http://local.intercars.co.uk/ InterCars.co.uk is your complete online motoring resource. 120 en-gb Articles@DirectoryM.com Articles@DirectoryM.com http://local.intercars.co.uk/ InterCars.co.uk is your complete online motoring resource. http://local.intercars.co.uk/Images/Image.aspx?Site=customDarkBlueWAdSense_en-GB Once you have completed the eye test and vehicle safety questions, the examiner will walk around your car, taking details of the make and model and checking that the vehicle is roadworthy. Before the test, make sure that your car has no broken lights, the windscreen is clean, the windscreen wipers are in place, the tyres comply with the legal requirements and these other helpful hints. http://local.intercars.co.uk/Practical_Driving_Test_London-r1343349-London_EN.html http://local.intercars.co.uk/Practical_Driving_Test_London-r1343349-London_EN.html The exhaust system must be complete, secure, silence effectively and be without serious leaks. Also, the vehicle must meet the requirement for exhaust emission depending on its age and fuel type. http://local.intercars.co.uk/Exhaust_System_Emissions_London-r1343348-London_EN.html http://local.intercars.co.uk/Exhaust_System_Emissions_London-r1343348-London_EN.html Although most modern cars come pre-equipped with some form of security device, one of the best ways to reduce your car insurance premiums and protect your car is to fit an enhanced system. Learn about how some security systems are more worthwhile than others. http://local.intercars.co.uk/Security_System_Ratings_London-r1343347-London_EN.html http://local.intercars.co.uk/Security_System_Ratings_London-r1343347-London_EN.html Although fixing steering and suspension problems is something best left to the experts, there are a few things you can do to check your car's condition. Ask yourself the following questions http://local.intercars.co.uk/Steering_Suspension_London-r1343346-London_EN.html http://local.intercars.co.uk/Steering_Suspension_London-r1343346-London_EN.html There are a number of general areas that will be tested during your car's MOT; it will be well worth your while to check these yourself before sending your vehicle in for its test. http://local.intercars.co.uk/General_Areas_London-r1343345-London_EN.html http://local.intercars.co.uk/General_Areas_London-r1343345-London_EN.html The RAC is the second largest breakdown company in the UK (after the AA ) with more than 1,500 patrols. The organisation was established in 1897, introducing uniformed patrols in 1901 and roadside emergency telephone boxes in 1912. http://local.intercars.co.uk/RAC_Breakdown_Cover_Breakdown_Cover_RAC_car_breakdown_coverage_car_breakdown_protection_car_protection_London-r1343344-London_EN.html http://local.intercars.co.uk/RAC_Breakdown_Cover_Breakdown_Cover_RAC_car_breakdown_coverage_car_breakdown_protection_car_protection_London-r1343344-London_EN.html If you receive penalty points on your licence, they will remain there for a specific length of time, depending on the type of offence committed. In general, endorsements will remain on your licence for four years from the date of offence, however that is not always that case. http://local.intercars.co.uk/Endorsements_Penalty_Points_Disqualification_London-r1343343-London_EN.html http://local.intercars.co.uk/Endorsements_Penalty_Points_Disqualification_London-r1343343-London_EN.html It is estimated that about fifth of the mileage driven in the UK takes place on wet roads. The two major hazardous factors associated with rain and wet roads are lack of grip and poor visibility. http://local.intercars.co.uk/Driving_in_Rain_London-r1343342-London_EN.html http://local.intercars.co.uk/Driving_in_Rain_London-r1343342-London_EN.html Although the majority of car jacking incidents take place at traffic lights or in petrol stations, it's also becoming increasingly common for thieves to browse the classified ads to spot a car they like the look of, and then set out to steal it. http://local.intercars.co.uk/Car_Jacking_London-r1343341-London_EN.html http://local.intercars.co.uk/Car_Jacking_London-r1343341-London_EN.html Although tyres are a common reason for failure, it is easy to check them and bring them up to standard before the MOT test. Read the following article to learn how to measure the safety of your tyres and