RAC car insurance is part of the RAC’s comprehensive suite of motoring services. Known for its exceptional roadside assistance, the RAC also offers flexible car insurance options to suit a range of drivers.
Key features of RAC car insurance
RAC car insurance provides a variety of benefits, including 24/7 claims support, uninsured driver protection, and the option to add breakdown cover. These features ensure that drivers can enjoy peace of mind, knowing they are protected in a variety of situations.
Bundling options for added convenience
RAC offers drivers the option to bundle their car insurance with their well-known roadside assistance packages. This integration provides added convenience and savings, combining essential services into one easy-to-manage policy.
A trusted reputation for reliability
With its long-standing history and proven reliability, the RAC is a trusted choice for UK motorists. Their commitment to providing comprehensive insurance options and excellent customer service has cemented their status as one of the most dependable motoring providers in the UK.
Why choose Rooster?
With Rooster, you can save up to 40% compared to traditional car insurance companies just for being a safe driver. Using new technology Rooster monitors your driving habits through a 3 week test drive where you drive normally with your phone in the car. The safer you are, the more you save! Rooster also helps you save up to 50% on services, MOTs, and repairs. Download the app today to enjoy exclusive benefits and hassle-free insurance management.
LV car insurance, also known as Liverpool Victoria, is renowned for its award-winning coverage and customer service. With a focus on providing excellent value, LV offers policies that include comprehensive cover, windscreen repair, and a courtesy car as standard.
Key features of LV car insurance
LV offers comprehensive car insurance with added benefits like windscreen repair and a courtesy car as part of their standard cover. This ensures that drivers can remain mobile and protected without added stress in unexpected situations.
Multi-car discounts and optional extras
Additional perks such as multi-car discounts make LV an attractive choice for families with multiple vehicles or households looking to simplify their insurance. Drivers can also add optional extras like breakdown cover for additional peace of mind.
Flexible payments and dedicated support
LV’s flexible payment options and efficient claims support make their services accessible and stress-free for all customers. With a focus on customer satisfaction, LV has received high Trustpilot ratings and numerous industry awards. Their commitment to quality service and reliability has fostered a loyal customer base.
Why choose Rooster?
With Rooster, you can save up to 40% compared to traditional car insurance companies just for being a safe driver. Using new technology Rooster monitors your driving habits through a 3 week test drive where you drive normally with your phone in the car. The safer you are, the more you save! Rooster also helps you save up to 50% on services, MOTs, and repairs. Download the app today to enjoy exclusive benefits and hassle-free insurance management.
Tesco car insurance offers a range of policies designed to meet the needs of UK drivers. Known for its Clubcard discounts, Tesco provides added value to loyal customers while offering reliable and affordable car insurance options. With various coverage options and convenient services, Tesco makes insurance simple and accessible for drivers across the UK.
Key features of Tesco car insurance
Tesco provides a variety of policy options, including third-party, fire, and theft, as well as fully comprehensive cover. In addition to standard coverage, drivers can benefit from features such as uninsured driver protection, breakdown cover, and windscreen repair. These options ensure that Tesco’s customers can build policies suited to their specific needs.
Simple and straightforward online services
Tesco’s easy-to-use online platform allows customers to quickly get a quote or manage their policies. This user-friendly experience reflects Tesco’s commitment to convenience and efficiency for busy drivers who prefer handling their insurance digitally.
Exclusive Clubcard discounts
One of Tesco’s most appealing features is its Clubcard discounts, which offer loyal customers access to exclusive savings. These discounts make Tesco car insurance even more competitive, combining everyday savings with essential and trusted insurance cover. This integration demonstrates Tesco’s customer-first approach to affordability and value.
Why choose Rooster?
With Rooster, you can save up to 40% compared to traditional car insurance companies just for being a safe driver. Using new technology Rooster monitors your driving habits through a 3 week test drive where you drive normally with your phone in the car. The safer you are, the more you save! Rooster also helps you save up to 50% on services, MOTs, and repairs. Download the app today to enjoy exclusive benefits and hassle-free insurance management.
Esure car insurance is a popular choice for UK drivers seeking reliable and comprehensive cover. Offering a range of policies, including third-party, fire, and theft, and fully comprehensive options, Esure caters to diverse needs. Their standout features include a 24/7 claims helpline, flexible add-ons, and multi-car discounts.
