Wheel alignment: Camber, toe and caster angles.

There is a perfect angle for every part of a machine. If the angle of a part is not at its optimum it will lead to premature wear, damage and even total collapse of a mechanism. You may not have put thought into how important the smallest of details can be, but designers do. That is what makes it possible for machines to be at their functional best.

There are perfect angles to every part in a car as well. The tyres, the steering, the engine it all comes with geometric precision. Keeping these angels in their precise position paves the way for a smooth functioning vehicle. Especially the alignment settings of a vehicle wrought with angles require regular maintenance. It should be checked periodically to keep misalignment from causing irregular wear to the tyres. For regular alignment checks of your vehicle visit Wheel Alignment Coventry. They are experts equipped with best in industry machines that check wheel alignment on vehicles.

Let us look at some of the angles that are essential in maintaining the wheel’s alignment.

Camber.

Wheels on a vehicle are not parallel to the ground. They are set at an angle by the manufacturer to ensure optimum handling. One of these angles is the camber angle. The camber angle is the one that decides whether the wheel’s tops are angled away from the body of the vehicle or towards it. If the wheels were to be positioned parallel to each other steering it would be a nightmare. So keeping the camber angle at the manufacturer’s recommend angle is necessary.

Toe.

The toe angle similarly is the angle the wheels point in. When the wheels point in the precise direction of the vehicle nominal steering inputs while driving would lead to insanely exaggerated effects. To reduce this the toe angle is inwards for passenger vehicles. The angle is set by the manufacturer depending on the design of the vehicle and so needs to be kept in check. The better the maintenance of the toe angle the better will be the handling of the vehicle.

Caster.

The caster angle is the angle at which the steering mechanism joins the wheels. The caster angle is the determining factor behind the wheels returning to their original position after cornering. The caster angle is essential in maintaining a balance between the wheels and the steering. The caster angle can be affected by big potholes and problems in the caster itself. So regular check-ups of wheel alignment should be performed to ensure that its optimum position is maintained.

Now that you know the different angles let us look at what can be done to keep in their position and avoid misaligned wheels.

Avoid speeding on bad roads.

Despite all the claims and efforts of the government, roads develop potholes. When you drive your vehicle through them at high speeds you not only overwork the suspension but also put your wheel’s alignment at risk. So it is best to slow down when you see a road riddled with potholes.

Not getting the alignment checked.

With even the most careful driving on the smoothest roads, the wheels will eventually lose their intended alignment angles. Therefore is it advisable to get the alignment checked with every maintenance service. The more attention you pay to the maintenance of your vehicle’s alignment the longer your tyres will last.

Signs that your wheel may be out of alignment.

The first and foremost sign will be the drifting of your vehicle to one side of the road. Other signs that may follow are:

• A bumpy ride.
• Changes in the steering response.
• Vibration in the steering.
• Irregular wear on the tyres.

If you see or notice any of these signs, the time for a wheel alignment check is upon you. Checking the wheel alignment takes no more than fifteen minutes. However, fixing it will depend on the cause and the amount of damage to the part that caused the wheel to go out of alignment. Remember worn tyres can cause a failed MOT. So be attentive and avoid bills. For a comfortable MOT check visit Central Point MOT.

On Her Majesty’s Orders: A Master Checklist to Ensure Tyre Safety

If you were familiar with current trends in road accidents, you would know that almost 50% of all road accidents that happen in England during winter are due to cars sliding out of control on cold, wet roads. This can be easily avoided by taking proper measures that ensure your car tyres in Coventry are winter-proof.

With chilly winds slowly and steadily growing over the Isles, the dipping mercury heralds the onset of winter. In times like these, a good driver would take note of the fact that temperatures below 7° C significantly compromise the traction in standard tyres. No need to be alarmed, just make sure that you study the following information work accordingly.

Ensuring tyre safety in winters

Check these things off the list to make sure your car tyres in Coventry are in good shape to protect you and your family from the treacherous winter and monsoon driving conditions.

