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What is a car battery replacement?

The car battery is responsible for powering all of the electric components in your car. A car battery is to have an expected lifespan of between 4 to 6 years.

What causes a car battery to stop working correctly?

On occasions when there has been excessive electrical use without your battery being recharged, your battery will be drained. If your car doesn’t start when you turn the ignition switch, especially when the engine doesn’t make any attempt to turn over, your battery could be flat.

What does a brake caliper do?

A caliper forms part of the disc brake system, which most cars have in their front brakes. The brake caliper houses the brake pads and pistons. Its job is to slow the car's wheels by creating friction with the brake rotors.

What are the signs of a bad brake caliper?

Below are the top three symptoms that could indicate you need to replace your brake caliper:

• If your brake pedal feels softer (less resistance when applying the brakes).
• If your car pulls to one side when braking.
• If the level in your brake fluid reservoir drops or if you notice a leak. Brake hydraulic fluid is a very pale golden colour, transparent and almost watery.

What happens when we do a brake caliper replacement on your car?

Our certified mechanics will:

• Inspect the brakes and determine if there’s a problem with one or several of the brake calipers. They will also advise if other parts of the braking system need replacing too.
• They will then replace the brake caliper and other parts of the brake, if necessary.
• Bleed the brake system and top up the brake fluid.
• Test drive the car and inspect the brake system again.
• Make any final, necessary adjustments.

What are brake discs?

The brake disc is a metal plate mounted on the wheel hub that is clamped between 2 brake pads when braking is applied; this causes friction and slows the vehicle down.

Symptoms of malfunctioning brakes discs

Loud screeching or grinding noises from your brakes is an indication that there is a problem with either your brake discs or pads. You can also look through the wheel for a visual check.

What are brake discs?

The brake disc is a metal plate mounted on the wheel hub that is clamped between 2 brake pads when braking is applied; this causes friction and slows the vehicle down.

Symptoms of malfunctioning brakes discs

Loud screeching or grinding noises from your brakes is an indication that there is a problem with either your brake discs or pads. You can also look through the wheel for a visual check.

What does brake fluid do?

Brake fluid is a special hydraulic fluid that is used to transfer the force created by pressing down on your brake pedal into the brake pads (or shoes) against the brake discs to slow the vehicle.

What are the symptoms of requiring a brake fluid flush & replacement?

Usually, there a few signs you can look for:

• ABS Light Comes On.
• Pedal Problems, braking isn’t as responsive.
• Brake Pads Not Functioning as well as they used to.
• A chemical odor after repeated hard braking.

What are brake pads?

Brake pads are a key component of any vehicle’s braking system. When you use your brakes, the pads hydraulically squeeze the brake discs, slowing your car down through friction and pressure.

Symptoms of malfunctioning brakes pads

A loud screeching or grinding noise when you apply the brakes or feeling your car vibrating under braking is a clear indicator that new pads are required.

What are brake pads?

Brake pads are a key component of any vehicle’s braking system. When you use your brakes, the pads hydraulically squeeze the brake discs, slowing your car down through friction and pressure.

Symptoms of malfunctioning brakes pads

A loud screeching or grinding noise when you apply the brakes or feeling your car vibrating under braking is a clear indicator that new pads are required.

What is a car service?

Usually, we recommend giving your car a full service every year or every 12,000 miles, whichever happens first.

What does a catalytic converter do?

A catalytic converter is an essential part of your exhaust system. Its job is to change harmful substances in a car’s exhaust gasses, such as carbon monoxide nitric oxide, and hydrocarbons, into less harmful gases.

What are the symptoms of a failing catalytic converter?

Below are the top three symptoms that could indicate you need to replace your catalytic converter:

• The smoke from your exhaust is heavier or darker than normal.
• You smell something similar to rotten eggs or sulphur coming from your car’s exhaust.
• You notice a reduction in engine performance.

What happens during a catalytic converter replacement?

Our certified mechanics will:

• Raise your car completely off the ground, making sure that the exhaust has had time to cool down before they begin the replacement.
• Locate the catalytic converter. It usually looks like a box in the middle of the exhaust system underneath the car.
• Remove the catalytic converter, inspect it and fit a replacement if necessary
• Test the new catalytic converter, taking care to double check that the replacement catalytic converter is up to the correct specifications for the vehicle’s emissions standards.

