Brownshore motors know there’s nothing better than a summer drive – windows wound down, breeze in your face, the sun on your forearms – bliss.

But we also know that sunny days bring carefree and careless driving!  Therefore in today’s car blog post, we’ll be giving your our 10 safe summer driving tips.

1. Take supplies

Long drives may seem fun but be sure to take water, snacks and extra medication.  What happens if you break down in the middle of nowhere?

2. Keep kiddies entertained

It’s easy to become distracted with ‘are we there?’ moans. And this is the easiest way of taking your mind and eyes off the road.  Therefore be sure to take games, iPads and anything to keep them entertained.

3. Know how to handle over heated engines

It’s a problem for older cars mainly. A little tip we know of is to turn your heater on full blast (keep your windows open) and this will cool the engine down.

4. Have a rest before and during
5. Driving in the heat and on long drives can take it out of you. Be sure to have plenty of rest before hand and during your drive. Get one of the satnavs that informs you of rest stops and take them!

6. Always bring a spare tyre

If you’re a long way from home, a spare tyre could come in very useful!

7. Watch out for hay fever?

Sneezing at 70mph means you could lose your vision for up to 100metres – which is a lot!  Ensure to take hay fever tablets that don’t cause drowsiness and if it’s really bad get someone else to drive. Other things like keeping windows shut, vacuuming the car and slowing down if you’re about to sneeze will help.

8. Watch out for tractors

If you’re driving out in the countryside – watch out for tractors. Don’t become frustrated because they drive slow, the drive slow for a reason.  A lot of farmers wear ear defenders so it means they can’t hear you approaching. Always take extra caution if over taking and watch out if you’re following them because they don’t have to indicate (nor have lights to show indication!)

9. Reduce Glare

We all know the feeling when we’ve got sun in our eyes and it’s not nice especially when you’re driving. Always keep a spare of easily accessible sun glasses to hand.

10. Look after your windscreen

Hot weather can cause windscreens to go dusty which will impact on the visibility. Clean it regularly and replace window wiper blades that are damaged.

11. Watch out for the outdoor types

Amazing weather means more people out cycling, running and horse riding. Concentration is paramount and an increased sense of awareness. Remember drive around cyclists not at them and drive slowly behind horses.

These have been our 10 safe summer driving tips – can you think of anymore?

The post 10 Safe Summer Driving Tips appeared first on Brownshore Motors.

What drugs affect the drug -driving laws?

Apart from the obvious ones such as Cannabis and Cocaine it also includes prescription ones. The government website gives you further information on which ones you need to be careful off.

It’s actually illegal to drive on prescribes drugs if it impairs your driving in anyway – so make sure you speak to your doctor.

Will the new drug-driving laws take my license off me?

In some way yes! If you’re convicted of drug-driving then you’ll get:

• 1 year minimum ban
• Criminal record
• Hefty fines
• Prison

Even if it is legal drugs that impair driving you will face some form of consequence so think…

What happens if you’re pulled over for drug –driving?

You will be pulled over by officers and taken to a police station where they will take blood and urine tests to look for ecstasy, LSD, heroin, ketamine and many others.

It’s here where your fate will be determined.

Why did drug driving laws come about?

Apart from it being downright stupid driving under the influence of something that affects your body and mind, the laws were introduced as a result of a 14 year old girl being killed by a driver high on Cannabis.

The law is now named after the girl who was killed ‘Lillian.’

Our thoughts on the new drug- driving laws…

There’s been a lot of focus and attention on drink driving but drug-driving seems to have been an issue ignored. Even though there were laws in place before hand, they did not reflect the severity of the problem. We feel that these new laws now address all drug taking individual whether legal or illegal and we hope it prevents people from thinking that it’s safe to drive whilst under the influence!

We’d love to hear you thoughts on the new drug- driving laws.

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What do I do with my tax disk?

Well you can take it off your window for starts! Perhaps you want to rip off, go ahead but although you can rip it up, we’d suggest you keep it and file it away. You know – just in case of any clerical errors.  But the bottom line is, you don’t need it on your window nor will you get one through the post in the future.

How do the police know my car’s taxed without a tax disk?