Comprehensive Policy Options
Esure provides various policy types to suit every driver. Their third-party, fire, and theft cover is ideal for those seeking essential protection, while their fully comprehensive policies offer extensive benefits. This flexibility ensures that drivers can find the right level of cover for their unique needs.
Flexible Add-Ons and Customisation
Esure’s dedication to customer satisfaction is evident in their customisable policies. Optional features such as breakdown cover, legal expenses insurance, and courtesy car provision allow drivers to tailor their insurance. These add-ons ensure that drivers are equipped for any unexpected situations.
Competitive Pricing and Discounts
Whether you’re a new driver or an experienced motorist, Esure offers competitive pricing and multi-car discounts. These savings make Esure a cost-effective choice without compromising on coverage.
Easy Online Management
Esure’s easy-to-use online platform simplifies everything from obtaining a quote to managing your policy. Their intuitive system ensures a hassle-free experience for users, providing convenience and efficiency.
Dedicated Claims Support
With a 24/7 claims helpline, Esure car insurance ensures that help is always at hand. Their straightforward claims process further enhances customer peace of mind, making them a trusted name in car insurance.
Why choose Rooster?
With Rooster, you can save up to 40% compared to traditional car insurance companies just for being a safe driver. Using new technology Rooster monitors your driving habits through a 3 week test drive where you drive normally with your phone in the car. The safer you are, the more you save! Rooster also helps you save up to 50% on services, MOTs, and repairs. Download the app today to enjoy exclusive benefits and hassle-free insurance management.
General Accident stands out as a versatile car insurance provider that’s trusted by many UK drivers. Known for its Pay-As-You-Go policy options, General Accident allows you to pay monthly without long-term commitments. This makes it ideal for occasional drivers or those seeking flexibility.
Key features of General Accident
In addition to standard coverage, General Accident offers features like 24/7 claims support and access to an easy-to-use app for policy management. With a focus on transparency and convenience, the company caters to modern drivers looking for straightforward insurance solutions.
Innovative online tools
Drivers benefit from General Accident’s comprehensive online portal, where they can track their driving habits and adjust their policies accordingly. This innovative approach ensures that customers only pay for what they need. Additionally, the app provides a seamless way to view policy details, update information, and manage claims without hassle.
Flexible policies for every driver
General Accident’s flexible Pay-As-You-Go options make it ideal for occasional drivers or those who want to avoid long-term commitments. Whether you drive regularly or sporadically, their tailored policies adapt to your lifestyle, offering a balance of affordability and convenience.
Why choose Rooster?
With Rooster, you can save up to 40% compared to traditional car insurance companies just for being a safe driver. Using new technology Rooster monitors your driving habits through a 3 week test drive where you drive normally with your phone in the car. The safer you are, the more you save! Rooster also helps you save up to 50% on services, MOTs, and repairs. Download the app today to enjoy exclusive benefits and hassle-free insurance management.
Darwin insurance offers innovative car insurance solutions tailored to the modern driver. Known for its data-driven approach, Darwin evaluates individual driving behaviour to provide fair and personalised premiums. Unlike traditional insurers, Darwin leverages advanced technology to create quotes that reward safer driving habits.
Key features of Darwin insurance
Darwin’s standout features include flexible policies, user-friendly online services, and competitive pricing. Drivers particularly value the streamlined claims process, which ensures support is available when it matters most. With its focus on innovation, Darwin insurance has gained popularity amongst tech-savvy drivers seeking straightforward and transparent coverage.
A mobile-first experience
Darwin provides a mobile-first experience, making it easy to manage your policy and submit claims directly from your smartphone. This convenience, combined with their fair pricing model, makes Darwin an attractive choice for modern motorists.
Tailored policies for every driver
Darwin is committed to offering policies that reflect individual driving habits, helping responsible drivers save money. Their platform allows users to access important policy details, track claims, and make updates with ease. Whether you’re a new driver or an experienced one, Darwin ensures your cover is designed to suit your driving style, providing both flexibility and value.
Why choose Rooster?