What does a clutch do? And what is a clutch kit?

The clutch is located between the engine and transmission to temporarily disconnect the engine drive from the gearbox. A clutch kit usually contains all the elements to replace and rejuvenate your clutch.

Symptoms of a malfunctioning clutch

If you feel a loss or inappropriate delivery of power when using the accelerator, or if you can’t change gears or it feels like there is unusual grinding and friction when trying, it could be due to a damaged or worn clutch.

What does a coil spring do?

The main purpose of a coil spring is to ensure the wheels remain in good contact with the road surface whilst also providing absorption from bumps and uneven road surfaces. Most cars have four coil springs; each supporting one corner of the vehicle.

What are the symptoms of a broken coil spring?

Below are the top three symptoms that could indicate you need to replace your coil springs:

• Your car is noticeably lower on one side or dipped in one corner.
• You notice strange rattles and knocks when driving on uneven roads.
• Your car’s steering is uneven, or veering off to one side.

What happens when we do a coil spring replacement on your car?

Our certified mechanics will:

• Safely raise the car and inspect the suspension system and coil springs.
• If necessary, they will replace the front or rear pair of coil springs.
• Check other related components and advise whether they need to be replaced.
• Lower the car and check the suspension again.
• Finally they’ll test drive the car.

What does a compressor do?

The compressor is powered by your car’s engine and pumps and pressurizes the refrigerant through the air conditioning system, feeding cold air into your car.

Symptoms of a malfunctioning compressor

If the air conditioning in your car doesn’t function as it normally would, for example, if your air vents aren’t producing cool air, then it could be down to a faulty compressor.

What does an air conditioning condenser do?

It converts the refrigerant gas into a cold liquid to provide chilled air throughout your vehicle. It basically helps keep you and your passengers at a comfortable temperature on a hot day.

Symptoms of a malfunctioning condenser

If you notice that the air conditioning in your car isn’t providing the usual levels of cold air as normal (or if it isn’t working at all), then your condenser could have stopped working correctly.

What does a crankshaft pulley do?

The crankshaft pulley is mounted on the end of the crankshaft. Its purpose is to transmit mechanical power and torque through the pulley system to turn the drive belts that operate the engine accessories (alternator, air conditioning compressor, etc.).

What are the symptoms of a bad crankshaft pulley?

Below are the top three symptoms that could indicate you need to replace your crankshaft pulley:

• Engine vibrations
• Alternator failure - flickering headlights, car struggles to start
• Rough engine idle

What happens when we do a crankshaft pulley replacement on your car?

Our certified mechanics will:

• Check the condition of the crankshaft pulley.
• If necessary, they will replace the crankshaft pulley.
• Advise if any other related parts need to be replaced.
• Test drive the car to check everything has been fitted correctly.

What is a diagnostic inspection?

There are hundreds of potential error codes, which only specialist diagnostic equipment can read. So when a warning light flashes on the dashboard, a diagnostics check is needed to assess how bad the problem is, and what may have caused it.

What happens when my dashboard illuminates a warning light?

The warning light is just the beginning—it doesn’t give the whole picture. There are hundreds of parts in your engine, so the exact nature of the fault may not be immediately apparent.

What does a driveshaft do?

The driveshaft isn’t a single part in your car, but rather a series of rod-like components. These parts work together to transfer the rotational power produced in your engine to your wheels so your car can move. Essentially, your driveshaft allows you to drive!

What are the symptoms of a bad driveshaft?

Below are the top three symptoms that could indicate you need to replace your driveshaft:

• Scraping, squeaking and rattling sounds from underneath your car.
• Intense vibrations coming from underneath the car.
• A significant shudder when accelerating from low speed or a stopped position.

What happens during a driveshaft replacement?

Our certified mechanics will:

• Safely jack the car so they can inspect the driveshaft.
• Replace the faulty or damaged driveshaft if necessary.
• Check any related components and advise if any need to be replaced.
• Double check the drive assembly and test drive the car.
• Make any final adjustments, if needed.

What does an EGR Valve motor do?

The valve controlling your EGR (exhaust gas recirculation) controls the amount of nitrogen oxide emitted into the atmosphere by engines by recycling part of the exhaust gas back into the engine cylinders.

