The Dangers Of Driving With An Expired MOT

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More than 5.5m car owners deferred their MOT last year as part of the 6-month MOT extension scheme introduced at the beginning of the COVID-19 outbreak. This means that we will see a dramatic increase in the number of vehicles that will need an MOT test in the coming months and in particular during ‘Super September’.

Some regions will be more affected than others, however, advice is to get your vehicle booked in ahead of time to beat the rush expected in the next couple of months.

The Dangers Of Driving With An Expired MOT

Not only is the MOT a vital safety check to ensure your car is safe and ready to drive, but you are also expected to have a valid MOT when using your car. Remember, when you drive without a valid MOT you risk:

  • A fine of up to £1000
  • Being banned from driving
  • Receiving 6-8 penalty points
  • Your car insurance may become invalid

To stay ahead of the curve, make sure you book your MOT well in advance. At ClickMechanic, we offer MOTs with home collection and delivery. You can book your MOT for only £25 when you book a service at the same time!

We also have a helpful guide that can help you pass your MOT the first time.

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Driving in the EU: what has changed post-Brexit?

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Recently, the government announced new changes to the quarantine rules for fully vaccinated passengers coming into the UK from Europe and has also just made further changes to the green, red and amber list countries. Since travel conditions differ from country to country, gov.uk has the most current information and essential guidance for travel to Europe.

If you’re planning to drive on your next trip to Europe, it’s worth keeping in mind that some of the rules for driving in Europe have changed since Brexit came into effect earlier this year.

What are the rules for driving in the EU post-Brexit?

  • Are UK driving licenses still valid in the EU?

    driving license

    Most UK drivers can use their normal driving license to drive in EU countries. There are some exceptions where the driver might need an International Driving Permit. An IDP can be bought at Post Offices for £5.50.

    Individuals with only a paper license, not a photocard license, may need an IDP. Drivers whose licenses were issued from Gibraltar, Guernsey, Jersey, or the Isle of Man may also need an IDP. Up-to-date guidance on driving abroad and IDPs can be found here.

  • What car insurance is required?

    car insurance

    Although it was a requirement post-Brexit, as of 2 August 2021, UK motorists no longer need to obtain an insurance green card before taking their car to EU countries (green cards provide a minimum level of third-party cover in case you get into an accident).

    All UK car insurance policies should provide minimum third-party cover to drive in other EU countries. However, check the details with your car insurer as the level of cover may differ from the cover provided in the UK. For example, many policies will have a limit on the number of days that you’re covered to drive in the EU.

  • Do I need to display the GB sticker?

    GB sticker

    If your number plate includes the GB identifier with the Union flag, you do not need a GB sticker. If your number plate has any of the following, you must display a GB sticker on the rear of your vehicle:

    – a Euro symbol
    – a national flag of England, Scotland or Wales
    – numbers and letters only – no flag or identifier

    If you’re in Spain, Cyprus or Malta, you must display a GB sticker no matter what is on your number plate. In addition to this, ensure you carry your V5C logbook with you if you own the car. You will need a VE103 form (Vehicle-on-Hire-Certificate) if you are taking a leased or rented car outside of the UK.

Our Vehicle Health Check (or Vehicle Safety Check) is a 28-point visual check of your car and can help identify issues on your vehicle prior to a long trip. A vetted mechanic can carry out the work at a location convenient to you and at a date and time of your choice.

 

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UK’s Best Service Stations

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With the warm weather (sometimes!) and school holidays in full swing, the UK is witnessing a staycation boom with people taking to the roads to explore Britain in the summer. This also means that for those travelling by car or coach, stopping at service stations will be an inevitable part of the journey.

Following a survey by consumer publication Which? of the best and worst motorway service stations, we checked out what the top three service stations in the UK have to offer in more detail to help you on your way. Here’s what we found:

  • Gloucester Services: M5, Brookthorpe, Gloucester, Gloucestershire, GL4 0DN

    Google maps
    Gloucester Services is almost too good to be called a service station. A second-generation family business, the food is home-cooked and made with ingredients that are locally sourced. If you’re heading to and from Cornwall and Devon, or even visiting the Cotswolds, Gloucester Services seems like a great place to stop by to get a feel of the local community.

