Blogs
What is a Diesel Particulate Filter? How To Avoid DPF Filter Problems?
If you own a diesel car, chances are it’s equipped with a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) in the exhaust system. While these filters have been mandatory in diesel vehicles for two decades, many car owners are unaware of their importance or how to properly maintain them. Neglecting a DPF or tampering with it can lead to costly repairs, decreased performance, and increased harmful emissions.
MOT Rules for New Cars: When Should You Book Your First MOT Test?
Owning a car comes with various responsibilities, one of the most crucial being ensuring it's roadworthy. In the UK, this means scheduling an annual MOT test to check your vehicle's safety, emissions, and overall performance. But what happens when you buy a new car? Many car owners wonder when their new car will require its first MOT, as the rules differ for newer vehicles.
Driving an Automatic Car | A Beginner's Guide on Step-by-Step Process
Driving an automatic car offers a smoother, hassle-free experience by eliminating the clutch pedal and manual gear changes. It's an ideal choice for UK drivers, especially those navigating busy city roads or motorways. Transitioning from a manual car or starting fresh with an automatic can simplify your driving journey. Understanding how to drive an automatic car involves learning gear modes, tips for safe operation, and why automatics are increasingly popular.
What is CVT Transmission? How Does CVT Gearbox Differ from Others?
When exploring automatic transmission options, you may encounter the term CVT transmission (Continuously Variable Transmission). Unlike traditional automatic gearboxes, which use a fixed set of gears, a CVT gearbox operates with a single, adaptable gear that continuously adjusts to offer the ideal ratio for the car’s speed and the driver's needs. This seamless operation makes CVT transmissions in cars stand out in terms of fuel efficiency and smooth driving experience.
What is a Clearway? Understanding Urban Clearway and Red Routes
In crowded urban areas, where road space is limited and the number of vehicles keeps growing, managing traffic flow is more crucial than ever. To keep roads clear, safe, and accessible for all, authorities use various traffic management tools like clearways, urban clearways, and red routes. Though each has its nuances, these measures share a common purpose: preventing road obstruction from stopped or parked vehicles.
Do Car Warranties Affect Your Vehicle's Resale Value?
When considering the resale of a vehicle, many factors come into play mileage, condition, and model. However, one often-overlooked aspect that can significantly boost your vehicle's resale value is a warranty for a car. Whether it's a warranty on new cars or an extended warranty on a used car, the added protection can make a substantial difference.
Top 14 Most Common Car Breakdown Problems & How To Avoid Them
Car breakdowns are an inevitable part of driving, whether you're a seasoned road warrior or an occasional driver. Nothing throws off a journey like an unexpected breakdown, especially when you're far from help. Recognizing common issues such as dead batteries, flat tyes, or overheating engines, and understanding how to address them can not only save you from stress but also help you avoid costly repairs.
New 74 Car Number Plates Registration in the UK: Key Information You Should Know
Keeping pace with the UK number plates can be daunting with the ever-changing regulations and formats being introduced every March and September. So, with the introduction of the 74 number plate into the market in September 2024, you must understand what this means for you and how these changes impact you.
What Is a Dual Mass Flywheel and What Does It Do?
The dual-mass flywheel (DMF) is an important part of modern vehicles, especially diesel engines and manual transmissions. Its main purpose is to improve the driving experience by giving a smoother and more comfortable ride, especially on long drives. The DMF also helps to keep gear shifts quiet, which reduces cabin noise and vibrations and supports the smooth operation of the drivetrain.
Car Wheel Bearing: Symptoms & Signs of a Bad Wheel Bearing
Car wheel bearings are an essential part of your vehicle's wheel assembly, allowing smooth rotation and reducing friction. Without proper maintenance, they can wear out over time, leading to significant issues. This blog will guide you through everything about bearings in wheels, from understanding their role to recognizing bad wheel bearing symptoms and learning how to replace a car wheel bearing.
Keys Locked in Car? Top Solutions for Unlocking Your Vehicle Safely
Locked keys in a car are one of the most frustrating situations a driver can experience. It can happen in a rush or during distraction, leading to a vehicle lockout. In this blog, we will explore ways to safely retrieve your keys, prevent future lockouts, and what steps to take if a professional locksmith is required.
Brake Pads Replacement Costs: How Long My Car Brake Pads Last & How Much to Replace Them
Brake pads are key components of a vehicle�s brake system, responsible for generating the friction needed to slow down or stop a car. So, it is crucial to make sure your brake pads are functioning properly. The brake pads should be replaced in time to avoid the poor braking performance of the car.
