Safety Tips for Driving at Night

Posted on 20/12/2022

With the days getting shorter, the weather getting colder and those evenings drawing in much sooner, driving at night is fast becoming a part of our everyday. 

Recent figures from the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) reveal that some 31% of UK drivers feel uncomfortable driving at night, with safety fears, the risk of being involved in an accident on the motorway at night, and the discomfort of being dazzled by other road users among the reasons why they’d prefer not to drive in the dark.

It’s not just experienced drivers that feel uncomfortable driving at night. A staggering 100,000 learners admit to taking their driving tests without ever driving in the dark at all.

Whatever your driving experience, there are many steps you can take to increase safety and confidence when taking on night time driving. Read on to discover our top tips for driving in the dark.

Know how to use your lights properly

Most drivers are guilty of not knowing what all those bells, whistles and buttons really do on their vehicles, but understanding how to use your lights (properly!) is the key to ensuring safety when driving at night. If you are unsure about which lights to use and when, park up in a safe place to test them out. 

As a general of thumb, dipped headlights should be turned on approximately one hour before the sun sets to increase visibility for you on the road and ensure other road users can see you. Your full beam headlights should be used only when driving at night on unlit roads. Be sure to revert back to your dipped headlights if oncoming traffic appears to minimise dazzling.

Check the condition of your lights…

Now you know how to use your lights, you should make checking their condition a habit, especially during the winter months when they are turned on more frequently. Whilst standard halogen bulbs need replacement every two to three years, checking their condition and brightness regularly will give you the peace of mind you need when driving at night. 

…and don’t forget that casing!

The plastic casing that houses your bulbs should also be checked for signs of damage. Over time, this plastic casing can fall victim to oxidation due to heat and UV exposure. This means that the clear lenses that help keep those bulbs fully illuminated will become clouded. The clarity and durability of your headlight housings should therefore be checked regularly. 

Keep those windows sparkling clean

For a clearer view for night time driving, keeping your windscreen and windows squeaky clean is a must. Reduced visibility is a leading cause of accidents when driving in the dark, so keep your windscreen and windows clear of dirt and debris.  

Condensation is also particularly common during the winter months. Make sure all condensation has fully cleared before you set off. 

Clear your windscreen – the easy way

Want to make your windscreen even easier to clean? Book yourself in for a Duxback Windscreen Treatment. Duxback offers 35% more visibility in extreme weather conditions, like heavy rain. The smooth veneer that Duxback creates on your windscreen courtesy of its hydrophobic effect means dirt, ice and snow has nothing to stick to and can simply be moved away with a quick swish of your wipers.

This revolutionary glass treatment is easy to apply, with treatment taking no longer than one hour thanks to our professional service. Its weather repellent and resistant nature lasts for up to six months – up to 12 months when used on side glass – and you can keep up your regular car cleaning habits as normal without affecting this longevity. If your vehicle has a rain sensor, its operation won’t be impaired by the Duxback treatment either.

For more tips for driving at night or further information about our Duxback Windscreen Treatment, get in touch with our team today.

What’s the Main Cause of Skidding?

Posted on 23/11/2022

With the weather getting more wintry by the day, it won’t be long before ice and snow make their appearances, a fact that means many motorists will be conscious about skidding. Skidding has a number of causes, and knowing these will help you take the necessary steps to avoid skidding and reduce your risk of being involved in an accident.

In this blog post, we take a closer look at the main causes of skidding, what you should do to regain control of a vehicle in a skid, and how you can prevent skidding in the first place.

What causes skidding?

The sudden loss of wheel traction during a skid can be a harrowing experience. The most obvious cause of skidding wheels is the weather conditions, with snow, ice and heavy rain all making the likelihood of skidding much, much higher. Your tyres and brakes after all become less effective on roads affected by bad weather conditions.

In icy or snowy weather, your wheels are also prone to locking, meaning they won’t provide sufficient grip to the road. This can make braking either very difficult or even impossible. 

What is black ice?

Black ice is weather-dependent threat that can cause issues with skidding on the road during winter. These difficult-to-spot patches of ice are almost undetectable to the naked eye. Whilst regular ice looks white in appearance, black ice is completely clear and forms without the tell-tale bubbles that normal ice consists of. The presence of black ice catches many drivers off guard and can leave them skidding into some very treacherous situations. 

Driving through standing water causes skidding too, with the floating sensation known as ‘aquaplaning’ causing a lack of control and increasing your chances of skidding wheels.

Your driving style is another primary cause of skidding. Oversteering, attempting to make a sharp turn or straighten up too quickly, excessive use of your vehicle’s brakes, or accelerating during turning will increase the likelihood of car skidding.

How can I regain control of my vehicle in a skid?

If you experience car skidding, don’t panic. Keeping a cool head and steady hands are the keys to regaining control of your vehicle.

