What do they test during the MOT?

The test should last no more than an hour, and will look at various aspects of the car to make sure that they are legal. It is not a substitute for servicing, and the assessment excludes the condition of the engine, clutch and gearbox.

It is carried out by a tester who is specifically trained in MOTs, and the test includes examining the performance of the brakes, the headlamp aim, battery health, the exhaust system, the seatbelts, the tyres, the registration plates, as well as the steering, amongst other areas.

(Image courtesy of DVSA)

What is the difference between an MOT test for an electric vehicle (EV) and those with an internal combustion engine (ICE)?

The MOT test for electric vehicles and for those with an ICE engine share many similarities, as mentioned above. However, due to the nature of their powertrains, there are some key differences.

For vehicles with an internal combustion engine, during the MOT they will check the fuel system, the exhaust system will be inspected for leaks, corrosion, and noise levels, and an emissions test will check that exhaust emissions meet environmental standards, all of which are not applicable to electric vehicles.

For electric vehicles, there will be no fuel or exhaust system checks, however the battery and charging port will be checked. You can read more about MOT tests for electric vehicles in this useful article from MG.

How can you find out online when the last test was for a vehicle?

You can easily check the testing history of a vehicle online by visiting the GOV.UK website. Upon entering the car’s registration, this will reveal if it passed or failed any test, the mileage recorded when it was tested, what parts failed at each test if applicable, and if any parts had minor problems. The site also displays the date for when the next test is due.

What does the Test Certificate show?

At the end of the test, and if the car has passed, you will receive a paper copy of the certificate which is valid for a period of one year and will be held on the central  database. You are able to complete the next test up to a month (minus a day) before it runs out (this is known as the ‘Expiry Date’).

The certificate will show any advisory comments such as if any of the tyres have deteriorated.

You will get a bilingual (Welsh and English) version of the certificate if your vehicle is tested in Wales.

What happens if your car fails?

If your car fails, you will be given a VT30 ‘Refusal of an MOT Test Certificate’. It will list the reasons why the car did not pass, and the issues listed on the certificate will need to be addressed and repaired before the car is retested.

Where can you get an MOT?

To find your local MOT test centre which is accredited to The Motor Ombudsman’s Service and Repair Code of Practice, visit The Motor Ombudsman’s Garage Finder.

Only an approved MOT test centre can provide a valid MOT. Make sure that the centre is displaying the official MOT logo, a blue sign with three connecting white triangles in the centre.

How much does an MOT cost?

Prices vary between garages, so it’s worth shopping around, however the maximum fee that you are allowed to pay for a car is £54.85.

You can find a complete list of prices for all vehicles on the DVSA website.

Are there any online reminders available?

To help avoid missing the inspection due date after the car has had its first MOT, you can sign up for free annual reminders on the GOV.UK website. All you will need is the vehicle’s registration number and a valid e-mail address.

The post Getting to know MOTs appeared first on The Motor Ombudsman.

What does the service for an electric vehicle include?

As there are fewer moving parts on an EV compared to one with a traditional combustion engine, this means that there are less components to service. For example, there is no timing belt, clutch, sparkplugs or a gearbox to maintain, plus there’s no need for any oil changes. This means that EVs are therefore often cheaper to service than petrol and diesel models. In addition, electric motors are known to be very reliable.

Amongst others, the following parts are likely to be inspected and replaced as necessary during the servicing of an electric vehicle:

• The charging cable;
• The high-voltage battery; and
• High-voltage components and cables.

How often should electric vehicles be serviced?

An EV should be maintained in line with the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended full and intermediate servicing intervals, the same as that for a car powered by a regular engine.

Are the vital safety components such as brakes and tyres also checked during a service?

As with petrol and diesel-powered cars, the vital safety components such as tyres and brakes (discs and pads) will still be checked for wear to ensure that they are operating within their legal limits. This is despite regenerative braking being a common feature which doesn’t use the actual mechanical brakes.

Does an electric vehicle still need an MOT even though it doesn’t have an engine?

It is still a legal requirement to have an MOT for an electric vehicle once it reaches three years of age, as this will be needed to purchase insurance. The principal difference versus a petrol or diesel vehicle is that there is no emissions test due to the absence of an engine.

