EV and PHEV: Repairs and Servicing Explained

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Posted on May 28, 2021 by Louanne

Taken the plunge with an electric car yet? Or still thinking about an EV for your next choice of wheels? Either way, car owners are left with questions about what happens with repairs and servicing after the purchase. The good news is, with fewer moving parts, there’s probably less that can go wrong with an electric car.

We answer some important questions you may have about Battery Electric Vehicles (EV) and Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEV) repairs and servicing:

What happens to the electric battery warranty?

When you purchase an EV (Electric Vehicle) or PHEV (Plug-In Hybrid Vehicle) there will be a separate warranty for the vehicle’s battery and electric motor components. This warranty is often longer than the warranty on the rest of the vehicle mainly to minimise the concerns of potential owners. Each manufacturer will also state what percentage of battery storage is considered acceptable after a certain period of time.
Can I get servicing done for parts other than the vehicle’s electric motor(s) and battery?

The EU block exemption rule, retained in UK law, allows owners to have their vehicle’s servicing done outside the manufacturer’s dealer network. In the case of PHEVs it means that you can have the petrol or diesel engine serviced, brake pads and discs etc replaced without it affecting the vehicle’s warranty and more importantly, the vehicle electric motor(s) and battery warranty.
Who can I use to provide routine servicing and maintenance on my EV/ PHEV?

Providing the vehicle’s high voltage system doesn’t require powering down, it is the same as any non-EV/ PHEV vehicle. As long as they are VAT registered, use OEM parts (Original Equipment Manufacturer) or OEM equivalent quality parts you are free to use any service you wish. It is recommended that you keep all details of the work and any part numbers that were used to avoid problems with warranty claims – which is a standard recommendation for non-EV/ PHEV vehicles as well.
What servicing can I get done on my EV/ PHEV?

Any servicing required of the petrol or diesel engine* (PHEV only), brake pads and discs, tyres, exhaust and items such as bulbs and windscreen wipers.

*The EV system will still require any maintenance checks done by the dealership according to their schedule.
And what work can I NOT get done on my EV/ PHEV?

For anything that requires the high voltage system to be powered down and routine checks and maintenance of that system. We would recommend that you check the details of the terms and conditions of your vehicle’s electric battery warranty to see further details on this.

At ClickMechanic, we can help with repairs and servicing for your EV/ PHEV with a 1-year warranty on parts and repairs. Head over to our website, tell us about your car and a vetted mechanic can carry out a repair or service at your choice of time and date.

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5 ways to minimise the effects of car depreciation

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Posted on May 4, 2021 by Louanne

Did you know that new cars can lose around 20% of their value in the first year after it was bought, and will lose around 50% of their initial value in the first three years of ownership? In fact, cars lose value the moment they’re driven off the dealer forecourt.

While there’s not much you can do to fully prevent depreciation as a car owner, however, there are a few ways you can maximise the resale value of your vehicle.

5 ways to minimise the effects of car depreciation

Pay Attention to the Mileage

One way to limit depreciation is to keep the mileage under the average miles per annum. The more miles you have on your odometer, the more likely it will be that it will depreciate in value.
Clean Up

Make it a part of your routine to keep your car clean which will prevent building up of grime and unpleasant odours inside the car. Keeping your car clean and tidy and in great condition will help limit depreciation.
Avoid Non-Standard Modifications

As exciting as an aftermarket body kit or a new set of aftermarket alloy wheels may sound, it can tend to narrow down the pool of potential buyers for your car in the future, making it harder to sell and most likely driving down its value.
Maintain Your Car

A full service history gives potential buyers peace of mind. Remember to keep all your car documents including service records and receipts. The recommendation is that drivers should service their car every 12 months or every 12,000 miles. However, you should check your owner’s handbook for the vehicle and follow the advice it gives on servicing. At ClickMechanic, we provide three levels of servicing – an interim, full or major service.
Research Before Selling

If you’re looking to get the best price for your car, considering doing a bit of research to see what’s the best time to sell your car. For example, convertibles tend to be in higher demand during the summer months.

BONUS TIP: If you’re planning to buy a used car soon the first step is to make sure you buy the right car. Keep in a mind a few factors such as the number of previous owners – the fewer, the better! Although older cars are cheaper, more often than not, a newer model will hold more value when it’s time to sell it off. It’s also important to do a Pre-Purchase Inspection by a professional to make sure you’re making the right investment. ClickMechanic can help with a Pre-Purchase Inspection, with three different levels of inspection to suit your needs.