How you react does vary depending on the type of skid you are experiencing. For rear wheel skids, you should aim to steer into the skid rather than against it. Avoid applying the brakes as this will worsen the loss of traction. For front wheel skids, steer in the direction of the skid and ride it out until you gain traction once more.

Most people think that sudden braking is the best option for regaining lost traction, but this simply isn’t the case. Whether experiencing a rear wheel or front wheel skid, you should try to let the car slow without applying the brake where possible. If you need to, apply your brakes gently and cautiously to reduce your speed and remove your foot from the accelerator and/or clutch. 

What steps can I take to prevent skidding?

Adapting your driving style to the weather is the first step to minimising the risk of car skidding. You should avoid driving at excessive speeds, and ensure full control of your vehicle at the most appropriate speed before performing a manoeuvre, such as a turn.

Remember, your braking distance will also be affected by adverse weather conditions, so you must account for this too. Always leave a good amount of space between you and the vehicle in front to ensure sudden braking isn’t required. Sudden braking can cause your vehicle’s wheels to lock up, increasing the likelihood of car skidding. Adding an extra two seconds to the usual two-second gap should give you plenty of time and space to react safely without skidding in wetter weather conditions. 

Your vehicle should also be primed and ready to drive safely and avoid skidding. Make sure your tyres are in the very best condition, free from damage and above the minimum tread depth to guarantee safety at every turn. You should also check that the air pressure of each tyre is correct for your vehicle every week. Under or over inflated tyres cause reduced traction and diminish brake performance.

The condition of your brakes should be checked on a regular basis too. Brake pads should be replaced every 25,000 to 65,000 miles, but there are some tell-tale signs you can look out for to spot whether your brakes require attention. Squeaking, squealing, grinding and vibration when braking should all be investigated and rectified. If you find that it takes you longer to come to a stop, your brakes may also need replacing.

Safeguard against car skidding today

Is your vehicle ready for the season ahead? Or do you need assistance with brake replacement or tyre replacement? Get in touch with our team for advice and support.

What Does Defensive Driving Mean?

Posted on 19/10/2022

Road safety is of course a top priority for any road user, whether you’re taking to UK roads by car, van, motorcycle, bike or on foot. According to the UK Government’s latest road safety data, there were an estimated 1,390 reported deaths on the road, with a further 119,850 casualties of varying severities. Whilst the latest statistics show an overall decrease in those killed or seriously injured as a result of a road traffic accident, it is up to motorists and their fellow road users to take safety matters into their own hands.

When it comes to honing your skills with road safety in mind, defensive driving has been billed as the go-to technique. For those of you not familiar with the style, we’ve devised the ultimate guide to defensive driving, the rewards that can be reaped for both safety and fuel saving, and how to transform your driving habits with defensive driving tactics.

What is defensive driving?

Defensive driving is more than just a buzz term for conscious road users and the agencies that aim to lower the number of injuries and fatalities on the road. It’s a driving style that calls on advanced driving techniques and has been proven to increase safety for everyone who uses UK roadways. By driving more defensively, you will anticipate the mistakes made by other road users to minimise their impact on you and your vehicle.

Whilst you can never really fully predict how another road user will react, anticipating risk and acting immediately will serve every road user well. With this in mind, everyone can benefit from the advanced driving techniques taught on a defensive driving course, with tactics giving drivers the skills and knowledge to promote safe driving, enhance their awareness and prevent accidents. 

What are the benefits of defensive driving?

Now that we understand the meaning of defensive driving, the next step is to explore its benefits.  The main advantage of using defensive driving tactics is to reduce the likelihood of being involved in a road traffic accident. With increased awareness behind each and every move you make on the road, you can avoid the potentially life-threatening situations that less cautious road users find themselves in. 

By preparing for the worst-case scenario at all times, you can also reduce stress when driving, promoting a calmer, panic-free, more satisfying way to drive. Remember, there’s no such thing as being over prepared! It’s not just road traffic accidents that you’ll reduce with defensive driving. Defensive drivers are less likely to incur driving fines, speeding tickets and other penalties related to poor or unconscientious driving.

Defensive driving habits are also better for your vehicle. In contrast, more aggressive drivers put unnecessary strain on their vehicles, making wear, tear and expensive repairs more common. Your defensive driving habits will enhance the fuel efficiency of your vehicle too, saving you further money. Along with saving money in the short term, your vehicle will be in a better, safer and more efficient condition for its annual service or MOT, and for its future sale.

Defensive driving courses are increasingly popular choices for the reasons mentioned above. As a result, they are now being recognised by insurers as a positive step forward for road safety. In fact, many car insurance policies reward those who adopt the safe driving habits promoted by defensive driving.

Defensive driving – how do I get started?