There’s a website for that (there always is). It can be found here Vehicle Enquiry set up by the government. Here you or the police can enter your details to see if you’re taxed – so there’s no getting away Scot free! Sorry Scot.

Will the DVLA forget to remind me to tax my car?

It’s not likely no. The DVLA will still contact you via post so look out for their official letters.  But just in case they do – keep a note telling when you’re due to renew your tax. It’s not worth the fine!

Can I tax my car online?

Yup there’s a website for that…. Apply online using your vehicle’s 16 digit reference number for your tax renewal reminder. Or the 11 digital reference number from your log book (apply for one at the post office if you don’t have one).

Our thoughts…

It’s one less piece of paper / plastic to save the trees / earth but it doesn’t mean authorities are getting slack on tax or insurance! It’s common for police to do checks on their mystical machines these days so skip the hassle of being pulled over and tax!

The post New rules for the tax disc: Everything you need to know appeared first on Brownshore Motors.

Our blog post today tells the top 10 car buying questions everyone should ask.

1. 1.       Does the vehicle have any fluid leaks such as oil or antifreeze?

Not easy to spot by just asking – you’re relying on them telling the truth but ask nonetheless and then get it checked. (See question 10)

1. 2.       Why are you selling this car?

This gives the seller a chance to tell you of any faults that they’ve had (which should reflect in the price)

1. 3.       Do you have the title to hand?

Avoid scams and getting into trouble with DMV!

1. 4.       Who was the previous owner?

Knowing this could be just as valuable as knowing the car’s history.

1. 5.       Can I take it for a test drive?

Not only do you get a feel for how easy or challenging it is to drive but you can check how the engine sounds, if the gear box and breaks etc work OK.

1. 6.       Can I take this to my mechanic?

If the seller won’t allow you to take it to your mechanic and insists that their mechanic has checked it over – walk away. Get impartial advice.

1. 7.       What new equipment comes as part of the purchase?

Some dealers will throw in a set of tyres (get as much as you can for your money).

1. 8.       Is a CarFax report provided before I buy this car?

A CarFax report will tell you if there’s anything wrong with the car.  It’s not fool proof but it will give good indications as to whether it’s been involved in a collision.

The post The 8 Car Buying Questions Everyone Should Ask appeared first on Brownshore Motors.

A recent survey suggested that more than a 1/3 of car owners were not happy after they’d left a garage. Not many have a clue about what should or shouldn’t be going on under their bonnet and it’s not uncommon for garages to take advantage of this!

Car Servicing & MOT hacks

Servicing Hacks

1. Your car should have a manual with it, leave it in the window of your car when you go to the garage and this will give some indication to the garage that you know something about cars even if you don’t!  If you can, have the vehicle’s model, engine size, fuel type and registration (all of the basics to hand.)
2. Always ask for estimation costs and check whether they include extra costs such as VAT. A good garage won’t give you the ‘we won’t know until its done mate’ spiel.
3. Go for industry recognised garages because they will work to an industry code of conduct and a high standard level of work is required. You’re more likely to be in the hand of a professional with an industry recognised garage because they’ve a title to keep.

According to statistics, more than 40% of car owners fail their MOT’s due to reason within their control!

Mot Hacks

1.  Clear the clutter out.  They will fail you for a messy car if they can’t get to the parts they need to inspect – from the boot to the dash board get your rubber gloves out.
2. Top up your screen wash and yes they will fail you if it’s low!
3. Replace bulbs if broken in the headlights, indicators, and hazard lights – remember to wear gloves!
4. Tyres should have minimum of 1.6mm and can be checked with a 20p coin. Here’s a video to help you: http://firsttimedriver.info/first-car/quentin-wilson-20p-test/
5. Make sure you have a full tank of engine oil because if there’s not enough for them to test your emission levels then you’ll be failed.
6. Honk your horn and ensure it is loud and working and if not, get it repaired.
7. Check there are no damages to your seat belt and they fasten correctly. Give them a sharp tug to ensure they’re doing their job properly.

Conclusion

We hope you’ve found these Car service & MOT hacks useful?

Which one will you be trying we would love to hear from you in the comments below.

