Your car losing value is something nobody wants to happen, but it is usually unavoidable when buying and selling a car.
Continue reading to find tips on how you can avoid car depreciation so you know you are getting the most out of your car when you sell it.
What is Car Depreciation?
Car Depreciation is when your car loses value over time, so in most cases, the value of the car from when you bought it will have dropped when you go to sell it. Therefore, unless you have purchased a classic or a limited edition car in demand, you will likely lose value from your car.
7 Tips On How To Avoid Car Depreciation
Car depreciation is part of the process of owning a car, and there are many different factors that can contribute to your car losing value. We will explore how you can reduce depreciation and get the most out of your car.
1. Low Mileage
The more miles you drive in your car, the less it will be worth, so it is best to be mindful of how much you are driving your car. The average mileage is usually 10,000 miles per year, so keeping your average lower will make your vehicle’s value worth more than the average.
2. Regular Servicing and Maintenance
Regular servicing and maintenance are essential as they will reassure a buyer that the car has been looked after. We recommend keeping hold of any receipts you have, as this can prove to a buyer that the car has been looked after correctly.
3. Avoid Adding Modifications
Modifications can be costly and increase the chances of your car losing value. It is less likely that many people will be looking for a modified vehicle, reducing the value of your car. When people are looking to buy a second-hand car, they usually try to find one as close to the original car as possible.
4. Regular Cleaning
Cleaning your car regularly will keep it looking in the best condition possible. If you clean your car yourself, avoid using brushes or old sponges, as they can scratch the paint. Instead, apply wax or sealant as this is a great way to preserve your car’s paint. Another way to look after the paint is to remove bird droppings as soon as possible, as they can easily damage your paint.
5. Sell At The Right Time Of Year
By selling your car at the right time of year, you can sell your car for a higher price depending on the type and the time of year. For example, convertibles will sell for more during the summer and 4×4 in the wintertime.
6. Avoid Brand New Cars
Purchasing a new car will lose up to 60% of its value within the first three years of ownership. This is why it is better to buy a used car because as soon as you drive a new car, you will lose money on it.
7. Buy A Popular Coloured Car
When buying a car, you should go for a popular colour as this is more likely to appeal to potential buyers when you go to sell your car.
Keep Your Car in Great Condition
At Walker Cutting, we have a range of different services available to keep your car in top condition, so you can reduce the rate of car depreciation. If you have any questions, contact us here, and an experienced technician will be in touch.
The winter weather can impact your car’s performance and increase the risk of breaking down. Therefore, it is a great idea to be prepared for if the worst happens and your car breaks down in cold conditions.
Read our handy winter breakdown kit for guidance on what to keep in your vehicle.
Winter Emergency Breakdown Kit Checklist
1. Jump Leads
A flat or dead battery can happen to any car, regardless of its age, although cold weather will make it more likely.
Keep a set of jump cables or leads in your vehicle so that if your battery happens to be flat, you can use the jump leads to get your battery going again. To use jump cables, you will need another vehicle with a fully charged battery; however, avoid using a hybrid or electric car, as this could cause damage to the vehicle.
2. Torch and Spare Batteries
As the chances of your car breaking down are more likely in winter, keeping a torch in your vehicle is vital. Especially if you happen to break down on the side of a country road in the dark, this situation would be very dangerous and frightening.
Ensure you have spare batteries for your torch because you don’t want the batteries to fail and be without light at nighttime. Another option could be a wind-up torch which doesn’t require battery power.
3. Ice Scraper and De-icer
Ensuring your windscreen, mirrors, and windows are clear before you drive is essential, as it is illegal to drive without a clear windscreen.
Make sure you have an ice scraper in your vehicle, and having a bottle of de-icer will speed up the process. Ensure these items are kept in your vehicle, so you have them on your return journey or if you break down.
4. Emergency Warning Triangle
An emergency warning triangle is designed to warn other motorists that your car has broken down to avoid collisions. We recommend you have two triangles and position one at the front of your car and then one at the rear.
Ensure the triangles are at least 45 metres away from your vehicle, although the highway code advises never to use them on the motorway.
5. Warm Clothing and Blankets
If you break down, it is likely that your car’s heaters will not work, resulting in you waiting without any heat. This is why it’s essential to keep warm clothes and blankets in the boot of your vehicle to keep you warm whilst you wait for help.
6. Food and Water
When you break down, you never know how long you could be waiting, so keeping some snacks and water in your car is a good idea. A good snack choice is protein cereal bars, as they are easy to store and usually have a long expiry date. Although, be sure to keep an eye on the expiry dates of any food and drinks you keep in your car.
7. Hi-vis Clothing
A high-visibility jacket is an excellent addition to keeping you safe when de-icing your car or if you break down. As there are fewer daylight hours in winter, it gets darker quickly in the evenings. You are less likely to be seen, which could be very dangerous, especially on country lane roads.
8. First Aid Kit
You never know when you may need a first aid kit, and in the winter, there is a higher chance of slipping over and injuring yourself. So keeping one in your boot is a good idea, just in case you have a minor injury.
9. Fully Charged Mobile Phone and Portable Charger
If you break down, you will need to use your mobile phone to contact a breakdown recovery vehicle to help you get on the road again. By ensuring you have a fully charged mobile phone and a portable charger, you won’t have to worry about being stuck without a mobile phone.
10. Medicine
If you have regular medicine that you need to take or have with you, such as tablets, inhalers etc., make sure you have a spare in your vehicle. Be sure to regularly check the expiry date of these medicines, especially if they are kept in your car for a long time. Likewise, if you wear contact lenses or glasses, make sure you have a spare pair, just in case something happens to your current ones.
11. Cash
It is always handy to have cash on you, just in case you forget your wallet or purse. You may need to get a taxi to the nearest petrol station in the event of a breakdown, so it’s always good to have backup money on hand.
12. Snow Shovel
We recommend you keep a snow shovel in your car, as this could prevent you from getting stranded. Also, it allows you to dig out any compact snow from under the car or around the wheels.
13. Tyre Inflator
You don’t want to be left stranded in the cold weather because your tyre has suffered a puncture, and you haven’t got the right tool to pump it back up. This is why it is important to keep a tyre inflator in your vehicle, as it allows you to pump your tyre up enough to get you to a garage or your destination.
14. Spare Car Bulbs
As the winter months have less daylight, you are more likely to be driving around in the dark. Therefore, keeping some spare car bulbs in your car is vital because if they stop working, it will become unsafe and illegal to drive around in the dark.