There are a number of steps you can take to become a more defensive driver. Managing the space around your vehicle more effectively and proactively as well as acknowledging the presence of other road users, beyond your fellow drivers on the road, is a great place to begin. You should also use your vehicle’s mirrors and signals to encourage better visibility and communication on the road.

Managing the speed of your vehicle is another must when driving defensively. By going slow and steady, you’ll have time and space to react as safely as possible.

You should abide to and be fully aware of the latest traffic rules and laws, including legal speed limits and regulations regarding impaired driving. Staying fully alert and aware so you can spot unexpected hazards and react accordingly in plenty of time is a key principle of defensive driving. This applies even in instances where the weather conditions change suddenly.

The best advice we can give prospective defensive drivers is to only trust yourself and your own safe driving abilities. Whilst you can anticipate how other road users will react, you can never know for sure what their real response will be. By controlling your own actions with safety in mind, you can minimise risk, even if other road users aren’t as aware of defensive driving as you are.

Is it worth doing a defensive driving course?

We may have covered the basics of defensive driving here, but there are many more advanced driving techniques that form part of this style. A defensive driving course is a great choice, no matter how much experience you have as a driver. New drivers, experienced drivers and individuals who drive for a living can all benefit from enrolling on a defensive driving course.

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) offers a number of useful training programmes, including defensive driving courses, that support car, van and LGV drivers in developing their skills and reducing the risk of road traffic accidents.

Get your vehicle ready for more defensive driving

We have range of options at our Waterlooville garage which are great to get your car or van perfect for defensive driving. You can update your tyres to make them more reliable, renew your brakes for extra security – the choice is yours!

What Causes Tyre Blowout?

Posted on 20/09/2022

As a component that keeps the body of your vehicle connected to the road, it’s safe to say that the safety and condition of your car’s tyres is an important consideration. Tyre blowouts are just one tyre-related issue that puts motorists at risk. As well as having professional experience dealing with tyre blowout causes and their aftermath, a recent personal experience really puts the dangers of tyre blowout into perspective. 

A friend of our founder bought replacement tyres from eBay for their vehicle and later experienced a tyre blowout on the motorway. This is just one example of how car tyre blowout is leaving motorists stranded and at risk of more fatal problems. A recent survey revealed car tyre blowout as one of the top three dangers of underinflation, but this is just one of the causes attributed to this very serious vehicle issue. 

Read on to discover more about the most common tyre blowout causes, and how you can spot and remedy them before disaster strikes.

How does a tyre blowout happen? 

As the name suggests, a car tyre blowout involves the sudden or rapid loss of pressure within a vehicle’s tyre. This drop in pressure causes destruction to the tyre making the wider vehicle difficult and dangerous to drive. A blowout doesn’t just affect the tyre itself, it can damage the wheel as well as the areas that surround it.

The effects of a tyre blowout are pretty easy to spot. Depending on the speed that you are travelling and the affected wheel, the vehicle may become difficult to control, moving unpredictably to put you and your passengers at significant risk.

Whilst tyre blowout occurs suddenly and without warning, it is important to note that it can be prevented, but more on the causes of tyre blowout later!

Tyre blowout – what to do 

Tyre blowout accidents happen, causing serious injury to the driver and passengers in the affected vehicle as well as fellow road users. Knowing how to react if your vehicle sustains a tyre blowout however is the key to manoeuvring your vehicle safely off the road and out of danger. But firstly, here’s what you shouldn’t do if your vehicle experiences a rear or front tyre blowout. 

Whether it’s a front or rear tyre that has blown, rule number one is to avoid violent, forceful braking. This will only throw the vehicle out of balance, causing it to swerve or spin erratically, and even flip over. You should instead take actions to redistribute your vehicle’s weight and minimise the increased drag that is part and parcel of a blown-out tyre. 

Maintain control of your vehicle by keeping a firm grasp on the wheel, ensuring your car is kept as straight as possible and avoiding sharp turns. Instead of using your brake to slow down, release your accelerator gently to lower your speed. If the brake must be engaged, use it gently. Make cautious and considered gear changes to reduce the speed of your vehicle further. Once your vehicle is at a speed and in a place where it can come to a stop, pull over and turn your hazard lights on.

What causes tyre blowout?

There are many reasons why you may experience a tyre blowout. An underinflated tyre is the most common tyre blowout cause, with a tyre pressure that’s too low increasing the risk of blowout significantly. During underinflation, your vehicle’s tyres come into contact with the road more often causing increased friction, overheating and premature tyre blowout.

The age of your tyres can also increase the likelihood of a blowout. Even if the outside of your tyre looks in great condition, the inner components may be in a much worse state resulting in an overall weak structure and ultimately a ticking time bomb. Internal damage may become apparent over time, with visible bulging a tell-tale sign that tyre replacement is required. If the tread depth of your tyres is below or close to the 1.6mm minimum, your tyres are at a greater risk of puncture and subsequent blowout. 

