Jargon Buster

Fault diagnostics & EML (Engine Management Light)

Most cars these days have an on board system EOBD (European on board diagnostics) this is a system that checks all linked electronic circuits many times a second, if a fault is detected the system will illuminate a light on the dashboard that can only be turned off by a qualified technician or mechanic. This light normally will be a picture of an engine or similar image. In some cases if a severe fault is detected by the ECU (electronic control unit) it will restrict the cars overall performance by limiting engine revs to usually 2000 – 3000 per minute, this is known as limp home mode. Should this light illuminate you should book your car in for a diagnostic investigation ASAP. Typically a diagnostic plug in and report costs between £25.00 & £45.00 dependant on your type of vehicle.

We use the latest equipment for diagnosis purposes including Launch X431, snap on MT1500 scanner & EOBD code readers.

Ford has now had a major update. European coverage from 1996 up to 2004.

This really is a huge step forward for the Launch X431. Coverage includes the Escort, Fiesta, Modeo, Ka, Focus, etc.
Other recent additions include Rover, Saab, Suzuki and Ssangyong. Other manufacturers have also had great improvements including the addition of CAN-BUS so keep your X431 up-to-date!

CAN-BUS is now here, don't be left behind!

More and more manufacturers are now moving over to CAN protocols.
The latest Vauxhall Astras (H), Vectras (C), Volkswagens, Audis, Renaults, Mercedes-Benz etc are all moving over to CAN. Call us for the special X431 CAN-BUS 2 adapter. Unsure about CAN (Control Area Network)?

Systems such as engine, ABS, airbags, auto boxes, immobiliser, body control, instrument clusters, air suspension and so on are covered.

Toyota / Lexus, Nissan, Honda, Mitsubishi, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Volkswagen / VW Audi group, Vauxhall, Volvo, Fiat, Renault, Daewoo, Hyundai, Kia, Mazda, Ford and all OBDII vehicles.

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)

This is a series of sensors that are used to prevent the car's wheels locking and causing a skid when you press the brake pedal. This works by automatically releasing and then re-applying the car's brakes in rapid succession which allows you to maintain control whilst reducing speed in adverse conditions.

Traction Control (TC or ESP)

This safety feature works in a very similar way that ABS works but applies brakes and reduces power to the relevant wheel that has lost traction and in some cases uses the same ECU (electronic control unit) as the ABS system.

Wheel Alignment (Geometry)

This refers to the correct alignment of the wheels & tyres when your car is at its normal ride level. Having your wheels aligned correctly ensures they are all set to manufacturers specifications. If the wheels are incorrectly aligned, the car may not handle correctly and it could adversely affect tyre wear. Adjustments are typically between 1mm and 4mm; this sounds insignificant but can make a huge difference to handling and tyre longevity.

The Tyre law

UK law insists your car must be fitted with the correct tyre for your vehicle - and that they are inflated to the manufacturer's recommended pressures. The tread depth must be a minimum of 1.6mm across 75% of the tread width have no cuts deep enough to expose the construction of the tyre and also have no bulges in the tread or sidewall.
The worse your tyres are, the more at risk you could be from them failing you at a crucial moment and either causing or contributing to an accident. Obviously we desperately want to help you avoid this situation, but we also want to save you money and points on your licence too. Remember - for each illegal tyre you could be fined up to £2,500 and have up to 3 penalty points put on your licence. Your insurance could also be invalidated if you have an accident when driving on illegal tyres.

So what's the best way to look after your tyres?

The better you look after you tyres, the better they'll look after you. So we recommend you check the tread condition, pressure and any signs of irregular wear. Try to avoid potholes or hitting kerbs, as these can weaken them on the inside - without showing signs on the outside.

Tyre design & types.

Economy steel radials
These represent good value for money and are usually imported. These manufacturers tend to purchase manufacturing machines from major tyre manufacturers and re create tyres with there names on the sidewall. Therefore you could say in some cases you are purchasing 4-5 year old premium tyre designs at a fraction of the cost. Some examples of these manufacturers are Austone tyres, Camac tyres, Nankang tyres, Wan Li Tyres, Ling Long tyres, Westlake tyres, Fullrun tyres, Kenda tyres, Lassa tyres, Ghaja tungal tyres, Enduro tyres, Chen shan tyres, Federal tyres,Tornado tyres, Infinity tyres, Roadstone tyres, Sava tyres, Debica tyres and many more economy tyre brands.

