle’s electrical systems during routine servicing and repairs.

James Colling, Owner of AJ Automedics said: “Diagnostic tests and reprogramming procedures can put a strain on the battery, especially if they require extended periods of time. By connecting a reliable battery support unit, it helps maintain a consistent power supply and prevents the battery from displaying ghost faults, and being drained in the process.

“It is a safety net for the workshop. If the battery is faulty then there is an opportunity to talk to the customer and either recharge the battery, or replace it with a new one. It is added value to the customer if the workshop can give the tips and advice that will extend the life of the battery, and of course it is good business for the workshop to be able to make a charge for this value added service.”

CTEK’s PRO products are ideal for use in the professional workshop. They have a stable voltage and protect against de-rating. The battery support units are compatible with all types of 12V batteries and have automatic parallel load compensation. They are equipped with a fully automatic 8-step charging process to support the workshop during service work and a dedicated Supply mode, to provide a constant power supply during diagnostics

About the PRO25SE

PRO25SE has been designed to be easily carried around or fixed with the supplied wall hanger, so it’s always ready. It’s easy to use with a reliable 12V power supply for code reading, circuit testing and fault finding. The constant supply also ensures that the vehicle’s data isn’t lost and prevents any damage to sensitive electronics or the vehicle’s ECUs. PRO25SE offers fully automatic 8-step charging and maintenance for all lead-acid batteries, including lithium*. It has automatic temperature compensation for ambient temperature in conditions between -20°C and 50°C (-4°F to 122°F). It also features automatic parallel load compensation which makes sure that power supply voltage and amperage are always constant and correct, even if the battery has an additional load placed on it during diagnostic work. *) 12V lithium batteries (LiFePO4, Li-Fe, Li-iron, LFP)

Features

Up to 25A of battery support

12V power supply support for code reading, electrical circuit testing and fault finding

Fast, fully automatic 8-step charging

‘RECOND’ step for to bring deeply discharged lead-acid batteries back to life

Supplied with heavy duty 6m charging cables and mounting kit

Charger type: 8-step, fully automatic charging cycle

Work with all 12V battery types, including Lithium* (LiFePO4)

Low 2V start up voltage for charging

Extremely low ripple

Automatic parallel load compensation

Automatic temperature compensation

Degree of protection: IP44

Warranty: 2 years

Accessories: optional BUMPER 300 silicone protector

For more information about the PRO25SE, please visit https://www.ctek.com/uk/battery-chargers-12v-24v/vehicle-type/pro25se-uk

Gear Up for Success: Essential Auto Repair Tips to Preserve Your Car Bodywork

Owning a car comes with the responsibility of ensuring its longevity and maintaining its appearance. The car bodywork, in particular, is susceptible to wear and tear due to various factors such as weather conditions, road debris, and unforeseen accidents. This guide provides essential auto repair tips to help every car owner preserve and protect their car bodywork, ensuring a smooth and aesthetically pleasing ride.

Regular Cleaning and Waxing:

a. Dirt and Grime Removal: Regularly wash your car to remove accumulated dirt, bird droppings, and other contaminants. Use a gentle car shampoo and a soft sponge to avoid scratches on the paint.

b. Waxing for Protection: Apply a high-quality car wax to create a protective layer on the paint. This not only enhances the shine but also acts as a barrier against environmental elements, preventing damage to the car bodywork.

Immediate Repairs for Scratches and Dents:

a. Prompt Attention: Address minor scratches and dents promptly to prevent them from worsening over time. Use touch-up paint for small scratches and consider professional repairs for more significant damage.

b. DIY Dent Removal: For minor dents, try using a plunger or a dent removal kit designed for home use. Exercise caution to avoid causing further damage, and seek professional assistance if needed.

Rust Prevention and Treatment:

a. Regular Inspections: Routinely inspect your car for signs of rust, especially in vulnerable areas such as the wheel arches and undercarriage. Early detection allows for timely treatment.

b. Applying Rust Inhibitors: Apply rust inhibitors or rustproofing products to vulnerable areas to create a protective barrier against corrosion. This is particularly important in regions with harsh weather conditions.

Protective Accessories and Films:

a. Mud Flaps: Install mud flaps to minimise the impact of road debris, gravel, and mud, reducing the risk of scratches and chips on the car bodywork.

b. Clear Protective Films: Consider applying clear protective films to high-impact areas, such as the front bumper and hood. These films act as a shield against stone chips and small debris.

Safe Parking Practices:

a. Avoiding Crowded Areas: Whenever possible, park your car in less crowded areas to reduce the risk of door dings and scratches from neighbouring vehicles.

b. Garage Parking: If available, park your car in a garage to protect it from the elements, including harsh sunlight, rain, and snow, which can contribute to paint damage and corrosion.