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UK’s Best Service Stations

Posted on August 2, 2021 by Louanne

With the warm weather (sometimes!) and school holidays in full swing, the UK is witnessing a staycation boom with people taking to the roads to explore Britain in the summer. This also means that for those travelling by car or coach, stopping at service stations will be an inevitable part of the journey.

Following a survey by consumer publication Which? of the best and worst motorway service stations, we checked out what the top three service stations in the UK have to offer in more detail to help you on your way. Here’s what we found:

Gloucester Services: M5, Brookthorpe, Gloucester, Gloucestershire, GL4 0DN

Gloucester Services is almost too good to be called a service station. A second-generation family business, the food is home-cooked and made with ingredients that are locally sourced. If you’re heading to and from Cornwall and Devon, or even visiting the Cotswolds, Gloucester Services seems like a great place to stop by to get a feel of the local community.
Tebay Services: Westmorland Place, Orton, Penrith, Cumbria CA10 3SB
If you’re travelling north on the M6, Tebay Services is a service stop (which is also a gorgeous farm) located in the Cumbrian hills. In addition to a farm shop that sells local produce, the website menu outlines an array of hearty meals and fresh salads that is sure to make one appreciate home-cooked meals over fast food joints.
Cairn Lodge Services: Douglas, Lanarkshire, ML11 0RJ
Further up north in Scotland, Cairn Lodge Services is located on M74 between Junctions 11 and 12. Voted as the 3rd best service station in the UK, the family-run filling station is currently open 24 hours for toilets, showers, hot drinks, food and snacks. The service station also houses a farm shop with locally grown produce and homemade cakes.

Do you have a favourite service station? Or have you come across a service station you were particularly impressed with? We’d love to hear about it! Tweet to us @ClickMechanic

If you’re going to hit the road for a long road trip, a Vehicle Health Check is a great way to ensure your vehicle is in good condition. With ClickMechanic a vetted mechanic can carry out a service at a date and time of your choice at a location that suits you.

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What are the most common issues with used cars?

Posted on July 22, 2021 by Louanne

Did you know that according to Auto Trader, used car prices have risen by a record 11% in June? With used car prices expected to rise further, it’s even more important to ensure you’re making the right investment. A pre-purchase inspection by a professional mechanic can help identify issues on a vehicle by checking a range of working aspects of a used car.

In fact, when we looked at our data for pre-purchase inspections, we found that 50% of used cars will score poorly in at least one category during a pre-purchase inspection. Seeing the price increase means it’s all the more reason to get a vehicle thoroughly checked before buying!

Although different models and makes of cars can have unique problems, here are some of the most common problems you should look out for when buying a used car:

Electricals

According to our data, issues with controls and electrical components of the vehicles were a common factor that led to 23% of the vehicle scoring poorly on inspection.

As obvious as this may seem, it’s wise to check that headlights and other indicators are functioning properly. Additionally, it’s a good idea to check other features like the warning lights on the dashboard, the power windows, and the central locking.

Suspension and brakes

Our data found that 12% of used cars scored poorly on suspension and braking systems. If you want to check for potential suspension problems, take it on a drive on different types of road surfaces such as speed bumps and rough surfaces. If you hear rattles or strange knocking sounds, it could mean that the suspension needs attention. However, the best way to ensure there are no issues with the suspension and braking is to have a trusted mechanic do a thorough inspection of the vehicle.

Battery

With cars being left unused for prolonged periods of time during the last 18 months, it is likely that battery health has suffered leading to battery problems. Batteries do not like being left uncharged as the cells inside disintegrate and lose their capacity. The battery may recharge to 12.8v but the actual power is significantly reduced.

Wheels and Tyres

We found that 23% of used cars scored poorly with regards to wheels and tyres during the inspection. Issues such as alloy wheel damage and uneven tyre tread are things to look out for and maybe costly to put right.

GETTING A PROFESSIONAL INSPECTION

ClickMechanic can help with a Pre-Purchase Inspection, with three different levels of inspection to suit your needs, starting from £53.68. During a pre-purchase inspection, the technician will conduct a thorough, unbiased review of the vehicle’s condition which can help give you an understanding of whether you’re getting good value for money. A pre-purchase inspection report will be sent to you which thoroughly outlines the condition of the car from exterior parts to crucial components of the engine and exhaust system so you can be confident you’re making the right purchase.