Vehicles loading beyond their capacity will put unnecessary strain on their tyres and increase the risk of tyre blowout. Those travelling at high speed for long journeys should take extra measures to minimise car tyre blowouts too. When travelling at speed, your tyres will heat up and the air within expand causing a build up of pressure. 

Travelling at speeds above the ones recommended for your tyre type is another cause of tyre blowout. Tyres generally have a speed rating, signified by a single letter found on the side wall of the tyre. This rating relates to the maximum speed your tyres can sustain. It is important to consider that this maximum speed is only achievable with tyres that have been inflated correctly and vehicles that have been appropriately loaded.

The solutions to these tyre blowout causes

There may be several tyre blowout causes to get your head around but thankfully there’s a solution for every one. 

Exploring our tyre replacement service should be your first port of call if your tyres are older than six years old, below the minimum tread depth or presenting signs of damage, such as bulging. By replacing your tyres before blowout can occur, you can save time and money, and put safety first. It’s also more convenient, especially with a service like ours that provides premium tyres and professional fitting as standard.

Checking your tyres for damage and wear on a regular basis, and being aware of their specific speed rating, are other tasks that drivers should complete at home. Knowing your vehicle’s loading capacity and sticking well within this limit is another must. For those travelling on long journeys at high speed, taking short breaks throughout your trip is essential. By stopping every two to three hours for a short period of time, you can give your tyres time to cool and lower the risk of tyre blowout.

Eliminating one of the most common tyre blowout causes is also as simple as increasing the knowledge of your vehicle. Check the recommended pressure for your tyres – you’ll find this in your owner’s manual – and ensure that your tyre pressure falls within this range on a regular basis. Tyre pressure is recorded in pounds per square inch or PSI.

How can I prevent car tyre blowout?

By checking your tyre pressure, tread depth and condition of your tyres regularly, you can prevent many of these tyre blowout causes. Your driving style also matters, so be sure to avoid driving through potholes at speed, or mounting or coming into contact with kerbs to prevent the rapid changes in pressure that result in tyre blowout.

Getting tyre damage and punctures fixed fast is also recommended for drivers looking to put tyre safety, driving comfort and vehicle efficiency first. Our tyre puncture repair and replacement service provides ultimate peace of mind for drivers. We check and advise on tyre safety free of change as well as stock a wide range of premium quality replacement tyres, all of which come with a 30-day, no-quibble money back guarantee. 

For further advice on preventing tyre blowout, contact our team today for assistance.

Why is My Steering Wheel Shaking?

Posted on 18/08/2022

As one of the main ways that you control and operate your vehicle, your steering wheel is a vital component. There are many issues that may affect your vehicle’s steering system, and most will show some pretty obvious tell-tale signs if something isn’t quite right.

Steering wheel shaking is often the first and most prominent sign of steering issues. But if your steering wheel shakes at high speeds, at low speeds, when braking, or when turning, what does this mean?

In this blog post, we reveal the issues and list 5 common causes that can trigger steering wheel shaking, and what you should do to make your car safe to drive once again.

1. Your wheels are misaligned

Wheel misalignment can occur at any time, with vehicles that regularly drive over potholes at high speeds most affected. Wheel misalignment can cause steering wheel shaking, and can be confirmed with a quick inspection of your tyres. Vehicles with misaligned wheels tend to have visibly uneven tread.

2. Your wheels are unbalanced

For effective and efficient driving, the weight of your vehicle needs to be distributed evenly across all four tyres. If it’s not, your steering wheel will reveal a tell-tale sign. 

When your wheels are unbalanced, steering wheel shaking may occur along with additional vibration. This is common after your tyres have been changed or rotated, but is also more widespread in cars that have lightweight suspension. 

Failing to balance your wheels and remedy steering wheel shaking may lead to more difficult to fix and expensive issues. Your shocks, struts and steering components may become damaged without intervention.

3. Your suspension is worn or loose

Your suspension system works with your steering to provide an optimal driving experience. If your suspension system becomes worn or loose you may experience steering wheel shaking. An incorrectly balanced driveshaft can also have the same effect. 

Again repairing your suspension system quickly is the solution and will prevent this minor issue from becoming a major problem.

4. Your bearings are damaged

You may be asking yourself – why does my steering wheel shake when I turn? Damaged or poorly lubricated bearings may be the culprit. Damaged bearings cause friction and this results in steering wheel shaking when turning. This problem however can often be solved easily and affordably if diagnosed early.

Fix poorly lubricated bearings and prevent steering wheel shaking by applying oil to the affected area. Alternatively, scheduling a car service will provide the professional maintenance needed as well as help to identify whether your bearings require replacement.