15. Took Kit
A simple tool kit can be handy in your vehicle, as there are some roadside fixes you can do yourself, such as changing your headlight. Your kit could include a couple of screwdrivers, pliers, and an adjustable wrench.
16. Empty Fuel Can
You never know when you might run out of fuel, so it is important to keep an empty fuel can in your vehicle, just in case. If there isn’t a petrol station nearby, or it isn’t safe to travel on foot, then the next option would be to call your breakdown cover.
Winter Car Breakdown FAQs
What To Do If My Car Breaks Down in The Cold?
The first thing to do would be to put your hazard lights on, as this warns everyone that you have broken down. If you have a hi-vis jacket, place this on and, if safe, put your emergency warning triangle at least 45 metres away from the rear of your vehicle. If you have two triangles, put one at the front and rear of the car if safe to do so. However, do not do this on the motorway as it is unsafe.
Next, contact somebody for help and keep yourself warm, this is where the extra clothing and blankets in your winter emergency car kit will come in handy. Your vehicle will offer you the best protection against the weather if it is safe to stay in your car.
If you break down on the motorway, try to get your vehicle onto the hard shoulder or the left-hand side lane. Then, exit your vehicle through the left-hand side door and stand behind the safety barriers to protect you from oncoming traffic.
How To Avoid a Winter Breakdown
A winter breakdown is not something you expect to happen, so we have got some tips for you.
1. Look After The Battery
Keep your battery charged by taking it on regular runs of at least 30 minutes. Car batteries tend to last about five years, so keep an eye on how your battery performs and replace it when it’s due.
2. Check Your Coolant
You must check your coolant level regularly, as this is because it will prevent the water in the cooling system from freezing when the temperature drops.
3. Use a Screen Wash Additive
In the winter conditions, you want your screen wash undiluted to prevent your washer jets from freezing up. However, if you keep trying to spray screenwash when frozen, you risk blowing a fuse that could impact another part of your car.
4. Check Your Wipers Are Off
In the colder months, ensure that the wipers aren’t set to automatic, as they might turn on and get stuck, resulting in damage to your wipers or a blown fuse. Also, ensure that your wipers aren’t stuck to the windscreen before driving your vehicle.
5. Fuel
Winter seasons usually come with weather disruptions and increased traffic, which is likely to increase the number of delays. To avoid breaking down to low fuel, ensure you have at least a quarter of a tank full.
How To Start a Car in Cold Weather
Starting a car in the cold weather can sometimes be challenging as the cold can take a toll on your car. Here are some tips on how to start your car in the cold weather.
Turn Off All Electricals
Before turning the engine on, ensure that all electricals are switched off, including any headlights, heaters, radios and defrosters. This gives you a better chance of the car starting as all the energy is focused on the vehicle starting.
Be aware that even if your battery does start, let it run for a while to ensure it has enough power before switching these accessories back on, as this could potentially drain the battery again.
Dip The Clutch When Turning The Ignition
Before turning the ignition, make sure you don’t crank it for more than 10 seconds, as this can cause the starter motor to overheat. Next, make sure that your car is in neutral, dip the clutch and turn the ignition. This is an important step as it lightens the load on your battery and puts less strain on the battery, therefore making it much more likely to start.
If you find that your car doesn’t start after cranking, then let the engine rest for a few minutes and try again.
Try Starting Your Car Again
If the engine is close to starting but still sounds slower than usual, make sure you give it another break and try starting it again. In the event that your car isn’t turning over, the best option would be to jump-start your vehicle’s battery.
Why Does My Car Start Slow in The Winter?
Starting a car in the cold can come with a delay due to the cold conditions. Here are the three most common reasons your car may struggle to start up.
1. Battery Struggles to Start
The battery’s chemical reactions will take place more slowly when the battery is cold, resulting in the battery producing fewer electrons. This impacts the starter motor as it has less energy to work with when it tries to start the engine.
It can be common for your battery to struggle in winter conditions. However, it could signify that your car’s battery is old and weak and may need replacing.
If you think your car’s battery is degrading and may need replacing, then get in touch with us, and an experienced technician will be able to advise you.
2. Thicker Engine Oil
When it is cold, the car’s oil becomes much thicker, making it much harder for the oil to be pushed around the engine to be able to spin.
3. Fuel Evaporates Less
Fuel does not evaporate as quickly in cold weather conditions. This is because the fuel needs to be vaporised for it to burn, so the colder weather will make it harder for it to burn.
Get Your Vehicle Serviced Regularly
Here at Walker Cutting, we are here to help if you notice any issues with your vehicle. It is best to get your car checked out before an issue with your vehicle becomes an even bigger problem, resulting in you breaking down. If you notice any issues with your vehicle, get in touch, and an experienced technician will contact you.
Keep on top of your car’s maintenance by reading our quick and straightforward maintenance check guide. These checks can be done by yourself regularly and could save you money in the long run.
Continue reading our guide to find out more about car maintenance checks you can perform at home.
Tread Depth
Having sufficient tread depth on your car’s wheels is a legal requirement, so keeping an eye on your tyre tread depth is essential. The legal minimum tread depth is 1.6 millimetres across the central three-quarters of the tyre.
Leaving your tread depth to get too worn could significantly impact your stopping distances. You could also risk a £2500 fine and three penalty points, or worse, be involved in a collision.
It can be dangerous when wet on the roads because the tyre’s tread helps disperse water from the contact patch between the tyre and the road. So the less tread there is, the less water can be shifted, which increases your risk of aquaplaning and losing grip.
How Do I Check My Tyre Tread?
The quickest and easiest way to check the tread depth of your car’s wheels is to take a 20p coin and insert it into the tread grooves on the tyre. If you can’t see the coin’s outer band, then the tyres are above the legal limit.
If you find that your tyres are below the legal limit, then you should get your tyres replaced by an experienced technician. At Walker Cutting, we offer Car Tyre Fitting Services, so get in touch.
Exhaust
Inspecting your exhaust can get overlooked, but it is an important function of your car. The exhaust protects you from dangerous fumes and reduces the noise of your car, so keeping on top of it is vital.
How Do You Inspect Your Exhaust?
Ensure you are in a well-ventilated area before checking your exhaust. Then, begin with starting your engine, inspecting your exhaust for leaks, and listening for unusual noises or smoke.
If you have any issues with your exhaust, take your car to the garage to have it checked out by a professional.
Tire Pressures
You should check your tyre pressure at least once a month and before a long journey to ensure that you’re not driving on underinflated tyres. Keeping the correct tyre pressure improves your road safety and can increase the lifespan of your wheels.