With Rooster, you can save up to 40% compared to traditional car insurance companies just for being a safe driver. Using new technology Rooster monitors your driving habits through a 3 week test drive where you drive normally with your phone in the car. The safer you are, the more you save! Rooster also helps you save up to 50% on services, MOTs, and repairs. Download the app today to enjoy exclusive benefits and hassle-free insurance management.
Staying on top of your car’s maintenance, MOT, and repairs is key to keeping it roadworthy and reliable. Finding trusted and affordable services can be time-consuming, but Rooster makes it easy to book MOT, servicing, and repairs near you.
Why Regular Maintenance Matters
Safety: Regular checks ensure your vehicle is safe to drive. Compliance: An up-to-date MOT is a legal requirement in the UK. Cost Savings: Preventative maintenance avoids costly repairs.
How to Book Services with Rooster
Enter Your Vehicle Details Add your registration number to the app.
Find Nearby Services Rooster shows trusted garages for MOTs, servicing, and repairs in your area.
Compare Prices Get quotes and choose a service that fits your budget.
Book Easily Schedule appointments directly through the app.
Why Choose Rooster
Convenience: Manage everything from your phone. Transparency: Compare prices and reviews before booking. Reminders: Never miss an MOT or service again.
Extra Benefits of Using Rooster
Rooster not only simplifies the booking process but also helps you save money. With Rooster, you can access discounts of up to 50% on MOTs, servicing, and essential repairs. This means you’re not just booking a service—you’re ensuring quality and affordability in one go. By partnering with trusted garages, Rooster ensures that your car is always in expert hands.
Additionally, Rooster’s intuitive app lets you track all your car’s maintenance needs in one place. Set reminders for MOT due dates, review past services, and even get alerts about potential issues based on your mileage. By partnering with trusted garages, Rooster ensures that your vehicle remains safe and reliable throughout its lifespan.
Don’t let car maintenance be a hassle. Download the Rooster app today and enjoy the ease of managing MOTs, servicing, and repairs all in one place. Stay safe, compliant, and save money with Rooster!
Your car’s mileage tells a story of its usage, wear, and value. Keeping track of your mileage is crucial for maintenance, resale value, and legal compliance. Here’s why the importance of a mileage check should never be underestimated.
Monitor Wear and Tear Higher mileage indicates greater wear on critical components like the engine, tyres, and suspension.
Schedule Maintenance Service intervals are often based on mileage, ensuring timely upkeep.
Prevent Fraud Mileage discrepancies can indicate tampering, which is illegal and reduces resale value.
How to Check Your Mileage
Dashboard Odometer Most cars display mileage digitally or on an analog odometer.
Service History Check mileage records in your vehicle’s maintenance log.
Vehicle History Check Use tools like Rooster to compare recorded mileage from previous MOT tests.
When to Monitor Mileage
Before buying a used car
When scheduling a service or MOT
For insurance or resale purposes
Why Consistent Mileage Monitoring Matters
Regularly checking and recording your mileage not only ensures accuracy but also helps you avoid unexpected maintenance issues. This habit can prevent costly repairs, protect your vehicle’s value, and enhance its safety. Being proactive means you’re less likely to face surprises when it’s time for an MOT or insurance renewal.
How Rooster Helps
Rooster provides tools to track mileage and set reminders for maintenance based on your driving habits. With Rooster, you can also save up to 50% on essential car services, MOTs, and repairs. Staying on top of your mileage has never been easier—download the app today and take control of your car’s care.
MOT tests are essential for ensuring your car’s roadworthiness and environmental compliance. One of the most important parts of the test is the exhaust emission check. Here’s why MOT tests include an exhaust emission test and how it impacts your vehicle.
The exhaust emission test measures the pollutants your vehicle emits, ensuring it complies with legal limits. This is particularly important for reducing air pollution and protecting public health.
Why Is the Emission Test Important?
Environmental Protection Vehicles emit harmful gases like carbon monoxide (CO), hydrocarbons (HC), and nitrogen oxides (NOx). The test ensures these emissions stay within acceptable limits.
Fuel Efficiency Excessive emissions often indicate poor engine performance or inefficiencies, which can affect fuel economy.
Compliance with Laws Passing the emission test is required to legally operate your vehicle in the UK.
