How To Drive Safely In The Snow

How To Drive Safely In The Snow

If you have been joyfully wishing for a white Christmas this year – you may just be in luck!

With the latest weather forecasts predicting up to 17 inches of snow in some places within the UK next week, now seem the perfect time to brush up on some motoring ‘do’s and don’ts’ before heading out in severe weather conditions!

So, join us as we guide you through how to stay safe on the roads in the event of an extra chilly Christmas.

During our normal weekly commute, we often take small things such as washer fluid and general driving essential for granted. After all, what’s the likely hood of needing a snow shovel in the height of Summer?

So before you set out like normal, remember that driving in the snow can be extremely hazardous and seriously affect conditions on the road – it’s best to be more prepared than underprepared!

So before setting off in the snow, here a few things that you need to take into consideration:

· Plan your journey and ensure you leave more time to reach your destination

· Clear you wipers before switching on your engine.

· Ensure all tyres have enough tread – poor tyres will not grip when driving on ice and snow.

· Pack for the worst-case scenario (de-ice, blankets, shovel, phone charger, jump leads, food and warm drink)

· Top up your washer fluid with good-quality screenwash that protects down to -35.

Tips for Driving In The Snow

If possible driving should be avoided, however, we understand that not everyone can wait around for the white stuff to thaw away. So here are a few tips on how to tackle driving in the snow:

· Move off in second gear or in Winter mode – this will help to reduce the wheels slipping.

· Accelerate gently and use low revs. Ensure you change up to a higher gear quickly.

· Leave 10 times the normal recommended stopping gap between you and the car in front

· Prepare for driving up a hill by leaving plenty of room in front so that you can maintain a constant speed without having to change gear.

· For downhill slopes, use a low gear and try to avoid braking unless necessary.

· Should you skid, steer gently into it and do not stamp on your brakes or let go of the steering wheel. (if the rear of your car slides left, gently steer to the left until you straighten up).

· Approaching a bend ensure you reduce your speed before you start to turn your wheel on the bend.

· If the road has not been gritted be wary of driving on the compacted wheel tracks as they are more likely to be icy than fresh snow.

The New Electric Corsa Everyone's Talking About

Corsa-e Available 2020

The Vauxhall Corsa has always been a popular small hatchback for drivers, and with each new model brought to the market, we have seen more refined designs, new technology and great features as standard. However, for 2020, Vauxhall is releasing a new Corsa that represents an enormous leap into the future for the familiar Corsa and the Vauxhall range. Available on the forecourt early 2020 Vauxhall is bringing to the market the first electric Corsa variant, namely the Corsa-e.

For the first time in Corsa's history, the new model will be offered with battery power alongside combustion-engined models, such as petrol and diesel.

The Corsa-E Up Close

This stylish, eco hatchback uses a 134bhp motor and a 50kWh lithium-ion battery that has been officially tested to range up to 205 miles. Although this range is competitive for smaller hatchbacks, Vauxhall has additionally claimed that their new electric Corsa’s range can be extended by as much as 40% when driven in the Eco Setting. The Eco Setting is said to restrict performance, but if you’re looking to get the mileage, it may just be worth it. When in Eco Mode the regenerative braking system will harvest energy from the driver simply lifting off the accelerator pedal and feed it straight back into the battery.

From a domestic household socket, the Corsa-e takes more than 20 hours to charge fully. However, this length is dramatically reduced to only 8 hours when charged from a dedicated 7.4kW home wall box.

Additionally, when you’re on the road, the new electric Corsa can be charged up to 80% in just 30 minutes via a 100kW rapid charger. These charging stations are found most commonly at motorway service stations.

Corsa-E Features At A Glance

· 205 Mile Range (WLTP)

· Rapid Charge To 80% In 30 Minutes

· On-board 11kW on-board charger as standard

· Active Lange Assist

· LED Headlamps

· Emergency Braking System

· Adjustable heated seats & steering wheel

· 7” Colour Touchscreen

· DAB Radio

· Apple CarPlay & Android Auto.

Smart Motorways - What You Need To Know

Although it may not feel that long ago, smart motorways have been popping up around the UK since they were first introduced on the M42 in 2006. In those 13 years, more than 400 miles of road have been converted to the new active traffic management system (ATM), but many motorists are yet to fully understand how they work, and what implications could occur if they aren’t used properly.