Where To Find The Recommended Tyre Pressure
Most vehicles have the recommended tyre pressure for the front and rear wheels inside the driver’s door, usually on a sticker. If you can’t find a sticker, you can find the tyre pressures in the owner’s manual.
How To Check Your Car’s Tyre Pressure At Home
- Remove the valve dust cap from the tyre and place the pressure gauge onto the tyre valve stem
- Press down on the gauge and make sure it is on evenly to get an accurate reading
- Check the reading on the pressure gauge and make sure it shows the recommended pressure
- If your tyres need inflating, make sure you use a suitable pump and avoid over-inflating your tyres by adding small amounts of air at a time
- If you over-inflate your tyres, then use a flat-head screwdriver to push onto the metal pin on the valve stem to release air
- Always take regular measurements with the pressure gauge between inflating and deflating
Engine Oil
Always ensure your oil level is between the minimum and maximum mark on your car’s dipstick. Leaving your oil to get too low could result in your car breaking down or causing damage to your car’s engine.
How to Check Engine Oil Level
- Ensure your engine is off
- Have a tissue or rag to hand
- Open your car bonnet and find the dipstick
- Pull the dipstick from the engine and wipe the oil off the end
- Insert the dipstick back into the tube
- Pull the dipstick out
- Check that the oil level is between the minimum and maximum
- If too low, then top your oil up
- Place the dipstick back into the tube – ensuring it is all the way in
How Often Should You Change Your Oil?
Most engines recommend changing your engine oil every 5,000 to 7,500 miles; however, we recommend you follow your car manufacturer’s guidance.
Coolant
Make sure you keep an eye on the coolant level in your car, as it is vital to keep your vehicle running smoothly. We recommend checking your engine coolant at least twice a year before summer and winter, although this advice may differ between car manufacturers.
How To Top Up Engine Coolant
Before topping up your engine coolant, ensure your car is parked on level ground and open your bonnet. Your vehicle shouldn’t be too warm or running for too long. Your car’s handbook should show you where to find the reservoir and which coolant is best to use. The vehicle should have a minimum and maximum line, and your coolant should sit in between these lines. Next, you must unscrew the coolant cap and pour the coolant into the hole. It is best practice to use a funnel, as this protects you from spilling any coolant on your skin or dropping any on the floor.
Battery Health
Maintaining your car’s battery is vital because your engine won’t work properly if the battery isn’t working correctly. This could cost more money than required if you don’t keep on top of your car’s battery health.
What Causes a Car Battery to Go Flat?
There are a couple of ways which can cause your car’s battery to go flat. The leading cause of most batteries going flat is leaving the lights on after the engine is turned off. Most cars will sound an alarm when you open your car door, when your lights are still on.
Another cause could be due to your car’s battery being in poor condition. It is recommended that you replace your car’s battery every 4-5 years. Keep your battery in good condition by taking it on longer drives to give your alternator time to recharge. If you aren’t planning on using your car in the week, then make sure you run your car for at least 15 minutes a week.
Check Your Horn
Your horn is something that you tend to use in a situation where you need to warn other road users of your presence. This is why it is essential to check that it is working correctly without waiting for a situation where you have to use it. When testing your horn, make sure that the horn is working and is loud enough.
Keep An Eye On Your Mirrors
Before every journey, ensure you have positioned your mirrors correctly so that you have a clear view and make sure they are clean enough to see properly. It is essential that your mirrors are lined up properly because they give you a wider view and prevent dangerous blind spots.
How to Adjust Your Mirrors
- Ensure you are sat in the driver’s seat in the correct position that you usually drive in
- Move the rearview mirror so that you can directly see out of the middle of your back windscreen without having to move your head
- Adjust the driver’s side mirror first, and you want to be able to see the road behind you and a small sliver of the side of your car
- Position the passenger’s side mirror in the same way when sitting in the driver’s seat
- Once all the mirrors are positioned, check in the driver’s seat and ensure you can view everything behind you properly
Test Your Brakes
Your brakes are one of the most critical functions of your car, making it essential to keep your brakes in top condition. If your brakes fail, then it could become a very dangerous situation, which is most likely going to end in an accident.
How To Test If Your Brakes Are Working Properly
Before you start your engine, press down on the pedal, and if your brakes feel spongy or slack, you need to get your brakes serviced as soon as possible.
Another way of testing your brakes is to start your engine, and once you set off and are in a safe place, you should test your brakes by applying them firmly. If your car pulls to the side, then you need to get it looked at by an experienced technician.
Lights and Indicators
Your car’s signal lights are a very important safety feature; they help with visibility and let other drivers know which direction you are going in and when you are braking. If they aren’t working correctly, then this could lead to a collision. Ensuring you keep on top of testing your lights regularly is critical because there are some lights which you use less frequently, such as fog lights. You could find yourself in foggy conditions where you need to use them; and if they don’t work, it will make the situation dangerous.
How To Check Your Car’s Lights By Yourself
The easiest way to check your lights on your own is to park near a window or garage door, use the reflection, and hit the brakes. You should see your lights glowing in the reflection if they are working.
To check your other lights are working, you can put your hazards and headlights on and walk around to check if there are any faults.
Windscreen Wipers
It is important to check the condition of your windscreen wipers, as they keep your windscreen clear from any dirt or rain. If they aren’t working correctly, they will cause smear marks and worsen your view when driving. Which could be very dangerous, especially when it is raining, because you’ll not be able to see correctly through your windscreen.
Signs Your Wiper Blades Need Replacing
- Inspect your wipers and make sure they have no tears or holes.
- Test your wipers out by spraying some windscreen wash – there should be no smear marks, and the fluid should clear.
- Listen out for unusual sounds, such as squeaking and chattering.
If you find any of these problems with your wipers, make sure you get your wipes replaced as soon as possible.
Keep Your Windscreen Fluid Topped Up
It is a legal requirement to keep your windscreen wash topped up, and you must be able to clear your windscreen all year round. Without any windscreen wash, you risk the chances of a situation occurring where your windscreen becomes dirty when you’re driving. This is a huge safety issue as you could get mud or dirt on your windscreen. Which could lead to your wipers smearing mud across your view when you try to clear your windscreen.
How to Top Up Windscreen Washer Fluid
Firstly, ensure your engine is off, open your bonnet and look for a cap with a windscreen symbol. If you are struggling to find this, you can check the car’s manual. Next, remove the cap and pour the solution until it reaches the top.
