Car Servicing & Repair Advice

Changes to the MOT
The MOT test is changing from January 2012 and many new items including warning lights and airbags become mandatory test items.

Engine oils - specifications and grades
If you need to top-up it's important to use oil of the right grade and specification

Coil springs breaking
AA patrols have seen a big increase in the number of broken coil springs they see - more than 21,000 last year

Brakes
Cast iron is an ideal material for brake components, but can corrode easily. Distortion, disc wear, squeal, pad wear, and scoring are other common problems.

Car tyres
The right tyres, in good condition and correctly inflated are vital for braking and cornering safety.

Car servicing & repair FAQs
Answers to the most common questions from air-con and cambelts to service schedules and labour rates.

Battery Problems?
Battery faults are the most common cause of breakdown - particularly during the winter. Read how you can avoid problems with your own car

Diesel Particulate Filters (DPF)
Set to become as common as catalytic converters, DPFs can reduce diesel soot emissions by 80% though you may have to adjust your driving style.

Car recalls
Sometimes recalls are ignored or missed. Check that there's not a safety check or repair outstanding on your car.

Motor Industry Code of Practice
Encouraging garages to raise standards and helping to rebuild customer confidence.

MOT testing
Get information on the costs and penalties of MOT testing.

Repairs after the warranty runs out
Once the warranty has expired, the manufacturer is under no obligation to help with the costs of repair.

Get the most from your garage
There are two sides to every relationship and there are a few things you can do to reduce the risk of something going wrong as you deal with a garage.

'Right to Repair' Campaign
Freedom to have your car serviced/repaired where you choose is under threat if current European regulations are not renewed in 2010.

Antifreeze/coolant
If you top-up or replace the antifreeze/coolant you must use a product that meets the car manufacturer's specification requirement as specified in the vehicle handbook.

Running in a new car
It's still a good idea to take a little extra care as reliability, oil consumption and fuel consumption can all benefit.

Not using your car for a while?
Follow our advice to make sure it will be in good condition and ready to use when you return.