  • Tebay Services: Westmorland Place, Orton, Penrith, Cumbria CA10 3SB

    If you’re travelling north on the M6, Tebay Services is a service stop (which is also a gorgeous farm) located in the Cumbrian hills. In addition to a farm shop that sells local produce, the website menu outlines an array of hearty meals and fresh salads that is sure to make one appreciate home-cooked meals over fast food joints.

  • Cairn Lodge Services: Douglas, Lanarkshire, ML11 0RJGoogle maps

    Further up north in Scotland, Cairn Lodge Services is located on M74 between Junctions 11 and 12. Voted as the 3rd best service station in the UK, the family-run filling station is currently open 24 hours for toilets, showers, hot drinks, food and snacks. The service station also houses a farm shop with locally grown produce and homemade cakes.

Do you have a favourite service station? Or have you come across a service station you were particularly impressed with? We’d love to hear about it! Tweet to us @ClickMechanic

If you’re going to hit the road for a long road trip, a Vehicle Health Check is a great way to ensure your vehicle is in good condition. With ClickMechanic a vetted mechanic can carry out a service at a date and time of your choice at a location that suits you.

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What are the most common issues with used cars?

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Did you know that according to Auto Trader, used car prices have risen by a record 11% in June 2021? With used car prices expected to rise further, it’s even more important to ensure you’re making the right investment. A pre-purchase inspection by a professional mechanic can help identify issues on a vehicle by checking a range of working aspects of a used car.

In fact, when we looked at our data for pre-purchase inspections, we found that 50% of used cars will score poorly in at least one category during a pre-purchase inspection. Seeing the price increase means it’s all the more reason to get a vehicle thoroughly checked before buying!

Although different models and makes of cars can have unique problems, here are some of the most common problems you should look out for when buying a used car:

Electricals

According to our data, issues with controls and electrical components of the vehicles were a common factor that led to 23% of the vehicle scoring poorly on inspection.

As obvious as this may seem, it’s wise to check that headlights and other indicators are functioning properly. Additionally, it’s a good idea to check other features like the warning lights on the dashboard, the power windows, and the central locking.

Suspension and brakes

Our data found that 12% of used cars scored poorly on suspension and braking systems. If you want to check for potential suspension problems, take it on a drive on different types of road surfaces such as speed bumps and rough surfaces. If you hear rattles or strange knocking sounds, it could mean that the suspension needs attention. However, the best way to ensure there are no issues with the suspension and braking is to have a trusted mechanic do a thorough inspection of the vehicle.

Battery

With cars being left unused for prolonged periods of time during the last 18 months, it is likely that battery health has suffered leading to battery problems. Batteries do not like being left uncharged as the cells inside disintegrate and lose their capacity. The battery may recharge to 12.8v but the actual power is significantly reduced.

Wheels and Tyres

We found that 23% of used cars scored poorly with regards to wheels and tyres during the inspection. Issues such as alloy wheel damage and uneven tyre tread are things to look out for and maybe costly to put right.

GETTING A PROFESSIONAL INSPECTION

ClickMechanic can help with a Pre-Purchase Inspection, with three different levels of inspection to suit your needs, starting from £53.68. During a pre-purchase inspection, the technician will conduct a thorough, unbiased review of the vehicle’s condition which can help give you an understanding of whether you’re getting good value for money. A pre-purchase inspection report will be sent to you which thoroughly outlines the condition of the car from exterior parts to crucial components of the engine and exhaust system so you can be confident you’re making the right purchase.

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Is Your Car’s Air Conditioning Ready For Summer?

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Car air conditioning

With summer 2021 truly here chances are you’re going to reach out to turn on the air conditioning more often while driving. Whether you’re planning a weekend trip or even a routine grocery haul, we recommend checking your car’s air conditioning so you don’t get caught out struggling behind the wheel on a hot summer day.

To help keep you cool while driving during the summer months, we have launched a range of new air conditioning jobs. If you haven’t had your air conditioning checked this year, then now is probably the time.

Remember, most car manufacturers recommend that the air-con system is regassed (also known as a recharge) every 2 years. A regas can help ensure the system can perform optimally and can even help improve your vehicle’s fuel efficiency.

  • Why carry out an air conditioning anti-bacterial clean & health check?

    Factors such as moisture, dust and other impurities in air-conditioning systems can encourage bacteria. Foul smells and poor air quality can aggravate allergies and infections. Doing an anti-bacterial clean of the air-conditioning system regularly not only reduces bad odours but also protects the health of your vehicle.

