Since the DVLA started selling personalised number plates in 1989, the industry has boomed, and is predicted to be worth £2 billion in the UK. If you’re thinking about getting a private number plate, or just want to find out more, our guide will explain how to register a private number plate and the types of personalised number plates you can get. Types of personalised number plates Current sty...
The congestion charge was first introduced in 2003 by the Department for Transport, to reduce traffic congestion in central London by discouraging the use of private vehicles. Following the success of the scheme in London, various clean air zones have been rolled out across different cities in the UK. This guide will explain the congestion charge in London and what it means for drivers. What...
Brake fluid is a type of hydraulic fluid that is used in a hydraulic brake system. It transfers force into pressure, to bring your vehicle to a complete stop. It does this by applying hydraulic pressure to the callipers in the brake system as you press down on your brake pedal. Without brake fluid, you would not be able to use your car brakes at all. That’s why it is important to ensure your bra...
A flat car battery is a disaster in any situation, particularly if you are in a rush. If your key is struggling to start your motor, a jump start may help do the job. But what exactly is a jump start? What is a jump start? A jump start, or boost, is the process of starting a vehicle that has a discharged battery. There are different ways to jump start your car, with leads or with a battery boo...
If you’re driving an older petrol or diesel car, it’s good to be aware of what an alternator is, and what role it plays in keeping your car moving. If your alternator begins to show signs of wear you might not notice it straight away, and if it does fail you could end up not even being able to start your car! This guide will explain what an alternator does and how it works, so if your alternator d...
Why is changing your oil important? Engine oil lubricates the parts that move in the engine. It also cools, cleans and protects these parts and prevents the engine from seizing up. Regularly checking your vehicle’s oil levels and changing when needed can help to keep your vehicle running smoothly. As time goes on, engine oil can become dirty and can change the effectiveness of the chemical. That...
Putting the wrong fuel in the fuel tank happens more often than you think. If you’re filling up on autopilot and have recently switched between the two, it’s an easy mistake to make. So, if you’ve filled up with the wrong fuel – don’t panic! What matters most is what you do next. This guide explains what to do if you put petrol in a diesel car or if you put diesel in a petrol car. What should you...
Worn suspension is a safety hazard while driving. Our guide helps identify warning signs to avoid accidents and breakdowns. Looking for suspension repairs? Find your nearest Merityre specialist centre today. What are the dangers of worn suspension? Poor handling One of the dangers of a worn suspension is poor handling. Poor handling makes your vehicle more difficult to control. Essentially,...
What is a full service? A full service is a comprehensive inspection of your vehicle that is recommended to be carried out once a year to ensure your vehicle runs smoothly, safely and efficiently. A full service is not an annual legal requirement like an MOT however, it is advisable to have your car regularly serviced. Usually, a full car service should take place every 12 months or 12,000 mil...
Many motorists often leave their vehicles parked on their driveway or invest in security cameras or steering wheel locks to prevent their cars from the possibility of theft. Though, this may not always be enough. Car theft still remains a concern within the UK despite the amount of anti-theft solutions available on the market. However, with some extra precautions, it is possible to reduce the l...