Take a look at our “Getting to Know MOTs” guide here.

An electric vehicle battery holds less charge over time. How do I find out how much it will cost to replace?

The cost of batteries for electric vehicles varies by make and model. Not all garages provide servicing, repairs and diagnostics for this type of car, but you can start your search for a business by using The Motor Ombudsman’s online Garage Finder.

The post Getting to know electric vehicle servicing   appeared first on The Motor Ombudsman.

It pays to do your research on the car…

In the digital age, there are plenty of resources on the internet to help you with your research on the different makes and models available when making a purchase. In addition to various comparison tools, several newspapers, magazines and websites regularly publish printed and filmed road tests of different makes and models, so these are always worth a read and watch. Furthermore, customer review sites and online forums can be a useful resource for a more personal perspective.

…And on the retailer

Choosing where to buy a car is just as important as the selection of the vehicle itself. Make sure that the seller, whether this is an independent garage or franchised dealership, is accredited to The Motor Ombudsman’s Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI)-approved Motor Industry Code of Practice for Vehicle Sales. This will mean that the retailer is adhering to the highest standards of work and service, and you will also have access to an impartial Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) service should you have a dispute with a business that you can’t resolve directly with them. The Motor Ombudsman’s Garage Finder lists all traders across the UK that are currently accredited to the Vehicle Sales Code.

Shape what you need

Cars come in all different sizes and body styles, and there is a significant amount of choice on the market. Today’s model ranges span from small city run-arounds to seven-seat SUVs and high performance sportscars. Your lifestyle and what the car will be used for i.e. whether it’s for the daily commute or taking the kids to school, will help determine the type of vehicle that should be on your shortlist. Where you live, and weather conditions, are also a key consideration, as a 4×4, for example, could be the most suitable option in areas where the terrain and climate may prove more challenging.

It doesn’t have to be taxing

Taxing a vehicle is a legal requirement, and therefore, this should also be taken into account when looking at the long-term running costs for a new car. The  There are 13 Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) tax bands in total which determine how much tax you pay in your first year. As of the second year of ownership, electric cars that cost less than £40,000 are still free to tax (until April 2025) whilst owners of petrol and diesel cars priced under the £40,000 threshold will be liable to pay an increased amount. You can read full details of Tax requirements here.

Have it covered…

As with tax, insurance is another necessity when getting behind the wheel, and the ongoing cost of an annual policy should be carefully budgeted for. The price will also vary significantly depending on which insurance group the make and model falls into. There are many insurance providers out there, so it’s worth taking the time to shop around for deals and any discounts. It’s equally worth noting that the renewal price at the end of the term may not necessarily be the cheapest on offer.

Fuel your lifestyle

There are three main fuel types, and some come with a hybrid combination depending on the make and model. Each have their respective advantages and disadvantages subject to what the car will be used for. In fact, What Car? magazine has a What Fuel? comparison tool to help make the decision-making process easier. However, some food for thought for each fuel type is as follows:

Petrol

As a general rule, unleaded petrol tends to be less expensive than diesel, and petrol cars are often slightly cheaper to buy. Petrol engines can be more refined and less noisy than their diesel counterparts, and petrol-powered cars are normally cheaper to run for motorists who frequently drive shorter distances.

Diesel

Emitting around 20 per cent less CO2 than a petrol vehicle, a diesel-powered car remains the ideal choice if you’re regularly covering a significant amount of mileage i.e. more than 12,000 miles a year, as it will often be more economical than a petrol-propelled equivalent. Diesel is also considered to be more suitable if you’re driving a larger car such a people carrier or an SUV, and/or are towing a trailer or caravan.

Electric

Electric cars are fast gaining popularity, and the obvious benefits of owning one are the fact that they are zero emission and are quiet to drive due to the absence of any engine noise. There are also less parts to service and no oil changes, and with instant torque produced by an electric motor when you put your foot on the accelerator, electric cars will be quicker off the line than their petrol or diesel equivalents.

