A tyre bursting can be a serious problem that can result in your car flipping. Our experts discuss how to deal with burst tyres calmly and safely.
Tyres bursting can cause serious problems for your car. It’s important to deal with it logically and in a sensible way to reduce the danger for yourself and the drivers on the road around you. Read on for our expert guide.
From fuel economy to general safety, read on for our experts’ reasons to check your tyre pressure
Tyres should be checked once a month. Good tyre pessure is important not only for the running costs of your car, but also has a huge effect on safety. Read on for our top three reasons to check your tyres.
The amount of fuel that it costs to run a car is an issue for so many motorists. Keeping your tyres fully inflated can save a lot of fuel by reducing the amount of pressure on your engine though, so it’s important to check them regularly to help save you more money in the long-run.
Your tyres have to stand up to thousands of miles of wear and tear. If you don’t check them regularly, you could find that they’ve become more worn in specific areas: checking tyre pressure once a month though can help to alleviate unbalanced tyre stress. Under-inflated tyres will rub more at the edges, whilst over-inflated tyres will show more wear in the middle.
The braking distance of your car isn’t a luxury but a necessity for your car, and your tyres play a huge role. Tests show that even when your tyres as just 15psi under inflation, your car will have 5m longer braking distance, so it’s important to check that your car isn’t at this level.
If your car tyres need replacement, a service or simply a check-up, don't hesitate to get in contact with us at 01258 459798.
Service your car and ease your mind about a long journey over the festive period, with our experts’ top tips
Christmas is a time of busy, icy roads, so car safety is even more important than usual; if you’ve got a long journey ahead, it’s easy to make your journey stress-free with simple checks and tips. Read on for our expert advice on how to make sure tyres, oil and everything in between is fit for purpose this Christmas and remember to stay safe on your long drive!
One of the most important parts of the car to check before you leave, make sure your tyres are in good condition. The legally required tread depth is 1.6mm: pump your tyres the correct pressure and make sure that they’re fit for a long journey: if you have a spare, that must be pumped too.
Engine oil, brake fluid and screenwash all need to be topped up before a long journey too. Have a look under the bonnet to make sure you’re okay for each: your brake fluid should be within half an inch of the cap, for example.
Check the front lights are working on the car and have someone stand behind your car to check the back lights are working. If your breaks feel spongey, then you’ll need to get them fixed too; if you hear grinding sounds, it could also mean you need replacement breaks.
The best way to get your car road-ready is to have a professional look at it. A quick service can really ease your mind about your long journey ahead: at Sunrise Service & MOT Centre, we can even collect and deliver your car to a destination of your choice.
For more information about diagnosing your car's problems ready for the winter, contact our team today on 01258 459 798.
In countries such as Germany, Sweden and Austria, winter tyres are compulsory. In the UK, however, winter tyres are not a legal requirement and many of us question if it's worth investing in a new set of tyres. Generally speaking, if you live in a remote area where conditions are likely to be worse for longer or there's a greater risk of bad weather, winter tyres should be considered. Your confidence driving in these conditions and how much you have to drive in snow and ice will also help to determine whether winter tyres are necessary.
Sunrise Service & MOT Centre are experienced car mechanics offering expert services in Blandford. Contact us on 01258 459 798 to find out if our mechanics would recommend winter tyres for your vehicle.
There are two main differences between winter and regular tyres: tread depth and material. Regular tyres have a 7 and 8mm thread depth and as the temperature drops, the material of regular tyres stiffens which reduces their grip. Winter tyres, on the other hand, have a tread depth of between 8 and 9mm, wider grooves and narrow slits at the edges of the tread area. The rubber material of winter tyres stays soft and maintains a grip on snow and ice.
As well as enhancing road grip, winter tyres improve a car's stopping distance. Compared to regular tyres, braking distance can be reduced by as much as the length of two cars when driving at 30mph on a snow-covered road.
In addition, winter tyres provide a much better grip in both wet and dry weather conditions where temperatures are below 7°C. As temperatures are low in the UK typically from October through to March, winter tyres offer extra safety on the road.
Preparing your car for the harsh winter weather not only decreases the chance of your car breaking down, but ensures your safety in difficult driving conditions.
Sunrise Service & MOT Centre are experienced car mechanics offering expert services in Blandford. Contact us on 01258 459 798 to find out more about preparing your car this winter!
Get your car serviced
If your car is due a service, get it done before the winter really takes hold. Many car problems can be prevented by regular car servicing and repairs, making it much easier to keep up with regular maintenance tasks.
Check your battery
A weak battery will fail in colder temperatures, so your battery should be the first thing you check. Batteries are put under a lot of strain from cold temperatures, increased use of lights, heaters and fans. If your car is having problems starting, get your battery checked by an experienced car mechanic and replace it if necessary.
Refill engine coolant
Your engine coolant should be 50/50 water and antifreeze. Antifreeze can become diluted over time, especially if you top your engine coolant up with water during the year. In very cold temperatures, engine coolant can freeze, this can lead to your engine over-heating and result in expensive repairs.
Switch to winter tyres
If you drive frequently in winter, switching your standard car tyres to winter tyres not only increases your car's performance, but increases your safety. Winter tyres offer exceptional grip in icy conditions, as well as performing better than summer tyres when wet. If you choose to replace your tyres, book in to have your winter tyres correctly fitted by a local expert such as ourselves.
Check your lights
As it gets progressively darker during the winter months, it’s important to check that your lights are clean and that they’re working efficiently. If you notice any blown or cracked lights, get them replaced and check that your full beam headlights and fog lights are working properly.
Check your windscreen
Chips in your car's windscreen can get worse during cold weather; getting them fixed before winter arrives will prevent this. Clean your windscreen and check for any nicks and tears in the wiper blades that could cause impaired visibility during wet weather.
For more information about diagnosing your car's problems ready for the winter, contact our team today on 01258 459 798.
We offer an affordable MOT testing service for vehicles of all makes and models.
We have an experienced team of qualified technicians who offer a range of car and garage services.
When your tyres need replacing, we're on hand to get you back on the road within no time at all!