Nine signs and symptoms of a bad brake caliper and how to fix it

Disc brake

Brake calipers are an essential component of your vehicle’s braking system, alongside brake pads and brake discs. When you push down on your brake pedal, a master cylinder in the engine compartment pressurises the brake fluid within it to activate a piston. This piston pushes against the brake caliper, which acts as a clamp that squeezes the brake pads against the rotating brake discs. 

This pressure produces friction which slows the wheels’ rotations in order for them to slow down or stop altogether. 

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Nine signs and symptoms of a failing front or rear differential

Differential

The differential transfers power to your vehicle’s wheel from the engine, allowing them to operate individually from each other. While this may sound odd, your car’s wheels rotate at different speeds when you turn or corner, with the outer wheel rotating faster to cover the longer distance around the bend, so they need to rotate independently of each other. It’s a vital component that most of us don’t tend to worry about until it starts to fail. 

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Is your driveshaft failing? Here are the signs and symptoms of a bad driveshaft

Close up of driveshaft

A driveshaft delivers the power, or torque, to the wheels of your vehicle. If you have a four-wheel drive, it also transmits power from the transmission to the rear axle.  In fact, it’s one of the most important components that ensures your car moves. Unfortunately, if your driveshaft is failing or broken, it won’t be able to handle all that torque, which over time, can cause damage.

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Is There A Problem with My Oxygen Sensor?

oxygen sensor in the exhaust

Oxygen sensors are a crucial part of your vehicle’s engine. Each one checks and monitors the flow of air through the system, measuring the amount of oxygen coming into the engine and then leaving the engine by the exhaust. This data then goes on to regulate important fuel monitoring and delivery systems, MPG and timing functions and emissions release.

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What are the most common problems with a Volkswagen Transporter T5 Van?

Volkswagen Transporter T5

If you own a VW T5, you’ll know they’re a reliable camper van with plenty of appeal. Unfortunately, some common problems can arise with VW T5 Transporters. Understanding what they are and how to solve them could avoid a costly fix further down the road. Fortunately, plenty of new or used VW Transporter parts are available, so you or a mechanic can fix almost any problem. Here’s what to look out for.

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Don’t Believe the Hype: The Eight Electrical Car Myths that Just Can’t Stand Up to Scrutiny

plugging in an EV to charge

Any kind of social change is always treated with a degree of resistance. However, with the changes to the weather and the loss of the polar ice caps since the 1980s, we need to start challenging the effects that fossil fuel emissions from vehicles are having on the planet. Electrical vehicles (EVs) offer humanity a chance to segue into a more environmentally sustainable mode of transport.

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Is Your Exhaust Worn Out? The Tell-Tale Signs You Won’t Want to Ignore

exhaust back box with signs of rust

Is it time for a new exhaust? The tailpipe on your car (like all parts) will eventually wear out. As this system works to clarify the noxious gases emanating from the combustion process in the engine, it’s important that it remains in good working order for both the health of your car’s occupants, and our planet.

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Avoid Purchasing A Seat Leon with these Common Faults…

Seat Leon

The Seat Leon has been a small car staple on European and UK roads since 1999. It’s a compact hatchback that’s been available in 3 door and 5 door variants. Originally created using different components from Volkswagen cars combined with manufacturer parts, it shares some of its pedigree with other small cars including the Golf MK4 and the Audi A3.

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