Car Battery Dead or Discharged – Know From Professional Garage Services

Professional Garage Services

Does your car start after repeatedly trying? Often, the battery is the main culprit. However, is your battery dead or discharged? Understanding the difference is difficult, especially for novice car owners. Take your car to Hove’s professional garage services and check your batteries.

The mechanics will conduct a few tests on the battery to confirm its condition.

What are the signs of a discharged battery?

A battery gets discharged when it has very low power. If you have a discharged battery, you can easily get it repaired and recharged again. Sometimes, car owners leave the radio, AC, and lights of the car open for a long time, cutting off the power of the battery.

Here are a few signs that suggest that the battery has been discharged.

Slow engine crank sound

If you hear a cranking sound when starting the car, then the battery might have been discharged. During such times, the engine will struggle more than usual to get started. This is the initial sign that your battery has been discharged from its power supply.

Dimming of the lights

Suppose the car’s headlight or dashboard light is dimmer than the usual light. Then, the battery of the car might be experiencing a low power supply. These lights generally require fully charged batteries to operate.

Jumpstarting of cars

Does your car need to jumpstart often? If so, this is not a good sign. It is a positive sign that the car’s battery has been discharged and needs to be fixed.

What are the signs of a dead battery?

A discharged battery can be repaired; however, if your car’s battery is dead, then you need to replace it at the earliest to let your car function well on the road. Here are a few signs of a dead battery.

Car not restarting

Did you put the key on the ignition button without any success? If no lights or sound are coming out of the car’s engine, the battery is probably dead, and hence, the car is not restarting.

Old batteries

If your car’s batteries have become old, they will probably die. The average lifespan of old batteries is 3 to 5 years. So, if your battery is out, it’s time to replace it.

Swollen battery case

If the battery case has swollen up or become bloated under such conditions, the battery has become dead.

Rapid Auto Centre is a reputable garage service that provides top-quality car servicing for all car servicing needs. To learn more, get in touch with us.

Vital Car Services You Should Perform Before Going Out on a Long Drive

Vital Car Services You Should Perform Before Going Out on a Long Drive

Now that the temperature is gradually rising, you might be planning a road trip. While the climate is conducive to outdoor trips, you must not forget to check your vehicle, too. You would definitely not want to stop your thrilling experience due to your car’s issues.

Keep Your Vehicle in the Top Shape:

A road trip can be tedious for your vehicle. Therefore, it is important to see that it is in top shape before beginning the journey. You can contact a professional car service in Southwick to get the attention of the experts.

Car Servicing Before a Long Drive: Things to Do

The essential car services needed before a road trip are discussed elaborately below. Take a look at these points to ensure proper care of your prized possession and avoid costly repairs.

  • Oil Change: Changing the oil of your car is one of the vital tasks that guarantees a smooth, long drive. Providing fresh oil to your engine will enable it to run smoothly with minimal issues. This can also reduce the chance of sudden breakdowns in the middle of your trip. According to most manufacturer’s guidelines, you must change car oil whenever it covers 5000-7000 miles.
  • Brake Inspection: The brakes are one of the crucial components of your car. Functional brakes can stop your car promptly, reducing the chances of deadly accidents. Therefore, whenever you plan for a long road trip, you must get the brakes inspected by an experienced mechanic. They can assist you in checking the brake pads, rotors and brake fluid levels.
  • Battery Servicing: A dead battery is one of the common issues during a long trip. Before beginning, you should get it checked by an expert. They can offer a complete servicing package by checking the battery’s voltage, capacity, and overall condition.
  • Tyre Maintenance: Your car’s tyres face the most brunt during a road trip. They remain at the forefront of receiving maximum wear and tear. So, you should not ignore the importance of checking the vehicle tyres beforehand. Ensure that all the tyres are properly inflated and have equal tread. The mechanic can rotate the position of the car tyres if needed.

A complete car servicing package would help prepare your car for a long trip. To have it done by professionals, you must contact a reliable source like Rapid Auto Centre. We are one of the premier sources offering first-class car service in Southwick. Visit our website today to learn more about our services and prepare your car for the big ride.