Regular Maintenance Checks:

a. Inspecting Seals and Gaskets: Check and maintain rubber seals and gaskets around windows and doors. Damaged seals can allow water to enter, potentially leading to rust and corrosion.

b. Undercarriage Cleaning: Pay attention to the undercarriage during car washes. Removing dirt and debris from the undercarriage helps prevent corrosion and ensures the longevity of the car bodywork.

Insurance Coverage for Bodywork Repairs:

a. Comprehensive Insurance: Consider having comprehensive insurance coverage that includes protection for car bodywork repairs. This coverage can be invaluable in addressing unexpected damages.

b. Prompt Claims Processing: In the event of an accident or damage, promptly file an insurance claim for efficient processing. This ensures timely repairs and minimises the risk of additional issues arising.

Professional Inspection and Maintenance:

a. Annual Bodywork Inspection: Schedule an annual professional inspection of your car bodywork. Experienced technicians can identify potential issues early on and recommend preventative measures.

b. Professional Detailing: Periodically invest in professional detailing services. Detailers have the expertise and tools to clean, polish, and protect the car bodywork, enhancing its appearance and durability.

Conclusion

Preserving the bodywork of your car is not only about maintaining its visual appeal but also ensuring its structural integrity and longevity. By incorporating these essential auto repair tips into your regular maintenance routine, you can gear up for success in preserving your car’s bodywork. Whether it’s addressing minor scratches, preventing rust, or investing in protective accessories, these proactive measures contribute to a well-maintained and aesthetically pleasing vehicle that stands the test of time on the road.

5 Things You Must Do To Get Your Car Ready For Winter

Preparing your car for the cold weather has many benefits, the main one being that you reduce the risk of breaking down, which is not ideal for anyone. As temperatures plummet, we tend to forget to make the necessary car checks our vehicles need, especially on longer journeys when we’re travelling to see friends and family before the festive season starts. Although our cars are durable and reliable all year round, winter is the season that has the most potential to harm your car due to the salt which is used to keep the road free of ice. The ice will try to dissolve unprotected metal, and mud can get into unseen parts of our cars, causing potential blockages. 

Click4Reg, a private number plates supplier, has compiled a list of the top 5 things you must do to get your car ready for winter. Let’s dive right in!

  1. Get Your Winter Survival Kit Ready

Preparing a winter kit for your car takes little to no time at all. It can be tailored to include whatever you feel is necessary, but the basic items you would need are:

  • De-icer
  • Scraper
  • A large torch
  • Spare phone charger or cable or phone battery pack
  • Jump leads
  • Empty fuel can
  • High visibility clothing
  • Warning triangles
  • First aid kit
  • Shovel

You won’t necessarily need to use all of the above, but it’s best to have them in the boot of your car should you require them. If you live or travel to and from rural areas, such as the countryside, you might get some use out of the shovel and high visibility clothing!

  1. Use Winter Wiper Blades

Snow can jam up regular wiper blades, causing them to smear or miss big sections of your windshield. Winter wiper blades take care of that issue. The entire blade is enclosed in a rubber boot, which keeps ice and snow from adhering or packing. They greatly improve visibility and make winter driving safer. Old wiper blades should be removed and replaced with winter ones, which is a very small investment for improved visibility and safety on the road. 

You should be able to pick up new winter wiper blades at your local garage or car part supplier.

  1. Perform a Car Battery Test

Car batteries only last so long and the last thing you need is for your battery to fail you in the middle of winter. Extremely cold temperatures can put a significant amount of stress on your battery, which can drain your battery power by 30-60%!

Testing the battery in your car can be done by yourself or by a professional. Battery testers are designed to test the remaining capacity of a battery’s overall charge, so you have a clear picture of its health.

We highly recommend that a regular battery check is essential if your vehicle is only driven occasionally. You can purchase a battery tester from a local car accessory retailer or browse online. They are easy to use and come with simple-to-follow instructions!

Testing your battery twice a year will help reduce the chances of unexpected battery failure.

  1. Consider Winter Tyres

Your life might be saved by winter tyres. In comparison to all-season tyres, winter tyres offer significantly higher traction on snow.  They even outperform regular tyres on ice, stopping you 48% faster and minimising the potential of skidding. 

Winter tyres feature a softer compound, deeper grooves and narrow cuts that are built into the tread. This helps disperse water and snow, improving your vehicle’s contact with the road. Having these fitted before winter arrives isn’t mandatory in the UK, but in countries such as Sweden and Austria, for example, winter tyres are compulsory, or drivers could face hefty fines.