  • Do I need an air conditioning regas / recharge? 

    A tell-tale sign your car needs an air-con regas is if the air from the vents is blowing warm air or is not as cool as it used to be. Even if you don’t use it as often, air-con systems need regular servicing and maintenance. Most manufacturers recommend an aircon regas is carried out every two years, so if you can’t remember the last time you did it, it’s worth getting it regassed. Ultimately this can help improve the performance of the air-con system and can contribute to improving your vehicle’s fuel efficiency.

  • How much does an air conditioning regas / recharge cost?

    ClickMechanic offers air conditioning regassing across the UK at a fixed price, which depends on whether your vehicle takes R134a refrigerant gas or the R1234yf refrigerant gas found on newer vehicles:

    • R134a regas: £69.99
    • R1234yf regas: £134.99

It’s super easy to book with ClickMechanic. Just tell us about your car, input your postcode and pick a time, date and location. You’ll get an instant fair price to book an air conditioning regas service by a vetted mechanic.

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Most Googled questions about catalytic converter thefts

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Most Googled questions about catalytic converter theftsDid you know that catalytic converter thefts now account for 3-in-10 thefts from private vehicles in the UK? You might have noticed the spike in these thefts in recent local news updates. The thefts are generally due to the steep rise in prices of metals such as rhodium and palladium used in the production of catalytic converters.

ClickMechanic’s Mechanic in Residence team answers some of the most Googled questions by car owners about catalytic converter thefts:

Most Googled questions about catalytic converter thefts

  • What should I do if my catalytic converter has been stolen?

    • The first thing you should do is register the crime with the police, either via calling 101 or the online service. It’s also worth informing your insurance provider about the theft as it may be covered depending on the insurance policy. After that, if possible, take photos of the underside of the vehicle and the damage that has been caused during the theft.
    • Secondly, it can be that one or two exhaust sensors (known as Lambda sensors) have been stolen with the catalytic converter. These are screwed into the unit and these will need to be replaced as well. Make a note of any wires that are hanging down and relay this information to whoever you request a quote from.
    • In most cases, the repairs can be carried out by mobile mechanics, who, due to the volume of these thefts, are adept at carrying the work out “in situ”. Alternatively, you may need to arrange and pay for the recovery of the vehicle to a garage if you do not have cover for this in place so this cost needs to be taken into account.

  • Can you drive if the catalytic converter is stolen?

    The simple answer is no, you cannot. The catalytic converter is in front of the exhaust silencer, so the noise inside the car is not only deafening but also a major distraction to the driver.The other consideration is that the driver is knowingly using a vehicle on a public highway that would fail the emissions test (and the police can stop you, test this and fine you) and you may even get penalty points for driving a vehicle that emits a noise over 74db.

  • What cars are most targeted for catalytic converter theft?

    Any vehicle that has an underbody catalytic converter is at risk of theft. Cars such as the Honda Jazz, CR-V and Accord are particularly vulnerable along with some older BMW models and Toyota’s Prius and Auris.

  • Can you protect cars from catalytic converter theft?

    Whilst there are theft deterrent parts that can be applied to the vehicle, the majority of these only slow the thieves down by a short period of time, they can often lead to further damage repair work required on the vehicle. There is advice about parking in well-lit areas, areas with CCTV etc, however, the thieves expect this and are not put off by it. One thing that deters thieves is parking the car on a slope! This might sound a bit left field, but thieves do not like jacking a car up that is on an incline as it can easily move and come off the jack, trapping them underneath.

If you’re looking to book a repair, ClickMechanic can help. To place a booking, head to our website and a trusted mechanic can carry out any work at a date and time of your choice.

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5 Ways To Reduce Your Car’s Carbon Footprint

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5 ways to reduce your car's carbon footprintWe can’t ignore the fact that all vehicles have an impact on the environment, big or small, petrol or diesel or even electric. Whilst we may not be able to immediately change the way we get around and switch to a greener alternative, there are a number of ways to limit your vehicle’s environmental impact.

We look at 5 things that can help reduce a vehicle’s impact on the environment.

  • Smoother driving

    Driving aggressively with sudden braking and rapid acceleration can decrease fuel economy, shorten replacement intervals for a number of parts and could cost you an extra £600 annually. Smoother driving is not only better for the environment but is also lighter on your pocket.