Whether an electric car is suitable versus the traditional combustion engine is once again down to planned usage and lifestyle. Before making a purchase, it’s important to look at what range is covered between charges, where the main charging points are along your regular routes, in addition to what the cost is to replenish the battery from empty, and how long it takes. Also, get a quote for having a charging system installed at home if you have off-road parking, as government grants are available.

Try before you buy

Just as important as doing your research is actually putting a car to the test first-hand. This is when you will truly find out whether the make and model is right for you, away from ticking the boxes in terms of the financials. A test drive is a great opportunity to ask plenty of questions, and to get a feel for how the car performs on different types of roads such as motorways and country lanes. Being at the wheel is an ideal chance to gauge the level of comfort, visibility and space, and how intuitive the built-in technology is, such as the infotainment and satellite navigation systems.

The extras matter

In addition to a plethora of options which come with the choice of specification, any extras are also worth looking out for. These can come in the form of free servicing and insurance for a specified period or a vehicle warranty which can be for as much as seven years.

Money talks

There are various ways to buy a car according to what best suits your finances. This can vary from paying outright, to opting for a personal contract purchase (PCP), hire purchase or leasing through the Motability Scheme if you qualify. Ultimately, you need to ensure that the car falls within your budget and that any monthly payments will be affordable throughout the term of any finance contract.

Check the vehicle’s condition and paperwork

On the day of collection, which is an exciting time, take the time to have a walk around the car before leaving the forecourt. The bodywork should be free of any scratches and scuffs, and the specification should be in-line with what you ordered. Just as importantly, make sure that you are given all the correct paperwork, including the final invoice, a receipt of any payments, the V5C registration certificate (the logbook), the drive away insurance policy (if it’s been offered by the dealer), plus the handbook and servicing schedule. The handover is also an opportunity to ask for a refresher on the car’s controls before heading out on to the road.

Other handy Motor Ombudsman resources

Take a look at some of our other handy resources before buying a new car:

• The Motor Ombudsman’s Knowledge Base (which includes dedicated categories on new, used and electric vehicles)

• The Motor Ombudsman’s #JustPassed guide on buying and servicing a car for the first time

• “Getting to know test drives” -an essestial guide on what to look out for before, during and after you get behind the wheel.

The post New car buying tips from The Motor Ombudsman appeared first on The Motor Ombudsman.

With many of us spending our summer holidays in the UK, or preferring to drive over to the continent, The Motor Ombudsman, the automotive dispute resolution provider, is advising motorists to ensure their vehicles are legal and roadworthy.

To help ensure that you’ve “covered” all the bases this summer,  we’ve produced the following guidance to help you stay safe when travelling on the road, whether it’s for a staycation in the UK, or if you’re planning to head across the channel.

Tread carefully

Regular tyre maintenance is critical, as the small contact patch is the only surface separating the vehicle from the road. The legal minimum tread depth in the UK is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tread, and around the complete circumference of the tyre.

Inserting a 20p coin into the tread of the rubber is a quick and easy test to determine whether the depth is above the legal limit. If the outer band of the piece cannot be seen when it’s inserted, then the tread is sufficient. Furthermore, look out for splits or bulges, as high summer temperatures can heat up tyres and aggravate any existing damage to the rubber.

All tyres, including the spare (for example, if your car is not equipped with run flats), should be inflated to the pressures as recommended by the vehicle manufacturer (a sticker can normally be found on the door frame which indicates the levels in bar and psi). Remember that they should only be checked when they are cold and have not been in use for a few hours. Under-inflation, which a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) should indicate, can affect wear, handling and grip, especially during periods of inclement weather.

At its best when fluid

Fluids and lubricants are a lifeline for a vehicle so that it can operate correctly. These include oil, screen wash and air conditioning coolant, and all should be topped up to the advised levels. It’s always best to take your car to the garage if you’re not sure where to replenish the fluids and lubricants under the bonnet, and how much to put in.

It’s in the small print

Having valid documentation is essential for staying on the right side of the law when on the road. Make sure that your insurance policy, car tax (Vehicle Excise Duty) and MOT certificate are all up to date prior to setting off. And read on for more info on documentation you may need to take if you’re travelling abroad.

