SOUND ADVICE

November 17, 2023

Cold Weather Strain

With our motoring column over the year we’ll help and advise you how and when maintain your vehicles. We will be discussing everything from services to tyres to MOT testing and all general tips to understanding your vehicle and money saving.

To start with, be aware that cold weather puts strain on car batteries at this time of year. Free battery checks are available! If your battery needs to be replaced, always check the new battery is compatible for your vehicle, and ensure it carries an excellent warranty! Cheap batteries often disappoint and can be false economy to fit.

With PMB Car Care Centre,

Whitefield

Free brake checks are also available, if you’re concerned over your vehicle’s braking ability. Brakes can show problems due to corrosion for low mileage users, along with significant wear to high mileage users. Check them to ensure peace of mind and safety.

Level checks on anti-freeze, oil, screen wash, and brake fluid are also available from your local garage free of charge. Often this will include a check on your trye pressure and safety.

MOT testing prices will vary from garage to garage. Generally, they are set around the £35 mark in the area. The recommended retail price is around £55 from DVSA, so many motorists are saving money here.

Having a service done at your local garage is often a lower hourly labour rate than at the main agents. Warranty compliant services on new vehicles is a great way to save money from the main agent, but ensure the following:

Genuine parts and oils must be used.

All part codes must be proven.

Your service book must be genuinely stamped.

This will validate your warranty and will save money on the labour. Beware, motorists are often told that services using non-genuine parts are protected under warranty, but the truth of the matter is main agents are very strict on this and will reject any warranty claims if guidelines are not followed.

Wishing you a fantastic 2023 from Paul and Rachel and staff at Whitefield’s local PMB Car Care.

< Older Post Newer Post >

LEASE VEHICLE SERVICING

By Elliot Landy • March 31, 2025

Many of us have chosen to lease our current vehicles. In this case what happens with vehicle maintenance? Most lease companies offer a service plan when you order your vehicle which includes a main agent service plan. This is because your vehicle is under manufacturer warranty and a main agent service plan means the vehicle value will be better at the end of your lease. So, what options do you have? You can use a local garage and save money on labour but always contact your lease company prior to non-main dealer service plans being undertaken. Vehicle manufacturers and warranty terms can be questioned for non-genuine services, even though block exemption rules apply (a European law which allows you to service anywhere you wish). Check with the local garage and book in only on the provision that genuine parts and lubricants are supplied in line with the lease company requirements, keeping your vehicle under manufacturer warranty and compliance with your lease company. To simplify the service situation always check with the lease company first.

TYRE CONCERNS

August 20, 2024

Dealing with punctures is a frequent challenge for today's drivers, requiring a thoughtful decision on whether to repair or replace the affected tyre. When opting for a repair, a common method involves the application of a bonded rubber plug to the interior of the tyre, seamlessly extending up to the tread area. It is crucial to exercise caution, limiting repairs to no more than two or three, depending on the puncture's location. Run flat tyres, designed with a specific molecular structure strength during manufacturing, should not undergo repairs, as it could compromise their strength and reliability. While the cost of puncture repairs may vary, a properly executed fix typically demands around 30 minutes of your time. However, strict guidelines dictate safe repair areas, emphasizing the importance of seeking advice from a tyre specialist. Certain regions on the tyre should not undergo repair, and an attached guide can aid in understanding these restrictions. In instances where the puncture is deemed non-repairable, the only choice is to invest in a new tyre. Punctures are not a swift, makeshift resolution; they require meticulous attention and must be approached with patience when consulting with a tyre specialist.