Why Are My Car Brakes Squeaking? | How to Fix Squeaky Brakes?
Car brakes squeaking can be more than just an annoying sound it can indicate a problem within your vehicle's braking system. Whether it's a sudden, high-pitched squeal when you press the brake pedal or a persistent squeaking noise while driving, these sounds should not be ignored.
Catalytic Converters: What They Do and How to Prevent Theft?
Catalytic converters are essential for every vehicle, playing a crucial role in reducing harmful emissions. Whether you're driving through the bustling streets of London or cruising on the motorways, your vehicle's catalytic converter is working to minimize the environmental impact by converting toxic pollutants into less harmful emissions.
How to Deal with Broken or Cracked Windscreens? Causes, Risks, and Solutions
A car�s windscreen is crucial in ensuring your safety while driving. It protects you from the elements and provides structural support to the vehicle. However, windscreens are susceptible to damage from various sources such as flying debris, accidents, or extreme weather conditions.
Car Child Seat Laws In The UK: A Complete Guide For Parents
Car child seats are crucial to ensuring the safety of your little ones, especially while driving long distances. Moreover, it is a legal requirement that every parent and caregiver adhere to car seat laws. As a UK resident, you must familiarize yourself with car seats and UK laws to avoid unnecessary penalties.
How To Parallel Park: 10 Easy Steps For Mastering Parallel Parking
Parallel parking is an essential driving skill, which often poses a challenge for many drivers, especially in the busy streets of the UK. Navigating tight spaces between vehicles can be daunting, but mastering this technique is crucial for efficient and safe driving in urban and residential areas.
Dartford Crossing Charges: How To Pay The Dartford Bridge Tolls
The Dartford Toll Crossing is one of the busiest roads in the United Kingdom, connecting Essex and Kent and records 180000 vehicle traffic per year.
Does Car Warranty Cover MOT Test: MOT Test Cover And Complete Guide
For UK drivers, it is essential to know what is included in your car warranty and this holds true if you're planning to have your car undergo the annual MOT test. While an extended car warranty covers you against mechanical or electrical failure, its coverage concerning MOT tests can be a bit more complex.
What Does The Engine Management Light Mean? Reasons Why My Check Engine Light Is On?
Have you ever seen engine management light on your dashboard while driving? Engine Management Light or Engine Warning Light is a warning symbol, alerting that there is a problem in the car.
Changing Address On Your Driving Licence: How To Update Through DVLA?
Changing the address on your driving licence is a simple and crucial process that ensures your personal records are up to date and helps you avoid potential legal issues. In the UK, keeping your driving licence information current is not only a legal requirement but also a safeguard for receiving important notices and correspondence.
A Complete Guide on How to Book Your Practical Driving Test
Obtaining a full driver's licence is a key milestone for new drivers wanting to gain freedom on the road. More than simply a plastic card, a driver's licence represents independence, access to personal transportation, and the ability to traverse roadways safely. If you are currently learning to drive, passing both the practical and theoretical examinations is required to drive legally in the UK.
What Are Smart Motorways? How Do They Prevent Traffic Bunching?
Smart motorways have become a hot topic among drivers in the UK. These motorways, make up approximately 13% of the motorway network in England, and use the latest technology to ensure the traffic flow. However, there are significant issues concerning the design and safety of smart motorways, which prompted the Government to stop the creation of new smart motorways in its road construction initiatives.
Car Service: What does a full car service include and How much Does It Cost?
The current cost of living crisis has caused many car owners to reduce their expenses, often by skipping car services. However, regular car servicing is vital for improving your car's longevity and reliability. It's important to understand the costs and coverage of car services, especially in the UK.
What To Do If You Put The Wrong Fuel In Your Car?
Fuelling your car is a routine task that many of us perform without a second thought. However, one small mistake at the pump can lead to a major headache which is filling your vehicle with the wrong type of fuel.
Your Guide To Buying A Car Privately: Tips, Advice And Rights In The UK
Whether you're a first-time buyer or a seasoned professional, buying a car from a private seller can be challenging. However, with all the information, guidance, and expertise, you can make an informed decision.
What Is Covered Under The Best Used Car Warranty In The UK?
When you purchase a new car, it usually comes with a manufacturer's car warranty that offers protection against unexpected emergencies while driving. The value of a car warranty lies in its comprehensive coverage, which should cover every part of your vehicle to save you money on repairs and replacements in the future.