Breaking down the essentials

Planning for the unknown is essential, and therefore it’s important that you have an appropriate breakdown policy which provides the right level of cover, including for travelling abroad if appropriate. Also, check what emergency equipment you have in the car (such as jump leads, a warning triangle and tyre sealant – if there’s no spare), and what you need if you’re planning to visit other countries. Moreover, the vehicle’s handbook (usually found in the glovebox), often contains useful advice and troubleshooting information should something go wrong.

Lighting up the road

Although the summer season is traditionally a period when there is the most daylight, it’s still important that all front headlights, LED running lights, fog lights and rear lamps should be operating at their full potential and cleaned at least once a week to stay safe when travelling in the dark or when visibility is poor.

Stick to the rules for driving abroad

Road laws vary by country, and the essential equipment that needs to be carried also differs. For example, for those crossing the channel to France, a UK sticker on the back of the car, a warning triangle and high visibility reflective jackets are essential. You may also require headlamp beam converters. And you will also need to have all the necessary documentation with you such as your driving licence, valid insurance, a valid MOT certificate if your vehicle is over three years old, and your V5 document. Check out our Drive Europe guide for more info.

Make a point to charge ahead

Sales of electric vehicles (EVs) and plug-in hybrid cars are increasing, and therefore, if you drive one of these models, it’s important that you are aware of the location of battery charging points along your route, whether in the UK or on the continent. Research how many miles you are planning to cover, what the distance is between charging stations, and if your accommodation has points available so that you can make sure your car has sufficient range for your trips.

Equally as essential is the health of your battery as it drives the car’s electronic systems. If your vehicle is difficult to start, and the battery is more than five years old, you should look at getting it replaced, as a flat battery is one of the main causes of breakdowns. This will help to avoid any unnecessary interruptions to journeys during the holiday period.

Access is key…

And therefore make sure that you know the alternative method for getting into the car if the key fob fails or loses power. This is usually detailed in your vehicle’s handbook.

Fuel for thought…

Do not fill the fuel tank completely, especially on hot days. As with most liquids, fuel will expand, and this could lead to it leaking out of the filler neck of the tank or breather. With prices at the pump on the rise, you can check online where the cheapest unleaded, diesel or LPG in a selected area of the UK can be found.

Also, try not to use the air conditioning for the whole duration or your journey, and only turn it on once all doors and windows are closed. Similarly, it’s best to switch it off once the air conditioning has cooled the inside of the car to reduce fuel consumption.

Keep it light

Carrying unnecessary items in the car may also raise fuel use. Therefore, if they are not required, remove any racks or boxes from the roof as these can create drag, and try to be realistic about what you will need when packing for your summer holiday.

Entertainment for the kids

To avoid the common question ‘are we there yet?’ Remember to plan ahead with entertainment for the kids. Ensure that all devices such as tablets and phones fully charged and ready with a few pre-downloaded films, and also remember their chargers and battery packs. It’s also a time to get back to basics with traditional games of ‘I-spy’, jokes, riddles and a good sing-along!

Know how to find a garage you can rely on

Breaking down or needing a repair on your vehicle during a summer getaway can be a worrying time, especially when you’re used to having a local, trusted garage you know you can rely on. The Motor Ombudsman’s online Garage Finder will help you to locate your nearest CTSI-Approved Code accredited business. You’ll be able to read reviews and find their contact details, so you can get back on the road and free to enjoy the rest of your trip!

The post Stay covered this summer with TMO’s summer driving tips appeared first on The Motor Ombudsman.

1. Carry the right kit

It’s important to be prepared all-year-round, not just for winter, so that you have all the right equipment to hand in the event of a breakdown. With the large majority of people now owning a smartphone, make sure that you take your charger with you. In addition, double check if it can be plugged into the car’s USB ports, or whether you need a USB adaptor to replenish your device using the in-car power socket. Also, put a tow rope, jump leads, a spade and a warning triangle in the boot, and keep a working torch accessible. It’s good practice to carry water, blankets, a first aid kit and a high visibility jacket.

2. Research pays off

Being a member of a breakdown company gives you the peace of mind that help is at hand if you were to need it. Don’t get stranded, and use the internet to search for the most competitive quotes, and take the time to ensure that you get the right level of cover that you need for where you live and use the car.

