Frequently Asked Questions
Please check our FAQs below for answers to many common questions concerning servicing, MOTs, tyres, air conditioning and general motor maintenance.
We offer three packages, starting from £125.00. Annual service from £225.00. Premium service from £345.00, all inclusive of VAT.
Please view our servicing page for full details.
There is not one answer to this question, but typically it will be one of the following:
- The AC compressor does not start
- The air temperature is not low enough
- The airflow is low
- The air conditioning smells bad
- The AC system is noisy
- The refrigerant is low or missing
Yes, absolutely. It is important to understand that they are two separate activities in our workshop. An MOT will check the roadworthiness of your vehicle based on strict DVSA guidelines. We do not remove wheels, we do not road test (unless 4×4) and we are not allowed to remove any engine covers. On a service, depending on which one you ask us to complete we will replace engine oil, remove the wheels, check your brakes, and give you advice on tyre wear and condition.
We must abide by local laws and regulations and prove to Buckinghamshire council that the collection, movement, and disposal of tyres is legal.
Casually disposing of tyres and not taking precautions as to how they’re disposed of could mean we are directly responsible for:-
- Releasing toxic chemicals into the atmosphere. Benzene, xylene, ethylene, and acetone are among the most dangerous compounds.
- Creating hazardous solid waste
- Emitting greenhouse gasses
- Increasing air pollution
- Endangering humans
There is a fee we pay to comply with legislation and of course avoid harm to our planet, and we pass a percentage of this fee onto our Customers.
We must abide by local laws and regulations and prove to Buckinghamshire council that the collection, movement, and disposal of spent oils and fluids occurs.
Casually disposing of these oils and fluids is unlawful, and we would not want to be part of anything that brings harm to Olney and surrounding areas. The Health & Safety Executive even have a regulation regarding the storage, control, exposure and disposal of car engine oil and fluids.
We only buy our fluids from reputable suppliers, with full traceability in place for your peace of mind and reassurance on quality.
We only use approved agencies to remove oil and fluids from our premises and we are subject to audit at anytime as a professional operator in the industry.
The COSSHH regulations we follow are – COSHH essentials for service and retail SR19 (hse.gov.uk)
There is a fee we pay to comply with legislation and of course avoid harm to our planet, and we pass a percentage of this fee onto our Customers each time the vehicle is serviced or repaired.
There is no time set by DVSA for an MOT, typically it will take us between 50 – 60 mins, but we prefer not to give a set time as if we set and expectation on time and do not meet it, for whatever reason, we feel we are letting you down.
With our business, we prefer you to drop your vehicle off in the morning for MOT’s required before 1300hrs and drop off at 1200hrs for MOT’s required for 1700hrs.
Replacing the engine timing belt when due is crucial for preventing catastrophic engine failure. Over time, belts wear, leading to potential breakage. If the timing belt fails, engine components can collide, causing severe damage. Timely replacement ensures reliable engine performance, preventing costly repairs and ensuring the vehicle’s longevity and safety.
The replacement cycle for a car engine timing belt varies by manufacturer and model, typically ranging from 60,000 to 100,000 miles, or every 5 years. However, it’s essential to consult the vehicle’s owner’s manual or the manufacturer’s recommendations, as specific intervals may vary. Regular inspections and adherence to maintenance schedules are crucial for preventing potential issues.
Typically we would advise the replacement of the water pump at the same time, this will prevent a more costly repair at a later stage and you will only pay for the water pump and gaskets, plus any antifreeze coolant used.
Please check our Service tab on this website, depending on which service you need, this will vary in price. We explain the different levels of service and what is covered within this website.
As part of our Duty of Care to you, and to provide a visual condition report for you to take away and keep. It should serve as a reminder of all the good and serviceable items on your vehicle, plus help focus any areas that may need attention, based on a legal requirement or to prevent a more costly repair in the future.
We do not charge to perform the health check; we see it a service to provide to our loyal Customers.
The frequency of cleaning depends on your vehicle’s usage. Typically, high-mileage drivers or those who regularly drive short distances may need cleaning more often. A blocked DPF can lead to poor performance, so it’s essential to stay on top of maintenance.
Yes, a warning light indicates that your DPF is becoming clogged. We can clean your DPF even if the light is on. In some cases, we may also need to perform diagnostics to check for other underlying issues.
The time it takes to clean a DPF depends on the level of clogging. Simple regeneration processes can take a few hours, while more extensive cleaning may take up to a day. We’ll give you an accurate estimate before starting the job.