What Is A Head Gasket? What Are The Symptoms Of A Blown Head Gasket?
Have you ever been cruising down the road and your car suddenly decides to throw a tantrum? It might sputter and cough like it inhaled a bad batch of fumes, or it starts overheating like a teapot on high heat whenever you're stuck in traffic.
Most Reliable Used Car Brands in the UK, 2024
Looking for a reliable used car can be a daunting task, whether you're a first-time buyer or an experienced driver. With so many car brands available in the market, it's essential to know which ones offer the most dependable performance.
Carbon Engine Cleaning - Causes, Types, Importance And More
Have you noticed your once-reliable car struggling to accelerate or hesitating during gear changes? Or you have experienced a gradual decline in fuel efficiency. These could all be signs of carbon buildup within your engine. This buildup affects a wide range of drivers, from those who rely on their cars for daily commutes to adventurous drivers who take their vehicles off-road on weekends.
Checking Car Tyre Pressure: What Is It & How To Check It?
Have you ever noticed your car drifting slightly while driving, or experienced a bumpier than usual ride? These could be signs of under-inflated tyres. Maintaining proper tyre pressure is essential for safe and economical driving in the UK. This guide will comprehensively explain why and how to check your tyre pressure regularly, ensuring a smooth and safe journey.
What Is Torque In A Car: Explained Everything You Need To Know
Have you ever wondered what helps your car go fast on the highway or climb a steep slope smoothly? The answer to this question lies in torque, which is a crucial concept in the world of mechanics. Torque measures the twisting force that rotates the wheels and propels the car forward.
Electronic Stability Control in Cars: An Ultimate Guide to ESC or ESP
When you think of buying cars, the first thing you think of is their safety. In the world of car safety, ESC (Electronic Stability Control) or ESP (Electronic Stability Program) acts as one of the most important safety features in modern cars.
Electric Vs Hybrid Vs Plug-in Hybrid Electric Cars: Which is Better?
Choosing an environment-friendly vehicle has become more vital, with the development of fully electric, hybrid and plug-in hybrid cars. But do you know which one is the best fit for you? With the help of this blog, you can understand the key differences between the 3 types of electric cars, making it easier for you to select the one that suits your lifestyle.
Parking on the Pavement - Is It Illegal? - A Complete Guide
Finding a parking place may be difficult in the rush and bustle of daily life, prompting some drivers to consider the pavement as a simple alternative.
Box Junction Rules - Everything You Need To Know
In recent months, box junctions have become a contentious issue among drivers who feel that they have received unfair penalties. Particularly in London, these penalties have sparked challenges for various reasons.
Red Light Cameras: How Do Traffic Light Cameras work?
Traffic light cameras, also known as red-light cameras, are the silent guardians at intersections across the world. These cameras capture more than just red-light runners; they hold the key to safer roads and streamlined traffic.
A Comprehensive Guide to Change of Car Ownership | Warranty Direct
Starting the process of transferring car ownership involves navigating through a series of challenges. Whether you are buying or selling a car it is crucial to ensure that the change of car ownership is made correctly for the good of both parties involved.
21 World's Most Dangerous Roads: Explore the World's Deadliest Roads
Taking a road trip is like embarking on an exciting journey full of discovery and freedom. But beware! Not every route is easy to travel. Some wind across gorgeous views, while others dare to travel dangerous paths.
How To Change Your Vehicle Brake Fluid? - Warranty Direct
Changing the brake fluid in your vehicle is often an overlooked vehicle maintenance chore that can mean the difference between an effective, responsive prevention system and a possible road calamity.
Jump Start A Car | A Step-by-step Guide To use Jump Leads Safely
Jump-starting a car is a valuable skill that can save the day when you are faced with a dead battery. Whether you are stranded in a parking lot or need a quick solution, mastering the art of jump-starting is essential.
what is clutch slipping? How to tell if your clutch is slipping?
Automobiles are marvels of engineering, seamlessly blending intricate systems to provide efficient and smooth transportation. The clutch, a crucial component of a manual transmission system, plays a vital role in transferring power from the engine to the wheels.
How To Wash Your Car By Hand? Step-By-Step Guide To Clean Your Car At Home
Looking to give your car a sparkling fresh look? Washing your car regularly not only maintains its appearance but also helps protect its paint and finish. But with so many car cleaning products and techniques out there, where do you start? In this guide, we will walk you through the essential steps and tips on how to wash your car like a pro.