5. Your brakes may be the problem

If you are experiencing steering wheel shake when braking, your brakes may be in need of repair. In most cases, the replacement of your brake pads will remedy this problem.

If your steering wheel is shaking at high speeds, at low speeds, when braking or when turning, taking action sooner rather than later is recommended. Contact our team today to discuss your steering wheel shaking problem and become one step closer to finding a solution.

When is an Engine Beyond Repair?

Posted on 21/07/2022

The beating heart of any vehicle, the car engine is a vital component that has a very important role to play.

The mixture of air and fuel in the engine’s cylinder is ignited to cause a reaction several thousand times a minute. The power generated forces the piston into motion and sends this force to the gearbox then to your wheels to propel your car. Whilst the number of cylinders and their size differs from vehicle to vehicle to produce a varying level of power, the engine is no doubt a powerful component.

With this, when engine problems do strike, your car will require immediate repair. But what if car engine repair just won’t cut it? How can you tell if your engine is beyond repair? 

In this blog post, we take a closer look at the signs that say it’s time to replace your car engine. 

1. Your car engine light is on

The first sign of car engine issues is the illumination of your check engine light. It’s also one of the most dreaded sights for vehicle owners.

The car engine light may be an indication of a small issue such as a loose fuel cap, or a major problem that requires car engine repair or replacement. Issues that may trigger your car engine light to appear include problems with your engine, transmission, emissions equipment, electronic powertrain control, air/fuel delivery, or ignition system. Your engine oil being low can cause serious problems, but shouldn’t trigger your check engine light. 

So, you may be thinking, can I drive my car with the engine management light on? Whilst avoiding investigating the issues that have caused your engine light to appear isn’t recommended, you can still drive with your check engine light on if you don’t notice any other signs, such as loss of power, strange noises, stopping or surging.

We suggest getting your car checked over by a professional as soon as your check engine light appears to prevent further damage. 

2. Overheating is a continuous problem

Cars with engines that need repair or replacement are particularly prone to overheating. If your vehicle is constantly overheating, this may point to a long list of issues, including a defective engine block. Cracks in the engine block cannot be repaired, instead the entire engine would need to be replaced as a result.

3. There’s a loss in power

When diagnosing any car issue, you have to use all your senses. A slump in performance is the most obvious sign that your car engine requires repair or replacement.

A notable loss in power is a key indicator that your car engine isn’t operating as it should do. Without car engine repair or replacement, your engine won’t be able to generate the power required to function correctly. 

If car engine repair isn’t an option, you may need to replace the car engine to restore your vehicle to its former glory.

4. Your engine oil has a few extra ingredients

Whatever engine is in your car, it needs oil to do what it does best. All modern engines need oil to ensure optimum performance and a long service life. If you have a warranty on your car, failing to use the correct engine oil for your vehicle type could also invalidate your policy. 

The exact oil change interval will vary depending on your vehicle’s make and model. Whilst previously it was recommended that engine oil should be replaced at least every 3,000 miles, advancements in modern lubricants have increased the interval between changes to 5,000 to 7,500 miles. Some engines can even go without an engine oil service for up to 15,000 miles if using fully synthetic engine oil. 

Your driving habits – whether you take long or short trips; encounter hot, cold or dusty weather conditions; or regularly drive stop-start or with heavy loads – will also influence the frequency of your engine oil changes.

When changing your engine oil, keep an eye out for the signs of car engine issues. The presence of metal shavings in your engine oil can be a sign that car engine replacement is needed. Metal shavings are in fact parts of your engine that have disintegrated into the oil and unfortunately this is an issue that can’t be fixed.

Remember replacing your engine oil may keep your engine and associated moving parts running smoothly, but it is not a cleaner. Giving your engine a good once over with a car engine cleaner is recommended. Our car engine cleaning service – known officially as specialist Engine Decontamination Treatment (EDF) – will unlock a long list of advantages for your engine and wider driving experience.

5. There’s a knocking noise coming from your engine

‘Rod knock’ is a term many people don’t want to hear when talking about a car engine. This constant, low-pitched knocking noise is caused by the pistons banging inside the cylinders and is the result of worn rod bearings. The sound may become more frequent when you drive at a higher speed, but will continue even after your engine warms up.

Without immediate car engine repair, this continuous contact can cause some serious damage to your cylinder block, which would eventually lead to complete car engine replacement.

6. You’ve noticed lots of fumes coming from your exhaust

Checking the state of your exhaust fumes will also provide the information you need when diagnosing car engine troubles. Black fumes could point to the burning of too much fuel, whilst blue or grey fumes could indicate a major oil leak. White fumes may be caused by a coolant leak. 

The continuous emission of high volumes of exhaust fumes should be investigated further and could lead to car engine repair or replacement. 

Want us to take a closer look?