Mid range brand tyres
These tend to be quality up and coming manufacturers that tend to try to gain homologation from car manufacturers as the original equipment (oe) tyres, thus gaining replacement market share and gaining brand awareness. Some current examples of these are Courier tyres, Dayton tyres, Hankook tyres, Kumho tyres, Toyo tyres, Yokohama tyres, 

Branded tyres
Much the same as Levis, Gucci, Rolex, Boss, Panasonic BMW, Mercedes, Ferrari Etc. These are the brands that are household names and have been for many years, Avon, Bridgestone, Continental, Dunlop, Firestone, Goodyear, Michelin. Pirelli, Semperit.

Run On Flat: A revolution in tyre history

It's your worst nightmare. You're on your way to your son's big football match, your daughter's graduation or that big business meeting your career depends on, and disaster strikes: a flat tyre on the motorway. With Goodyear's revolutionary RunOnFlat technology, this fear will be a thing of the past. Cars fitted with RunOnFlat tyres will keep going for up to 50 miles after a puncture or blow out. So no matter where you're going, Goodyear RunOnFlat will make sure you get there.

Run On Flat Keeps rolling when flat

TPMS

TPMS stands for Tyre Pressure Monitoring System, an advanced tyre monitoring system that is recommended for all cars, but an absolute requirement for RunOnFlat tyres. After all, without an on-board monitoring system for RunOnFlat tyres, you wouldn't even know that you'd had a puncture and your tyre required servicing. That is why RunOnFlat tyres should only be fitted on cars that carries a TPMS system.

Indirect or direct TPMS

There are two different kinds of TPMS system: indirect TPMS systems do not measure air pressure directly from the tyre, but calculate it on the basis of ABS/ESP signals. As there is no need for additional sensors, this solution is highly cost-effective while providing a basic and functional monitoring system. The disadvantage is that the system isn't very accurate. Direct systems employ sensors on the tyre valves that transmit a radio signal to the car's bodywork. This highly accurate and reliable system also keeps track of tyre temperatures while giving you the most detailed information on your tyres' air pressure.

MOT Testing / Annual safety inspection

The MOT process is governed by strict rules & regulations set out by the VOSA (The Vehicle and Operator Services Agency). This means the things that we check are exactly the same as the things other approved MOT centres must check. However, where we try to make a difference is in making the whole process as simple, affordable and hassle free as possible. Our MOT technicians are fully qualified to approve your vehicle as legal and safe but are also NVQ level, 2 or 3qualified and also city & guilds trained mechanics of some 20 years experience, you can choose to watch your vehicle test being carried out or relax in our internet & TV lounge. Our technicians will always protect your valued car by using seat covers and floor mats; they will also endeavour to point out things that could need looking at soon, even if they aren't part of the test.

About VOSA

The Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA) was formed on 1st April 2003 following the merger of the Vehicle Inspectorate and the Traffic Area Network division of the Department for Transport. VOSA provides a range of licensing, testing and enforcement services with the aim of improving the roadworthiness standards of vehicles ensuring the compliance of operators and drivers with road traffic legislation, and supporting the independent Traffic Commissioners.

Text Reminders

We all forget things from time to time, However if you would like us to remind you in say 50 weeks time that your MOT is due in two weeks we will happily send a brief text message. We could also remind you annual service is due soon.
WE WILL NEVER BOMBARD YOU WITH JUNK TEXTS OR SPECIAL OFFERS

Batteries

If it wasn't for your battery you car wouldn't be going anywhere. Which is why, rather than ignoring it or waiting until it fails you completely paying it a bit of attention makes much more sense. Some batteries need to be periodically topped up with distilled water to prolong their life. However, you've got to be careful as battery acid is highly corrosive. So maybe it's best to leave it to the experts. We will always check your battery free of charge and give an honest opinion of its performance & condition. If however your battery has failed our highly trained technicians provide a comprehensive battery service including, new battery selection, fitting service and an environmentally friendly disposal of old units because we want to help look after the environment, just as much as you do.

Exhausts

Bosal’s extensive experience in development and supply of OE exhaust systems to customers around the world gives its global aftermarket operations a significant lead.
Recent innovations include the pioneering Bosal Diesel-Oxicatfilter, which uniquely combines an oxidation catalyst converter with a diesel particulate filter in a single substrate unit resulting in a reduction in diesel soot particulate emissions by 30-60%. This solution was developed in response to various EU directives and domestic regulations introduced recently by individual member states, and should be launched to the market in the beginning of 2007.

We use the latest technology for wheel alignment