Pothole Damages: How to Report A Pothole and claim For The Damage
Potholes have become one of the prevalent issues in the UK, causing inconvenience and potential damage to vehicles. As responsible citizens, we need to report potholes to ensure their timely repairs.
Top 10 Best Electric Cars And EVs To Buy In The UK
The electric vehicle (EV) revolution is in full swing, and the United Kingdom is at the forefront of this transformative shift toward sustainable transportation. As the country continues to prioritize the reduction of carbon emissions and the development of charging infrastructure, there has never been a better time to invest in an electric car.
Car Dent Repair: Quick And Easy Tips To Remove Dents On Your Vehicle
Dents on cars are an unfortunate reality for many vehicle owners. Whether it is a result of a minor collision, a runaway shopping cart, or a hailstorm, dents can be unsightly and diminish the overall appearance of your beloved car.
The Best First Cars For New Drivers In UK 2023
Getting a first car can be an exciting experience, especially for new drivers. However, with so many options available in the UK market, it can be challenging to choose the best car. Of course, a new driver would be able to get their first car only after attaining the legal driving age and getting their driver’s licence.
What should you do when you have a keyed car - How to fix a keyed car?
The worst thing for any car owner is to find out that their car has been keyed. A keyed a car is a major inconvenience, and it gives rise to many questions.
A Complete Guide To The Legal Alcohol And Drink Drive Limits In The UK.
When driving a car, a person must be careful every single time, no matter how experienced they may be. When someone has consumed alcohol - be it a single drink or a few drinks, they must be even more careful while driving, because of the incoherence that is created.
What is electric car conversion? What is the process to convert a car to electric?
Electric cars are the way to go forward, and this fact is being proven day after day, with the increasing production of electric cars, and an increasing consumption of the same. However, not everyone can afford to buy new electric cars, as they are costlier than their combustion engine counterparts.
Tips For Driving In The Dark - How To Make Sure You Are Safe Driving At Night
Driving in the dark is difficult even for the most skilled driver. When driving at night, it is important that we are careful and well equipped, in case of any emergency or unforeseen circumstances.
List Of Cars That The Best Footballers In The World Possess
The world cup football fever might be officially over, but the everlasting love and craze for football will never die, and some of the football players around the world own the most expensive cars in the world, depending upon their salaries.
What Are Fog Lights On A Car And How To Use Fog Light Symbols While Driving?
Fog lights must be used at the proper times to combat reduced visibility, by not doing so, you may endanger yourself and other drivers.
Winter Driving Tips - How To Drive In Snow, And How To Prepare Your Car For Winter Roads?
On a general note, driving can be a very tricky thing to do, given that roads and circumstances are not always in the driver’s favour.
Why Should You Demist Your Car, And How To Demist A Car Windscreen Quickly?
When the water vapour content in the atmosphere is high, your car’s windscreen develops mist. The process of removing this mist from your windscreen is called demisting.
Clutch Repair And Maintenance | How To Maintain My Clutch
As we continue to use our car, more components of the car will be subjected to wear and tear. One of the most troublesome parts of a car is the clutch, as the condition of the clutch depends on a lot of factors, including the way we drive.
Why Should Engine Idling Be Avoided, Will You Be Fined For It And What Can You Do To Avoid It?
Have you ever just sat in your car waiting and whilst waiting your car engine is still running? This is known as engine idling.
Car Auctions: A Complete Guide to buying a Car at Auction in UK
Buying a car in auction is one of the best options of buying used cars at lower prices, in the UK. However, it is common for anyone who is new to this method of procuring cars, to fear the various risks that may be associated with buying cars at an auction.
What To Check When Test Driving A Car - Tips And Advises To Test Drive A Car UK
Planning on buying a new or used car for yourself? Have several options in mind, but unsure which to go ahead with? In this kind of situation opting to test drive a car is the best option, as it provides the exact details and feel about the car before purchasing it.
What Is A DSG Gearbox And How Does A Direct Shift Gearbox Work?
Depending on the kind of gearbox a car uses, we have a manual or an automatic car. In the case of an automatic car, the gear system is automatic, but the driver would have to change the gear by themselves if they are driving a manual car.
How To Maintain And Service Your Electric Car?
Given that the technology used in electric cars is a lot more advanced than the one in combustion engine cars, one would naturally expect that electric car maintenance is costly.
What Are Car Dashboard Warning Lights, And What Do They Mean?
Every modern car’s dashboard has a lot of lights that are switched on or off, depending upon the circumstance. Whilst some may be basic lights, there are some lights that are very important to understand.