wheels. http://local.intercars.co.uk/Tyres_Wheels_London-r1343340-London_EN.html http://local.intercars.co.uk/Tyres_Wheels_London-r1343340-London_EN.html If you have changed your name or address, it is essential to inform DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) immediately; failure to do so is a criminal offence and could result in a £1,000 fine. The following article will teach you all about how to update or change your licence. http://local.intercars.co.uk/Changing_Your_Licence_Details_London-r1343339-London_EN.html http://local.intercars.co.uk/Changing_Your_Licence_Details_London-r1343339-London_EN.html Whether you sell your car through a dealer or privately, it is essential that you let the DVLA (Driver Vehicle Licensing Agency) know about the sale as soon as it has been completed. Until the DVLA are notified of the new owner details, you will remain responsible for the vehicle tax as well as any motoring offences committed in the car. http://local.intercars.co.uk/Completing_the_Paperwork_London-r1343338-London_EN.html http://local.intercars.co.uk/Completing_the_Paperwork_London-r1343338-London_EN.html Before you make a final decision on whether or not to buy a particular used car, there are a number of documents you should ask to see. The key pieces of paper you need are: the V5 (or logbook), a current tax disc, a current MOT and servicing history. http://local.intercars.co.uk/Checking_the_Documentation_London-r1343337-London_EN.html http://local.intercars.co.uk/Checking_the_Documentation_London-r1343337-London_EN.html Churchill Breakdown cover is administered by Green Flag , and offers 5 different levels of breakdown cover to cater for the needs of most motorists in the UK. Churchill offers a fast and reliable breakdown service at any time of the day or night, and allows you to claim £10 if they do not reach you within the hour. http://local.intercars.co.uk/Churchill_Breakdown_Cover_London-r1343336-London_EN.html http://local.intercars.co.uk/Churchill_Breakdown_Cover_London-r1343336-London_EN.html Once you've found your buyer and have agreed on a price, there a number of things you should do to protect yourself against theft and fraud. Read the following article to learn what you need to do to protect yourself when receiving a car payment. http://local.intercars.co.uk/Receiving_Payment_for_Your_Car_London-r1343335-London_EN.html http://local.intercars.co.uk/Receiving_Payment_for_Your_Car_London-r1343335-London_EN.html Always try to arrange to view the car in daylight hours and in good weather; any flaws or damage to the bodywork or paint will be masked by poor lighting conditions or rain. This article addresses consider you should take when check the exterior of a car. http://local.intercars.co.uk/How_to_Check_the_Exterior_of_the_Car_London-r1343334-London_EN.html http://local.intercars.co.uk/How_to_Check_the_Exterior_of_the_Car_London-r1343334-London_EN.html Number plate theft has tripled over the last few years, with police records suggesting more than 33,000 cases a year. Thieves are increasingly targeting number plates rather than the car itself or its contents, so that they can use them in a number of criminal activities http://local.intercars.co.uk/Number_Plate_Theft_London-r1343333-London_EN.html http://local.intercars.co.uk/Number_Plate_Theft_London-r1343333-London_EN.html With tough competition from the high street banks, many manufacturers and dealers are hitting back with attractive HP (hire purchase) offers. In this type of deal, you have to pay a deposit (normally at least 10% of the car's price), and then pay off the balance (with interest) in monthly instalments over an agreed period of time. http://local.intercars.co.uk/Hire_Purchase_London-r1343332-London_EN.html http://local.intercars.co.uk/Hire_Purchase_London-r1343332-London_EN.html Your car's air filter is very important since it keeps many parts of your car system clean and free of dirt. It is a good idea to check the filter regularly, as if becomes dirty and blocked, it will enable particulate matter to enter engine's combustion chambers. http://local.intercars.co.uk/Checking_the_Air_Filter_London-r1343331-London_EN.html http://local.intercars.co.uk/Checking_the_Air_Filter_London-r1343331-London_EN.html Nothing is more important than your car's ability to stop itself quickly and safely. It