What Causes High Emissions?
Faulty Oxygen Sensors: Lead to inefficient fuel combustion. Dirty Air Filters: Restrict airflow, increasing emissions. Catalytic Converter Issues: Prevent harmful gases from being neutralized.
How to Prepare for an Emission Test
Drive Your Car Regularly Short trips can cause carbon buildup. A longer drive before the test helps clear emissions.
Change the Oil Fresh oil reduces harmful particles in emissions.
Replace Air Filters Ensure your engine has clean airflow for efficient combustion.
How Rooster Helps
Rooster’s MOT predictor and maintenance tools help you identify potential emission issues before your test, saving you time and money. Plus with the Rooster app you can save up to 50% on services and repairs.
Engine oil is the lifeblood of your car, keeping the engine’s moving parts lubricated and running smoothly. Running low on oil or using dirty oil can lead to serious damage. Here’s a step-by-step guide to learn how to check or top up engine oil, ensuring your engine remains in top condition.
Lubrication: Reduces friction between moving parts.
Cooling: Helps regulate engine temperature.
Cleaning: Removes dirt and debris to prevent buildup.
How to Check Engine Oil
Park on a Level Surface Ensure the car is off, and the engine is cool.
Locate the Dipstick Open the bonnet and find the dipstick, usually marked with a brightly coloured handle.
Remove and Clean the Dipstick Pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean with a cloth, and reinsert it fully.
Check the Oil Level Remove the dipstick again and observe the level against the “minimum” and “maximum” markers. The oil should be closer to the maximum level.
How to Top Up Engine Oil
Choose the Right Oil Refer to your car’s manual for the correct type and grade of oil.
Add Oil Gradually Remove the oil cap and pour a small amount of oil. Wait a moment for it to settle, then check the dipstick again.
Avoid Overfilling Stop once the oil reaches the maximum marker.
When to Check Oil Levels
Monthly
Before long trips
If the oil warning light appears on your dashboard
How Rooster Helps
Rooster provides maintenance reminders and oil check guides to keep your car running smoothly. Track your oil changes and get notified when it’s time for a top-up.
Windscreen wiper blades are essential for maintaining clear visibility, especially during rain, snow, or other adverse weather conditions. Worn or damaged wipers can leave streaks and smears on your windscreen, reducing your ability to see clearly and compromising your safety. Here’s how to know when it is time to change your windscreen wiper blades and ensure you’re driving safely.
If your wipers leave water, streaks, or smudges behind, they’re not clearing effectively, and your visibility could be at risk.
2. Skipping or Chattering Sounds
These noises occur when the rubber on the wiper blades has hardened or is uneven, causing the wiper to skip across the glass instead of gliding smoothly.
3. Cracks or Tears in the Blade
Visible damage, such as cracks or tears along the rubber edge, is a clear indication that your wiper blades need replacing.
4. Reduced Performance in Rain
If your wipers fail to handle heavy rain or can’t keep your windscreen clear, it’s time for a new set.
How Often Should You Replace Wiper Blades?
Most manufacturers recommend replacing wiper blades every 6–12 months. However, your driving environment, weather conditions, and usage frequency can affect this timeframe.
How to Choose and Replace Wiper Blades
Choose the Right Blades: Consult your car’s manual for the correct size and type. Opt for premium blades for improved durability and performance.
Replace Your Blades:
Lift the wiper arm away from the windscreen.
Remove the old blade by pressing the release tab and sliding it out.
Attach the new blade, ensuring it clicks securely into place.
How Rooster Helps
Rooster’s app provides maintenance reminders, ensuring you replace your wiper blades on time. Stay prepared for all weather conditions—download Rooster today!
Enjoyed reading When Is It Time to Change Your Windscreen Wiper Blades? Read more here.
Your car’s brakes are among its most vital safety features, designed to help you avoid accidents and navigate the road safely. When something isn’t right, your brakes often give clear warning signs, but recognising and addressing them promptly is crucial. Here’s a guide to understanding what your car brakes are trying to tell you and how to maintain them for safe driving.
Cause: Worn brake pads. Solution: Replace the pads immediately to prevent rotor damage.
