What are dashboard warning lights? In modern cars, there are multiple electronic sensors that can monitor how well your vehicle is performing and when something is going wrong. These are known as dashboard warning lights that light up to alert or inform you when there is a problem with a particular component in your vehicle. Whilst there are a large variety of warning lights, it is important to b...
What is an electric vehicle? Electric vehicles, also known as EVs, run only on battery power that charges from an external power source such as an electric motor that is powered by electricity from batteries or a fuel cell - unlike traditional vehicles that use a petrol or diesel powered engine. Electric vehicles are cheaper to maintain as there is a lot less to wear out compared to the gearbox...
What is coolant? Engine coolant is a mixture of distilled water and antifreeze, typically in a 50/50 ratio. It has the role of ensuring that the ideal temperature, to keep you’re the vehicle cool and to stop the engine from overheating. What are the different types of coolant? Generally, there are two main types of coolant, these are; Organic Acid Technology coolants (OAT) Inorganic Ad...
We’ve all been there, a moment of panic when you turn your key in the ignition and your car doesn’t start. If you’re not sure why youhave problems starting your car, just find your closest Merityre Specialist branch and we can help to diagnose the problem. In this guide, we’ll explain the top 10 reasons your car won’t start. 1. Battery failure Battery failure is one of the main reasons that s...
One of the main things that helps your car retain its value, and keeps it in good working order is regular vehicle maintenance. And while it might not be necessary to go to the garage for every part of yyour vehicle's upkeep it’s important to be able to know when to go to a professional - this guide will help you decide. Can you give your vehicle a full service at home? Your vehicle should be...
You should check your windscreen wiper blades regularly to ensure they are in good working condition. When wiper blades begin to wear out, they can become much less effective resulting in streaking and smearing across your windscreen. This can be dangerous as it reduces your visibility and can increase your chances of having an accident. How often should you check your wiper blades? Ideally, y...
it’s important to have suitable tyres on your car with an adequate amount of tyre tread to keep you and your passengers safe on the road. The legal limit for tyre tread depth is 1.8mm but we recommend changing your tyres when they reach 3mm. When you need new tyres, it can be tempting to just go for the cheapest option, but just what are the benefits of opting for one of the big name brands like G...
Should tyres be replaced in pairs? If you have experienced a puncture or a flat tyre, you will know how important it is to replace your tyre as soon as possible. But should your tyres be replaced in pairs? Ideally yes, they should. This is because replacing a tyre without changing the tyre on the opposite side of the axle can cause your vehicle to become unbalanced. Potentially leading to exc...
Why do MOT tests include an exhaust emission test? An exhaust emission test looks at the level of pollutants that are emitted from the exhaust of your car, with the aim to reduce the amount of harmful pollutants to the environment. Diesel and petrol emission tests are different but are both tested as part of an MOT. Petrol – the emission test measures gasses that exit the exhaust. Diesel –...
What is a tyre pressure monitoring system? A tyre pressure monitoring system, also known as TPMS, is installed into your vehicle to monitor the air pressure in your tyres. It will alert you when your tyre pressure that is under the legal requirement. Some manufacturers set the warning light to appear when the sensors detect a smaller decrease than the legal requirements to give drivers additio...