Here at Collison Motoring Services, we offer support and advice for vehicle owners affected by engine issues. Whether it’s car engine repair or replacement you need, or you require a little help with maintenance and car engine cleaning, get in touch with us today.

Car Rust Treatment – How to Fix Rust on a Car

Posted on 17/06/2022

Whilst older vehicles – including models that are much younger than the classics – are making a comeback and becoming favourites amongst avid collectors, no one likes a ‘rust bucket’.

Dealing with the realities of owning, driving and maintaining a rusty car can be something of a challenge, not to mention expensive to fix and unsightly. Whether it’s rusted brake discs, a rusted exhaust pipe or rusted brake calipers that are the problem, or rust is taking over your bodywork, it is important to recognise that car rust treatment is an option. Read on to discover more about how you can fix your rusty car.

What causes a vehicle to rust?

Rust is the result of a chemical reaction, namely between iron, oxygen and water. Known as oxidation, the reaction causes a reddish brown coating to appear on the surface of a vehicle and/or its components. If left untreated, this will go on to corrode a larger area to cause significant damage to the affected part.

Rust affects cars new and old, as a result, there is no specific age that your car becomes more vulnerable to rust. Some vehicle makes and models are more susceptible to rust than others, however.

Older vehicles which were manufactured before the advanced car rust proofing precautions used during car production today are more likely to be affected by rust. Even more modern makes and models become vulnerable to rust over time as non-reactive paintwork and protective coatings diminish due to wear and tear. 

The climate can also make your car more prone to rust formation. Cars in rainy locations, or more specifically seaside towns, tend to rust at a faster rate. Your driving style can make your vehicle develop rust quicker too. Vehicles used for off-roading or green laning often rust earlier without the right care and maintenance.

What are the types of car rust?

Surface, scale and penetrating rust have all been known to affect cars. Surface rust is the least problematic, and develops on the outermost layer of the metalwork. This rust type is rated the least severe and, in most cases, can be easily repaired with car rust treatment.

If left untreated, surface rust will worsen and develop into scale rust. Exposure to road salt is thought to accelerate this process. Penetrating rust is the most severe rust type to affect vehicles. Without early intervention, both surface and scale rust can develop into penetrating rust, which can lead to the complete replacement of body panels and parts.

Are some parts of the car more vulnerable than others?

In short, yes. Some car components are more susceptible to rust, but understanding where these vulnerable areas are located will leave you better placed to spot the signs of rust early and seek the necessary car rust treatment. 

Along with your bodywork, the frame rails, wheel wells and suspension tend to rust more quickly than other vehicle parts. Rusted exhaust pipe repairs are also common requests from our customers. The exhaust is after all exposed to moisture from both inside and outside of the vehicle. Rusted brake discs and rusted brake calipers are common occurrences too. 

What are the signs of rust?

The earliest sign of rust development is the bubbling of paintwork. This occurs when the pain loses contact with the metalwork underneath before becoming filled with air and water. Rust will develop shortly after. 

Other irregularities, damage to the body (including the smallest nick or dent), and even the presence of puddles inside the car are other early signs of rust.

Can rust be repaired?

The success of car rust repair comes down to the scale and depth of the damage. As we mentioned earlier, surface rust can be rectified rather easily. Penetrating rust on the other hand often requires replacement of the affected panel or component.

The cost of car rust treatment varies as a result. Whilst not recommended, there are car rust repair solutions that can be administered at home. There’s however nothing better than seeking professional car rust treatment that delivers a seamless finish.

Should I explore car rust-proofing?

As the saying goes, prevention is better than cure. With this, car rust-proofing is well worth exploring. Many of the steps used to prevent rust on a car can be completed at home. 

When washing your car, be sure to rinse your vehicle with water and dry it thoroughly with a chamois to minimise the risk of rust. If your car is being left idle for a while using a dehumidifier to lower the concentration of moisture inside the vehicle will protect it from rust whilst it’s not in use. Applying wax will offer an additional layer of protection to prevent the chemical reactions that cause rust, even in the face of wet weather and road salt exposure.

Using WD40 on the components that can’t be reached with wax, such as your car’s hinges and joints, is another must for dispersing the water that causes rust.  

For further information on car rust repair and car rust proofing, please contact Collison Motoring Services. 

How to Charge an Electric Car

Posted on 19/05/2022

With the 2030 fossil fuel car ban on the horizon, the push toward purchasing and driving an electric car is greater than ever. Thanks to this demand and the increased availability of electric vehicle models, there were over 480,000 battery-electric cars on UK roads, plus a further 390,000 plug-in hybrids at last count.

The use of electric vehicles unlocks many perks for UK drivers as well as the planet. Those going from a petrol or diesel model to an electric vehicle (EV) however are certain to have a few questions about how to charge their new, eco-friendlier mode of transport.