2. Grinding Noise
Cause: Metal-on-metal contact from severely worn pads. Solution: Inspect and replace both the pads and rotors if needed.
3. Vibrations While Braking
Cause: Warped rotors. Solution: Resurface or replace the rotors to restore smooth braking.
4. Soft or Spongy Pedal
Cause: Air in the brake lines or a brake fluid leak. Solution: Bleed the brake system and check for leaks.
5. Brake Warning Light
Cause: Low brake fluid levels or a system malfunction. Solution: Check the fluid levels and consult a mechanic if necessary.
How to Maintain Your Car Brakes
Inspect Brake Pads: Check regularly for signs of wear to avoid costly repairs. Flush Brake Fluid: Replace brake fluid every two years or according to your car’s manual. Drive Mindfully: Avoid sudden or hard braking to prolong the lifespan of your brakes.
How Rooster Helps
Rooster’s app provides repair predictions and tracks maintenance schedules, helping you address brake issues before they escalate. Stay on top of your car’s safety by downloading the Rooster app today.
Enjoyed reading What Your Car Brakes Are Trying to Tell You? Read more of our blog posts here.
The battery warning light is a crucial indicator of potential electrical system issues in your car. Ignoring it could lead to being stranded with a dead battery, so it’s essential to address the problem promptly. Here’s a guide on what to do when your battery warning light turns on and how to resolve the issue before it becomes serious.
The alternator’s job is to charge the battery while the engine runs. A faulty alternator means the battery isn’t being recharged, which could cause it to drain quickly.
2. Loose or Corroded Connections
Damaged, loose, or corroded cables and battery terminals can interrupt the electrical current, causing the warning light to appear.
3. Old or Weak Battery
Batteries degrade naturally over time, reducing their capacity to hold a charge. An old or failing battery may trigger the light.
Steps to Take When the Light Turns On
1. Turn Off High-Drain Devices
Conserve your battery’s remaining power by switching off accessories like the radio, air conditioning, and heated seats.
2. Inspect the Battery and Connections
Pop the bonnet and check the battery for any loose or corroded terminals. Clean the connections if necessary, ensuring they’re secure.
3. Drive to a Mechanic
If the warning light remains on, it’s time to seek professional help. A mechanic can inspect the electrical system and diagnose the root cause before it escalates into a major issue.
How Rooster Helps
Rooster’s app-based maintenance tools help you monitor battery health and other critical systems. With Rooster, you can identify and address potential issues before they leave you stranded. Download the Rooster app today to stay prepared and in control.
Engine coolant, also known as antifreeze, is a vital fluid that plays a crucial role in your car’s performance. It helps regulate temperature, prevents overheating, and safeguards against freezing in colder weather. Neglecting engine coolant maintenance can lead to costly repairs or even catastrophic engine failure. That’s why the importance of an engine coolant to keep your car running cannot be overstated.
Engine coolant absorbs heat generated by the engine and dissipates it through the radiator, ensuring the engine operates at an optimal temperature.
2. Prevents Freezing
In cold climates, coolant prevents fluids in the engine from freezing, avoiding significant damage to critical components.
3. Rust and Corrosion Protection
Coolant contains additives that guard against rust and corrosion, prolonging the life of the engine and radiator.
Signs of Low or Failing Coolant
Overheating Engine: The temperature gauge rises above normal levels, indicating insufficient cooling.
Coolant Warning Light: A dashboard alert warns you of low coolant levels.
Visible Leaks: Green, orange, or pink fluid under your car is a clear sign of a coolant issue.
How to Maintain Your Engine Coolant
1. Check Levels Regularly
Inspect the coolant reservoir and ensure the fluid level falls between the minimum and maximum markers.
2. Top Up with the Right Coolant
Always use the type recommended in your car’s manual. Mixing incompatible coolants can damage the system.
3. Flush and Replace Periodically
Coolant degrades over time, so follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule to flush and replace it as needed.
How Rooster Helps
Rooster’s app offers maintenance reminders and valuable insights into your car’s condition, ensuring your coolant system is always in optimal shape. Stay ahead of issues by downloading the Rooster app today.
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The airbag warning light is a critical safety indicator that should never be ignored. If this light illuminates, it means your airbag system isn’t functioning correctly, which could compromise your safety in an accident. Here’s what to do when the airbag warning light turns on and how to resolve the issue.
