Tiff Needell Advises on Summer Driving

With new research by the Good Garage Scheme revealing we are nation of motorists unprepared for long car journeys during the summer, Fifth Gear presenter, Tiff Needell will be speaking with radio stations this week on the importance of a Holiday Check for your car and advising motorists to visit their nearest Good Garage Scheme member for a check.

Photo courtesy of Tiff Needell

More than 41% say they have no plans to get their car checked before their next long journey, and this can lead to unwelcome breakdowns on holiday or even while travelling to the airport.

What precautions should you take before a long car journey?

• Give your car a visual check. Are there any visible cracks or bulges on the tyres, and are they looking as full as normal? Check with your tyre pressure gauge
• Ensure your fluid levels (namely coolant and oil) are topped up sufficiently. This five minute job may mean the difference between a trouble-free journey and parking at the road side with an overheating car.
• Ensure you have plenty of water in the car for you and your passengers (including any pets) when travelling in hot weather.
• Lastly, make sure your air conditioning system in the car is clean. A musty smell from the vents is a tell-tale sign there may be bacteria lurking.

If you are unsure about carrying out these checks yourself and want peace of mind before you set off, visit www.GoodGarageScheme.com and look for a garage you can trust for a Holiday Check.

It's like having a friend in the know!

Is your car ready for the worst winter in 65 years?

According to meteorologists, this coming winter could be the worst in 65 years.  With the complex weather pattern known as El Nino predicted to be the strongest since 1950, experts are warning of a long, harsh winter with heavy snowfall.  As if it couldn’t get any worse, some reports are also heralding the early arrival of plunging temperatures and snowfall as soon as this month.

Even if you are not one to believe in early weather forecasts, it is always better to be safe than sorry, which is why we are advising motorists to get their vehicles checked now to minimise breakdowns and repairs when the winter weather arrives.

Salty roads and freezing conditions can cause problems for cars during the colder months, but being prepared beforehand can reduce this impact, not to mention the cost of repairs.

The Good Garage Scheme Winter Check will prepare your vehicle for driving in cold conditions.  This essential check not only carries out standard tests on bodywork, lights and suspension but will also address winter-specific concerns such as:

• Checking and recording antifreeze protection
• Carrying out a tyre report
• Checking the operation of interior and exterior lights
• Ensuring windscreen washers and wipers are in full working order
• Checking power steering operation and fluid levels

Ignoring the warning signs and simply waiting until your next annual service could mean your car faces problems and costly repairs this winter, particularly if the weather is to be as severe as is predicted.

It is quick and easy to find a reliable garage in your area offering the Good Garage Scheme Winter Check.  Simply visit our website and input your postcode to find a nearby garage. 

If you’re out and about this winter why not take our app with you?  A garage you trust will never be far away.

Diesel Prices Lowest Since 2010

The BBC reported today that the average price of diesel has fallen below 113p per litre for the first time since January 2010*. Supermarkets have cut their forecourt prices, and diesel prices were lower than petrol prices for the first time since July 2001.

Petrol prices have also fallen this week which is welcome news for all motorists. There is a handy tool at Petrol Prices website which allows you to find the lowest fuel prices in your area. If you sign in, you can change the settings on the finder tool to look for cheapest diesel, LPG or premium diesel as well as petrol in your area and also check more than one postcode.

Whatever the cost of fuel, the Good Garage Scheme recommends that you visit your local member garage to ensure your are getting the most from what you buy. A clean engine is an efficient engine. Ensure your car is working as efficiently as it can, and make the most of every drop of fuel.

Visit www.Good Garage Scheme.com to find a garage you can trust.

*Source: Experian Catalist information group report