Air Conditioning
You should regularly check that your air conditioning system is working, instead of waiting for it to blow out hot air and then getting it looked at. By getting your air con serviced regularly, you will save yourself fuel and improve the condition of your air conditioning system. We recommend you have your air-con serviced every 2 years at a minimum to keep it in top condition.
Signs Your Car Air Con Needs Regassing
It is essential that you are aware of the different warning signs that your car needs a regas. Here are some indications to look out for when you turn your air-con on:
- Your car is blowing out warm air.
- Taking a long time to cool your car.
- Bad odour is coming from your vents.
- Unusual sounds when your air con is switched on.
If your car is showing any of these signs, it could indicate that it requires an air con regas or service. Please get in touch with us, and one of our experienced technicians will be able to advise you on what is the best option for you.
Read our Air Con Regassing guide for more information about Air Conditioning, air con regas and servicing.
Listen to Your Dashboard Warning Lights
It is important to know what your dashboard lights mean, and they could be letting you know there may be a severe problem with your car. You can check out the car’s manufacturer’s manual to find out what each dashboard light means.
If you have an Audi vehicle and want to know what each warning light means, check out our Audi Warning Lights guide.
Get Your Vehicle Serviced With Walker Cutting
If you need help with any of your car maintenance checks or encounter any issues, get in touch, or call 01709 828220, and an experienced technician will be happy to help.
Read our helpful guide designed to give you an insight into what each Audi warning lights mean on your vehicle’s dashboard. We have included the red and yellow warning signs and advised on what action you should take if any of them occur.
Red means there could be a potentially serious problem, and you should stop driving as soon as possible.
Yellow means that something isn’t working correctly, and you should get it checked out by a car specialist.
Green means that the system is currently working or is currently in use.
Brake System Warning Light
The brake system warning light should illuminate when your vehicle has the handbrake on and is stationary. This warning light should automatically turn off when you fully release the handbrake and begin driving.
If the warning light is still showing, this may indicate that the brake fluid level is low. The fluid will need topping up with the correct brake fluid for your vehicle, which should result in the warning light going out. If you top up your brake fluid and the warning light remains on, then you could have a brake fluid leak.
To check if there is a brake fluid leak, press down firmly on the brake pedal when parked in a safe place. If you notice your brakes feel soft or spongy, there could be a leak.
Check under your car for any fluid pools. If you notice any, then it’s likely you have a leak. You will need an experienced technician to inspect your vehicle, and here at Walker Cutting, we offer specialist brake servicing for Audi vehicles.
Battery Warning Light
This light indicates that the battery isn’t charging, possibly due to a problem with your car’s electrical system. You need to get your vehicle to a garage as soon as possible because your car will only run until the battery loses all its power.
Bonnet Warning Light
The bonnet warning light lets you know if your bonnet hasn’t been closed properly. You should stop your vehicle safely and lift the bonnet before attempting to shut it again. Once the bonnet is shut correctly, the light will turn off.
It is important not to drive with this warning light on, as it is dangerous to drive with an open bonnet. Continuing to drive could result in the bonnet being pushed in front of your windscreen and covering your view.
Airbag Warning Light
When this warning light shows, it means that at least one element of the airbag safety system is not working correctly. This is dangerous to drive with because the airbags could potentially not go off in a crash or could deploy unexpectedly and cause a crash. If the airbag warning light goes off, get your vehicle inspected immediately.
Power Steering Warning Light
This warning light means that there is a problem with the power steering. For electric-powered systems, this issue should be able to be fixed quickly.
Firstly, find a safe place to stop and try turning your car off and back on again after 30 seconds. However, if the warning light doesn’t turn off, you must get your vehicle checked as soon as possible.
Coolant Warning Light
The coolant warning light will come on when the engine is overheating, which means the coolant level is running low. This could be due to a leak or a sign of a more severe problem. We recommend you get this inspected by an experienced technician as soon as possible to avoid causing more damage to your vehicle.
Oil Warning Light
The warning light can be red or yellow. A yellow oil warning light means the oil level is low and requires a top-up with the correct oil.
The red oil warning light means that there is low oil pressure. Therefore, the vehicle should not be driven and should be inspected immediately. Failure to do this may cause major engine damage.
Brake Pad Replacement Warning Light
When this warning light is showing, it means that the brake pads are too worn. The warning light will illuminate before the brake pads become dangerously too thin, giving you time to sort the issue before it’s a serious issue. Therefore, it would be best to get an experienced technician to replace the brake pads as soon as possible before they wear out altogether. Doing this will save you money in the long run and prevent you from damaging your vehicle any further.
What happens if you don’t replace brake pads?
Not getting your brake pads replaced would be very dangerous. This is because if your brakes are worn down, it will make it harder for your vehicle to slow and stop, resulting in a higher chance of a collision.
If your brake pads are worn down to a certain point, you risk damaging your brake rotors. This is because when the pads are excessively worn, the exposed metal on the pads grinds against the rotors every time you brake. Which will make it more challenging for you to slow your vehicle down because you will need to put more pressure on the brakes to slow or stop the vehicle. All the hard braking can wear your tires down quickly or cause them to become unbalanced, leading to extra expenses that could have been avoided.
Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) Warning Light
The anti-lock brake system on your vehicle is designed to prevent the wheels from locking up if you have to slam the brakes on in an emergency or on a wet/slippery surface.
Can I drive my car with the ABS warning light on?
When the ABS warning light is on, your car’s brakes will still work. However, if you need to make an emergency stop, then the ABS might not work. This could be dangerous as your wheels may lock up, and you could lose control of your car. Therefore, we recommend getting your ABS inspected by an expert as soon as possible.
Electronic Stability Problem (ESP) or Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
The electronic stability problem or dynamic stability control is a safety technology in most modern cars. If you see the ESP symbol flash, then the ESP system is intervening when you are on a slippery road, which means it is doing its purpose. However, if this warning light stays on, it means that there could be an issue with the traction control. Therefore, it is recommended that you get your vehicle inspected by an experienced technician.
Engine Management Warning Light
If the engine management warning light is showing, your engine could have a problem. There could be several faults, from minor to major mechanical issues. If the warning light is flashing, this is telling you there is a major fault. You should not drive the vehicle, and it requires immediate attention.
How long can you drive with the engine management light on?
As long as your car doesn’t show any other warning signs, you can continue driving to your destination. We do recommend you get your vehicle inspected as soon as possible to avoid further damage to your vehicle. However, if the light is flashing, this is a sign of a major fault, and immediate action is required. The vehicle is unsafe to drive, and an expert will need to inspect the car to find the cause of the problem.