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Is Your Car’s Air Conditioning Ready For Summer?

Posted on July 1, 2021 by Louanne

With summer 2021 truly here chances are you’re going to reach out to turn on the air conditioning more often while driving. Whether you’re planning a weekend trip or even a routine grocery haul, we recommend checking your car’s air conditioning so you don’t get caught out struggling behind the wheel on a hot summer day.

To help keep you cool while driving during the summer months, we have launched a range of new air conditioning jobs. If you haven’t had your air conditioning checked this year, then now is probably the time.

Remember, most car manufacturers recommend that the air-con system is regassed (also known as a recharge) every 2 years. A regas can help ensure the system can perform optimally and can even help improve your vehicle’s fuel efficiency.

Why carry out an air conditioning anti-bacterial clean & health check?

Factors such as moisture, dust and other impurities in air-conditioning systems can encourage bacteria. Foul smells and poor air quality can aggravate allergies and infections. Doing an anti-bacterial clean of the air-conditioning system regularly not only reduces bad odours but also protects the health of your vehicle.
Do I need an air conditioning regas / recharge?

A tell-tale sign your car needs an air-con regas is if the air from the vents is blowing warm air or is not as cool as it used to be. Even if you don’t use it as often, air-con systems need regular servicing and maintenance. Most manufacturers recommend an aircon regas is carried out every two years, so if you can’t remember the last time you did it, it’s worth getting it regassed. Ultimately this can help improve the performance of the air-con system and can contribute to improving your vehicle’s fuel efficiency.
How much does an air conditioning regas / recharge cost?

ClickMechanic offers air conditioning regassing across the UK at a fixed price, which depends on whether your vehicle takes R134a refrigerant gas or the R1234yf refrigerant gas found on newer vehicles:
- R134a regas: £69.99
- R1234yf regas: £134.99

It’s super easy to book with ClickMechanic. Just tell us about your car, input your postcode and pick a time, date and location. You’ll get an instant fair price to book an air conditioning regas service by a vetted mechanic.

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Most Googled questions about catalytic converter thefts

Posted on July 1, 2021 by Louanne

Did you know that catalytic converter thefts now account for 3-in-10 thefts from private vehicles in the UK? You might have noticed the spike in these thefts in recent local news updates. The thefts are generally due to the steep rise in prices of metals such as rhodium and palladium used in the production of catalytic converters.

ClickMechanic’s Mechanic in Residence team answers some of the most Googled questions by car owners about catalytic converter thefts:

Most Googled questions about catalytic converter thefts

What should I do if my catalytic converter has been stolen?
- The first thing you should do is register the crime with the police, either via calling 101 or the online service. It’s also worth informing your insurance provider about the theft as it may be covered depending on the insurance policy. After that, if possible, take photos of the underside of the vehicle and the damage that has been caused during the theft.
- Secondly, it can be that one or two exhaust sensors (known as Lambda sensors) have been stolen with the catalytic converter. These are screwed into the unit and these will need to be replaced as well. Make a note of any wires that are hanging down and relay this information to whoever you request a quote from.
- In most cases, the repairs can be carried out by mobile mechanics, who, due to the volume of these thefts, are adept at carrying the work out “in situ”. Alternatively, you may need to arrange and pay for the recovery of the vehicle to a garage if you do not have cover for this in place so this cost needs to be taken into account.
Can you drive if the catalytic converter is stolen?

The simple answer is no, you cannot. The catalytic converter is in front of the exhaust silencer, so the noise inside the car is not only deafening but also a major distraction to the driver.The other consideration is that the driver is knowingly using a vehicle on a public highway that would fail the emissions test (and the police can stop you, test this and fine you) and you may even get penalty points for driving a vehicle that emits a noise over 74db.
What cars are most targeted for catalytic converter theft?

Any vehicle that has an underbody catalytic converter is at risk of theft. Cars such as the Honda Jazz, CR-V and Accord are particularly vulnerable along with some older BMW models and Toyota’s Prius and Auris.
Can you protect cars from catalytic converter theft?

Whilst there are theft deterrent parts that can be applied to the vehicle, the majority of these only slow the thieves down by a short period of time, they can often lead to further damage repair work required on the vehicle. There is advice about parking in well-lit areas, areas with CCTV etc, however, the thieves expect this and are not put off by it. One thing that deters thieves is parking the car on a slope! This might sound a bit left field, but thieves do not like jacking a car up that is on an incline as it can easily move and come off the jack, trapping them underneath.