1. Servicing: Often overlooked, it is quite essential to maintain the on-safety that your car offers. Servicing your vehicle at periodic intervals, preferably twice a year is recommended by experts and technicians all around the globe. Make sure you choose a garage that is equipped with the latest equipment for the job. It will ensure that all the parts of your car, including the tyres are in good shape.
2. Tread pattern: Try to check the tread depth of your tyres before you hop into your car. They are highly prone to wear. The tread patterns on your tyre fade away with time. Balding tyres are like a death sentence to your on-road safety. Check whether you have bald tyres in Coventry; if you do, it’s time to buy a new one.
3. Tyre pressure: If you think that the air pressure in your tyres is not essential, you are royally mistaken. Every tyre comes with pre-determined optimum tyre pressure. Measured in Pound per square inch (PSI), optimum pressure must be maintained to ensure that your car tyres in Coventry are safe from sliding when you floor the brake pedal. Consult your car owner’s manual to know the ideal tyre pressure for your car.

Central Point MOT is a well-known garage in Coventry that is designed to be a one-stop destination for all your car related needs and queries. You can consult with the expert technicians there regarding tyre pressure and services like wheel alignment correction, clutch maintenance and more.

4. Winter tyres: If you do not know about winter tyres, you are missing out on one of the most crucial safety equipment for your car during winters. Winter tyres are specially designed to provide better traction on winter roads. They contain a compound called silica that makes the tyres Coventry softer yet durable. Softer rubber provides more traction. They also come with specially designed tread patterns that complement the softer material for enhanced traction on wet and snowy roads.

These are the four essential points that must be checked to ensure that your tyres are in good enough shape to provide your car with much-required traction in winter.

For more information please visit here:- MOT Coventry

Your Guide to Maintenance – How to Keep Your Car’s Clutch in Good Condition for Longer

Lab tests and statistics say that your car’s clutch is supposed to last for at least 60,000 miles. However, in a real life scenario, you are likely to shoot way off of that particular number. There are incidents where it lasted for 1,00,000 miles, and where it was serviceable for only 30,000 miles; a vast difference from what is shown on the paper.

Mechanical wear is an unavoidable factor once you start driving your vehicle on the road. It will either require a complete replacement or repair of your car’s components, including vital ones like its clutch. However, there are some sneaky methods you can use to keep a clutch repair in Coventry at bay for as long as possible - by keeping the entire system in good condition.

Keeping the unit in good condition

You can follow any of these techniques to reduce wear in your car’s clutch. All these work on the basic principle of the system, and allow it to work more efficiently to reduce excessive wear.

• Proper engagement – Whenever you use the clutch, remember to depress it properly (to its complete travel) to ensure proper engagement of the flywheel. It will separate the rotating parts and reduce wear.

When you press the clutch, its flywheel and disc separate from each other, partially pressing the unit will keep them in limited contact, increasing the wear and requiring clutch repair in Coventry sooner than recommended.

• Give it time – Clutch works via friction, meaning it takes some time to spin both the components at the same time. It is one of the primary reasons why rapid speed changes increase friction and wear in your car’s clutch.

High-performance cars circumnavigate this issue by using dual clutch systems, where one keeps spinning the assembly while the other one engages the next gear. If your vehicle does not come with such advanced systems, it is recommended to avoid rapid acceleration and deceleration, and shifting before you hit the necessary RPM range. It should lengthen the service life and keep a Clutch Repair Coventry at bay.

• Let it go – Try not to use your car’s clutch when it is rolling down from a steep angle. Rolling wheels have a significant difference in RPM than what your car’s engine can deliver; engaging its clutch at that time puts excessive strain on the mechanism as it tries to balance out the difference. In such situations, put your car into 1^st gear and keep the RPM near 3,000 to 4,000. It will give it a similar platform and reduce wear.

Another proven method to keep your car’s clutch in serviceable condition is maintenance. Take your vehicle for a thorough inspection and Clutch Repair in Coventry at least once every year. Reliable garages like Central Point MOT will be able to undertake the job efficiently. They can also help you with other types of general repairs and MOT Tests Coventry.

Following the above mentioned steps will easily last you 50,000 to 80,000 miles before a swap is needed. It will also keep you and your passengers safe while driving.