3. Keep it clean

Grit used to provide added grip on an icy road network can damage the car’s bodywork, so look out for any rust, and touch up any paint chips as soon as possible. If you can, wax the exterior before the cold weather sets in. It’s equally advisable to pressure wash the underside of your car regularly, to remove any salt and solution that could potentially cause expensive damage.

4. Bright lights are best

During periods of inclement weather, lights and fog lamps can get covered in dirt and salt from the road. Make sure that all lenses all work, and upgrade to more powerful bulbs if greater visibility is required. Furthermore, it’s advisable to wipe down the front and rear lights once a week.

5. Check your anti-freeze

It’s an obvious tip, but maintaining the right level of antifreeze is essential. Without adequate levels, sub-zero temperatures can affect your engine. Your manual will tell you the best type of antifreeze for your car and the amount you should use. Also, take a look at the hoses to check that they aren’t blocked or cracked. Never refill fluids straight after you’ve driven the car – wait until it’s cooled down.

6. Have a clear view

In the winter, spray, grit and slush can obscure the view through your windscreen and compromise safety. Your windscreen wipers and washer fluid are the only defence against this. So make sure the wipers are working smoothly and don’t leave streaks (do not use them on an icy surface), and that the washer fluid is always topped up.

7. Keep your battery charged

With colder temperatures, a car’s battery is under even greater pressure during the winter months: the heating’s on full-blast, de-misters are working overtime, and, because of the shorter daylight hours, headlights are on for longer. If the car is not used very often, it might be worth investing in a trickle charger to top up the battery.

8. Tread carefully with your tyres

Balding tyres are a safety hazard at any time, but in winter, the risks of an accident are even greater. Therefore, take a look at all four corners to check that the tread depth is legal i.e. it must be 1.6mm across 75% of the tyre. However, the deeper the tread, the greater the grip. Nevertheless, it’s recommended that tyres with less than 3mm of tread are replaced due to reduced performance. You may even want to invest in a set of winter tyres, particularly if you live in a rural or hilly area.

9. Stop and test your brakes

The roads are wetter and more slippery in winter than at any other time of the year, so it’s vital that your brakes are up to the task. Some newer cars are fitted with sensors that will tell you when the brakes need replacing. Otherwise, you can ask your local garage to test your brake pads, discs and pipes.

10. Get a timely service

You can address many of these winter-proofing tips in one go by paying a visit to your local garage. Many now offer special winter checks, including ensuring tyres are in good condition, mechanical parts are lubricated and essential fluids stay topped up. Remember that keeping up-to-date with the recommended service schedule will help keep your car in good condition all year round – and protect any warranty.
For all-year-round advice for staying the safe on the road, check out our handy tips on the “Motoring Advice” section of this website.

The post Motoring advice for this winter appeared first on The Motor Ombudsman.

Under pressure to perform

If a car has been stationary for a prolonged period of time, tyre pressure can be lost. Therefore, to top it up to the recommended levels, which can be often be found on the driver’s side door frame or in the handbook, you can use a home tyre inflation kit, or if it is safe to do so, you can visit a nearby petrol station forecourt that has an air machine. As well as running at the right pressures, tyres must also have the correct tread depth (i.e. 1.6 mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre), and be free of any defects, bulges and cracking.

Go out on a charge

If you haven’t used your car for a while, the battery may have gone flat, with the same fate applying to plug-in hybrids and electric vehicles (EVs). If you don’t have the option of jump starting the car, and don’t have vehicle recovery at your home address on your breakdown policy, it is still possible to pay for it, or alternatively portable battery chargers and boosters to recharge the battery can be purchased. Once you have started the car, it is recommended that you go out for a 20 to 30 minute drive to allow the battery to charge up again.

If the battery has lost charge, it may also be worth checking the date on it, as batteries over five years old will generally be more susceptible to failing and might be worth replacing.

Keep it fluid

It’s good practice with routine maintenance to check that all the vital fluids are topped up, such as oil and screenwash. For the oil, the level should sit between the two marks on the dipstick, whilst the latter should be equal to the “max” or “maximum” line.