What are the symptoms of a malfunctioning EGR Valve motor?

A rough idle when starting your vehicle or during brief stops (i.e. low engine speeds with a warmed-up engine) can be caused when the EGR is constantly open and a continuous flow of exhaust gases goes into the intake manifold. Poor performance can be caused when the valve is open or closed. The incorrect function of the EGR valve can cause the erratic performance of your vehicle.

What does Engine Coolant Do?

Engine Coolant prevents your engine from overheating in hot weather and freezing in extreme cold weather.

What are the symptoms of requiring an Engine Coolant Flush?

Usually, there a few signs you can look for:

• If you find that your temperature gauge is always high
• Your engine is frequently overheating.
• Engine Warning Light is on.

What does an exhaust silencer do?

A car’s exhaust system is made up of several parts that channel gases from the engine’s cylinders back into the atmosphere. The exhaust silencer is the final section, and its job is to reduce the amount of noise created by the engine gases.

Symptoms of a malfunctioning exhaust silencer

If your exhaust makes more noise or is louder than normal, your exhaust silencer is probably damaged or improperly attached. A common sound of ‘blowing out’ is where holes have developed in the silencer.

What does an exhaust manifold do?

Exhaust manifolds are designed to collect exhaust gases from the engine cylinders and transport them into the exhaust pipes for expulsion. The exhaust manifold is attached to the engine cylinder heads and has ports that collect exhaust gases from each individual engine cylinder.

What are the symptoms of a bad exhaust manifold?

Below are the top three symptoms that could indicate you need to replace your exhaust manifold:

• A noisy engine exhaust
• Burning smell coming from the engine
• Decreased power, acceleration, and fuel efficiency

What happens when we do an exhaust manifold replacement on your car?

Our certified mechanics will:

• Inspect the exhaust manifold.
• If the exhaust manifold is visibly damaged or cracked, it will be replaced.
• If necessary, they may also replace the exhaust gasket and clean the exhaust ports. The manifold's mounting bolts may also need to be replaced.
• Advise if other related components need to be replaced.
• They will then check for any leaks around the manifold and test drive the car.

What does a fan belt do?

A fan belt is a flexible synthetic rubber band which connects various engine components together. It’s used to transfer rotational power from one part of the engine to another. It is called the fan belt because one of the shafts which it connects to is the spinning engine cooling fan.

What are the symptoms of a bad fan belt?

Below are the top three symptoms that could indicate you need to replace your fan belt:

• A squeaking or whining noise whenever the engine is switched on
• If your fan belt is visibly worn, cracked or torn
• If your engine overheats regularly

What happens during a fan belt replacement?

Our certified mechanics will:

• Inspect the fan belt for signs of wear and cracks.
• They will also inspect the belt's pulleys and tensioner.
• Replace the belt, if necessary.
• Advise if any other related repairs are necessary.

What is a front wheel alignment?

Wheel alignment (or tracking), is the process of ensuring your vehicle’s wheels are set to the optimum position, as per the manufacturer’s specifications.

What are the symptoms of common wheel alignment problems?

Common symptoms include: excessive wear to steering or suspension components, hitting a kerb or driving into a pothole in the road.

What does a front wiper motor do?

The role of a front wiper motor is to power a car’s front windscreen wiper arms. This small electric motor provides the power needed for the windscreen wipers to swipe across the windscreen glass, clearing rain water, ice, dirt and debris as they go.

What are the signs of a failing front wiper motor?

Below are the top three symptoms that could indicate you need to replace your front wiper motor:

• If one or both of the windscreen wipers completely stops working
• If the wipers move slower than usual
• If the wipers jerk across the windscreen or aren’t swiping as smoothly as usual

What happens during a front wiper motor replacement?

Our certified mechanics will:

• Inspect the front windscreen wiper system.
• Investigate to determine the exact fault in the electrical system.
• If necessary, they will replace the front windscreen wiper motor.
• They will advise if any other parts of the windscreen wipers need to be replaced.
• Finally they will test the windscreen's wipers to ensure everything is working correctly.

What does a fuel filter do?