Common Issues & Corresponding Reasons with Brakes You Need to Know About

For a safe journey and commute, it's essential that you maintain your car's brakes in tip-top shape. Even a slightly malfunctioning brake while driving can induce a panic attack in a driver.

In an urgent situation, like right before an unforeseen collision, the brakes are your only tool to halt safely. Therefore, you should never underestimate the importance of effective braking.

A car in motion with failed brakes is heading towards dangers voluntarily.

To avoid any mishaps opt for a brake repair in Coventry from a nearby professional car garage.

How to know whether you need a brake repair?

The following signs are indications that you need a brake repair –

• Squeaking and other unnerving noises

Just as a tyre's tread erodes with use, the brake pads or shoes also wear out over time. Once they reach the minimum thickness, the brake callipers start to rub against the rotors, causing screeching and grinding sounds.

• Vibrations

Pulsating brake pedals and vibrations on the steering when applying your car's brakes can indicate damage somewhere in the brake assembly.

• Loose brake pedal

When the brake pedals feel spongy and less effective, and you need to push it down further than regular, it’s a warning of impending brake failure.

• Vehicle pulling to one side

Another common sign of faulty brakes is your car pulling to one side when braking. It’s caused mainly by eroded brake pads. Opt for a professional brake pad replacement in Coventry.

We'll take an in-depth look at common brake problems and their possible causes. With the right knowledge, you decide upon the correct time to go for a brake repair in Coventry.

Common brake problems

1. Soft pedal

A soft pedal means that your car's brake pedal is easy to push, but sufficient braking friction is not generated.

Reasons may include a leakage in the master cylinder reservoir. Brake fluid can be lost through such leaks, and garner the entire system ineffective. Air in your car brake’s lines can also cause a spongy pedal. Old brake fluid that can also trap air bubbles and reduce the overall pressure. Excessive towing or descending a steep hill can take the brake fluid to higher temperatures, rendering it ineffective.

2. Incomplete engagement

Often a brake issue occurs due to partial engagement or disengagement. Driving with a dragging brake can cause further damage.

Due to rust, age and accumulation of brake dust, your brake system may even post a seized a calliper. Brake pads can often get jammed in the calliper as well. Rusted rotors and drums occur due to prolonged disuse. Brake repair in Coventry from a reputed garage is the only fix here.

3. Eroded brake pads

Brake pads create the friction between the callipers and rotor disc. They can last for 25,000 to 60,000 miles depending on the part in question. Your car will start to pull towards the direction of the wheel with worn-out break shoes when applying brakes in case of such issues.

There are different kinds of brake pad replacement in Coventry you can opt for. Organic, low-metallic, semi-metallic, and ceramics are some of the available brake pad materials. They suit different driving needs.

Garages such as Central Point MOT store all kinds of brake pads other than professional brake repair services as well. Servicing your car brakes on time can help you to stay safe.

For more information please visit here:- MOT in Coventry

Safety Signs You Must Never Overlook Before an MOT

Back in 2018, there were more than 1,700 fatal road accidents in the UK, a 3% increase from 2017. It was a similar number seen back in 2012. More than 26,000 individuals were either seriously injured or lost their lives that year.

By following a few simple tips, a significant number of accidents could have been averted. For example, dashboard lights which might indicate a malfunction. Many a time, drivers also ignore various additional easy to avoid safety signs.

Here are some significant safety signs you should never overlook when you're on the road.

Brake lights

If this light turns on, make sure the parking brake is fully released; this is a common reason behind the brake lights turning on. However, in most other cases, the issues are mechanical and serious in nature. Brake lights may illuminate in case of braking fluid leaks leading to comprehensive system failures.

If you feel your pedal is lacking resistance while stopping or you have to pump the pedal to halt, it is the cause of the leakage. Take your car for a full MOT check-up at service centres for an MOT test in Coventry. Reputed professional garages such as Central Point MOT provide such professional check-up services. Their expert technicians are known for their pre and post MOT car care services all throughout the UK.

Temperature light

Did you notice any signs of overheating in your car? It’s normal if you drive through an excessive humid day for long hours. But if that’s not the case, your car engine may have multiple underlying issues. The first step you should take is let the engine cool off. If the problem persists, drop by any nearest service workshop for a check-up.