So, with that being said – what are smart motorways and how do they work?

Smart Motorways – How Do They Work?

Currently, there are three different types of smart motorways in the UK. All have been designed to manage traffic and increase capacity while reducing overall congestion at particularly busy areas or times in the day.

The three smart motorways include:

All Lane Running Schemes

As the name indicates, an all lane running scheme permanently converts the hard shoulder into a running traffic lane. On this smart motorway, lane one which was formerly a hard shoulder in only every closed off if an incident has occurred.

The extensive use of CCTV helps monitor what is occurring on, and in the event of an incident, a red X will appear above the lane on the gantry signalling lane closure to motorists.

All lane running schemes also display mandatory speed limits, which will automatically adjust depending on traffic conditions. If no speed limit is present on the gantry, the national speed limit is in place.

Designated emergency refuge areas (ERAs) are available should drivers break down or be involved in an incident on the side of the carriageway.

Controlled Motorway

Controlled motorways work similarly to the All Lane Running Scheme with the main difference being that the hard shoulder always remains as an emergency-only lane. The hard shoulder should only ever be used in a genuine emergency.

Variable speed limits are still signalled on the gantry to help aid congestion during busy times; however, when a speed limit is not present the national speed limit is enforced.

Dynamic Hard Shoulder Running Schemes

Dynamic hard shoulder running schemes are commonly seen all over the country. They work by only turning the hard shoulder into a running lane of traffic at busy periods to help ease congestion. On these stretches of the motorway, a solid white line differentiates that hard shoulder from the normal carriageway.

In the event of an emergency, a red X will appear above the lane on the gantry. It is critically important that motorists exit the lane safely as soon as possible. Ignoring the red X is extremely dangerous and could put both your life and others at risk.

Smart Motorway Fines

Just like all roads, there are rules and laws in place to keep motorists safe. However, there are a few things you need to bear in mind while travelling on a smart motorway.

Speeding

Drivers often assume that the speed cameras on a smart motorway are only enforced when the variable speed limit is in place. However, the cameras on smart motorways are always active, monitoring traffic and speed. Therefore this means that any motorists travelling over the national speed limit have a much greater chance of being fined for speeding.

Red X Fines

As we touched upon previously, driving within a lane with a red x signalled above is extremely dangerous. Currently, manual enforcement is in place for drivers that are seen driving within a ‘Red X’ land. However, Highways England is looking to implement camera enforcement, which will lead to points on your licence and a fine.

Smart Motorways In A Nutshell

· Never drive in a lane closed by a red “X”.

· Keep to the speed limits shown on the gantries

· A solid white line indicates the hard shoulder – do not drive in this lane unless directed on the gantry.

· A broken white line indicates a normal running lane.

· Use the refuge areas for emergencies if a hard shoulder is not present.

New Drivers Face Curfew Scheme Which Could Ban Night Driving

New Drivers Face Curfew Scheme Which 

Could Ban Night Driving 

It has been announced in a recent report from the Department for Transport that they are considering introducing a potential ban on newly-qualified motorists driving at night.

Although this new regulation may come as a surprise to many new motorists, the conversation follows recent collision figures of newly-qualified drivers. On average, one in five newly-qualified motorists are involved in an accident within their first twelve months on the road.

To combat this increasing number of collisions, the graduated driving licence scheme would mean that motorist would be not only faced with a curfew, but also additional restrictions.

Other Potential Restrictions Newly-Qualified Drivers Could Face

Newly-qualified drivers could also face the following restrictions under the graduated licenses:

•  Prevent new drivers from taking passengers under a certain age.
• Reduced alcohol limit.

How Would This Implicate Newly-Qualified Drivers

Although this new concept is designed to help keep new motorists and others safe on the road, experts have expressed their concern. Currently, two-thirds of newly-qualified motorist are young individuals.

Source: DFT


In response to the announcement, Ian McIntosh, chief executive of Red Driving School, argued that the scheme would disadvantage young people, hampering their employment prospects and social mobility.

“It will also affect support networks built around friends and families – particularly in rural areas where public transport options are limited,” he said.

“At a time where young drivers are already penalised through higher insurance premiums, the government should avoid action that further limits the opportunities offered by learning to drive.”