A fuel filter's purpose is to filter out potentially harmful dirt or debris that could enter the fuel system. Not only does it help to protect your fuel pump and injectors, it also plays a significant role in ensuring that you are achieving the highest fuel-efficiency possible.

What are the symptoms of a bad fuel filter?

Below are the top three symptoms that could indicate you need to replace your fuel filter:

• Trouble starting your car
• Rough idling
• Poor mileage

What happens during a fuel filter replacement?

Our certified mechanics will:

• Inspect the fuel filter and the fuel supply system.
• Replace the fuel filter if necessary.
• Advise if any other parts need to be replaced, such as the fuel pump.
• Inspect the fuel system again for any leaks and test drive the car.

What does a fuel pump do?

Most modern vehicles that use an internal combustion engine are equipped with a fuel pump. It’s a small pump which sends the fuel from the tank to the engine. The pump may be mechanically worked by the engine, but on most modern cars it’s electrically-powered. In this case it’s usually found next to or even inside the fuel tank.

What are the symptoms of a malfunctioning fuel pump?

Below are the top three symptoms that could indicate you need to replace your fuel pump:

• Trouble starting your car could indicate issues with the fuel pump.
• A rough or unsteady engine.
• A hissing noise coming from near the fuel tank.

What happens when we do a fuel pump replacement on your car?

Our certified mechanics will:

• Use diagnostic equipment to read the ECU for possible fuel system related fault codes.
• Inspect the fuel supply system and the fuel pump.
• Replace the fuel pump if necessary.
• Inspect other related components and advise if any need to be replaced (like the fuel filter).
• Test drive the car and check for any leaks.

What's an MOT?

The MOT test is how the government checks your vehicle meets national safety and environmental standards. At Fixter, we make the process hassle-free with our straightforward, no-nonsense UK-wide service.

What is an MOT & Service Bundle?

A service is recommended every 12-months and all vehicles after 3-years-old or more require an annual MOT test by law. Save yourself the extra effort, combine your MOT with a Full Service, and save yourself time and money.

• MOT
• All Legal Checks
• Full Service
• 71+ Maintenance checks

What does oil and oil filter do?

Your engine oil is designed to keep all the internal workings of your engine running smoothly and safe from harm. It protects moving parts by removing friction, and in doing so, prolongs their life. For a relatively small expense, your oil and filter change cost could add years to the life of your engine.

What does an oil pump do?

The oil pump’s job is to circulate oil under pressure from the oil pan into the car’s oil circuit. This oil is needed to lubricate parts like the rotating bearings, sliding pistons and camshaft where constant, fluid movement is essential.

What are the symptoms of a bad oil pump?

Below are the top three symptoms that could indicate you need to replace your oil pump:

• Low oil pressure (this could be indicated by your engine warning light)
• Increased engine operating temperature
• Tapping or pinging noises coming from the engine

What happens when we do an oil pump replacement on your car?

Our certified mechanics will:

• Safely raise your vehicle
• Drain the oil from your engine and pump
• Remove the oil sump pan
• Replace the oil pump and re-assemble the other components
• Add fresh engine oil and fit a new oil filter
• They will run the engine check the oil pressure and inspect the engine for leaks

What does power steering fluid do?

Power steering fluid is the hydraulic fluid that transmits the power in your steering system. It helps create the pressure that pushes on either side of your car’s rack-mounted piston, allowing you to turn the wheels with ease.

What are the symptoms of needing a power steering fluid flush and replacement ?

Below are the top 3 symptoms that could indicate you need to flush your power steering fluid:

• It’s difficult to turn the steering wheel while driving.
• Pump is making a whining noise
• Fluid looks black or brown

What does a car radiator do?

The radiator is a component in the engine that keeps the car's engine coolant cool. Without the radiator, a car would quickly run into trouble and serious problems could arise. The radiator is part of the cooling system ensuring the car does not overheat.

What are the symptoms of a malfunctioning car radiator?

Below is the top 3 symptoms that could indicate you need to replace your car radiator: If the 'Check Engine' warning light is on. There are leaks on the radiator (or even around it). Your engine is overheating, which means it’s running at a higher temperature than usual.

What are shock absorbers?

They are responsible for your vehicle’s smooth drive over bumpy or uneven roads and are an essential part of your suspension system.