Usually, it takes 20 to 30 minutes for the engine to cool down. Open the engine, check for the coolant levels. If the level stays low even after 30 minutes, you should consider a refill at the nearest professional garage you can find. Typically, a malfunctioning sensor or an underlying issue can cause the cooling system to malfunction. It is advisable to seek professional advice at once.

Engine lights

Make sure engine lights don’t pop up while you’re driving. Often called the ‘dreaded light’, it signals serious issues with your car's engine. It could be anything like a bad sensor or a failure of your exhaust system among other possibilities. Get your car diagnosed at professional auto mechanic workshops immediately.

Inflation issues

Tyre pressure light blinks on when your car tyres are 25% or less inflated. Over-inflated tyres increase the chances of a tyre blowout. The first symptom you will notice is higher braking distance. Under-inflation also comes with its own share of negatives, e.g. rapid treads wear. It is essential to know the accurate tyre pressure necessary for your vehicle’s tyres.

Remember, over or under-inflated tyres can lead to a silly blemish on a could-have-been perfect MOT Test in Coventry.

Check the parking mirrors

See if the parking mirrors are properly functioning while you're parking your vehicle. Are they showing parking or leaving a position? Are you able to do a three-point turn? Is it merging when changing lanes? These indicate you need to change your parking mirrors immediately.

While these don't cover the entire list of pre-emptive safety issues, it does include all the significant aspects. Before taking your car for an MOT, just make sure to run a thorough enough check on these pointers. Better still, refer to professional assistance to guarantee that you pass your MOT straight up!

Car Repair Tips: How You Can Repair an Exhaust leak Yourself

Every day, your car’s exhaust system is exposed to various elements such as road debris, pebbles, hot weather during summer, snow and salt during winter. If the exhaust takes a beating out of any of these, the exhaust pipes can develop cracks and leakages over time.

If such leaks have occurred, your car will start to make noises. Your car's emissions will increase, and your Check Engine Light will turn on.

In some cases, large leaks can fill your car's cabin with carbon monoxide which can be seriously harmful to your health. Why take that unnecessary risk?

You can locate and repair your leaking Exhaust Coventry yourself by following these simple instructions.

1. Raise Your Vehicle

To locate a leak, jack up the driver’s side of your car. Don't lift it at an angle. When you raise a portion of your vehicle, its weight gets centralized into the small space under the jack.

2. Locate Leakage Area

You need to start inspecting from the front end of your car’s exhaust piping. Check for any signs of damages like scrapes, cracks, rusts or holes. If you don’t see any physical damages, start your car’s engine, and you should be able to spot the leak via visible exhaust smoke.

However, an exhaust pipe can reach extremely high temperatures while driving. Give it time to cool down before attempting a repair.

3. Clean Leakage Area

After you have located the spot of leakage, you have to clean it thoroughly in 3 simple steps.

• Grab a steel-toothed brush and scrub the area to clean any mud or rust. Most of the repairs are not effective if the cleaning is not thorough. Keep your eyes protected while you clean.
• Once you have cleaned most of the dirt and rust, use sandpaper to scrub off the remaining bits of dirt. It also helps to create small micro-abrasions that help the tape or epoxy you are about to use stick better.
• Use acetone to wipe the pipe around the leakage. It helps epoxy to bond better with the metal. You have to be very cautious while applying it.
  

4. Seal the Leak with Exhaust Tape or Epoxy

After all the cleaning work is done, wrap the exhaust tape around the leakage area. Make sure the area of the leakage has at least two layers of tape around it.

If you use exhaust epoxy to seal the brake, use a wooden tool to apply it and mix the two parts. Epoxy starts to seal the leakage on your car’s exhaust immediately.

5. Use a Patch

Firstly, you need to determine the size of the patch required for securing the leakage area. Then, use a pair of heavy duty scissors to cut a strip of aluminium and use it as a patch. Seal it with more epoxy for better security.

A faulty exhaust system may cause failure at an Cheap MOT Coventry or anywhere in the UK. If you fail to repair it by yourself, visit Central Point MOT for an exhaust repair ASAP. They can also help you pass the MOT at their facility.