Glow Plug Warning Light
This warning light is only applicable in diesel Audi vehicles. You may notice this warning light in your diesel car in the winter when you start your vehicle up. This is no cause for concern because your engine may need some extra heating from the glow plug. However, if the warning light doesn’t turn off or begins flashing, this is a cause for concern. A solid warning light means you can still drive your car, although it should get checked out when possible. A flashing light is an urgent warning that requires immediate action.
Service warning light
A service warning light lets you know that your car is ready for a service. This light can be triggered when your oil needs changing, a filter needs replacing or when your engine has clocked a specific mileage. We recommend you get your vehicle serviced as soon as possible. As this will enhance the vehicle’s longevity and ensure it runs at its best.
Audi Pre Sense Warning Light
Audi Pre Sense is a safety feature which predicts an impending crash. However, when the warning light shows, there is a problem with the sensors. An experienced technician will need to investigate what the problem is.
Suspension Control Warning Light
The suspension systems make the ride smooth, so your vehicle remains in control. However, when the suspension control warning light comes on, you’ll notice a difference in how your car handles the road. Your car will feel less stable, especially when turning. We recommend you get a qualified technician to look at your vehicle.
Gearbox/Clutch Warning Light
This warning light is shown when there is a fault with the gearbox or clutch. Getting your vehicle checked out is essential because a minor fault could become an expensive rebuild or replacement if you continue to ignore the problem.
Diesel Particulate Filter Warning Light
This warning light only happens in diesel Audi cars. It is an indication that there is a problem with the exhaust particulate filter. The filter removes harmful soot from the exhaust gases, reducing emissions, and can get blocked up by soot. Get in touch with a garage to sort this problem, because leaving it can result in your car going into limp mode and other issues.
Tyre Pressure Warning Light
This warning light lets you know when your tyre pressure falls, this could be due to a puncture or lost pressure over time. It is important to ensure that your tires have enough pressure in them, we recommend you check your tyre pressure when possible.
Need Your Warning Light Inspecting?
Here at Walker Cutting, we are German Car Specialists. So if your Audi has any of these warning lights, get in touch, and one of our experienced technicians will be able to help!
With the current situation of high fuel prices, running a vehicle costs a lot more than usual. Therefore, driving in a fuel-efficient way will save you money and fuel whilst cutting down on carbon emissions.
Read our guide on some tips and tricks on how to save fuel while driving.
What does fuel-efficient driving achieve?
By driving your vehicle in a fuel-efficient way, you will reduce exhaust emissions and air pollutants, improve road safety, and prevent excessive wear on your vehicle. In addition, you will reduce your carbon footprint and benefit from the money you save on fuel costs.
Which driving techniques save fuel?
Smooth driving
When driving, you should anticipate situations and the route ahead to avoid unnecessary braking and acceleration, as this wastes fuel. Always leave a reasonable distance between you and the vehicle in front so you can change your speed without the need to brake.
Avoid speeding
The primary cause of fuel consumption is speeding, so you can avoid wasting fuel by maintaining a steady speed. Allowing your car to operate optimally requires less effort and saves you fuel.
Use cruise control where possible
Using cruise control while driving on the motorways will help you maintain a constant speed. This is great for saving fuel because it reduces the number of times your vehicle will slow down and accelerate, which significantly wastes more fuel. Cruise control can also benefit you by helping you to avoid a speeding fine if it is set to the speed limit.
Avoid unnecessary driving
Where possible, the best option to save fuel would be to walk or cycle instead of driving, which will reduce emissions whilst being good for your health. If this isn’t possible, trying to avoid making multiple trips by combining them would be a better option. Also, if you’re unsure of a new location, use a sat-nav or maps on your mobile device to avoid getting lost and unnecessarily wasting fuel.
Car serviced regularly
Ensuring your vehicle is serviced regularly is essential because it maintains your vehicle’s health remains in the best shape. Always follow the time period recommended by the vehicle’s manufacturer to get it serviced to ensure it is in the best condition. In addition, your vehicle’s dashboard will let you know if there is a problem. Although it is your responsibility to address the issue immediately, ignoring your warning lights could lead to serious vehicle issues and expensive repairs.
If you want to find out more information about what a full car service is, check out our blog or if you need your car servicing then contact us here.
Change gear earlier
You shouldn’t use too many revs when using a manual vehicle as this wastes fuel and should change gear slightly earlier than you might normally do. Many modern cars have a gear indicator light to encourage the most efficient gear. If you use an automatic car, the best way to save fuel would be to use gentle acceleration.
No idling
When you idle in your vehicle, you are constantly wasting fuel. Although it doesn’t waste as much fuel as driving, it adds to your fuel consumption. So if you are parked up and have your vehicle on, then the best way to save fuel is to turn your engine off. If your vehicle can use the stop-start mode, this is a great way to save fuel, especially when stuck in traffic. In winter, ensure you scrape ice off your windscreen rather than leaving your car idle whilst you defrost your vehicle.
Air con
Using your air conditioning system will increase fuel consumption, so try to minimise using it unless you really need to. For example, if you are driving on faster roads but need to keep cool, using your air con will be more efficient than opening your windows. This is because the additional drag would result in using more fuel.
We recommend having your air con regassed every 2 years. If your refrigerant is low, it will result in your air con having to work harder to produce cold air, which will use more fuel.
Avoid using your air-con unless necessary if you are stuck in traffic, as stopping, or starting makes the engine work harder.
Never have both the air con and the windows open, as this will defeat the object of having the air con on and will use twice as much fuel.
For more information on air conditioning, check out our blog on Air Con Regassing, or if you require a regas, get in touch here.
Travel light
When travelling, the best fuel-efficient option is to travel light and only carry the essential items you require. If you have any roof bars, boxes and cycle racks, you should remove them unless you are using them. Having these on your vehicle will result in your car having an increased drag because of the added weight, which will waste fuel.
Avoid coasting
Coasting will not save you fuel and can be dangerous because you don’t have full control over your car.
Change the air filter
Air filters need to be changed regularly because dirty or damaged filters will restrict airflow into the engine, making the car work harder and consume more fuel.
Check your tyre pressure
If your tyres don’t have enough pressure in them, then your car has to work harder to move, and your tyres will wear out quicker.
Change your oil
You should always follow the vehicle’s manufacturer’s recommendations on which oil to use in your vehicle to run smoothly. By following these recommendations, you ensure your car is running efficiently and will minimise engine damage. In addition, changing the oil will prolong the engine’s life as it lubricates the metal parts, increasing the engine’s performance so it can run more efficiently.
