Welcome to the Dexel Advice Centre

General wear and tear which reduces braking effectiveness and usually means that you need to have your brake pads and discs replaced. Brake fluid needs replacing this needs to be replaced every two years and is easily corrected although this could also indicate a brake fluid leak which will need specialist attention. If your brakes have become soft and spongy it is likely that this is the cause. Distortion brake discs can become out of shape and distorted over time and this is especially common on older brakes. Faults general faults can occur with any component on the braking system and these could be one of a range of issues such as warped callipers, faulty sensors and corrosion. The diagnosis of any brake problem is virtually impossible to do without a visual inspection. For this reason, Dexel Tyre & Auto Centre always recommends that you book your vehicle in for a free check, to ensure that we will only quote for and replace exactly what you need.

New data from the DVSA shows that 50% of all faults found during the MOT test could be avoided by carrying out regular maintenance. Carrying out simple checks at home could help you to pass your MOT test first time and will help to keep you safe on the road.

The exhaust system is a series of interconnected sections made of pipes and boxes that runs from the engine all the way to the pipe you see at the back of your vehicle. Modern exhaust sections are most commonly made form aluminised steel, as its lightweight, strong and corrosion resistant. However, high-end exhaust sections can also be manufactured from stainless steel, while exhaust manifolds are sometimes made from cast iron to better withstand the heat that is transferred from the engine.

If your vehicle fails it's MOT Test, you will need to have the defects identified as 'major' or 'dangerous' repaired to enable the vehicle to have a re-test and pass. There may also be 'Minor defects' (Repair as soon as possible) or 'Advisories' (Monitor and repair if necessary) listed on your MOT Certificate or Refusal of MOT. Having failed its MOT test, your vehicle may not be legal to drive until it is repaired and re-tested. (Although we have no rights to withhold your vehicle should you choose to take it away).

Modern vehicles are getting more complex, with more electric safety, comfort, and driver assistance systems constantly being introduced. This article looks at some of the most common dashboard lights.

To help prolong the life of your battery here are some positive steps you can take: Keep your battery clean and dry at all times Turn off all electricals when the car is not running Never allow the battery to discharge completely Arrange a battery check as soon as you suspect your battery may be struggling

The use of pure Nitrogen to inflate tyres on passenger vehicles is a fairly new idea as this technology was initially developed for use in Formula 1 racing. However, the use of Nitrogen inflation in passenger vehicles has many significant benefits.

Every year, vehicles fail the MOT test due to minor faults which could have been avoided by some simple checks. Give your vehicle the best chance of passing its MOT test first time by inspecting the following components:

Did you know that car batteries are the main cause of breakdowns in winter? Harsh, winter weather conditions and increased usage can be tough on batteries and if your battery is older than three years it may fail on you. Take a look at our helpful advice on preparing your car battery for winter and stay safe on the road.

Correct wheel alignment is crucial in maintaining a safe and comfortable driving experience, but how can you tell if your car needs wheel alignment? There are signs to look out for that indicate when wheel alignment is required. However, once these signs are present, some damage or premature wear will likely have already occurred. That is why it is always worth scheduling a free wheel alignment check at least once per year at your local branch.

The exhaust system is one of the largest components in your vehicle stretching from the engine to the tail of your vehicle, although the pipe is the only part that you can usually see! The exhaust has an important function in your vehicle as it reduces harmful engine fumes and directs them away from the car. It also works to reduce noise pollution and fuel consumption. If there is a problem with your exhaust it is usually quite easy to identify as it will start making unusual noises or show visual signs of rusting or corrosion.

Visually inspecting your tyres for signs of damage can help you to increase their life and improve your safety on the road. Follow our helpful inspection list.

Don't know your tyre sidewall, from its should or its sipes? No problem, our tyre glossary has got you covered and will demystify all tyre terms.

Selecting new tyres can be a difficult choice with many brands, specifications and personal preferences to take in to account. To ease the decision and help consumers to make a more informed choice, tyre labelling became mandatory in November 2012 under European Regulation.

Tyres have a lot of information moulded into the rubber on their sidewalls, but all the number and codes are baffling to most people, leaving them wondering, 'what does all the writing on the side of a tyre mean?'

Lamps, Reflectors and Electrical Equipment Your vehicle's front, rear, brake, fog, indicator and registration plate lights and rear reflectors must: Pairs of lights must emit light of the same colour, size and shape and headlight aim (both dip beam and main beam) should be below the horizontal, so as not to dazzle other drivers.

Wheel alignment is just how it sounds. It refers to how each wheel is aligned in relation to the other wheels and the centre line of the vehicle. Measuring wheel alignment involves establishing the exact direction in which each wheel is pointed in all three dimensions and is usually measured to 10ths of millimetres and 10ths of degrees.