The airbag light, also known as the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) light, indicates a problem with your car’s airbag system. This could include:
Faulty sensors
Disconnected wiring
Depleted battery in the airbag module
Steps to Take
Don’t Ignore the Warning The airbag may not deploy during a collision if the light is on.
Check the Battery A weak car battery can trigger the airbag warning.
Inspect the Seatbelts Faulty seatbelt sensors can affect the airbag system.
Visit a Mechanic Have your airbag system diagnosed by a professional.
The Importance of Addressing the Warning Light
Ignoring this warning light could leave you vulnerable in an accident, as it signals the system’s inability to deploy airbags when needed. Addressing this issue promptly ensures your safety on the road. If the light is illuminated, follow the recommended steps to identify and resolve the problem. Regular maintenance, combined with proactive measures, can help prevent system failures and keep you protected during unexpected situations.
How Rooster Helps
Rooster simplifies safety management with tools like diagnostic reminders and repair trackers. Keep your airbag system functional with our expert advice and servicing options.
Extreme weather can take a toll on your vehicle, affecting its performance, safety, and longevity. From freezing winters to scorching summers, understanding the effect of extreme weather on car parts can help you take preventive measures and avoid costly repairs.
Impact: Low temperatures reduce a battery’s efficiency, making it harder to start your car. Older batteries are especially vulnerable to failure.
Prevention: Test your battery regularly and replace it if necessary.
Tyre Pressure Drops
Impact: Cold air causes tyre pressure to drop, reducing grip and increasing wear.
Prevention: Check and adjust your tyre pressure regularly during winter.
Frozen Fluids
Impact: Fluids like coolant and washer fluid can freeze, potentially causing damage to the engine or washer system.
Prevention: Use winter-grade fluids designed to withstand low temperatures.
Cracked Belts and Hoses
Impact: Rubber components can become brittle in freezing weather, leading to cracks and failures.
Prevention: Inspect belts and hoses for wear and replace them as needed.
How Hot Weather Affects Your Car
Overheating Engine
Impact: High temperatures can strain the cooling system, leading to overheating and potential engine damage.
Prevention: Check your coolant levels and ensure the radiator is functioning properly.
Tyre Blowouts
Impact: Hot weather increases tyre pressure, which can lead to blowouts if the tyres are already worn.
Prevention: Inspect tyres for wear and maintain the recommended pressure.
Battery Drain
Impact: Heat accelerates the evaporation of battery fluid, shortening battery life.
Prevention: Park in shaded areas and test your battery’s health regularly.
Fading Paintwork
Impact: Prolonged exposure to UV rays can fade your car’s paint and damage the interior.
Prevention: Use a car cover or park in a garage during hot weather.
General Weather-Related Issues
Windshield Damage
Impact: Sudden temperature changes can cause chips or cracks in the windscreen to expand.
Prevention: Repair minor chips before they worsen and use a sunshade in hot weather.
Rust and Corrosion
Impact: Snow, rain, and road salt can lead to rust, especially on the undercarriage.
Prevention: Wash your car regularly, especially after driving on salted roads, and apply rust protection treatments.
Tips for Weatherproofing Your Car
Seasonal Maintenance: Schedule check-ups before extreme weather seasons. Use Proper Equipment: Install winter tyres or summer tyres depending on the season. Emergency Kit: Keep an emergency kit in your car, including tools, jumper cables, and essentials like blankets and water.
How Rooster Helps
Rooster simplifies vehicle maintenance, offering reminders and tools to protect your car against weather-related damage. From tyre checks to coolant monitoring, our app helps you stay roadworthy in any season.
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A car battery with loose connections can cause starting issues and electrical failures. Testing and securing your battery connections is a simple task that can prevent breakdowns and extend battery life. Here’s a detailed guide on how to test your car battery for loose connections.
Difficulty starting the car Flickering dashboard lights Intermittent electrical issues, such as malfunctioning wipers or lights
Tools You’ll Need
Insulated gloves Wrench or spanner Wire brush (optional)
Steps to Test and Fix Loose Connections
Safety First Turn off the car and remove the key. Wear insulated gloves to protect yourself from accidental electrical contact.