Tax it or risk a fine

If you have been self-isolating during the past few months, and declared your car as “SORN”, i.e. off road, you will need to visit the GOV.UK “Tax your vehicle” website to re-tax your vehicle according to the current bands. If you drive a SORN car, other than to go to a pre-booked MOT, you can be fined £80, with a maximum penalty of £1,000 if the case were to end up in court.

With MOT certificates extended from the 30th March according to the latest rules, motorists can tax their vehicle using their existing MOT certificate. It’s also worth bearing in mind that, as of 27th May 2020, test certificates will be reminding drivers that, if a vehicle fails its MOT, the six-month exemption will no longer be valid.

Stay covered

Your car insurance may have also expired whilst the car was off the road, so before heading out, it’s worth just double checking that it’s still valid, and that you can drive legally. If it has expired, or the agreement didn’t renew automatically, you can get quotes online or over the phone from insurers when shopping around for a new policy.

Cleanliness is key

Stationary cars, whether on a driveway, or when parked at the roadside, can gather dirt, grime and dust. Therefore, front and rear screens should be cleaned and be free of smears for maximum visibility, and all mirrors should also be wiped down. At the same time, you should also check your front are rear number plates are clearly visible.

Check your lights are working

Although we’re now getting used to the longer days of sunlight, the nights will soon start to draw in again, so it’s important to make sure that all of your front and rear lights are working before setting off. This includes the fog lamps.

Keep an eye out for wildlife

Static vehicles can provide an ideal nesting spot or home for some wildlife, so it’s worth giving the car a once over to ensure that no small animals are stowed away in the wheel arches, or have made the engine bay their home.

Heading out…

When you start the car up for the first time, and all the necessary checks have been made, let the engine run to allow the oil to circulate, and if it’s convenient to do so, it’s advisable to go on a short drive, ideally on different types of roads, to be able to move through the gears, get the engine up to temperature and to recharge the battery.

The post Get your car in shape for the road appeared first on The Motor Ombudsman.

What is a test drive?

A test drive is an essential part of the vehicle purchase process (new or used), where you can try out the car first-hand to find out whether it will meet your needs and that it is of the right quality.

What should I take into consideration before a test drive?

If there is a specific model, engine size, transmission (i.e. automatic or manual), or trim level / grade that you wish to try, check in advance that it’s available when booking the test drive. Also, to make the most of your visit, and if you have the time, it is also worth asking whether you can test more than one car, as it can be useful to compare one model to another. In addition, take the measurements of your garage or allocated parking area to ensure that your new car will fit. Furthermore, if you’re looking to buy an electric or plug-in hybrid vehicle, find out if you can have a charging point installed at your home, or where your nearest one is.

What should I bring along to a test drive?

So that the independent garage or franchised car dealership can verify that it is legal for you to drive their vehicles, you will need to have your driver’s licence with you so that they can check and take a copy of it. You will not need to pre-arrange insurance cover as the car will be on the business’ policy. However, ask if there are any excesses to pay in the rare event of an accident or damage occurring during the drive.

In addition, think about how you will be using the car, and bring along any accessories such as a buggy or sporting equipment (e.g. golf clubs), so that you can see whether they will fit in the boot. Likewise for child car seats to see whether they are compatible with the fixing points.

 A face covering is also required when visiting a car showroom. 

How long will I be able to test the car for?

Normally, a test drive will last for about an hour, and the business will have a pre-defined route in the local area which often takes in different types of roads (e.g. residential and motorways). It is common practice for the sales representative to take to the wheel first to show you the controls, and will drive to a safe place to swap over.

Some brands now offer longer test drives so that you can see what it’s like to live with the car in your own environment and as part of your weekly routine.

What should I look out for during the test drive of a car?

During the drive, you may want to consider the following*, and it’s always worth taking someone with you (such as a qualified mechanic) if you are unsure as to what to look out for:

– Is it comfortable, and can you adjust the seats and steering wheel easily to the correct height?

– Is there enough head and legroom?

– Is the boot big enough for your requirements, and how do the seats fold down (i.e. a 60-40 or 50-50 split)?

– Is there enough storage in the front and rear?