Top Reasons Why Car Owners Book MOT and Servicing Together

MOT and Servicing Together

If you are a car owner based in the UK, you must have clear ideas about MOT Testing. It is more of an obligatory test directed by the Government to guarantee a safe drive. It is a proactive measure to take good care of the car to avoid further issues.

MOT and Servicing Explained:

An MOT Certificate remains valid for at least three years. This gives enough time for a car owner to take care of every crucial aspect of their vehicle. Some go the next mile by booking an MOT Test and car servicing routine together.

The Advantages of Performing MOT and Servicing Together:

Combining MOT Testing in Hove and car servicing is highly efficient to keep a car in its best condition. To learn more, you can take a look at the section below.

  • Vehicle Safety: By scheduling the MOT Testing and car servicing together, you can follow DVSA and the car manufacturer’s safety guidelines. A regular servicing routine retains the smooth performance of your car. On the other hand, MOT Tests have one sole purpose: to keep your vehicle fit for the road. A combination of both enhances the safety and efficiency of a car.
  • Keep Potential Issues at Bay: When you perform MOT Testing and servicing simultaneously, you can be at peace while driving. There are fewer chances that your car might break down on the way. Servicing helps identify and solve potential issues, which are then cleared by the MOT Tests. You can count on the overall health of your vehicle.
  • Retain Car’s Value Effectively: A car depreciates its value with increasing mileage and other factors. However, a comprehensive maintenance routine with records can help you get a full servicing history. This will help you retain the car’s value effectively. You would perform the MOT alongside the routine maintenance, which will help you fetch a greater value in future.
  • More Convenient Approach: Booking the dual services of MOT and car maintenance can help you save time and money. You can perform the two vital tasks within a single appointment. Therefore, you are not required to visit the garage again.

The convenience of scheduling MOT and servicing together cannot be understated. If you want proper assistance from a reliable team of technicians, come to Rapid Auto Centre. We are one of the premier sources offering MOT Testing in Hove. You can count on our team of technicians for top-grade servicing as well. For more information, visit our website today.

Car Muffler – Importance and Signs it Needs Immediate Servicing

Car Muffler – Importance and Signs it Needs Immediate Servicing

The term car muffler is unknown, especially to people who need a fair idea about a car and its parts. A car muffler is made of steel topped with aluminium and is at the back of the exhaust pipes. It creates a bridge that connects the pipe with the car’s engine.

Importance of car mufflers

A car muffler has two major functions. Firstly, they are responsible for dampening the sound of the exhaust system, and secondly, they are responsible for removing toxic gases from the exhaust system of the car. Hence, if your car muffle stops working, you must take your car for servicing immediately. For car service in Hove, take the car to a reputed garage that can help you with proper servicing needs.

Tell-tale signs that your muffler needs repairing

Frequent loud noises

If you start hearing noises in the exhaust system of your car, then it can be a matter of concern. If the noise keeps increasing in terms of pitch, volume, and tone, there’s surely some problem with the car’s muffler. A rusted muffler or a cracked exhaust can be a major reason behind the loud noises. Ignoring these noises for a long time can lead to problems in the car’s performance and reduce fuel efficiency.

Problems with the engine

When the muffler is damaged, you will encounter inconsistent rotations in the car’s engine. When you experience problems like engine power loss, it’s a sign of problems with the car’s muffler.

Rough experience during idling

Another common sign is unnecessary shaking or bouncing of the car while idling. This is a sign that the muffler is damaged, clogged or collapsed. A deteriorating muffler will result in a rough experience during the idling process.

Get smell of exhaust fumes

The function of the muffler in the car is to remove toxic fumes from the car’s exhaust system. However, when you start getting the smell of the toxic fumes inside the car, your muffler is probably not working anymore. If the muffler is damaged and leaks, the toxic fumes will enter the car, making the environment uncomfortable.

Contact Rapid Auto Centre for top-quality car services in Hove. If you’re facing problems with your car’s muffler, we are the name you can trust. Get in touch with us as soon as possible.

Undeniable Factors Stating the Importance of Periodic Car Servicing

Undeniable Factors Stating the Importance of Periodic Car Servicing

As a car owner, you cannot ignore the importance of regular servicing. It is a matter of improving the overall performance of your car. Additionally, you will come across different issues that only the professionals can identify.