How to charge an electric car at home

Whilst the UK has an increasing number of electric car charging points available, the only way to make electric car use as convenient as possible is to install a charging point at home.

The majority of electric vehicle charging will happen at home, with charging your vehicle overnight via your own charging point being not only more convenient than using public electric car charging points but cheaper and safer.

Whilst EVs can be charged via a domestic three-pin socket, this method should only be used occasionally or in emergencies. Installing a dedicated EV charging point on your property is the best and speediest option. To put it into context, the current of a domestic socket is 3kW, which would take a Nissan Leaf with a 40kWh battery up to 13 hours to reach full charge. A basic home charger with a 3.6 kW current will charge the same vehicle 1.6 times quicker. A standard 7kW charging point will be three times faster and a whole lot safer.

When considering your home-based charging points, you’ll have to choose between tethered and untethered. If you are purchasing a new EV or leasing, many manufacturers provide free or discounted home charger installation.

Charging your electric vehicle on the go

Many workplaces are integrating electric car charging points as part of their commitment to greener travel. There are also a growing number of public electric charging points which are easily accessible at the roadside or at service stations. 

Fast chargers with currents up to 22kW are becoming commonplace throughout the UK, both in public and at home. Even rapid chargers operating at a rate of 43kW to 150kW providing 80% charge in just 20 minutes are now being seen at service stations and dedicated public hubs.

Using these public charging points is simpler than you think. You can use a variety of payment methods, including phone apps, contactless and specialist cards (called Radio-Frequency Identification or RFID) to pay for the power you need to go about your day.

Most EV drivers choose to do the bulk of their charging at home and then access public or work electric car charging points for short top-ups.

How much does it cost to charge an electric car?

The cost of charging your electric car depends entirely on your charging method. Rates vary across public electric car charging points. At home, the cost will be dictated by your electricity tariff, and whether you are charging your vehicle during peak or off-peak (between 12am and 5am) times. 

Whilst rates vary from supplier to supplier, the average cost of charging an EV at home is between 9p and 14p per kWh. This is far cheaper than the 12p to 27p per kWh found at many service station charge points. You could face costs of up to 69p per kWh when using a rapid electric car charging point.

How long does it take to charge an electric car?

How long it takes to charge your electric car depends on the size of its battery, its electrical current capacity and the speed of the charging point. Again, using our Nissan Leaf as an example, a basic charger would see a model with a 40kWh battery reach full charge in around 12 hours. Rapid chargers would achieve 80% of this charge in under 30 minutes.

How much to replace the battery in an electric car? 

Like any car component, your electric car battery is subject to wear and tear, and may require electric car repair and eventually battery replacement. 

The majority of EV manufacturers provide battery warranties of between five and eight years or up to 100,000 miles to safeguard you from the cost of electric car repair. Most however predict that their EV batteries will not need replacement until 10 to 20 years of use. 

Replacing the battery in an electric car isn’t cheap. In 2016, a brand new 40kWh battery cost roughly £10,000. The cost of battery replacement and electric car repair is however expected to drop as electric vehicles become standard on UK roads.

For further information on charging your electric vehicle, EV maintenance or electric car repair, contact our team today.

How Often Should I Service My Van?

Posted on 21/04/2022

Regular servicing makes a huge difference to every vehicle. Whilst not a legal requirement, servicing helps to reduce engine wear, boosts the fuel economy of the vehicle, extends the life of the engine and other key components, ensures the safety of you and your passengers, and even highlights faults and safety issues before they become bigger, more expensive to fix problems. 

For vehicles under warranty, servicing comes highly recommended, with most Manufacturer’s warranties becoming invalid without an annual service. It’s not just your regular runaround that could benefit. Scheduling a van service unlocks many perks, checking and maintaining vital components to ensure adequate performance on the road and preserve your van’s value in the long and short term.

As specialists in VW van services, Mercedes van services and Ford van services, we deliver local van servicing with a few added extras to ensure the best possible servicing options available.

How often should I service my van?

Like car servicing, your van service should take place at least once a year to ensure your van remains in the best possible condition. Ideally, your van service should be scheduled with your vehicle’s age and mileage in mind. Vans covering larger distances generally require more frequent servicing for instance. 

Check your van’s manual for servicing schedule and oil change interval recommendations that are specific to your vehicle make and model.

How much is a van service?

The cost of a van service varies depending on the level of servicing you require for your vehicle. Our car and van services are categorised as bronze, silver, gold and platinum to ensure you book a service that best suits your needs.

Our bronze service is a great choice for low mileage vehicles, whilst our silver service is recommended every 12,000 miles or every year and provides a more comprehensive check alongside the standard oil and filter change. Our gold and platinum services are the best choices for high mileage vehicles. Required every 24,000 miles or 24 months, our gold and platinum services deliver a particularly thorough maintenance check and the replacement of engine oil, oil filter, air filter and any other items that require replacement every two years.