Turn off unnecessary electrics
More modern vehicles have many more electricals included, so ensuring they are turned off if they aren’t required will help with fuel consumption.
How Does Eco Mode Work?
Eco mode restricts the engine and transmission performance to give you good fuel economy. When you put your foot down on the accelerator, your vehicle will not go as fast as it usually would, saving you fuel.
Does eco-mode save fuel?
If your vehicle does have the option to use eco mode, then this is the best way for you to save fuel. However, the performance of the vehicle will be affected. This is nothing to worry about as they are manufactured to be safe to use all the time if you choose to. However, in some situations, such as on the motorway, you may find that it may not be suitable due to a slight delay in the acceleration. Although it would be great for driving short distances or in more built-up areas where you don’t need to accelerate quickly, the eco mode is the best option.
How does stop-start work?
Stop-start works by detecting when the car is stationary, causing the fuel and ignition to cut out which turns the engine off, although the electronics will still stay on in your car.
Stop-start is activated differently in a manual and automatic car, as it depends on the action you do.
In a manual car
In a manual car, stop-start works when it is detected that the car has stopped moving, is out of gear (in neutral), and the clutch is released. Resulting in the fuelling and ignition being cut to turn the engine off. Then, for the car to start again, you have to engage the clutch, change into gear and carry on your journey without having to press any buttons or turn any keys.
In an automatic car
An automatic car stop-start responds when you press the brake alone. So if the car is braked to a standstill and your foot remains on the brake pedal, the automatic stop-start system will stop the engine. Then when you take your foot off the brake, the system will automatically start the engine again.
Does stop-start save fuel?
Stop-start saves fuel as it prevents you from idling your car while stationary. A Stop-start is best used when your vehicle spends significant time waiting at traffic lights or is stuck in traffic.
Get your vehicle serviced at Walker Cutting
Ensure your vehicle is well maintained for fuel efficient driving by getting your vehicle serviced at Walker Cutting. Contact us here, and one of our experienced Bosch technicians will be in touch with you.
Air con is an excellent function in many cars, mainly used during the hot weather to keep you cool and is a great tool to demist your windows during the winter.
Keeping on top of your air conditioning servicing is essential as the system’s health will deteriorate over time, causing your car to run less efficiently.
Read our guide to learn more about air con regassing and its importance.
What is air con regassing?
An air conditioning regas involves removing the old refrigerant gas from the air-con system and replacing it with new refrigeration gas.
How does air conditioning work?
A car air conditioning system works by moving the refrigerant through a high and low-pressure closed-loop system, which manipulates the refrigerant between a liquid and gaseous state. The refrigerant absorbs heat from the vehicle and delivers cool, dry air into your vehicle.
Here is a more in-depth explanation of how a car air con works:
- The refrigerant (gas) travels to the compressor. This is where the refrigerant will be compressed into high-pressure, high-temperature gas before travelling to the condenser.
- The condenser will disperse the heat out, and the high-pressure refrigerant gas drops in temperature and becomes a high-pressure liquid.
- The high-pressure liquid passes through a receiver, removing any impurities before it reaches the thermal expansion valve.
- The high-pressure liquid expands and becomes a low-pressure liquid as it enters the low-pressure side of the loop system.
- The liquid is turned into a gas again as it passes through the evaporator, taking the heat from the vehicle.
- During this process, a fan blows over the exterior of the compressor, and cool air gets blown into the vehicle.
- The low-pressure refrigeration gas enters the compressor again, and the process continues.
How do I know if my air-con needs regassing?
It is important to be aware of the warning signs that your air con requires a regas; here are a few signs to look out for:
Blowing out warm air
If your car is blowing out warm air, then this indicates that your air con could be low on refrigerant or that there could be a blockage such as a build-up of bacteria or a damaged ventilation fan.
Bad smell
A bad smell indicates that there is something wrong with your air con system. The smell could be due to a build-up of bacteria growing within your system, which over time could have a negative effect on your health.
Takes a long time to cool your car
Your air con may still be working; however, it is taking longer to cool your car than it used to; this could be a sign of inadequate refrigerant due to leakage or prolonged use. You shouldn’t wait until your air con completely stops giving you cold air; instead, you should have it serviced by a skilled technician, so you don’t cause any damage to the system by continuing to use it.
Unusual sounds
When you turn your air con on, you should hear the fan blowing cool air; any unusual sounds such as rattling and banging from your air con can be alarming as this indicates something could be wrong. This could be due to a broken fan belt, condenser, or debris blocking the fan. If this is the case, then it is essential for a technician to service your air con as soon as possible.
Can I regas my air con myself?
A skilled technician should perform air con regassing, although there are kits available for you to do it yourself. There are some positional risks and disadvantages such as:
- You could cause damage to your AC system, which could result in you having to get your air con repaired, which could be costly.
- Handling refrigerants can be unsafe, and you could freezer burn yourself if the gas comes into contact with your skin.
- Mixing the old refrigerator with the new one could cause dangerous chemical reactions.
- They can be expensive – some of the kits can be either a similar price or more expensive than if you were to have a skilled technician perform them, making them not worthwhile.
- It can be time-consuming, especially if you are unsure on how to perform the regas.
By getting an accredited, trusted technician to perform your Car Regas Service you can have a worry-free experience without the risk or expensive cost.
What are the benefits of getting your air con regassed and serviced?
Fuel efficiency
Keeping your car up to date with regassing will save you fuel; if your air con is low in refrigerant, it will struggle to cool the air, causing the system to work harder and waste more fuel.
Summer weather
There would be nothing worse than on a hot summer day for your AC not to work, which is why keeping up to date with your servicing is essential for keeping you cool on hot days.
Winter weather
Using your air con in winter has some great benefits; it is a great tool for demisting your car windows. In addition, the air coming out of the vents is dry, so the air con works as a dehumidifier.
Another benefit is that turning your air-con on throughout the year will prevent it from seizing.
Health
Regular air conditioning maintenance will prevent bacteria from building up over time. However, if not, this bacteria could be harmful to your health if exposed for an extended period.
How often does air con need regassing?
Over time, the refrigerant gas inside the air conditioning can leak out, causing the AC to struggle to cool the air. Many people wait until their car starts to blow out hot air; however, we recommend it is best to get your air conditioner serviced before that happens. The best option would be to get your air-con serviced every 2 years as a minimum to keep your car running efficiently.
How long does it take for AC to work after regassing?
Depending on the vehicle, your AC should blow cold air soon after the regassing. Although, it shouldn’t take longer than 2 hours. If this is the case, this could be a sign of a problem, and a skilled technician should inspect your air con.