Get Help from a Professional:

For periodic car servicing, you must visit a prominent garage near you. They should be able to provide you with the service of professionals related to car service in Hove for a longer time. It is a vital part of your car’s performance that you cannot afford to ignore.

The Importance of Periodic Car Servicing:

Regular checking and servicing of your car is important in its overall performance. To learn more, you can read the following section of this blog.

  • Better Fuel Efficiency: It is important to check the condition of its fuel and other lubricants for unmatched vehicular performance. This includes checking the engine oil, coolants and brake oil as well. A garage offering car servicing can guarantee you a proper inspection. They will be able to identify any issues regarding fuel efficiency and provide a complete solution.
  • Enhancing the Performance: Even minor internal issues can hamper the speed and overall driving experience. You can identify these problems based on the sounds and bumpy rides. If not treated properly, these problems will spiral on and affect the overall vehicular performance. To prevent the issues, you must contact a professional source for car servicing.
  • Offers Better Resale Value: If you have plans to sell the vehicle soon, it is advisable to take it to your nearby garage. This will ensure that the buyer will get the vehicle in a pristine condition. You will get proper information regarding the condition of the external and internal parts of the car. Remember, spending on car maintenance and care will help you fetch a higher amount during the sale.

These are a few important reasons to visit your car servicing centre regularly. If you want to collaborate with a professional source, get in touch with Rapid Auto Centre. We are a well-known name for periodic car service in Hove. To learn more about our range of services, you can visit our website today.

Reasons to Keep Regular Oil Change in Your Car Servicing Routine

Reasons to Keep Regular Oil Change in Your Car Servicing Routine

Having a car is inarguably the fulfilment of one of your cherished dreams in life. However, as an owner, you must take proper care to ensure the vehicle remains pristine. This would also enable you to use the vehicle for a longer period.

The Need for Regular Maintenance:

To make your cherished possession rule the highway even after years of buy, you must follow a proper maintenance routine. It includes various kinds of preventative maintenance, including inspection of the condition of the engine and wheels. A vital routine among them is checking the oil and lubricant levels in the car.

Why Change Engine Oil on a Frequent Basis?

On average, a car needs an oil check after every 4000 to 6000 miles. However, if you think you need to perform it earlier, you must not stop yourself. Visit a source offering car servicing in Hove today. The reasons for frequent oil checking and changing are mentioned below.

  • Removal of Debris: Oil collects different impurities, like dust and contaminants. This happens as the fluid circulates through the engine. Over time, it may thicken and create a harsh operating environment. As a result, it becomes hard for the car engine to perform well. In the long run, it may affect the fuel and power efficiency of the vehicle. The oil change process drains out the old oil and eliminates all the contaminants.
  • Proper Lubrication: This is another major cause for frequently changing the car oil and lubricant. Lubrication helps to move the vital parts of the car engine. Without a proper supply of car oil, the components would grind together, causing them to wear down and affect the working condition of the vehicle. Not changing the motor oil in time would make you replace the engine and cause other engine trouble.
  • Engine Temperature Regulation: The operating temperature of a car engine can be controlled effectively by the engine oil. They can reduce and absorb the heat caused by friction. When the oil ages, it won’t be able to perform this task. This puts the engine at risk of overheating. The cooling system can regulate the temperature, while the assistance of the oil prevents expenditure in engine damage.

These are a few major reasons to regularly check and change the engine oil. To get help from an expert garage, you must contact Rapid Auto Centre. We are a well-known name for car servicing in Hove that can provide you with a wide range of automobile repair and maintenance services. For more information, you can visit our website today.

Do You Have a Classic Vehicle? MOT Testing Facts that You Should Know

Do You Have a Classic Vehicle MOT Testing Facts that You Should Know

Classic cars are a valuable possession for vehicle enthusiasts. While most keep them as an item for showcasing their choice of luxury, a large number of people still drive them with a few restoration works. For these types of vehicles, the MOT Test requirements are a bit complex.

