ASK AN EXPERT 

SERVICE 

Yes. When you book your car in for a service at Ignition Autos, just let us know that your car is still under warranty. We’ll make sure to carry out a service in line with the manufacturer’s recommendations. As long as your vehicle is serviced in line with these recommendations, we can carry out the service, without putting your warranty at risk. 

MOT 

An MOT test generally takes 45-60 minutes to complete. If you plan to wait with us while we carry out the MOT test, just let us know. We’ll do our best to keep you updated with the progress of your vehicle. 

TYRES 

Tyre wear and incorrect tyre pressure have a major effect on your fuel consumption. Tyres are designed to be efficient at a precise pressure; if they are not inflated enough, the tyre will be squashed against the road, causing more friction. In turn, this means that fuel conmsumption can go up by as much as 20%. Likewise over-inflating your tyres can be bad for fuel consumption. Make sure to check the correct pressures for your vehicle, which can usually be located in your handbook, or on a sticker inside the car (for example, on the inside of the door). 
 
If the tread on your tyres has worn away, they won’t perform to their best either. As your tyres won’t be able to grip the road as well, you’ll use more energy (and fuel) when accelerating. 

BRAKING 

Drum brakes use pads and shoes inside a casing (the drum) to slow your vehicle down. The pads are pushed outwards, causing friction. Disc brakes on the other hand are arranged differently; a disc mounted to the wheel is gripped on both sides by brakes pads. Again this causes friction and slows your vehicle down. 
 
Disc brakes generally provide more braking power and most cars will have these mounted at the front of the vehicle. Some will still have drum brakes mounted at the back, which are required to do less braking. 
 
Both types of braking system use the same principal of applying friction in order to slow down your vehicle, so both will wear out over time. 

BATTERY 

If the battery warning light is showing on your dashboard, it could be that the battery is failing to charge. It is possible that the alternator isn’t working correctly or the battery itself may need changing. 
 
In either case, it’s important to have your battery checked by one of our mechanics. If the battery fails completely, you won’t be able to start your car. 

VISIBILITY 

Xenon lights are a relatively new development in modern cars. They emit light that is closer to daylight than halogen lights. This also means they are much more powerful and last much longer than traditional lights. 
 
When they do need replacing, xenon lights use a particular type of bulb. These contain xenon gas, drawing 20,000 volts (compared to 12 volts for a traditional bulb). 
 
One of our mechanics will be able to help you replace your xenon bulbs. 

EXHAUST 

There could be a problem with the catalytic converter or the lambda sensor. The lambda sensor is located in the exhaust system and allows the engine to control the ratio of air and fuel. When this sensor is damaged, the signal to the engine fails. This sends the vehicle into a limp mode, which generally prevents the vehicle from going over 40 mph. 
 
If the catalytic converter is damaged on the other hand, harmful gases are not transformed correctly. Again, a signal is sent to the engine, switching it to limp mode. 
 
In either case, give us a call or book an appointment online and we will be able to diagnose the issue and suggest a solution. 
If we didn't answer your question, ask us direct! 

TIMING BELT 

The lifetime of the timing belt depends on the make and model of your vehicle, as well as your driving habits. Every car manufacturer will recommend a different age and mileage to replace the timing belt. As a very general rule, you can expect to change the timing belt every 5 years at the latest. If you are a high mileage driver, you may find your timing belt needs to be replaced between 70,000 and 100,000 miles. 
 
Any damage to the timing belt could of course mean that you need to replace it sooner. 
 
Check your maintenance or handbook for the recommended replacement interval for your vehicle and if you're not sure pop in or book an appointment with us today. 

SUSPENSION 

The most likely answer is that your shock absorbers have been worn or damaged. If working correctly, the shock absorbers would stop any excessive leaning or dipping. While a certain amount of body roll is normal in any car, if you have specifically noticed a change in the way your car is handling, you should always bring your car in for a mechanic to take a look. 
 
Without your entire suspension system in good working order, your car is likely to be less efficient and more importantly, your safety could be at risk. 

MECHANICAL REPAIRS 

Yes. We are equipped with the right tools and expertise to repair all major makes and models. So whatever brand you drive, we’re here to help. 

OIL CHECK 

Your car’s engine is a complex piece of machinery containing a number of moving parts. Most of these components are metal, some of which need to rub against each other. For example, pistons move up and down inside cylinders, rubbing against the interior wall. 
 
Engine oil lubricates this process, making it more ‘slippery’. Despite this, friction still occurs, creating microparticles of metal and dirt, which are carried away by the oil. 
 
During this lubrication and cleaning process, oil is slowly burned off. Over time this means your oil level drops and needs to be replaced or topped up. 
Our site uses cookies. For more information, see our cookie policy. Accept cookies and close
Reject cookies Manage settings