Is air-con part of my car MOT or service?
Air con regassing is not typically checked as part of your MOT or car service, although you can get your air con serviced at an additional cost. At Walker Cutting, we offer Car Air Conditioning Servicing, which includes cleaning, electrical calibration and regassing.
What are the differences between an air con recharge, regas and service?
Air conditioning recharge and regas
An air con recharge is just another name for air con regas, so this involves removing the old refrigerant gas from the air-con system and replacing it with new refrigeration gas.
Air conditioning service
An Air Con Service at Walker Cutting includes cleaning, electrical calibration and regassing.
Why does my air conditioning smell bad?
As your air con unit ages, it becomes weaker, making it harder to dispel bacteria. This can lead to a build-up of bacteria, giving you a bad odour when you turn your AC on.
This is why keeping on top of your air conditioning maintenance is essential to keeping that bad odour away.
How can I look after my air conditioning system?
Here are some tips as to how you can make the most out of your air con:
- You should use your air con throughout the year to stop it from seizing up, saving you money from getting it fixed.
- Servicing your AC every 2 years will keep it in good condition, rather than leaving it too late and a problem occurring, saving yourself money in the long run.
- When you have your AC on, make sure you close your windows; by having them open, you will waste fuel, and the cool air will be lost outside.
- Ensure you clear leaves and any debris that collects around the air intakes under the bonnet and below the windscreen.
Need your air-con repaired, regassing or servicing?
Contact us for an appointment with one of our skilled Bosch accredited technicians at 01709 828220 or fill out this form, and one of our technicians will get back to you as soon as possible.
What are Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)?
Advanced driver assistance systems is a technology that assists drivers. Its primary role is to prevent deaths and injuries by reducing the number of accidents and negating human error. It uses sensors and cameras to perceive the environment around the vehicle. Then it processes this data and either warn the driver or takes automatic action based on what it perceives.
What ADAS applications include:
- Pedestrian Detection/avoidance
- Lane departure warning/correction
- Traffic sign recognition
- Automatic emergency braking
- Blind spot detection
ADAS is incredibly effective at preventing accidents. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety found that it was 50% more likely to avoid front to rear crashes and 78% more likely to avoid backing crashes.
Human error is unavoidable but ADAS is here to help!
How do Advanced Driver Assistance Systems Work?
ADAS works by alerting drivers to potential dangers or taking automatic actions to avoid an accident. It gathers data from sensors and cameras to process its environment and quickly process the information into a warning or automatic response.
ADAS is so useful as it’s able to aid humans and augment their current sensors. For instance, we can’t see in the dark very well, but RADAR can. We can’t see in all directions at once, but LIDAR sensors can. We can’t echolocate objects or people, but SONAR sensors can.
This is why ADAS is amazing at reducing accidents, as it neutralizes human error and our inadequacies. The ADAS system consists of powerful processors and sensors to quickly integrate lots of data and make quick real-time decisions. Eventually, the technology will reach a point where we have fully autonomous car driving.
Active vs Passive ADAS Systems
There are two types of ADAS systems:
Passive Advanced Driver Assistance Systems – a passive ADAS system can have all the sensors of an active system but it merely just warns the driver of a potentially unsafe incident. Therefore, the driver must take action themselves to counteract the potential accident. This doesn’t completely remove the human error but does aid. These warnings come in the form of vibrations, warning sounds, flashing lights etc.
Active Advanced Driver Assistance Systems – an active ADAS system will contain all the necessary sensors but instead of just pre-warning the driver, it will autonomously make a decision to stop a potential accident from happening. Driving when there is no perceived warning the driver will still be able to engage in normal driving functions.
What features do Passive ADAS Systems have?
A list of common features of Passive ADAS:
- ABS – Anti-Lock Braking System: This stops the car from skidding when an emergency brake is used
- ESC – Electronic Stability Control: Assist in under or over steering, especially under difficult conditions.
- TCS – Traction Control System: Uses a mixture of ABS and ESC to maintain traction control when turning corners.
- Back-up Camera : This provides the driver with a view behind the car when the car is being reversed.
- LDW – Lane Departure Warning : This simply alerts the driver if the car is not within its lane
- FCW – Forward Collision Warning: This warns the driver when to brake in order to avoid an accident ahead
- Blind Spot Detection: Warns the driver if there is someone or something in their blind spot
- Parking Assistance: This pre warns the driver when their front or back of the car is approaching an object, like a wall or lamp post. This would be used when parking your car.
What features do Active ADAS Systems have?
A list of common features of Active ADAS:
- Automatic Emergency Braking : Automatic brakes will be used when the ADAS sensors pick up an object, pedestrian, animal or anything that the car may collide with.
- Emergency Steering : This will steer the car to avoid a collision with an object, pedestrian or animal the sensors may pick up.
- Adaptive Cruise Control : This is cruise control that adapts to the speed of cars in front
- Lane Assistance : Steers the car to make sure it stays within the lane
- Traffic Jam Assist : This combines lane assistance and adaptive cruise control to help the driver through traffic
- Self Parking : Maneuvers the car into a parking space
Benefits of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems
There are many benefits to having ADAS installed on your car, and not just for safety reasons.
- Saves Fuel Consumption – ADAS improves the way people drive. It forces drivers to drive using efficient habits (eco friendly), and optimise EMS (Energy Management Strategy). The earlier and less harsh braking, controlled and constant speed etc. Research has found this has led to a 15% decrease in fuel consumption.
- Helps to drive down costs (fewer accidents = less money spent) – ADAS is very effective at stopping accidents from happening. Both minor and major accidents, and in the long term this will mean less money spent on repairing the car after accidents, or finding replacements. Plus some insurers offer cheaper insurance if a car is fitted with ADAS.
Walker Cutting will soon be offering ADAS services, keep your eyes peeled or contact us for more information on this upcoming service.
There are lots of reasons there may be a loss of power in your car. It’s most noticeable when your foot is fully down on the accelerator and your car is not speeding up or is gradually losing power. A loss of power in your car can be frustrating, but not to worry Walker Cutting are here to help you with this helpful guide. After reading this you will be able to identify the common signs for a loss of power in a car, and be well on your way to fixing the loss of power in your car engine.
If you are looking for a quick fix & to leave with your car powered back up on the same day Book Here! Or visit our homepage to find out more about us here.
What Can Cause a Loss Power in a Car?