Inspect the Battery Terminals Open the bonnet and locate the battery. Check for signs of corrosion, dirt, or looseness on the terminals.
Check Terminal Tightness Gently wiggle the battery cables. If they move easily, they’re loose.
Tighten the Connections Use a wrench or spanner to tighten the clamps on the positive (+) and negative (-) terminals. Ensure the connections are snug but avoid overtightening.
Clean the Terminals (Optional) If corrosion is present, disconnect the battery and clean the terminals with a wire brush. Reconnect and tighten them securely.
How Rooster Helps
Rooster provides reminders for routine car maintenance. With our app, you can stay on top of your vehicle’s condition and avoid electrical issues by getting yearly service reminders or saving up to 50% on services and repairs. Download Rooster now.
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If you’re not using your car and want to save money on road tax and insurance, you might need to declare it as off the road. Here’s a detailed guide on when and how to SORN your car, ensuring you stay compliant while avoiding unnecessary costs.
A SORN (Statutory Off-Road Notification) is a declaration made to the DVLA when your car is not being driven or parked on public roads. This exempts you from paying road tax and often allows you to pause your insurance.
When Should You SORN Your Car?
You’re Not Using the Vehicle If your car will be off the road for an extended period, such as during repairs or storage.
You Want to Save on Costs Declaring your car off-road means you won’t have to pay road tax or insurance.
You’re Selling or Scrapping the Vehicle SORN is necessary if the vehicle won’t be driven until ownership is transferred.
How to SORN Your Car
Online Visit the GOV.UK SORN service. Enter your car’s registration number and V5C reference number to complete the process instantly.
By Post Complete section 9 of your V5C logbook and send it to the DVLA.
By Phone Call the DVLA on 0300 123 4321 and provide the required details.
Important Rules About SORN
Storage: A SORNed car must be kept off public roads, such as in a garage or private driveway.
Insurance: While insurance isn’t required for a SORNed vehicle, maintaining theft or fire coverage is recommended.
How Rooster Can Help
Rooster’s app tracks your tax and MOT status, ensuring you only pay for what you need. With our reminders and tools, managing your car’s SORN status is hassle-free.
Losing your MOT certificate can be frustrating, but the good news is that it’s easy to get a replacement. Whether you’ve misplaced it or need an additional copy, here’s everything you need to know about how to get a replacement MOT certificate in the UK.
An MOT certificate proves your vehicle passed its annual safety and emissions test. While you’re not legally required to keep a physical copy, you might need it for:
Selling your vehicle.
Providing proof to your insurer.
Keeping personal records of your car’s history.
If your certificate is lost or damaged, obtaining a replacement is straightforward.
How to Get a Replacement MOT Certificate
Check If You Have a Digital MOT Record All MOT test results are stored online. You can access your MOT history and reprint the certificate yourself if your test was conducted after May 2018.
Visit the GOV.UK MOT history service.
Enter your car’s registration number and 11-digit V5C logbook reference number.
Download and print your replacement certificate.
Contact the Test Centre If you cannot access the online service, contact the MOT test centre where the test was performed.
Provide your vehicle’s registration number and proof of identity.
The test centre may charge a small fee of up to £10.
Use Rooster’s Tools Rooster’s app helps track your MOT records digitally, so you never lose track of your documents. With instant reminders and access to test history, managing your vehicle’s MOT has never been easier.
Costs and Processing Times
The cost of a replacement certificate is typically up to £10.
If requested through the test centre, the process is often immediate. If mailed, it can take a few days to arrive.
Tips for Preventing Future Loss
Keep a Digital Copy: Save your MOT certificate as a PDF for easy access.
Use Rooster for MOT Tracking: With Rooster, you’ll have reminders for renewals and access to digital records, eliminating the need for paper certificates.
Final Thoughts
Losing an MOT certificate isn’t the end of the world. With digital records and simple replacement processes, you can quickly regain access to this essential document. So, let Rooster help you keep everything organised and stress-free.
The Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is an essential safety feature in modern vehicles, designed to prevent your wheels from locking up during heavy braking. If your ABS warning light comes on, it’s your car’s way of alerting you to a potential issue. Ignoring this light could compromise your vehicle’s braking performance and put you at risk. Here’s an in-depth guide on what to do if the ABS warning light illuminates.