– How user-friendly are the satellite navigation and audio / infotainment systems?

– Are there charging sockets for my satellite navigation system or smartphone?

– Is there Bluetooth connectivity?

– Are there any squeaks and rattles (if testing a used car especially)?

– What does the engine sound like (as this could reveal potential faults)?

– Is the gearbox shifting smoothly?

– What is the condition of the bodywork and tyres (if testing a used car especially)?

– Does it accelerate adequately when overtaking or on steep inclines, or does the car feel under-powered to you?

*List not exclusive.

What will happen after the test drive?

Following the test drive, the sales representative will often want to get your feedback on what you thought of the car or cars that you have just tried, and try to gauge when you will be looking to make a purchase. However, just because you have done a test drive, don’t feel pressured into signing on the dotted line there and then. As it is a significant purchase, take the time to think it through, review all the paperwork and make sure that the car is ultimately right for you.

Where can I find a business to arrange a test drive of a car that I am interested in?

To arrange a test drive of a car at an independent garage or franchised car dealership which is accredited to The Motor Ombudsman’s Motor Industry Code of Practice for Vehicle Sales, visit www.themotorombudsman.org/garage-finder.

The post Getting to know test drives    appeared first on The Motor Ombudsman.

Glow plugs are an essential component of diesel-powered cars.

This “Getting to Know” guide sheds some light on what they work.

What is a glow plug?

A glow plug is a pencil-shaped piece of metal with a heating element at the tip. It essentially consists of a housing with screw-in threads and a pencil element pressed into the housing. The single-pole connecting pin is glued to the housing by means of a non-detachable round aluminium nut.

What is the role of glow plugs?

While petrol engines use spark plugs during ignition, diesel engines use glow plugs to start. Their principal role is to heat up the air in a combustion chamber of a diesel engine to allow it to reach the necessary temperature. There may be as many as 10 glow plugs, one for each cylinder of the engine.

How do they work?

When electrified, the heating element heats due to its electrical resistance and begins to emit an orange-red light, hence the term glow plug, which is similar to what happens with a heating element in a toaster. The air-fuel spray generated by the injector ignites close to the red hot tip of the plug, which initiates combustion.

How do you know if they are working?

When you turning on the ignition, the glow plug symbol (an orange squiggle) illuminates on the dashboard, and will then go out after a few seconds. When a car’s ignition is started with a button rather than a key, the car’s computer knows to delay starting the engine until the glow plugs have been activated.

How do you know if they are not functioning correctly?

The principal symptoms are:

• The engine may become more difficult to start, especially in cold weather.

• There is black smoke when starting the engine, indicating the presence of unburned fuel due to an incomplete combustion process.

Where can I find a garage?

To find your local Motor Ombudsman-accredited franchised car dealership or independent garage to get your glow plugs looked at or replaced, visit The Motor Ombudsman’s online Garage Finder.

To read a Motor Ombudsman case study on glow plugs, click here.

Image courtesy of Yourmechanic.com

The post Getting to know glow plugs appeared first on The Motor Ombudsman.

What is the function of windscreen wipers?

Windscreen wipers are a vital safety component, and are designed to increase visibility by clearing dirt and moisture from the front and rear screens.

What is the typical lifespan of windscreen wiper blades?

Windscreen wiper blades are made out of rubber and have a limited lifespan (around six months to a year), even if they are not frequently used. Therefore, they should be inspected on a regular basis for cracks and splits.

What steps can I take to make the blades last as long as possible?

The following actions can be taken to help prolong the lifespan of the blades:

• Make sure that your windscreen is kept clean and free of debris;
• In cold weather, remove any snow and ice from the windscreen before turning on the wipers;
• Always keep the windscreen washer fluid topped up; and
• Try to park in a location which is out of direct sunlight (i.e. in the shade).

How do I know if the windscreen wiper blades need replacing?

There are a few telltale signs that your windscreen blades may need changing. These are namely:

• They leave streaks on the windscreen;
• They skip due to being out of shape;
• They squeak when they run across the screen; and
• Smears occur on the windshield. 

How do you change the blades on windscreen wipers?