is therefore essential to check your brake system at least once a month, and to ensure that any problems are fixed immediately at an authorised service centre. http://local.intercars.co.uk/Checking_the_Brake_System_London-r1343330-London_EN.html http://local.intercars.co.uk/Checking_the_Brake_System_London-r1343330-London_EN.html An escrow service is designed to provide security to both the buyer and the seller; the buyer deposits money with a third party, which holds the money until the goods are received by the buyer. When the buyer has accepted the delivery, the escrow service pays the seller. http://local.intercars.co.uk/False_Escrow_Services_London-r1343329-London_EN.html http://local.intercars.co.uk/False_Escrow_Services_London-r1343329-London_EN.html In 2002, the Driving Standards Agency introduced a new element to the theory test to assess candidates' reactions to developing hazards. After you have completed the multiple choice theory part of the test, you'll be allowed a break of up to three minutes before the hazard perception section begins. http://local.intercars.co.uk/Hazard_Perception_Test_London-r1343328-London_EN.html http://local.intercars.co.uk/Hazard_Perception_Test_London-r1343328-London_EN.html Arranging Professional Checks Buying a car is a major financial undertaking, and even if you're confident about checking the mechanical condition of the car, there are still many other aspects that cannot be so easily verified. Another quarter of a million vehicles are written off each year after accidents. However, many of them are illegally repaired and offered for re-sale, usually in... http://local.intercars.co.uk/Arranging_Professional_Checks_London-r1343327-London_EN.html http://local.intercars.co.uk/Arranging_Professional_Checks_London-r1343327-London_EN.html Before your start your practical driving test, your examiner will ask you to read the number plate on a stationary vehicle. This number plate will be at a distance of 20 metres if it is a new style plate (those beginning with two letters i.e. AA51 FGH), or at 20.5 metres if it is an old style of plate. http://local.intercars.co.uk/Eyesight_Check_London-r1343326-London_EN.html http://local.intercars.co.uk/Eyesight_Check_London-r1343326-London_EN.html Whether you're buying from a dealer or through a private seller, you'll need to make sure that you check the general condition of the car carefully - both inside and out. Skipping this stage could mean that you end up with a poorly maintained vehicle that could cause you a string of problems later on. http://local.intercars.co.uk/Guide_to_Viewing_a_Used_Car_London-r1343325-London_EN.html http://local.intercars.co.uk/Guide_to_Viewing_a_Used_Car_London-r1343325-London_EN.html Telephone- and web-based brokers order new cars in bulk, and so are able to secure you substantial savings for you as a result. However, you they will not be able to offer you the personal service that a dealer can give you, nor will you be able to test drive the car. http://local.intercars.co.uk/Car_Brokers_London-r1343324-London_EN.html http://local.intercars.co.uk/Car_Brokers_London-r1343324-London_EN.html When you open the door, check for any theft damage around the lock or handle. Once inside, keep an eye out for the following things: Check that the chassis number or VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) matches the one shown on the registration document. http://local.intercars.co.uk/How_to_Check_the_Interior_of_the_Car_London-r1343323-London_EN.html http://local.intercars.co.uk/How_to_Check_the_Interior_of_the_Car_London-r1343323-London_EN.html When you buy a new car, it will be covered by the manufacturer's warranty, in which the manufacturer promises to pay for particular repairs should things go wrong - usually for the first 3 years. Although it's easy to assume that the warranty will pay for any defects, this is rarely the case. http://local.intercars.co.uk/New_Car_Warranties_London-r1343322-London_EN.html http://local.intercars.co.uk/New_Car_Warranties_London-r1343322-London_EN.html Although banker's drafts are a safe and secure way to pay for a car from the buyer's point of view, it can be quite a different story for the seller. It has become increasingly common for criminals to forge banker's cheques to pay for