#tipthursday Check your windows and wipers regularly

Have a good look at your windows often, especially your front and rear windows to make sure there aren’t any cracks or chips that may have appeared over the harsh winter months. If there is damage, most insurance companies will replace your windscreens as part of your policy at no extra cost to you. Damaged window screens can be fatal.
Also, take the time to check your window wipers by lifting them and inspecting for any cracks, tears or nicks on the rubber. The damage will stop them from working as well as they should and can make driving in adverse conditions even more difficult. If you do see any damage, you can easily replace them at home though it can be a bit fiddly. If you need any help with this pop into the workshop or gives us a phone, we’re only too happy to help.

#tipthursday The Right to Repair

Did you know that you are free to take your car to any garage for repairs and maintenance at any age? It’s common that customers are led to believe that they have to take their new car back to the dealer for servicing, MOTs etc, but in fact, you are free to pick and choose who looks after your car. This is called the “Right to Repair” and as long as your garage uses manufacturer parts to manufacturer spec and has their own garage stamp, your guarantees, insurance or credit agreements won’t be affected.

This makes the market a lot more competitive and gives you a lot more choice.

For more info or if you have any questions, feel free to call the office or email us, we’re always happy to hear from you.

#tipthursday from Maitland Motors – Check your lights regularly.

With the weather creating poor diving conditions recently, carrying out your basic car checks is more vital than normal to help keep you safe on the road. Lights are especially important, not just so you can see the road ahead but so that other drivers can see you too.

Get a friend or family member to watch from behind and in front of your car as you turn on the lights. Include your fog lights, indicators, and pressing on the brakes. This way you’ll know for sure if any need replacing as it can be difficult to tell properly from sitting in the driver’s seat. Lights being out are also an MOT fail and can result in stops from the police, so it’s well worth taking a few minutes a few times a month just to check all your lights are working.

If this is something you’re unsure of or would like a professional 2nd opinion pop down to the garage and we’ll check for you. Or you can book in for a Free Vehicle Health Check where we check your lights alongside other safety components of your car.

#tipthursday Book in for a Pre-MOT?

#tipthursday Why you should book a Pre-MOT with Maitland Motors.

This week’s tip is all about why you should book a Pre-Mot and how it can benefit you and your car.

A Pre- Mot gives us the chance to spot any possible MOT fails before it goes the test, by visually checking the areas of your car that an MOT covers. This will give you a heads up on what, if any, repairs your car may need to pass its MOT. If big repairs are needed, we can also give you an idea of the costs/ time scales involved so you can make plans to suit your budget and the time you can expect to be without your car for work to be carried out. (We do offer a courtesy car, T& Cs apply.)

We’d suggest a Pre-MOT a week before your MOT is actually due and don’t forget you can book your test 1 month minus 1 day before your MOT is due. Prevention is always better than cure when it comes to cars and being prepared for MOT day will save time, and money, the worry/stress of your car passing or not, and having to wait on re-tests. Just because it passed last year means nothing in the world of MOTs and a lot of wear and tear can happen over 12 months, esp if your car is due a service. Not to forget, a Pre-MOT with Maitland Motors is free!

If you have any questions about MOTs and your car or would like to book in, then please get in touch by phone, or email. We’re always happy to hear from you.