Car Rust: How To Remove, Prevent And Repair Rust On Your Car
Any iron-based metal is susceptible to forming rust, which can also happen with cars, as they are predominantly made from iron-based metals.
White, Black, Blue and Grey Smoke From Car Exhaust - What is it & Why
Every car has exhaust smoke coming out when it is in use. Most of the time, this is barely noticeable, but if it is, you might have to worry. The reason may or may not be serious.
What is a Congestion Charge zones in London, what is a ULEZ charge, and how to avoid them both?
Congestion charges are mostly levied in London, especially in central London, to avoid congestion – traffic jams, and of course, air pollution too. While understanding the concept can get a little difficult at first, avoiding congestion charges can be a simple task too, by understanding what it means, where it is levied, and their timings.
Road Trip Essential Checklist – Tips To Packing Things For A Long Drive In UK
Road trips are always a great idea, especially in the UK. They help you relax and let off steam, giving you a break from the running race that you have to put up with on a daily basis.
15 Best Tips On How To Pass Your Driving Test First Time In The UK, Effortlessly And Effectively
A driving test is a highly important test for any individual in their life, as it determines how well you can handle yourself, and any given situation on the road.
A Complete Guide to Breakdown Cover -What It All Means and Why You Need It
Breakdowns can be by far, the most annoying problems with cars, this is because a breakdown leaves its driver and passengers stranded on the road which can also be dangerous if on a busy motorway.
Factors to consider when buying a used car warranty?
When you buy a new car, things are straightforward, but when you buy a used car, you have a lot of questions and one of them is if you should or shouldn’t opt for a warranty.
Types of oil leaks in cars, their possible spots, reasons and their fixes
Sometimes, when we plan to go out, we might find that there’s a pool of a dark, oily liquid below our car, out of nowhere, and we might panic.
Is a used car warranty worth the money?
You’ve bought a used car and you want to look after it. But warranties cost money, so is it worth investing in one?
10 out of 10? What is E10 fuel and can I use it in my car?
Any regular driver will have stopped recently at a filling station to top up with fuel for their car or van and seen a sign warning that the petrol they are about to put in their vehicle is now called E10.
Buying a used car warranty? Make sure it’s underwritten, understand?
There are many ways to show that you own or agree to something: you sign a document, you put your initials alongside a paragraph or two or, more recently, you use a personal PIN number to agree to a purchase.
Looking for a used car warranty? Make sure it’s regulated
Warranty Direct are fully regulated by the financial authorities. Sounds good... but what does that really mean?
Everything You Need To Know About Car Batteries
Car batteries are the life force of your vehicle, the heart of the automotive and the soul of other mechanical parts. It powers everything right from the fuel pump to the headlights.
What To Do With A Used Car’ s Remaining Warranty
Whether you’re buying a new car or you are purchasing a used car, it’s worth looking into a warranty product to see whether it’s a worthwhile investment to protect yourself and your vehicle. Think of a warranty as additional insurance to cover you against certain faults
Brake-ing Bad
70% of motorists driving vehicles with high-risk advisory issues for brakes and tyres. Leading UK car warranty provider, Warranty Direct reveals the most common advisory issues plaguing UK vehicles, since the MOT regulations were changed in May 2018.
Could your car’s previous owner cost you?
If you’re considering buying a used car through a private seller, how do you know that what you’re getting is value for money, and that you aren’t being mis-sold a dud?
A guide to understanding manufacturers’ jargon
Do you know what AEB is? How about a limited-slip differential?.With car terminology growing increasingly complex, navigating your way through an endless list of acronyms and motoring terms can be tricky.
What Is Car Depreciation? How To Calculate And Reduce Car Depreciation?
Car depreciation isn't the first issue that comes to mind when you're looking for a new vehicle. However, it is one of the most expensive elements to consider when purchasing a new vehicle (in addition to petrol, taxes, and service costs).
Park life: the UK’s biggest problem parking areas
Barnet has the most recorded parking violations, retrieving an estimated £48 million from parking fines alone.On average only 64% of UK parking fines are paid in full
New MOT changes (2018)
Major changes to the MOT test were introduced in May 2018 and while it’s been nearly a year since they were first announced, many motorists who have yet to get their new MOT certificate may not be aware of them.
Warranty Direct Is Under New Ownership
Warranty Direct - one of the most trusted brands for Extended Car Warranty in the UK has been purchased by “FBFM” from its previous owner, BNP Paribas Cardif.
