Why some motorists are avoiding MOTs and using faulty tyres

Gareth Herincx

33 mins ago
Auto News

MOT testing station

New data from the RAC reveals that 20% of UK drivers under the age of 44 have cut costs by skipping legally required MOTs or delaying tyre replacements, raising significant safety concerns.

The cost-of-living crisis has also driven 19% of all drivers to reduce or halt car servicing and repairs entirely.

For younger drivers, the trend is even more pronounced, with more than a third of under-25s admitting to deferring essential car maintenance.

Bald, worn and damaged tyres - © Gareth Herincx

Across all age groups, one in 10 drivers have neglected to replace worn tyres or skipped MOTs, both critical measures to ensure road safety for the UK’s 42 million vehicles.

Failing to carry out routine maintenance and repairs to save money could also prove to be a false economy when a vehicle breaks down and owners are then faced with a big repair bill.

This is borne out by six-in-10 (59%) drivers facing unexpected repair costs for their main vehicle over the past 12 months. The average total amount spent on these repairs was £617.

“It’s very worrying that so many drivers under the age of 44 appear to have risked breaking the law by not putting their vehicles through the MOT and running them on tyres that should have been replaced, all in an attempt to save some money,” said RAC breakdown spokesperson Simon Williams.

“Safety on our roads is paramount. The MOT is a legal requirement for good reason. Skipping it jeopardises the safety of all road users, including the driver.”

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Changing the oil filter with your own hands – a simple step to confidence on the road!

Home / Auto Blog / Changing the oil filter with your own hands – a simple step to confidence on the road!

Guest Blogger

2 days ago
Auto Blog

Changing the oil in the car is a procedure that every car owner faces. And if the oil itself can be changed without special skills, then changing the oil filter can cause some difficulties.

In this article, we will present you a step-by-step guide to changing the oil filter with your own hands, which will allow you to save time and money, as well as gain valuable experience in self-service of your car.

UK Car Service Market

Metric Value
Market Size £13.2 billion (2023)
2028 Forecast £15.1 billion
CAGR (2018-2023) 2.1%
CAGR Forecast (2023-2028) 1.7%
Popular Oil Brands Castrol, Comma, Mobil, Shell, Halfords
Popular Filter Brands Bosch, Mann Filter, Wix, Purflux, Blue Print
Trends Growing competition, lower prices, online services, DIY
Market Drivers Economic conditions, oil prices, new technologies, environmental regulations
Forecast Market to grow over the next five years

Preparing for work

Before you start changing the oil filter, you need to prepare thoroughly.

Tools and materials:

  • When choosing a new filter, be sure to consider the model of your vehicle. You can find information on a suitable filter in your vehicle’s owner’s manual or in specialized online stores.
  • Depending on the type of filter, you may need a wrench or a strap wrench.
  • Prepare a container with a volume of at least 5 liters.
  • This is used for pouring new oil into the engine.
  • Protect your hands and eyes from hot oil.
  • Will be needed to wipe your hands and engine parts from oil.

Supplemental Materials:

  1. New engine oil: Choose the oil recommended by your vehicle manufacturer.
  2. Drain plug gasket: In some cases, the drain plug gasket may need to be replaced.

Image of an oil filter mount provided by sparepartstore24.co.uk

Changing the oil filter

  1. Start the engine and allow it to run for 5-10 minutes. This will allow the oil to become more fluid and make it easier to drain.
  2. Jack up the vehicle or drive it to an overpass. Allow easy access to the crankcase oil pan drain hole and oil filter.
  3. Place a container under the drain hole and unscrew the drain plug with a wrench. Be careful, the oil may be hot. Allow the oil to drain completely into a container.
  4. Using the oil filter wrench, loosen and unscrew the old filter. Be prepared that a small amount of oil may spill out of the filter.
  5. Apply some new oil to the o-ring of the new filter. This will make it easier to install and ensure a tight connection.
  6. Screw the new filter in by hand as far as it will go. Do not use a wrench to tighten the filter as this may damage the filter.
  7. Place the funnel in the engine filler hole and pour in the new oil according to the vehicle’s owner’s manual. Do not overfill the oil!
  8. Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes. Check for leaks at the filter and drain plug connections.
  9. Do not pour used oil down the drain or onto the ground. Dispose of it at a used oil collection point.
  10. Record the vehicle mileage and the date of oil and filter change in the service book.

Advantages of changing the oil filter yourself

  1. Changing the oil filter with your own hands will allow you to significantly save on car service.
  2. You will gain valuable experience in self-service of your car.
  3. You will be sure that your car uses quality oil and filter.

In today’s world of ever-increasing service costs, being able to maintain your car yourself is becoming an invaluable skill. Changing the oil filter is a simple procedure that can be done by anyone without the need of car services.

In this article, we have provided you with a step-by-step guide to changing the oil filter with your own hands. Following our instructions, you can save money, gain valuable experience and be sure that your car uses quality oil and filter.

Remember that self-service is not only about saving money, but also about taking care of your car.

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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!