Category Archives: Maintenance

Vauxhall Zafira common problems

The Vauxhall Zafira is a popular large multi-purpose vehicle that’s more about size and support than good-looking motoring. It first featured on the UK’s roads back in 1999 and has been a common sight on city streets and motorways ever since.

There have been three main generations of the Zafira featuring a range of engines including 1.6L, 1.8L, 2.0L and 2.2L petrol version and 2.0L and 2.2L diesels giving you a good choice of fuel economy and on the road power.

Unfortunately when it comes to looking out for a second hand Zafira that’s worth both your time and money, there are many well-documented potential pitfalls. Keep your eyes peeled for all the common problems in this article and you should however be able to avoid purchasing a dud motor that ends up costing you more in the long run. Continue reading →

How to Prepare Your Car for its MOT

In 2015 nearly 40% of all cars failed their MOT, according to the DVSA. Many cars fail for simple reasons, which could have been checked and fixed by the owner before they dropped of their vehicle at the test centre.

Avoid wasting time and save yourself money with our simple guide that helps you prepare your car for its MOT. All you have to do is follow each section and we will give you some guidelines and tell you what to do if your vehicle isn’t up to the required standard.

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How to Extend the Lifespan of Your Key Car Parts

Naturally you understand the importance of regular oil changes. You probably even know about keeping the coolant and water topped up in your reservoirs. All of these simple tasks help keep your car working properly. And of course, if you look after your car then you’ll not only reduce service and maintenance costs, but you’ll also extend the lifespan of the vehicle.

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Preparing your car for the summer

We have talked previously about how to prepare your car for the winter months, but what about sorting it out for the hotter months, and getting it ready for the summer?

Heat, dust and the stop and start driving associated with heavily congested summer holiday roads can all take a toll on your vehicle and impact its ability to perform. Apart from the regular checks, what season specific things can you do to ensure your car is ready and prepped for the sunshine streets?

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Common Problems with the BMW 5 Series

There’s always been something cool about a BMW. These cars, famous for their quality engineering and top class ride stats, are epitomised by the 5 series. Instantly recognisable as the mid-range luxury model that nicely bridges the gap between sexy motoring and family car, it’s no wonder this machine has been gracing the roads of Europe since 1972.

A second hand BMW 5 series is widely recognised as a good investment. These cars are known to last for many years, keeping their looks and style long into their lifespan. However, you need to be aware of a number of common problems with the BMW 5 series, so be vigilant and guard against these faults when considering any used vehicle from this range. Continue reading →

Common Issues with the Honda Civic

The Honda Civic is a great small car that does well for years. However, like all second-hand cars it is prone to some faults across different makes and models. If you are considering buying one of these little run arounds, what are the warning signs you need to be wary of when taking it for a test drive? Continue reading →

Top Tips for Starting Your Car in Cold Weather

In winter everything seems to slow down. From the pace of work to your desire to get down the gym and lose weight. This sluggishness can also impact your car’s ability to get started.

Engines and vehicles require a reasonable degree of heat for good functioning and frost and coldness are often major obstacles in generating the energy your vehicle needs to get out of the blocks. If you’re having trouble and suffering starting issues the advice in this article will help you get up and get moving for some winter driving.

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Honda Jazz common problems

The Honda Jazz is a practical and easy to run city car that is popular amongst the older generation with its comfortable and roomy cabin. Although it’s an expensive purchase new, this car still makes a good second hand run-around and is a good choice for someone who wants both space and urban manoeuvrability.

If you’re looking at potentially purchasing one of these cars, then you’ll want to watch out for the following warning signs that the vehicle is suffering from a well-known and widely reported issue. Continue reading →

Common Volkswagen Golf Problems

The iconic VW Golf certainly needs no introduction. This clever little compact sporty vehicle has been a mainstay of the German manufacturer for decades. However, like all mass produced vehicles, it is not without its faults.

Are you thinking of buying a VW Golf second hand that has been produced after 1997? Although we’d definitely recommend this as one of the more sensible and astute moves you can make as a choice of vehicle, we’d always recommend that you perform the following standard checks to ensure you’re not purchasing a problem with your new car. Continue reading →

Common Problems with Mercedes E-Class

There’s no doubt about it, the Mercedes E-Class is a great vehicle that still looks good today and it’s one of those cars that you’ll be proud to drive around without the ostentatious showy-ness of a sports car. You can pick up some real bargains on the second hand dealer circuit, but what’s the best way to be sure that you’re not picking up a lemon?

In this article we give you a breakdown of some of the most common issues, helping you avoid serious difficulties and problems with your purchase. Continue reading →