Absolutely! Regular DPF cleaning can prevent expensive repairs and replacements down the line. It also improves fuel efficiency and performance, helping you save money on fuel.
A DPF is a device fitted to diesel vehicles that captures and stores exhaust soot to reduce emissions. It periodically burns off the soot through a process called regeneration.
Common causes include frequent short trips, low-speed driving, poor fuel quality, and engine issues that prevent proper regeneration.
Warning signs include a DPF warning light on the dashboard, reduced engine performance, increased fuel consumption, and difficulty starting the engine.
It’s not recommended. Driving with a blocked DPF can lead to engine damage, turbo failure, and costly repairs. Address the issue promptly.
Regeneration is the process of burning off accumulated soot in the DPF. It can occur passively during highway driving or actively when the car initiates it under certain conditions.
Drive at sustained speeds (e.g., motorway driving), use high-quality diesel, keep your engine well-maintained, and avoid frequent short trips.
Try driving at motorway speeds for 15–30 minutes to trigger regeneration. If the light stays on, seek professional diagnostics.
Yes, DPFs can be professionally cleaned using chemical or thermal methods. Replacement is only necessary if the filter is damaged or beyond recovery.
No. Removing the DPF is illegal in many countries, including the UK, and can result in MOT failure and fines. It also increases harmful emissions.
Costs vary: cleaning may range from £100–£300, while replacement can exceed £1,000 depending on the vehicle. Early intervention helps avoid higher costs.
Why it happens: Over time, the refrigerant gas leaks or naturally depletes.
Why service it: Without enough gas, the system can’t cool properly and may overwork the compressor, leading to costly damage.
Why it happens: The compressor can seize or fail due to lack of use, contamination, or low refrigerant.
Why service it: Regular use and servicing keep the compressor lubricated and prevent it from seizing up.
Why it happens: Dust and debris clog the filter, reducing airflow.
Why service it: Replacing the cabin filter improves air quality, cooling performance, and prevents musty smells.
Why it happens: Rubber seals and hoses deteriorate, causing refrigerant and lubricant leaks.
Why service it: During a service, technicians can spot leaks early and reseal the system before major repairs are needed.
Why it happens: Modern A/C systems rely on sensors and relays that can fail.
Why service it: A diagnostic check can identify faulty components before they cause a full system shutdown.
Why it happens: Dirt, insects, or corrosion block the condenser (at the front of the car).
Why service it: Cleaning or flushing these parts helps maintain efficiency and cooling power.
Why it happens: Refrigerant gas carries oil that lubricates the compressor. Low gas = low oil.
Why service it: Regular regassing includes oil top-up, protecting the compressor from wear.
Why it happens: Moisture buildup in the evaporator allows bacteria and mould to grow.
Why service it: Cleaning and disinfecting the system keeps it fresh and prevents respiratory irritation.
Why it happens: Incorrect refrigerant charge or faulty thermostatic expansion valve (TXV).
Why service it: A service ensures correct pressures and temperatures for consistent cooling.
Why it matters: Ignoring A/C issues can lead to compressor failure — one of the most expensive components to replace.
Why service it: Routine servicing (every 1–2 years) saves money in the long run and keeps the system efficient.
You should check lights, tyres, wipers, mirrors, seatbelts, horn, and fluid levels. Make sure all bulbs work, tyres have legal tread depth (at least 1.6mm), and washer fluid is topped up.
Yes. A clean car makes inspection easier and gives a good impression. Ensure number plates, lights, and mirrors are clean. The tester can even refuse to test excessively dirty vehicles.
Definitely. Make sure all tyres have the correct pressure, tread depth above 1.6mm, and no cuts, bulges, or exposed cords. Don’t forget the spare tyre if your car has one.
Potentially, yes. The tester may refuse to continue if there’s not enough fuel or oil to run emission tests. Also, refill washer fluid and brake fluid as they’re part of safety checks.
Yes. Turn on all lights — headlights, brake lights, indicators, reverse lights, and number plate lights — and replace any that don’t work. Faulty bulbs are among the most common MOT failures.
Usually, just your car keys. The MOT centre can access your records digitally. However, bring your V5C logbook and previous MOT certificate if requested or if you’re visiting a new garage.
Yes. If any warning lights (like engine management, ABS, or airbag) stay on, the vehicle may fail. Have these checked or reset before the test.
Absolutely. Make sure wipers work properly and the screen is clear of cracks or chips larger than 10mm in the driver’s view area (Zone A). Damaged wipers or glass can cause a fail.