The ABS warning light serves as an indicator that something is wrong with your vehicle’s braking system. When functioning properly, ABS ensures:
Better control of your vehicle during emergency braking.
Reduced risk of skidding on wet or icy roads.
Enhanced stopping power.
If the warning light is on, these safety benefits may be compromised.
Step 1: Understand the ABS Warning Light
Before taking action, it’s crucial to understand how your ABS warning light works.
Light Comes On When You Start the Car It’s normal for the ABS light to illuminate briefly when you start your vehicle. This is part of the system’s self-check process. If the light turns off after a few seconds, there’s no issue.
Light Stays On While Driving If the ABS light remains on, it indicates a problem. This could range from a minor sensor issue to a more serious malfunction.
ABS Light and Brake Warning Light Together If the ABS light appears alongside the main brake warning light, it could mean a severe issue with your braking system. Stop driving immediately and seek professional assistance.
Step 2: Check for Common Causes
The ABS warning light can turn on for several reasons. Below are the most common culprits:
Faulty ABS Sensors Each wheel has a sensor to monitor its speed and prevent locking. Dirt, debris, or damage to these sensors can trigger the warning light.
Damaged Wiring or Connections Corrosion, wear, or damage to the ABS wiring can disrupt communication between the ABS module and the sensors.
Low Brake Fluid Levels Brake fluid is essential for proper braking system operation. Low fluid levels can affect ABS performance and trigger the warning light.
Malfunctioning ABS Module The module that controls the ABS system could fail due to electrical or mechanical issues.
Blown Fuse A blown fuse in the ABS circuit could prevent the system from working correctly.
Step 3: Immediate Actions to Take
If the ABS warning light comes on while driving, follow these steps:
Stay Calm Your vehicle’s brakes will still function, but the ABS system won’t provide additional safety features. Drive cautiously.
Avoid Heavy Braking Without ABS, sudden braking can cause the wheels to lock, increasing the risk of skidding.
Pull Over Safely If it’s safe to do so, pull over and check your vehicle. Inspect for obvious issues like low brake fluid or visible damage to the wheels.
Step 4: Conduct a Preliminary Inspection
While a professional diagnosis is recommended, there are a few checks you can perform:
Inspect the Brake Fluid Locate the brake fluid reservoir under the hood. Ensure the fluid level is within the recommended range. If it’s low, top it up with the correct brake fluid type.
Check for Physical Damage Look for damaged wiring, loose connections, or debris around the wheels.
Restart the Vehicle Sometimes, restarting your car can reset the ABS system. If the light remains on, the issue persists.
Step 5: Seek Professional Help
If you cannot resolve the issue on your own, consult a qualified mechanic. A professional will:
Use a diagnostic scanner to identify the specific fault code.
Inspect the ABS sensors, wiring, and module.
Perform necessary repairs or replacements.
Preventing Future ABS Issues
Regular Maintenance Schedule routine brake system inspections and ensure your brake fluid is replaced according to your vehicle’s maintenance schedule.
Keep the Sensors Clean Avoid driving through deep mud or water that can clog the ABS sensors.
Address Warning Lights Promptly Ignoring the ABS warning light can lead to more severe problems and costly repairs.
FAQs About ABS Warning Lights
1. Is it safe to drive with the ABS light on? While the brakes will still function, the ABS system will not assist you during emergency braking. Drive cautiously and have your car inspected as soon as possible.
2. What happens if I ignore the ABS warning light? Ignoring the warning could lead to compromised braking performance, reduced safety, and potentially expensive repairs.
3. How much does it cost to fix an ABS issue? The cost depends on the problem. Replacing a sensor might cost £100–£200, while fixing a module could be £500 or more.
Conclusion
The ABS warning light is a crucial indicator of your vehicle’s braking health. If it turns on, don’t panic, but don’t ignore it either. By understanding the causes, conducting basic checks, and seeking professional help when necessary, you can ensure your brakes remain in top condition and your safety isn’t compromised.
Remember, regular maintenance and prompt action are key to keeping your ABS system—and your vehicle as a whole—in excellent shape.