The Rules for MOT Testing for a Vintage Car:

If you are in possession of a classic car currently, you must adhere to the various MOT rules that apply to them. While some cars are exempt from this vehicular test, some may need greater attention than modern vehicles. It is important to communicate with your nearby source for MOT Testing in Hove to clarify these facts.

Major Requirements for Classic Vehicle MOT Testing:

In this blog, we discuss the common questions regarding MOT Tests for classic vehicles. These will help you gather some vital information and proceed accordingly.

Do You Really Need MOT for Your Classic Car?

In certain scenarios, you may be prompted to take your vintage ride for an MOT test. However, if the vehicle was registered 40 years back and has not undergone any technical changes in the last three decades, you may not need to take it to an MOT Testing source.

What is Considered a Substantial Technical Change for the Cars?

One can find out a number of factors while looking for substantial changes in a classic vehicle. These changes should not have been done at least for the last three decades. The main components added in the ‘substantial mechanical changes’ are:

  • Changes to the engine and number of cylinders
  • Specific changes to the chassis and subframe
  • Modification to the axle or running gear, i.e. steering or suspension

How to Declare a Classic Car for MOT Exemption?

To make your vehicle eligible for MOT Exemption, the vehicle must undergo the DVLA historical vehicle registration process. Here, you need to fill out a form, either online or offline. In this form, you must produce details about the vital details of the vehicle. You may also have to produce vehicle tax reminders and insurance certificates.

These are a few important requirements that you must remember for MOT Testing in Hove. You can follow these to keep your classic possession updated to shape. For better assistance, you can get in touch with Rapid Auto Centre. As a trusted source for MOT Tests, we have served a number of customers in the last few years. To learn more about our service, you can visit our website today.

Vital Steps to Follow if Your Car Fails its MOT Test

Vital Steps to Follow if Your Car Fails its MOT Test

If you are a car owner driving in the UK, you must have a clear idea about MOT. It is a vital inspection schedule to ensure you drive your vehicle in perfect condition. From headlamps to the bonnet, everything gets examined during this procedure.

Failing MOT Test is Not a Big Deal:

To pass the MOT test convincingly, many car owners pay a last-minute visit to their garage. Though it may save them on D-Day, many car owners may not have that much luck. It is natural to see many vehicle owners failing their MOT Testing in Hove. If you face such a situation, you must consider it part of the process.

What to do If You Fail the MOT Test?

When you fail the MOT Test for your car, you have to prepare for a re-test after following a few vital steps. We discuss more about them in the following section.

Step 1: Study the MOT Testing report in Detail

After you receive the information about your car failing the MOT test, ask for a copy of the report. Your next task is to study the report and find the reasons for the failure. It would contain a detailed take on the reasons for failure and suggest steps about what needs to be done.

Step 2: Contact Your Garage for A Complete Repair

After you know in depth about the damage that led to your car’s MOT failure, you must pay a visit to your garage. If your garage is licensed for MOT Tests, you need not worry. Their professionals can take up the vital task of repair and offer you an estimate of the total repair work.

Step 3: Get the Car Repaired

If the quote offered by your garage matches your budget, go for the repair job. This is a vital need that will help your car get back its legal permission to be on the road. The repairs should be enough to get the certificates all right for your vehicle.

Step 4: Go for the MOT Test Again

Once the repair is done, it’s time to go for the MOT Test again. You can perform this test in your garage immediately after the repairs. Otherwise, it is good to visit a different garage.

By following these vital steps, you will definitely be successful in going past the MOT Test for your vehicle. To prepare before the test, you can visit Rapid Auto Centre. We are known for our efficient car repair service, which will surely help your car get the fit certificate at MOT Testing in Hove. To learn more about us, you can visit our website.

Four Commonly Asked Questions About Periodic Car Service

Four Commonly Asked Questions About Periodic Car Service

Like all other machines, cars are a financial commitment that decreases in value over time. When serviced properly, a vehicle can provide steady transportation for many years. Over time, periodic upkeep preserves a car operating smoothly. In future, higher-priced repairs may also be avoided with its assistance. Hence periodic car service is a good option. Make sure you take your car to professionals for car service in Hove.

Why do you need periodic car service?