It’s wise to check your car at least two weeks before the MOT date. This gives you time to fix small issues like bulbs, tyres, or wipers before the test.
Only if the old MOT is still valid and the car is roadworthy. If it fails for a dangerous defect, you can’t drive it away except to a garage for repairs.
Reason: Burnt-out bulbs, broken lenses, or misaligned headlights.
Tip: Check every light — headlights, brake lights, indicators, fog lights, and number plate lights — before the test. Replacing bulbs is quick and cheap.
Reason: Tread depth below 1.6mm, cuts, bulges, or uneven wear.
Tip: Use a 20p coin to check tread depth. Also check for proper inflation and matching tyre types on the same axle.
Reason: Ineffective wipers, cracked windscreen, or empty washer fluid.
Tip: Replace worn wiper blades and top up screenwash. Even an empty washer bottle can cause a fail.
Reason: Worn brake pads, discs, or unbalanced braking.
Tip: If your brakes feel spongy, pull to one side, or make noise, have them checked before the test.
Reason: Broken mirrors, frayed seatbelts, or non-functioning buckles.
Tip: Ensure all mirrors are secure and seatbelts retract properly.
Reason: Worn shock absorbers, broken springs, or damaged components.
Tip: Listen for knocking noises over bumps — a sign of suspension wear. Get it checked before your MOT.
Reason: Airbag, ABS, engine management, or tyre pressure lights staying on.
Tip: Don’t ignore warning lights — they’re often easy fixes like sensors or fuses.
Reason: Chips or cracks over 10mm in the driver’s line of sight or 40mm elsewhere.
Tip: Repair small chips early — many insurers fix them for free.
Reason: Excessive smoke, leaks, or high emissions readings.
Tip: Keep your car serviced. A long drive before the MOT helps burn off residue and reduce emissions.
Reason: Rust on key structural points like sills, seat mounts, or suspension areas.
Tip: Regularly clean the underside and treat rust early to prevent spreading.
If a timing belt or wet belt snaps, it can cause serious internal engine damage — sometimes destroying the engine completely.
Replacing a belt is far cheaper than replacing bent valves, pistons, or cylinder heads caused by belt failure.
Even if they look fine, rubber belts degrade with age, heat, and oil exposure. Wet belts (running in engine oil) can break down faster if oil quality is poor.
Some belts last 60,000 miles, others 150,000 miles. Checking helps ensure you stay within safe replacement intervals.
Wet belts depend on clean oil. If oil is contaminated or rarely changed, the belt material can soften and shred.
Timing belts often fail without noise or visual symptoms. Regular inspections reduce the risk of sudden breakdowns.
A worn or stretched belt can cause rough running, loss of power, poor fuel economy, or difficulty starting.
Cars are expensive — routine timing belt inspections help maintain engine health and overall vehicle value.
Checking the belt beforehand reduces the chances of roadside breakdowns or being stranded.
A properly functioning belt ensures valves and pistons move in precise coordination, allowing the engine to run smoothly and efficiently.
Regular tyre checks help ensure safe handling, proper braking, and good fuel economy. Worn or under-inflated tyres can reduce grip and increase stopping distance, especially in wet conditions.
Ideally, check tyre pressure once a month and before long journeys. Tyres naturally lose air over time, even when there are no punctures.
Your car’s correct tyre pressure is listed in the owner’s manual, inside the fuel cap, or on a sticker inside the driver’s door frame. Always use these recommended settings, not what’s printed on the tyre itself.
Under-inflated tyres wear out faster, increase fuel consumption, and can overheat, which may lead to a blowout while driving.
Yes. Over-inflated tyres reduce grip and cause uneven wear, making the vehicle ride more harshly and reducing safety.
Use the 20p coin test (UK) or ensure tread depth is at least 1.6mm across the central section. If the tread looks shallow or uneven, it’s time for replacement.
Common causes include incorrect tyre pressure, worn suspension parts, or misaligned wheels. A tyre check can identify the issue early.
Yes. Cracks, bubbles, or bulges can indicate internal structural damage. These tyres should be replaced immediately to avoid sudden failure.
Hard braking, fast cornering, and hitting potholes can accelerate wear. Smooth driving helps your tyres last longer.
Replace tyres when tread depth falls below legal limits, if they are damaged, or if they’re more than 5–7 years old, even if the tread appears fine.
Rest assured, we care for your vehicle and for you.