Your car may be losing power for many reasons but these reasons can be categorized into 3 general areas:
A Mechanical Issue – the loss of power in a car may be due a clogged fuel filter or low compression
A Malfunction of Actuators – the loss of power in a car is because of a bad spark plug, or bad fuel pump
A Malfunction of Sensors – the loss of power in a car due to any malfunction of sensors related to the EFI system
Examples of Common Causes for a Loss in Power in a Car
Fuel Filter Clogging
A clogged or dirty fuel filter means that impurities that should be being filtered are reaching the main engine and causing problems. This can lead to a loss of power in your car and even have lasting damage.
Clogged Exhaust
Over time your exhaust can begin to clog. It wise to check that there is no debris blocking the exhaust or get it cleaned every so often. If your exhaust is not performing to its best, this likely leads to a power loss in your car.
MAS (Mass Airflow Sensor) Problem
If your MAS system is malfunctioning, its not able to communicate with the engine how much air flow is coming in and out. This could be a contributing factor to a loss of power in your car.
Spark Plug Problems
The spark plugs ignite the combustion in your engine and if there are issues with the spark plug your engine will suffer and lose power. A replacement is essential to stop the loss of power in a car.
Compressions Issues
This is an essential part of a car’s power. If your car’s cylinder compression is too low the loss of power in your car will be great. Get this checked over by an expert ASAP.
Problems with the Fuel Pump
The fuel pump supplies the engine with fuel, and is a vital part of the car’s performance. If there are problems with the fuel pump this may mean not enough fuel is reaching the engine causing a loss in power, as it won’t be able to reach full power without the necessary fuel.
Issues with the Air Filter
The air filter will make sure no impurities are mixed into the engine, ensuring the car works to its maximum power potential. As any impurities getting through can impact the engine negatively.
As you can see there are lots of reasons that your car may have a loss in power. It may be hard to identify which of the reasons it may be without professional help. Thankfully, a lot of these issues can be fixed by a simple cleaning service to get rid of the dirt, by a professional. After a cleaning service a car will be back to full power, as good as new.
If you believe your car has lost its power for any of the reasons above. Contact us Here for a quick fix and leave with your car powered back up on the same day.
Loss of Power in my Car FAQs
Why is my car not accelerating when I press down on the gas?
All the reasons explained above could be contributing towards the loss of power in your car. In most cases it’s due to clogged exhaust or fuel pump, that requires a quick clean by a professional. Or usually a bad spark plug that is stopping your engine working to full power.
Either way you should get the car checked out by a professional to fix the loss of power.
Contact Us Here to get your car powered back up on the same day!
Signs of a bad fuel pump
An inefficient fuel pump is a contributing factor to a loss of power in a car. Here are a few signs to look out for to check if you have a bad fuel pump that may be affecting the power of your car.
Inconsistent acceleration
Car dies when under a heavy load
Sputtering – where the car starts but its performance while driving is questionable
Contact us here to get your fuel pump fixed and your car back to its full power.
Why would my car suddenly lose power while driving?
The most likely issue is that a component is clogged. A clogged fuel filter is the most common reason, although a loss of power in your car could also indicate problems with the fuel pump or fuel line. Impurities or debris may be blocking the system, which causes the loss of power in a car.
Contact us here to get your car checked and powered back up on the same day!
Your wheels may have become unaligned if you’ve been driving down bad roads, over potholes, or hit a curb. The alignment of your wheels can be negatively impacted by this. If your wheels are not properly aligned you risk wearing down your tyres significantly. It can also damage suspension and steering parts. This can create potentially dangerous driving conditions. Plus it means that your wallet may take a big hit if you need to replace tyres and car parts.
This blog will help you identify the early warning signs. So that you can get it sorted by professionals asap to minimise the negative impacts that could be caused.
How can I tell my wheel alignment is off?
There are a few signs that may indicate your car’s wheel alignment is off. However, the signs can be subtle and not always noticeable without professional equipment. Here are some of the common signs:
The car is veering to one side – This can easily be noticed by driving on a straight road. The car should drive straight on the road with very little effort on the steering wheel. If the car is pulling to either side that’s a sure sign the wheels need re-aligning.
Rapid or uneven tyre wear– tyre wear can speak volumes about the condition of a car. Wear on just the inside or outside of the tyre indicates a problem with camber adjustment. Feathering on tyre indicates toe adjustment. Any of these tyre wear or abnormalities in the tyre wear you should get your car checked out immediately.
Crooked steering wheel– If the steering wheel is off centre when driving on a flat straight road this is a clear sign. The steering wheel should be close to perfectly straight. Even if the wheel is out by a few degrees it’s important the wheels are realigned.
Screeching Tyres– Tyres shouldn’t make a noise during normal driving conditions. The screeching that you may hear is because the tyre comes into contact with the road in a way it wasn’t designed to. This could be due to wheel alignment.
Notice any of these alignment issues? Talk to our professionals here or call us at 01709 828220.
As Autumn and Winter approach it’s important to make sure that you have carried out the proper checks on how to prepare your car for winter.
One important aspect of your car that you need to make sure it is properly up to scratch is the condition of your tyres.
Your tyres see constant use and the most wear and tear out of all the consumables on your car. They’re also one of the most vital parts for your car’s safety.
Why it’s important to properly care for your tyres
You tyre tread is important for road safety as it gives your tyres grip on the road surface. During heavy or extended periods of rainfall, there will be a layer of water which your tyre treads will be used to push water out of the way.
If your tyre treads wear down too much you could end up skidding or aquaplaning on the road at high speeds as your car fails to grip the road’s surface.
How to check your tyre tread depth
The DVLA rules state that the minimum tread depth is 1.6mm, or about the size of the rim of a 20p coin. If any part of the tyre tread goes below the threshold, the tyres should be replaced immediately.
Many modern tyres come with ways that let you quickly check the tread depth of your tyres. Usually this takes the form of a bump inside the tread groove which indicates where the minimum tread should be.
Besides worn tyre treads, there are a few other signs to look out for that mean that your tyres may be unsafe and require assessment by a professional technician. These could be:
- Cracks
- Bulges
- Knots
You should check the condition of your tyres at least once a month in order to ensure that there are no issues that could compromise the safety of your vehicle.
Checking your tyre pressure
Making sure that you maintain properly inflated tyres is important for maintaining vehicle safety and a good fuel economy.
Your car’s manufacturer should specify the desired pressure for your tyres. If your tyres are under inflated, this will cause your engine to need to work harder and lead to increased fuel consumption over time. However, over inflated tyres have a smaller contact area with the road
If you’re looking for replacement car tyres or need a check-up. Contact us for an appointment with one of our skilled Bosch accredited technicians at 01709 828220 or [email protected].
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