Currently, there are similar schemes in place in other countries to help improve the road safety of younger drivers. Countries include many EU countries and parts of Australia and Canada.

When Will The Scheme Be Enforced?

As it stands, the scheme is still in conversation stages. There are currently no further details on how the proposed system would work in practice, including the duration drivers would be classified as ‘newly-qualified’.

7 Car Maintenance Checks That You Should Definitely Be Doing

7 Car Maintenance Checks That You Should 

Definitely, Be Doing

Performing regular car maintenance checks both above and under the bonnet is an essential responsibility for any motorist. Whether you have a long journey ahead or just your yearly MOT, performing these simple checks regularly could save a lot of time and money as well as keeping you safe on the road.

To keep your car in good working order and on the right side of the law, here are seven simple checks that you can perform on your driveway. 

Fuel

Although it may seem like an obvious check, it is estimated that approximately 800,000 individuals run out of fuel on the roads each year. When you run your fuel tank down to nothing, the engine will start to draw air. A build-up of air can prevent your car from starting again, even after you have filled up. 

If you are running your diesel vehicle on fumes, you are risking more severe damage, such as damaged seals and even fuel injectors. Save money and make sure you're topped up with enough fuel to get you to your destination. 

Oil

Having the right level of oil is essential for keeping your engine happy and healthy, but did you know that one in three vehicles recovered in an emergency has dangerously low oil levels? Low oil levels can cause not only a breakdown, but it can also lead to catastrophic damage to the engine.

Ensure that you have enough oil for your journey by checking that the level is between the minimum and maximum mark on your car's dipstick. If you’re unsure what type of oil your car needs, check your owners manual or speak to a local mechanic or dealer. 

Coolant

If you want to avoid your car freezing or even overheating, then it’s good practice to check your coolant levels. Although this shouldn’t need topping up between journeys, you should always double check, especially during the colder and warmer months.

If you notice that your coolant levels have fallen below the minimum marked level, you should top it up immediately. Always check your owners manual for the correct coolant and ensure that the engine is cold before you top up the reservoir. 

Screen Wash

Screen wash is regularly used throughout the year, so it’s essential to make sure that your levels are adequate for your journey. During the colder months, snow and grit can very quickly cause a dirty window, while during the Summer smears from pollen and insects can obstruct your view. 

Keep your windscreen clear by checking your levels regularly. 

Engine Air Filter

Engine air filters protect your engine by preventing harmful debris, dirt and other contaminants from entering. A faulty or even clogged-up air filter can reduce your overall fuel efficiency and also lead to a reduction in engine power. Mechanics recommend replacing the filter once a year or 12,000 miles.

If you have noticed a drop in fuel efficiency, or feel that your car isn’t pulling as much power from the engine, it may mean that it’s time for a replacement. The fuel filter can be located under the bonnet, in a black box. Always consult your owners manual for full instructions. 

Rubber

When you think of rubber, you may only be thinking about your tyres. However, tyres and windscreen wipers are both necessities that shouldn’t be neglected. Tyres undergo pressure every journey, so checking the air levels and tread depth is vital. The minimum level of the tread is 1.6m. However, it is advised that during the Winter months your tyres should have 3mm to assist with traction and grip. 

Keeping the wheels that keep you on the road in a healthy condition is as important as being able to see where you are going. Wiper blades are used regularly and wear over time. If you’ve noticed the rubber splitting or that they are not clearing the screen as well as they used to, then it’s time for a new set! 

Brakes

While we look at our cars as a means to get out on the road and to get going, it’s also imperative to be able to stop the momentum safely. The importance of functioning brakes can’t be stressed enough, so keeping them properly maintained is essential. 

To ensure your brakes are in good working order, first check the brake fluid and top up if necessary. The brake fluid can be located within your engine bay. If you have noticed that your brakes have started to score or make a loud noise while braking, it’s vital that you get a mechanic to look at your brake pads as soon as possible. 

Looking for a part for your Vauxhall? Get in touch with our team today, we have been around for many years, and it’s safe to say we know our stuff when it comes to all things Vauxhall.

Vauxhall Is Offering £4,000 To Scrap Your Old Car

(image source: Vauxhall) 

If you’re looking to upgrade your old Vauxhall for a newer model, now could be the perfect time to make the change. Vauxhall has officially revived its scrappage scheme. 