The post 10 Car Servicing & MOT hacks appeared first on Brownshore Motors.

In today’s post we’re going to give you our car safety tips.

In the heat of the summer, it’s so tempting to just jump in the car, wind  the windows down, and   music blasting whilst you cruise (within the speed limit) down the road singing at the top of your voice. Whilst we don’t encourage at the top of your voice singing we do encourage you to make the most of your car this summer providing you follow our sensible tips!

Safety Tip #1: Remember the Animals

If you must leave your pet dog in the car make it quick and leave a window open! If you’re going to be longer than 5 minutes, ensure you leave some water in there too. In fact, always leave spare water in there just in case you’re longer than you think.

Dogs will suffer from severe dehydration and can die of as a result of being left in locked cars.  Be a responsible owner.

Safety Tip #2: Cover the Steering Wheel

Leather gets HOT when left out in the sun and it’s easy to forget this and jump back  in – hands on the wheel – ready to drive? Ouch!

Use a cover to (non- leather) to keep it cool just be careful not to burn yourself when you’re taking it off.

Safety Tip #3: Park in the Shade

The truth is your interiors don’t like the heat and especially your dash board – too much heat too often can play havoc with the wires inside.

It’s a costly repair – one you could do without.

Safety Tip #4: Use a Sunshade

One way of getting around a hot dashboard is to a have a sunshade that goes on your sunscreen. These will bounce the light and heat back off of the car so it’s advisable to have one front and back.

Tinted windows are the more expensive alternative but sure do look cool (no pun intended!)

Safety Tip #5: Have the Right Kit With You

A few essentials you’ll need are:

• A spare tyre
• Water
• Mobile phone
• First aid kit

Drive safe!

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MOTs can be a dreaded occasion for many drivers purely because you don’t know whether it’s going to pass and more importantly how much it’s going to cost! But what many car owners fail to do is to prep their car before hand – this is big factor for keeping cost down. In fact most people don’t pass their MOT not because of huge mail functions, but smaller things.

Cheap MOT Tips: Check your lights

It may seem obvious but actually1 in 5 vehicles fail MOTs due to a broken light bulb. So take a few moments to check all of yours.

If you decide change them, be warned don’t touch the glass because they are more likely to break as excess dirt off your fingers sticks to it and so they’ll heat up quicker causing them to pop!

Cheap MOT Tips: Clean your car

You will be turned away if your car is deemed too dirty. It sounds unbelievable doesn’t it?  However, we need a clutter free and clear surface so that we can inspect properly and do the job the best we can.

Cheap MOT Tips:  Pay attention to past MOT comments

After every MOT you’ll get a sheet on comments, do pay attention because these will allow you to prepare better the next time.

One of the most common comments is bulb related (see MOT tip 1.)

So use them as a guide for future MOTs!

Cheap MOT Tips:  Are interiors fully functional?

The following Cheap MOT tricks will help your car to pass:

• Ensure seatbelts are free from tears and can still be fastened properly;
• Interior mirrors  and external should be fitted correctly and free from crack;
• All door should close properly;
• Ensure licence plates are clean and free from cracks
• Your tyres and as well as your spare must be in full working order

The post Cheap MOT Tips appeared first on Brownshore Motors.

This blog post rounds up the top 5 car tips for road trips.

Are you going away this summer? With all of this good weather, a road trip has never seemed like a better idea. Whether it’s with the family, the lads or even the girls, we’ve put together 10 smart car tips for road trips this summer.

1. Fluids – Your car won’t be going anywhere if you’re running on empty!

Remember to check out your cars:

• Engine oil
• Transmission fluid
• Gasoline
• Antifreeze/coolant
• Radiator coolant
• Brake fluid
• Windshield washer fluid
• Power steering fluid

2. Battery – Jumpstarting is no fun…

Batteries although charge more the more you drive can come to end of their life span. And jumpstarting whilst you’re on your road trip is not a good idea and not always fail proof either.

Make sure your batter is healthy and full of life.