Regular maintenance is necessary to maintain the performance and safety of the vehicles. Without regular upkeep, a car’s condition might deteriorate quickly. Furthermore, the car’s reliability and security could be jeopardised. Therefore, routine maintenance is crucial. Regular maintenance keeps the vehicle in good condition and averts any problems. Additionally, it avoids later, expensive repairs and replacements. Likewise, it improves the car’s fuel economy.

Common questions asked about periodic car service

What does periodic car service cover?

A car’s routine maintenance service involves examining and repairing various parts. Most regular upkeep involves engine components, suspension, brakes, tyres, etc. Some of the services you can expect during periodic car service include complete scanning of the car, checking the front and rear brakes, and ensuring the coolant top-up and brake oil top is in good condition.

What signs suggest that you need periodic service?

When a car needs upkeep, alert indicators will start to appear. A car is an item of machinery that ages through ordinary wear and tear. The model and age of the vehicle affect how often repair needs to be done. However, you’ll encounter a few warning signs suggesting it is time for periodic car maintenance. For instance, if you find sluggish acceleration, difficulty with starting of engine and continuous leaking of the fluids.

Is getting periodic maintenance effective in the long run?

In the long run, regular auto maintenance pays off. As it avoids future expensive repairs, it is economical. Expensive repairs or replacements are frequently avoided by identifying any issues early on. Your car will operate better and more efficiently with PMS service, saving you money on fuel. Additionally, it can aid in lowering the chance of a breakdown and avoiding unnecessary costs. Therefore, over the years, regular upkeep benefits the car owner.

What happens when you don’t avail of regular maintenance service?

The likelihood of mechanical problems occurring more frequently increases if the car needs to be properly serviced. It will require pricey replacements and repairs. The car’s parts may wear out quickly and break down without routine maintenance. Additionally, the warranty on a poorly maintained car can be worthless. It implies that the owner will be in charge of paying for any repairs or replacements. According to the document, Regular servicing is needed for the manufacturer’s warranty to be effective.

Approach Rapid Auto Centre for professional car service in Hove. We have a team of mechanics who can help with all types of car services. To know more, check our website.

Signs That Your Car Needs Brake Repairs to Ensure Safety

Signs That Your Car Needs Brake Repairs to Ensure Safety

Regular car servicing is important for a safer and smoother driving experience. Whether it’s the brakes or any other parts of your car, a professional mechanic will identify the problems early and fix them. You should visit the garage company, experienced in providing a range of garage services in Brighton. Here are some signs that indicate your car brakes need to be repaired or replaced.

How to Understand If Your Car Brakes is Damaged

  1. High-pitched Screeching: Pay attention when you hear a loud screeching sound while applying brakes. However, it doesn’t mean it will give out any minute. It comes from a tiny metal piece built into your brake pads to tell you when the pads are getting low and need replacement soon. You can go to a professional mechanic to assist you.
  2. Wear and Tear: Inspect your brake pads. You can see them between the wheels’ spokes, pressed against a metal rotor. Pads less than a quarter inch thick need to be replaced.
  3. Brake Pedal Vibration: Wrapped rotors cause vibration or pulsating via the brake pedal. However, not just irresponsible braking causes warping. Extremely old and thin rotors are also vulnerable to warping and need attention.
  4. Screeching Despite New Pads: Not all the high-pitched screeching or other noises from your brakes hint at brake pad replacement. Sometimes it also means your rotors are glazed, resulting from excessive braking. It eventually heats up and burns the metal. A dark ring or blue marks on the rotors ask for a replacement. 
  5. Slow Stopping Response: If you’re in a situation that requires applying brakes quickly, but it feels like the brakes aren’t functioning fast enough or are responding slowly, this could indicate a leak in the braking system. 
  6. Extremely Sensitive Brakes: If even the gentlest touch on brakes jerks your car to a stop, you need a brake fluid exchange or your rotors have worn down unevenly. 
  7. Driveway Puddle: Check under your car to see if your brake system is leaking fluid. 

At Rapid Auto Centre, we offer a wide range of garage services, including complete car servicing, tyre fitting and replacement, brakes repair and others. You can rely on your vehicle with us. Contact us today or check our website for more information about our services.