Symptoms of a malfunctioning shock absorber

If your car is providing uncomfortable ride quality and is bouncing excessively, it could be that your shock absorbers aren’t operating correctly. Also, any puddles of oil-like fluid on the road around your wheels could be escaping from leaking shock absorbers.

What are shock absorbers?

They are responsible for your vehicle’s smooth drive over bumpy or uneven roads and are an essential part of your suspension system.

Symptoms of a malfunctioning shock absorber

If your car is providing uncomfortable ride quality and is bouncing excessively, it could be that your shock absorbers aren’t operating correctly. Also, any puddles of oil-like fluid on the road around your wheels could be escaping from leaking shock absorbers.

What do spark plugs do?

They convert electric current from the ignition coil into a spark that ignites the fuel and air mix inside the car engine. This combustion is what powers the engine and moves the car.

Symptoms of malfunctioning spark plugs

If your car struggles or fails to start, or if your engine cuts out after starting or during its usual operation, or if it fails to run smoothly or it vibrates excessively under normal use it could be down to faulty spark plugs.

What does a starter motor do?

The starter motor is the component responsible for turning over or ‘cranking’ the engine to start the car. Without a functioning starter motor, it’s not possible to start a car by using the ignition alone. The starter motor is a key component of a smooth running vehicle.

What are the symptoms of a malfunctioning starter motor?

Below is the top 3 symptoms that could indicate you need to replace your starter motor: If the 'Check Engine' warning light is on. When trying to start the car you hear a ‘clicking noise’. When trying to start the car you hear a grinding or whirring noise this may signify issues with your starter motor.

What does a thermostat do?

Your car's thermostat plays a vital role in your car’s cooling system. It’s a valve that regulates the amount of coolant that is recirculated back into the engine and how much is cooled via the radiator prior to being recirculated. This process is what keeps your vehicle’s engine functioning at the optimum temperature.

What are the signs of a faulty thermostat?

Below are the top three symptoms that could indicate you need to replace your thermostat:

• If your ‘Check Engine’ warning light is on.
• If the ‘Engine Temperature’ warning light illuminates.
• Your temperature gauge reading is very high and your engine keeps overheating.

What happens when we do a thermostat replacement on your car?

Our certified mechanics will:

• Read your car’s ECU to see if there are any related fault codes.
• Inspect the thermostat and the cooling system.
• Replace the thermostat, if needed.
• Close the cooling system and top-up your engine coolant.
• Run the engine and test drive the car.
• Make any final, necessary adjustments.

What does a throttle body do?

The throttle body is a critical piece of the air intake system that controls the amount of air flowing into the engine. It consists of a pivoting flat valve and is located between the air intake and engine manifold where fresh air is pulled into the engine for the combustion process.

What are the symptoms of a bad throttle body?

Below are the top three symptoms that could indicate you need to replace your throttle body:

• A very poor or rough idle
• Poor or unreliable acceleration
• Excess fuel consumption

What happens when we do a throttle body repair on your car?

Our certified mechanics will:

• Analyse the ECU to see if there are any related fault codes.
• Inspect the throttle body and air intake system.
• Replace the throttle body if there are issues with it.
• Clean the air intake system of dirt and residue.
• Advise if any other parts need to be replaced.
• Finally they will run the engine and test drive the car.

What does a timing belt do?

It is a vital engine component with a key role to play in keeping your motor running smoothly. It ensures the top and bottom halves of your engine rotate precisely in time with each other.

Symptoms of a malfunctioning timing belt

Like most car parts, your timing belt will wear out eventually due to cracking, snapping or tearing. If a grinding or squeaking noise is being emitted from your engine, it could be a malfunctioning timing belt.

What does a track rod end do?

A track rod end is a small, flexible ball joint which sits on the end of the tie rods, connecting them to the steering rack and front wheel steering knuckle. Together these components perform an essential role in a car’s steering function.

What are the signs of a bad track rod end?

Below are the top three symptoms that could indicate you need to replace your track rod end:

• Vibrations in the steering wheel
• If your steering is not as precise as usual
• Knocking when you drive over bumps or when changing direction

What happens during a track rod end replacement?