3. Satellite Navigation – use less petrol and know where you’re going

Technically you’re not meant to know where you’re going on a road trio (it’s all part of the fun.) However, it’s good to have some idea of where you’re going so you don’t drive around in circles using up precious petrol.  A sat nav or a road map for the authentic feel is a useful way of being fuel efficient.

4. Emergency kit   – an essential

We’re not saying you’ll need but it’s on a just in case basis; your kit should include the following:

• Jumper cables
•  Knife
•  Flashlight
• Multipurpose tool
• Tire sealant
• Duct tape.

5. Join the RAC – they’ve got your back

If you haven’t already, join the RAC or an equivalent because break downs are bad enough when you only around the corner from home, never mind when you’re a million miles away. Many worry about road trips knackering their cars out but in actual fact, it’s the day –to- day driving that’s not as kind to your car.

That said, it’s always good to have some back up.

Psst : remember to get your car checked over by a professional if you’re planning on a long trip and are not sure of your vehicle’s health.

The post 5 Clever Car Tips for Road Trips appeared first on Brownshore Motors.

Whether you drive a limo, racing car or a little old runner – looking at your car is vital if you want it to last you a long time! In today’s blog post, we look at basic but essential car maintenance tips.

Car Maintenance Tip 1: Keep Tyres in Extra Good Healthy

• Bad tyre pressure means an uncomfortable drive, effect fuel economy and makes them harder to handle. Check them at least once a week;
• Break dust clings to your wheels and if left on too long can start to cause havoc! Clean it with a damp sponge and cold water;
• Providing you’ve not got a sports car, cars for general use need a good tread depth or risk an accident or fine.

Car maintenance Tip 2: Check Belts & Hoses

If your belts snap then everything from the water pump, power steering, and alternator will be in deep trouble!

Plus a broken hoses means potentially an over -heated engine and engine damage.

• Pinch the hose to see if it’s going hard or soft due to aging.
• Check for leaks, cracks or anything other obvious signs of damage.
• Check after each oil change.

Car Maintenance Tip 3: Keep on Top of Your Brakes

Brakes are not the most attractive part of your car but we don’t have to tell you just how essential they are for your survival!  If you’re beak lights begin to appear on the dashboard or your car’s taking longer to stop – it’s time to get your breaks checked.

If they’re not doing the above, still get into the habit of checking them as it’s like anything that’s used over time, they begin to wear down.

• Brake pads should be at very minimum ¼ of inch thick/
• Listen out for a high pitch noise – this is your brakes tell you that they need some attention.

Car Maintenance Tip 4:  Check lights often

Lights can crack and blow so if you’re going to fix them yourself be sure to revert your car’s manual.

Be aware that when you do change them, you’ll need gloves on and do not touch the lights’ glass. Grease and dirt from your hands will be transferred on the bulb which then will cause the bulb to heat up a lot hotter than usual and will blow!

The post 4 Essential Car Maintenance Tips appeared first on Brownshore Motors.

Why choose Brownshore Motors, Midlands?

Our garage adheres to the Bosch car service code of practice, ensuring that our customers receive the best level of care and attention that is demanded. By choosing us means that we have a high and strict code of conduct and service.

Why have an MOT?

An MOT is required by law before you’re allowed to drive any vehicle.  Any kind of vehicle must have an MOT to ensure it is safe on the road.  If you decided to leave your MOT renewal to the last minute then that’s fine, but remember it has to be done before the expiry date of your certificate.

It’s just to ensure that your vehicle is not a risk to you, your passengers or other road users!

What to expect from an MOT

There’s two outcomes from an MOT- a pass or a fail. Sometimes parts will need replacing, or your vehicle needs a tweak. If your car is over 3 years old, then It will need an MOT. Once it’s been performed by us, we’ll give you a certificate to show its passed.

Need a service?

Our team have a wealth of experience as they’ve  worked with some of the top brands of vehicles. This means we’ve extensive knowledge and can provide our top class skills to every job that we undertake.

We offer a full range of servicing to both cars and light commercial vehicles. We work in a fully equipped environment using the latest and of most competent technology to help us work  with complex and general issues.

What to do next?

Go to the contact section of our site, and email, ring or drop in. Alternatively you can request a call back too!

See you soon.

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