The following is a simple 10-step guide for changing the windscreen wiper blades (front or rear).

1. Before you start, measure the wiper blade length or check your car’s owner’s manual to purchase the correct specification and blade size.
2. Once you have the replacement blades, switch on the ignition and activate the wipers.
3. Turn the engine off when the wipers are in a vertical position as this makes the blades easier to change.
4. Pull the wiper arms away from the windscreen.
5. Depress the small tab on the underside of the wiper where it meets the wiper arm.
6. Slide the old wiper blade off the arm by pulling downwards.
7. Pull the new wiper blade tight onto the arm. You will hear a clicking sound when it locks into place.
8. Lower the wiper arm back onto the windshield slowly and repeat this process on the other wiper arm (front screen only).
9. Take care not to damage the windscreen when lowering the arm.
10. Discard the old wiper blades safely.

For a more interactive guide for changing the blades, there are numerous “how-to” videos on the Internet that you can watch as necessary.

How much do windscreen wiper blades cost?

The price of the blades depends on the specification and brand. It is worth shopping around to get quotes for the blades themselves, and for fitting if you require a garage to change the blades for you.

Where can I find a business to have my windscreen wiper blades replaced?

To find an independent garage or franchised car dealership which is accredited to The Motor Ombudsman’s Motor Industry Code of Practice for Service and Repair, visit The Motor Ombudsman’s online Garage Finder.

Image courtesy of The Sun.

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What is the function of an airbag?

Airbags, which are sometimes referred to as Supplementary Restraint Systems (SRS), are designed to enhance the protection provided by seatbelts, rather than being a replacement for them. Airbags ultimately provide a degree of cushioning when occupants are forced against hard band unpadded parts of the car interior’s in the event of a collision, such as the steering wheel and the dashboard.

What are the two main types of airbag?

Vehicles can be equipped with both front and side air bags (SABs). Driver and passenger airbags are designed to inflate in a severe frontal collision, whereas side airbags (SABs) are located in either the side structure of the car or in the seats themselves. Their job is to protect the driver and passengers from injury in the event of a side impact.

How does an airbag work?

Crash sensors detect a sudden reduction in speed and send a signal to the airbag inflator which fills the bag with a gas. The bag will then start to deflate instantly, in a controlled manner, in order to lessen the impact for the vehicle occupants.

Can the inflation of airbags cause injuries?

As airbags inflate quickly, and with considerable force, minor injuries, such as abrasions and slight burns, may occur to the driver and passengers. Serious harm can be caused if an occupant is sitting too close to an airbag when it inflates.

What does it mean if my airbag warning light is showing on the dashboard?

If the airbag light illuminates on the dashboard, it could signal three issues:

• That there’s a faulty seat belt switch;
• That the clock spring is damaged (this is a cable which can be found between the steering wheel and the steering column); or
• The crash sensor is defective or needs to be reset.

If the light is on, you will not be able to turn it off yourself. Therefore, it is advisable to take the vehicle as soon as possible to an independent garage or franchised dealer to be rectified (please see below). It will not stop you driving the car, but the airbags may not inflate in the event of an accident.

What happens if my vehicle is recalled because of potentially faulty airbags?

Airbag recalls have been widely publicised in the media due to potential manufacturing defects. Therefore, if you have received a notification, such as a letter, from the manufacturer of your vehicle or dealership where you purchased the car from, you should arrange an appointment with them to have the necessary rectification work carried out as soon as possible. This should be at no cost to yourself.

The online GOV.UK MOT history checker also has a useful section where you can view any recalls on a vehicle as per the registration entered.

What should I consider when getting any part of the airbag system replaced?

If any part of the airbag system requires replacement, only components approved by the vehicle manufacturer should be used, and should equally be installed according to their guidance and specification.

Where can I find a business to have my airbag replaced?

To find an independent garage or franchised car dealership which is accredited to The Motor Ombudsman’s Motor Industry Code of Practice for Service and Repair, visit The Motor Ombudsman’s online Garage Finder.

For further guidance on vehicle safety, visit the ROSPA here.

Image courtesy of WhichCar.

The post Getting to know airbags appeared first on The Motor Ombudsman.