If you’re looking to book a repair, ClickMechanic can help. To place a booking, head to our website and a trusted mechanic can carry out any work at a date and time of your choice.

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5 Ways To Reduce Your Car’s Carbon Footprint

Posted on June 8, 2021 by Louanne

We can’t ignore the fact that all vehicles have an impact on the environment, big or small, petrol or diesel or even electric. Whilst we may not be able to immediately change the way we get around and switch to a greener alternative, there are a number of ways to limit your vehicle’s environmental impact.

We look at 5 things that can help reduce a vehicle’s impact on the environment.

Smoother driving

Driving aggressively with sudden braking and rapid acceleration can decrease fuel economy, shorten replacement intervals for a number of parts and could cost you an extra £600 annually. Smoother driving is not only better for the environment but is also lighter on your pocket.
Don’t overload the vehicle

Avoid overloading your vehicle when not needed. The heavier the car, the more fuel it will use.
Check your tyre pressure

Research suggests that motorists in the UK are wasting £246 million a year on fuel by driving on dangerously under-inflated tyres! Under-inflated tyres can increase the vehicle’s rolling resistance and with it, fuel consumption as the engine (or electric motor) will need to work harder to maintain the car’s movement at a consistent speed. Having the correct tyre pressure is key to optimise rolling resistance and ensure less energy is wasted. Details of the required tyre pressures will be in your vehicle’s handbook, but can often be found on a sticker on the driver’s door or inside the fuel cap.
Carpooling

Carpooling is a great way to save money while also being a greener alternative. In addition to car-sharing services such as BlaBlaCar, carpooling with friends and neighbours can help reduce our carbon footprint. Government guidelines on car sharing during COVID can be found here.
Take the car for a service?

Maintaining your vehicle regularly is not only good practice for the safety of you and your family but can also be safer for the environment. Depending on the type of service, technicians will check and replace the fuel filter, spark plugs, air filter and fluids such as the engine oil that will significantly improve the performance of a car, overall fuel economy and lower the vehicle’s emissions.

With increased awareness about emissions and their impact on the environment, many car manufacturers are now advancing in green technology. Hybrid vehicles and electric vehicles are much more efficient and claim to produce lower carbon emissions. If you have an electric vehicle or are thinking about investing in one, it’s also important to consider the source of the power, i.e. if it is renewable and sustainable for the environment.

If you’re looking to book a service, ClickMechanic can help. We provide three levels of car service – interim, full and major service. To place a booking, head to our website and a trusted mechanic can carry out a service at your choice of time and date.

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How to make your tyres last longer

Posted on May 21, 2021 by Louanne

Tyres will wear out eventually – that’s a fact. But is there anything you can do to prolong the life of your car tyres?

Aside from being an important part of regular vehicle maintenance, it’s important to pay attention to your vehicle’s tyres for safety reasons, too. After all, they are what keep your vehicle moving and are the only point of contact between your vehicle and the road.

Here are our top tips that can help reduce tyre wear:

Top tips to make your tyres last longer

Tyre Pressure

Regular checks on your tyre pressures will ensure that your vehicle’s tyres wear evenly as well as improve your fuel economy. Details of the required tyre pressures will be in your vehicle’s handbook, but can often be found on a sticker on the driver’s door or inside the fuel cap. Make sure you adjust the pressures if you are loading the car more than usual too (which will also be indicated in the tyre pressure information).
Wheel Alignment

Front wheels that are incorrectly aligned can cause the tyres to scrub on the road surface and cause uneven wear across the tyre. It is advisable to get the alignment checked every time you have the front tyres changed. It’s also recommended to check wheel alignment after you have had any kind of suspension or steering work carried out or even after you have hit a large pothole.
Clutch Control

Good control of the clutch is paramount to reducing tyre wear. Wheelspin will cause the tyres to literally grate the rubber off onto the road surface. It is also futile if you are looking to move off quickly as wheelspin will mean it will take longer to get up to speed than it would do with good clutch control.
Late Braking

Good road anticipation goes a long way in reducing your tyre wear. Leaving braking to the last minute increases the chances of the wheels locking up and this, similar to wheelspin, will cause the tyre to grate against the road. Even if your vehicle is equipped with an anti-lock braking system (ABS) it will still momentarily scrub the tyre against the road.
Cheap Tyres & Treadwear Rating

Every tyre will have a Treadwear rating on the sidewall. This is often overlooked by people when buying tyres but it’s important to know that it could save you money long term. This rating will be between 60 and 620 – the higher the number, the longer it will last against the benchmark of 100. For example, a tyre with a rating of 400 will last 4 times longer than a tyre with a 100 rating. Cheaper tyres will generally have a lower rating so they will wear out quicker than a more expensive tyre with a higher rating.