It is important to note that the cost of a van service does not include any remedial work that is recommended for completion due to the findings of your van service, such as repairs, replacements and/or new parts.

Why should a van service be a part of my schedule?

Whether you use your van for work or leisure, it needs the right maintenance to stay in tip top condition. Along with the servicing advantages mentioned above, a van service will help you save money in the long run. By making an annual van service apart of your schedule, you’ll get to drive a well-maintained, more efficient vehicle, saving money on fuel and repairs.

A complete service record will also help you make a valid claim if your van is still under warranty. The same record will be valued by prospective buyers when the time comes to sell your van. 

Ready to book your Waterlooville van service?

You can do just that with us today! Here at Collison Motoring Services, we offer VW van services, Mercedes van services, Ford van services and van services for other vehicle makes and models.

If you’re locally based, we’ll even collect and return your vehicle. Our car and van services go beyond the usual. Alongside our bronze, silver, gold and platinum service offerings, we’ll road test, wash and vacuum your vehicle at no extra cost.

Book your service online or contact us to speak to a member of our team.

How Early Can You MOT a Car?

Posted on 17/03/2022

A Ministry of Transport or MOT test is an important part of every UK driver’s schedule. As a car owner, it’s your responsibility to ensure your vehicle undergoes this all-important test if your car is more than three years old. 

An MOT test is an essential maintenance check that should be undertaken every year. It tests a long list of components, including your vehicle’s axles, wheels and tyres; battery, lights and electrics; bodywork; fuel systems; wipers, windscreen and mirrors; suspension; and steering. In addition to upholding a certain standard of roadworthiness, the exhaust emissions check included in the MOT test is essential for minimising our impact on the environment.

By certifying your car with an MOT test, you’ll not only be proving it has a basic level of roadworthiness, you’ll be taking the steps needed to ensure the safety of you, your passengers, pedestrians and fellow road users. With this, your MOT expiry date should be firmly in your diary, but can you complete your MOT test earlier if needs be?

Can I book an MOT early?

Yes, you can. Whatever the reason for your early test, the earliest MOT date you can schedule is up to a month (minus one day) before your original MOT expiry date.

Better yet, by opting for the earliest MOT date, your new MOT due date will be 13 months away instead of the standard 12 months to give you some extra time to play with next year.

There are many reasons why you may be considering an early MOT. You may be unable to attend on or nearer to your MOT expiry date, or perhaps you are expecting your vehicle to require additional remedial works to achieved the required pass result. If it is the latter, booking the earliest MOT date will give you extra peace of mind. 

Is this the earliest MOT date I can go for?

You can have your MOT test even earlier, but if it is more than one month before your original MOT due date, you won’t preserve your MOT date. Instead your early MOT will give you a certificate that is valid for just 12 months from this new test date.

If I take the MOT test early and it fails, can I still drive until the old MOT expires?

This is a common question amongst early testers. By law, you still have until your original MOT expiry date to get your vehicle repaired and retested if the faults identified are minor. This means you can take your vehicle away if your old MOT certificate is in date, and get it repaired and retested before your original MOT due date. 

As your car has failed its early MOT however, it is technically not roadworthy. If the faults identified on your early MOT are classed as dangerous, you could incur some very serious penalties if you’re pulled over by the police. Drivers of vehicles in dangerous condition can be fined up to £2,500, incur three penalty points, and even face a ban from driving.

Whether you opt for an early MOT or are testing closer to your MOT due date, we always advise that identified defects are fixed and your vehicle retested before driving your car once again.

How can I check my MOT due date?

If you’re unsure about your MOT expiry date, here’s how to check your car MOT date. Simply visit the government’s MOT status tool to discover your MOT due date. All you need is your vehicle’s registration number to get started. 

You can also sign up to their MOT reminder service to receive a free text message or email alert one month before your MOT due date.

My vehicle is new, when is my MOT due date?

If your vehicle is new, i.e. no more than three years old, your MOT due date will be exactly three years from its date of registration. Your test should be completed no later than this MOT expiry date. If your vehicle is imported, your registration date may be described as its date of manufacture.

Drivers who have purchased a second hand car and are unsure about the MOT expiry date of the vehicle can use the government’s MOT history portal. 

Here you’ll be able to find out whether the vehicle has passed or failed its MOT, the locations of previous MOT tests (undertaken in England, Scotland or Wales since 2005), the mileage recorded at each test, the faults and minor issues identified during tests, and its next MOT due date.

Ready to book your early MOT test? 

You can find out more about our MOT testing service – including our early bird MOT tests, local MOT reminder service, free MOT retests, and 0% interest free credit and payment options – here. Alternatively, please call us for last minute availability at our MOT test centre.