Our certified mechanics will:

• Safely raise the vehicle and remove the road wheel
• They will then undo the component from the steering knuckle and tie rod
• A new track rod end will be fitted
• The wheel will be put back on and the mechanic will test drive your car to ensure the parts are working and fitted correctly

What does a water pump do?

Your car’s water pump is located in the engine bay and is usually powered from the engine drive belt. It is responsible for circulating the engine coolant around the cooling system.

Symptoms of a malfunctioning water pump

If there are patches or puddles of fluid on the floor beneath your engine, it could be a leaking water pump. It is imperative that your water pump operates correctly, as failure to pump coolant through your engine can cause engine overheating.

What does a wheel bearing do?

A wheel bearing is a crucial part of the wheel assembly that connects the wheel and the axle. It is a circle of ball bearings secured in a ring called a 'race'. A wheel bearing enables the wheel to rotate smoothly with minimal friction.

What are the signs of a bad wheel bearing?

Below are the top three symptoms that could indicate you need to replace your wheel bearing:

• If you notice a grinding, grating or humming noise coming from your wheel or tyre. This noise usually increases with acceleration or as the vehicle turns.
• A car that feels loose as you drive it - your steering seems less responsive or less precise than usual.
• Steering wheel vibration which changes with speed or as your car turns.

What happens during a wheel bearing replacement?

Our certified mechanics will:

• Jack the car safely and inspect the wheel with the faulty bearing.
• Replace the faulty bearing, if necessary.
• Refit the bearing and wheel.
• Torque the wheel to the correct pressure. This is set by the car manufacturer.
• Test drive the car.
• If necessary, they will make any final adjustments.

What does a wing mirror do?

Also known as side view or door mirrors, wing mirrors are one of the most important safety features on your car. Although they may not seem important, your wing mirrors keep you aware of vehicles, people and other obstacles around your car. Legally in the UK, you need two working mirrors and one must be the driver's side wing mirror.

What are the symptoms of a broken wing mirror?

Below are some signs that you may need to replace your wing mirror glass:

• If the glass panel in your wing mirror is smashed or cracked to the extent that it prevents you from clearly viewing the rear of your car, it will need to be replaced.
• If your wing mirror glass is stuck in the incorrect position it may have seized so will need repairing.
• If snow, water or dew take a while to clear off the glass, the electric heating element in your wing mirror could be broken.

What does a wing mirror do?

Also known as side view or door mirrors, wing mirrors are one of the most important safety features on your car. Although they may not seem important, your wing mirrors keep you aware of vehicles, people and other obstacles around your car. Legally in the UK, you need two working mirrors and one must be the driver's side wing mirror.

What are the symptoms of a broken wing mirror?

Below are some signs that you may need to replace your wing mirror:

• If your wing mirror is damaged and no longer provides an adequate view of the rear of your car.
• If your electric wing mirror no longer moves or is stuck in one position.
• If your driver’s side wing mirror is missing, legally you must have it replaced.

What happens during a wing mirror replacement on your car?

Our certified mechanics will:

• Inspect the damaged wing mirror by removing the casing or panels.
• Test the electrical systems, if the wing mirror is electric.
• If necessary, they will replace the mirror unit, the mirror glass or both. If there is a fault in the electrics they may fit a completely new wing mirror.
• Test if the mirror moves properly and ensure it provides a view of the car’s rear.

What do wiper blades do?

Wiper blades are the thin rubber inserts that form part of the windscreen wipers. Windscreen wipers or windshield wipers are the arm-like devices used to clear rain, snow, ice, washer fluid, water, or debris from a vehicle's front window so the driver always has a clear view of what's ahead of them.

What are the signs of a bad wiper blade?

Below are the top 3 signs that could indicate you need to replace your wiper blades:

• Streaking - if your wiper blades leave streaks on your windscreen they'll likely need replacing.
• Squeaking - your wiper blades may need replacing or readjusting if they make a squeaking noise.
• Smearing on your windscreen could be a sign that your blades are worn and need replacing.

What happens when we do a wiper blades replacement on your car?

Our certified mechanics will:

• Test your windscreen wipers to determine which part or parts need to be changed.
• If your wiper blades need to be replaced the mechanic will unclip them or slide them out of the wiper arm.
• They will then fit the new blades, ensuring they are the correct size and type for your car.
• Test the new blades to ensure they work effectively.