This June, Vauxhall is offering car buyers a minimum £4,000 guaranteed scrappage allowance or £3,000 extra part-exchange value as a part of their ‘Trade-Up’ sales campaign. 

However, there are a few terms and conditions that you will need to fulfil before you qualify. 

In order to take advantage of this deal, customers would have to be trading in a vehicle that’s at least seven years old and has been registered in the driver's name for a minimum of 90 days. 

Allowing customers a discount on the following vehicles: 

· Astra

· Mokka X

· Crossland X

· Grandland X

· Viva Rocks

Vauxhall is keen to express that prospective customers will be offered ‘at least’ £4,000 for cars intended for the scrapper, meaning that there may be extra savings to be had! 

If you’re keen to get in on the savings, but your car doesn’t meet the seven-year-old scrappage requirement, there is still an incentive for you. As a part of their ‘Trade-Up’ sales campaign Vauxhall is offering a minimum of £3,000 in savings to be provided on top of the value of the car being traded in! 

Looking to simply scrap your car? Click Here

How Will Self-Driving Cars Work?

How Will Self-Driving Cars Work?

The latest technological advancements in self-driving cars have been incredible, and everyone from Tesla to Google are working on their prototype. Self-driving cars, also known as autonomous cars can drive without any input from a driver, with the car completely controlling itself. If these new technologies continue to develop and take off, this could radically change our current transport system.

These autonomous cars work by internally mapping their surroundings, using a range of intelligent sensors monitoring different things. These sensors differ from prototype to prototype but have used; radar, lasers, high powered cameras or sonar. Computers within the car then process all of the information from these sensors to intuitively map their location and know what is surrounding the car, and what hazards there might be.

Once the car is aware of its surroundings It can steer, accelerate and break accordingly. The car is programmed to follow rules of the road such as speed limits and stop lights, but is also instilled with responsive rules such as object avoidance and ‘Smart Object discrimination’.

It is estimated 90% of road accidents are caused by human error, whether the person is distracted, under the influence or simply made a mistake, human error can be deadly. The hope is that autonomous cars will reduce accidents by eliminating the human error aspect. These self-driving cars will soon be able to communicate with each other, this will help to avoid accidents as they will know what the other cars are doing around them.

This tech is not without its risks however, in 1018 a self-driving car that was being tested on the streets struck and killed a cyclist who was trying to cross the busy road. Whilst the cause of this incident is still under investigation, it has reminded people that there are risks, this technology is still in its infancy and will still have a lot of issues to work out before it can be set loose on our roads.

Fly Tip & Risk Getting Your Car Crushed

You may have seen examples of fly-tipping in many locations across the country. Discarded mattresses, electrical good and even bin bags full of unwanted items and rubbish are some of the common sights when it comes to fly-tipping. However, Ashfield District Council have been working hard to not only clean up the unwanted mess but also working towards clamping down on this unpleasant and illegal act.

What exactly is Fly-tipping?

Fly-tipping is officially recognised as an illegal deposit of any waste onto land that does not have a licence to accept it. Not only is fly-tipping an unwanted sight to our local community, but it can also be extremely hazardous to members of the public. Some waste may contain toxic materials or asbestos, which in turn could directly damage water sources and even the quality of the soil.

Ashfield District Council Intervention

Fly-tipping is considered as a serious criminal offence and up until recently offenders could be served with a fine up to £50,000. However, Ashfield District Council has now gained the authority to crush any vehicles found fly-tipping.

Ashfield District Council Visit Scrap Your Car Online:

Find out in the video below what could happen to your car if you are caught fly-tipping in the local area.

Click Here For More Information

Are Mandatory Speed Limiters Coming Soon?

A proposal has been approved by the European Transport Safety Council, which plans to see all new cars fitted with devices to physically restrict them to speed limits. The plan put forward states within the next 3 years, all new cars sold in the EU will have to be fitted with one of these automatic speed limiters as standard. This device is called intelligent speed assistance (ISA) and will use GPS data or traffic sign recognition cameras to know what the speed limit is and enforce it.

If a driver does go up to the speed limit the device would not let the speed go into illegal speeds unless the driver pressed forcefully on the accelerator. This would override the system and would take the speed up, however visual and audio alerts would repeatedly signal that the car is over the limit until the speed was brought back down.