And lastly, remember to check your tyre tread depth. It needs to be 1.6mm, which you can check using a 20p coin whose edge should be below the tread line. Driving a car with a defective tyre could land you with a £100 fine and three penalty points – per tyre!

To place a booking for a tyre fitting head to our website and a vetted mechanic can carry out a repair at your choice of time and date.

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6 tips to get your car ready for the summer

Posted on May 19, 2021 by Louanne

Holidays in the UK are back on with the travel rules being relaxed since May 17. If you live in England, Scotland or Wales you are free to travel anywhere within those countries bearing in mind certain rules and guidelines. With summer just around the corner, this means more trips to scenic places and longer drives! However, with a rise in temperatures coming up, your vehicle might need some attention before you head out on a trip.

Here are some tips to ensure your vehicle is ready for the summer:

How to get your vehicle ready for the summer

Check the coolant

Check the level of the coolant in the expansion tank. This will be clearly visible in the engine bay as a medium-sized tank of fluid. When cool, the level of the coolant should be between the Min and Max lines. If it is lower than the Min, you could be losing coolant, so we recommend getting this checked by a mechanic.
Battery condition

If you have noticed that the engine is taking longer to start or is noticeably slower to turn over, it may be worth considering a new battery now rather than risking it.
Check the engine oil & repairs

Whilst the engine oil’s main function is to keep all the parts running smoothly, it also contributes to keeping your engine cool. The engine oil disperses the heat that is generated by the engine as it runs. Remember, an engine low on oil can overheat and will not lubricate effectively. So don’t forget to check that, when cold, the oil is between the Min and Max on the dipstick. If you are low, top it up, but keep re-checking and avoid overfilling.
Auxiliary drive belt(s)

Traditionally called the fan belt or serpentine belt, this is the only belt that you can see in the engine bay. Make sure there are no threads hanging off and that it feels tight if you push against it. If it is loose, you may need a new tensioner and if there are threads hanging off, it can indicate you need a new one. Do it before a long journey as a break can mean you lose the battery charging, power steering, air conditioning etc.
Tyres

Check the tyre pressures are correct, not only for the vehicle but also that they are adjusted to the recommended level for the additional load if appropriate. Details of this will be in the vehicle handbook but are usually also on the vehicle itself, on the door or door frame or inside the fuel flap. Also, make sure they have plenty of tread!
Screen Wash
Top up the screen wash reservoir. Make sure the spray pattern is good and that the wipers clear the screen effectively without smears – this is the UK after all so it is bound to rain when you are away!

A Vehicle Health Check is a great way to ensure your vehicle is in good condition. Head to our website and a vetted mechanic can carry out a contact-free service at your choice of time and date.

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What happens to the electric battery warranty?

Can I get servicing done for parts other than the vehicle’s electric motor(s) and battery?

Who can I use to provide routine servicing and maintenance on my EV/ PHEV?

What servicing can I get done on my EV/ PHEV?

And what work can I NOT get done on my EV/ PHEV?

5 ways to minimise the effects of car depreciation

Pay Attention to the Mileage

Clean Up

Avoid Non-Standard Modifications

Maintain Your Car

Research Before Selling

Suspension and brakes

Why carry out an air conditioning anti-bacterial clean & health check?

Do I need an air conditioning regas / recharge?

How much does an air conditioning regas / recharge cost?

Most Googled questions about catalytic converter thefts

What should I do if my catalytic converter has been stolen?

Can you drive if the catalytic converter is stolen?

What cars are most targeted for catalytic converter theft?

Can you protect cars from catalytic converter theft?

Smoother driving

Don’t overload the vehicle

Check your tyre pressure

Carpooling

Take the car for a service?

Top tips to make your tyres last longer

Tyre Pressure

Wheel Alignment

Clutch Control

Late Braking

Cheap Tyres & Treadwear Rating

How to get your vehicle ready for the summer

Save money on potential repairs in the future

Make your car last longer

Save money on fuel

Safety

Resale value of your car