  1. Install Anti Freeze

A popular, cost-effective option for getting your car ready for winter is topping up the engine coolant with anti-freeze, and this is a must! Many drivers forget to top up the engine coolant throughout the year, and just top it up with water. The issue with this is that anti-freeze gets over-diluted. 

As a guideline to remember, your vehicle’s engine coolant should be a 50/50 mix of water and anti-freeze for it to work properly. Without anti-freeze, serious problems can arise from frozen or partially frozen coolant in your engine, stopping flow in the essential cooling system. This has the potential to cause overheating and, in the worst case, engine failure. 

These checks for your car won’t take you all that long and it always pays to be safe than sorry. Make sure you follow our recommendations listed above and be road-safe in the winter. Also, if you have any tips or checks of your own, let us know! 

Common Car Issues That Occur in The Winter

Winter is well and truly arriving – and with it those cold mornings and even colder nights. The drop in temperature and changing weather conditions can wreak havoc with your car, so be on the lookout for the following car issues in the following months.

Dead battery

If your car is struggling to start during the winter, it is likely that you have a problem with the battery.

It is said that a car battery will have 20-30% less cranking capacity when the temperature is at 0?, depending on the type of battery you have. This can be even more of an issue when you take into consideration the fact that the car will need to use the battery more, to power things like windscreen wipers, heating, and headlights, too.

Still won’t start? Check these too

If the issue isn’t the battery, it is also possible that it is the result of a worn alternator belt, an overstressed starter motor, or corroded spark plugs, so make sure to double check these also.

Low tyre pressure

During the winter, tyre pressure can drop due to the change in temperature. When cold, the air molecules slow down, which causes a drop in pressure. Many brands of tyres estimate that with every 10-degree drop, you will lose 1 or 2 PSI – this equates to about 0.2 PSI per 1 degree C.

Your tyre pressure light will only illuminate when there is a 25% decrease, so it is essential to check your tyre pressure regularly for any small underinflation. As a general rule of thumb, wait until your car has been turned off for 3 hours to get the most accurate reading. This is because driving the car can warm up the air slightly, causing a natural fluctuation in tyre pressure.

Corrosion from grit

Spreading grit is an essential aspect of road safety during winter, as the rock salt lowers the temperature at which water freezes, thus reducing ice (and ice-related accidents) on the roads.

Though essential, the salt can build up underneath your vehicle. These deposits can corrode vital components of the car and its bodywork. However, grit is not just made from salt, but also contains a mix of gravel and stones. As you can imagine, these loose elements can further damage bodywork.

Thickened fluids

There are various fluids within the car that are required for it to function properly, such as engine oil, transmission fluid, engine coolant, and screen wash. Of course, during the colder months, these liquids will become denser and more viscous, if it doesn’t freeze completely.

When thickened, the fluids will work less efficiently, and might even damage the mechanics of the car. To reduce the risk, you can make sure your car is winter ready, take your motor to a MOT centre for its regular maintenance, service, or a pre-winter check, and always allow the engine to warm up for 10 minutes before setting off.

Frozen lock, door, window, or windscreen wipers

And last but not least, you might find that certain elements of your car become frozen over, such as your lock, car door, windows, and windscreen wipers. Make sure to keep a spare antifreeze and scraper that is not stored in the car itself, so you have it to hand to defrost doors that have frozen shut.

Cost-of-living crisis: Motorists are holding on to older cars for longer

Home / Auto News / Cost-of-living crisis: Motorists are holding on to older cars for longer

Gareth Herincx

2 days ago
Auto News

Older cars

The financial squeeze has resulted in a reprieve for cars over 10 years old, a new research suggests.

A survey of 2,000 UK drivers with older cars revealed more than half (57%) will keep their car for longer due to worries about the current economic situation.

However, running an ageing car has, in some cases, caused some motorists financial anguish, with 10% claiming some repair bills have run into the thousands.

Nearly one in 10 aren’t sure how much their older car has set them back, while 21% reckon they’ve spent more on repairs in any given year than they think their entire car is actually worth.

“It’s important when budgeting for a new car to consider maintenance costs, which will be required throughout its life,” said Mark Carpenter, CEO at nearly new vehicle retailer Motorpoint, which commissioned the study.

“In the current climate, many motorists will look to weigh up the pros of hanging on to an older car, which they may own outright, with financing a newer one that may meet their needs for additional space, lower emissions, improved economy, and safety equipment.”

The research also found that almost a third (31%) have had a bill of £400 or more in the past year for an unanticipated but essential maintenance item, while 10% have had a single bill of £1,000 or more.

For people who do foresee a change on their driveway, 57% will go for something pre-owned but newer than their current one.

Lower running costs (24%), improved reliability (13%) and just wanting a change (7%) were the top reasons people would consider switching their older car.

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