All cars produced from 2020 will have these devices, but they have already been installed in some cars out now! For all of those worried about the limits there is going to be an off button for these machines, at least when they are first implemented. The ability to disable the device is an attempt to make people more tolerant to them being introduced, but they are expected to be permanently on at a later date.

These ISA’s are being implemented to make roads safer and lower the rates of injury and death by dangerous driving. There’s also a move to implement and enforced black boxes and lane assist systems in all cars, but there are currently no plans in place for this. 

4 European Road Trips Ideal For Spring 2019

With spring just around the corner, now is the perfect time to start planning a European road trip. Although it may not be everyone’s first choice, road trips are ideal for motoring enthusiasts. With almost no limitations, road trips can allow you to get a real feel for what a country has to offer.

However, with so many beautiful destinations on offer, it can be difficult to settle on one location. So, that’s why we have put together five perfect European road trip ideas, ideal for this spring!

Germany – Experience the Autobahn

Every enthusiastic motorist finds themselves on the famous Autobahn at one stage or another. The famed German highway system has no speed limits in non-urban regions, making it the perfect location to quench the thurst of budding motor-racing enthusiasts.

Alongside the unrestricted speed limits, the Autobahn takes drivers through a vast amount of beautiful German countryside. Popular tourist locations include The Black Forest, Munich, Neuschwanstein and Hamburg. 

Italy – Drive the Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast is located in the south of Italy and is a sought out location for many holidaymakers. Offering travellers a rich variety of beautiful architecture, history and breathe taking scenery, this truly is one of the best road trips in Europe.

Austria – Grossglockner High Alpine Road

If your road trip tick boxes include mountain roads and endless untouched countryside, then Austria is the perfect location. Take to the highest surfaced mountain pass road in Austria and enjoy nearly 50km of breath-taking mountain views. 

At the highest point of 2,505m, the Grossglockner mountain can be enjoyed from a variety of viewpoints and coffee shops along the way. Accessible from Kaprun, the high alpine road is a tolled road, prices for vehicles can be found here.

Ireland – Ring of Kerry

Get a real feel for what Ireland has to offer, by embarking on the 111-mile circular route that takes you through the stunning countryside, historic villages and white sandy beaches. Although this famous road trip can be completed in just under four hours, why not take your time and spread this road trip over a long weekend.

How To Jump Start A Car

As we head into some cold weather and possible snow it is important to know how to jump start your car battery in case of an emergency. Cold weather can really wear down batteries and make them more prone to draining and not turning on in the morning when you need them. Other things like leaving lights on, the battery being defective or general age of the battery, can all contribute to a battery that won’t start.
If you get stuck in the cold this winter then follow these simple steps to get your car up and running again!

• To get started you will need, jump leads and to find another car with a good battery to jump start yours on. Avoid using a hybrid or an electric car as this can damage their car.
• Ensure that all electricals in the car are switched off including, the lights, the radio and sat-nav etc. For safety reasons ensure you are not wearing anything metal, or that anything metal can touch the battery.
• Check over the battery before you begin. Do not attempt to jump start the car if there is any visible damage to the battery.
• Pull the other car in as close to yours as possible. Switch both cars off, open the bonnets and remove the keys from the ignitions.
• Attach the red cable to the positive side of the dead battery, this should be recognisable by a red cover or a plus symbol +. You may have to remove a cover to access these metal attachments. Then attach the other end of the red cable to the positive side of the working battery. Again, this should be clear by a red cover or + symbol.
• Attach one end of the black cable to the negative side of the good battery. This will feature a – minus symbol. Attach the other end of this black cable, to an unpainted metal part of the engine.
• Start the car that is helping, after a minute or so attempt to start the engine of the car with the drained battery. If the battery does not start with this help it may be time to call a garage.
• If the engine does start up again, let both of the cars run for 5 mins before removing the cables.
• Be careful when removing the cables. Ensure both cars are switched off disconnect the black cable first, start from the car with the drained battery.
• Drive your car around for about 30 minutes to let the engine recharge as much as possible.

If your battery keeps dying you may need a new battery or other car parts.

Search on Megavaux today if you’re looking for Vauxhall parts!