  • Don’t overload the vehicle

    Avoid overloading your vehicle when not needed. The heavier the car, the more fuel it will use.

  • Check your tyre pressure

    Research suggests that motorists in the UK are wasting £246 million a year on fuel by driving on dangerously under-inflated tyres! Under-inflated tyres can increase the vehicle’s rolling resistance and with it, fuel consumption as the engine (or electric motor) will need to work harder to maintain the car’s movement at a consistent speed. Having the correct tyre pressure is key to optimise rolling resistance and ensure less energy is wasted. Details of the required tyre pressures will be in your vehicle’s handbook, but can often be found on a sticker on the driver’s door or inside the fuel cap.

  • Carpooling

    Carpooling is a great way to save money while also being a greener alternative. In addition to car-sharing services such as BlaBlaCar, carpooling with friends and neighbours can help reduce our carbon footprint. Government guidelines on car sharing during COVID can be found here.

  • Take the car for a service?

    Maintaining your vehicle regularly is not only good practice for the safety of you and your family but can also be safer for the environment. Depending on the type of service, technicians will check and replace the fuel filter, spark plugs, air filter and fluids such as the engine oil that will significantly improve the performance of a car, overall fuel economy and lower the vehicle’s emissions.

With increased awareness about emissions and their impact on the environment, many car manufacturers are now advancing in green technology. Hybrid vehicles and electric vehicles are much more efficient and claim to produce lower carbon emissions. If you have an electric vehicle or are thinking about investing in one, it’s also important to consider the source of the power, i.e. if it is renewable and sustainable for the environment.

If you’re looking to book a service, ClickMechanic can help. We provide three levels of car service – interim, full and major service. To place a booking, head to our website and a trusted mechanic can carry out a service at your choice of time and date.

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EV and PHEV: Repairs and Servicing Explained

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Electric VehicleTaken the plunge with an electric car yet? Or still thinking about an EV for your next choice of wheels? Either way, car owners are left with questions about what happens with repairs and servicing after the purchase. The good news is, with fewer moving parts, there’s probably less that can go wrong with an electric car.

We answer some important questions you may have about Battery Electric Vehicles (EV) and Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEV) repairs and servicing:

  • What happens to the electric battery warranty? 

    When you purchase an EV (Electric Vehicle) or PHEV (Plug-In Hybrid Vehicle) there will be a separate warranty for the vehicle’s battery and electric motor components. This warranty is often longer than the warranty on the rest of the vehicle mainly to minimise the concerns of potential owners. Each manufacturer will also state what percentage of battery storage is considered acceptable after a certain period of time.

  • Can I get servicing done for parts other than the vehicle’s electric motor(s) and battery?

    The EU block exemption rule, retained in UK law, allows owners to have their vehicle’s servicing done outside the manufacturer’s dealer network. In the case of PHEVs it means that you can have the petrol or diesel engine serviced, brake pads and discs etc replaced without it affecting the vehicle’s warranty and more importantly, the vehicle electric motor(s) and battery warranty.

  • Who can I use to provide routine servicing and maintenance on my EV/ PHEV?

    Providing the vehicle’s high voltage system doesn’t require powering down, it is the same as any non-EV/ PHEV vehicle. As long as they are VAT registered, use OEM parts (Original Equipment Manufacturer) or OEM equivalent quality parts you are free to use any service you wish. It is recommended that you keep all details of the work and any part numbers that were used to avoid problems with warranty claims – which is a standard recommendation for non-EV/ PHEV vehicles as well.

  • What servicing can I get done on my EV/ PHEV?

    Any servicing required of the petrol or diesel engine* (PHEV only), brake pads and discs, tyres, exhaust and items such as bulbs and windscreen wipers.

    *The EV system will still require any maintenance checks done by the dealership according to their schedule.

  • And what work can I NOT get done on my EV/ PHEV?

    For anything that requires the high voltage system to be powered down and routine checks and maintenance of that system. We would recommend that you check the details of the terms and conditions of your vehicle’s electric battery warranty to see further details on this.

At ClickMechanic, we can help with repairs and servicing for your EV/ PHEV with a 1-year warranty on parts and repairs. Head over to our website, tell us about your car and a vetted mechanic can carry out a repair or service at your choice of time and date.

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