vehicles. http://local.intercars.co.uk/Forged_Bankers_Drafts_London-r1343321-London_EN.html http://local.intercars.co.uk/Forged_Bankers_Drafts_London-r1343321-London_EN.html One of the most appealing aspects of buying a new car is the ability to choose exactly what colour, trim and accessories you want. Some options will not only make the car more pleasant to drive in (such as air conditioning or a CD player), but will also make it much easier to sell. http://local.intercars.co.uk/Choosing_Optional_Extras_for_Your_New_Car_London-r1343320-London_EN.html http://local.intercars.co.uk/Choosing_Optional_Extras_for_Your_New_Car_London-r1343320-London_EN.html During 2005 and 2006, the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA) introduced a new computerised system for MOTs. All testing stations now record MOT results on a secure central database that also holds vehicle information and details of authorised examiners and testers. http://local.intercars.co.uk/The_MOT_Certificate_London-r1343319-London_EN.html http://local.intercars.co.uk/The_MOT_Certificate_London-r1343319-London_EN.html Breakdown cover can usually broken down into four major levels of service, ranging from an entry level or standard package, all the way up to a fully comprehensive service that offers to cover almost any eventuality. In general, the different levels comprise of the following features. http://local.intercars.co.uk/Levels_of_Breakdown_Cover_London-r1343318-London_EN.html http://local.intercars.co.uk/Levels_of_Breakdown_Cover_London-r1343318-London_EN.html Although many people are nervous when it comes to the idea of haggling over price, you could easily end up spending thousands of pounds more for a new car than you have to if you don't give it a go. All dealers leave themselves some margin to haggle, so if you pay the full sticker price, you'll simply be giving them a bit more profit than they expected and end up more out of pocket than you need to be. http://local.intercars.co.uk/Getting_the_Best_Deal_London-r1343317-London_EN.html http://local.intercars.co.uk/Getting_the_Best_Deal_London-r1343317-London_EN.html Norwich Union provides a tailored range of flexible cover levels, which takes into account your own set of circumstances and allows you to build the breakdown service that you need. They also provide a range of roadside assistance options that vary in cost, which may be added to the standard plans. http://local.intercars.co.uk/Norwich_Union_Breakdown_Cover_London-r1343316-London_EN.html http://local.intercars.co.uk/Norwich_Union_Breakdown_Cover_London-r1343316-London_EN.html If your driving licence if it has been lost, stolen, defaced or destroyed then you should apply for a replacement as soon as possible. If your licence has been stolen, you must also inform the police immediately. http://local.intercars.co.uk/Replacing_Your_Licence_London-r1343315-London_EN.html http://local.intercars.co.uk/Replacing_Your_Licence_London-r1343315-London_EN.html Vehicle Identity Check Scheme (VIC) is a new initiative launched by the Department for Transport to help reduce vehicle crime. It has been developed to deter criminals from disguising stolen cars with the identity of scrapped or written off vehicles. http://local.intercars.co.uk/Vehicle_Identity_Check_VIC_London-r1343314-London_EN.html http://local.intercars.co.uk/Vehicle_Identity_Check_VIC_London-r1343314-London_EN.html Tiptronic is a trademarked automatic gearbox with manual override owned by Porsche, who licenses it for use by others such as Audi, Nissan and Volkswagen. The Tiptronic system enables the driver to select a wholly automatic mode, or to choose to override the automatic mode. http://local.intercars.co.uk/Tiptronic_London-r1343313-London_EN.html http://local.intercars.co.uk/Tiptronic_London-r1343313-London_EN.html The driving theory test is taken using a computer located at your local Driving Standards Agency Theory Test Centre. On arrival, you should register at the reception desk, at which point you'll be allocated a booth containing a computer loaded with your personal Theory Test. http://local.intercars.co.uk/Driving_Theory_Test_London-r1343312-London_EN.html http://local.intercars.co.uk/Driving_Theory_Test_London-r1343312-London_EN.html If you decide to sell your car for scrap, you must inform the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency). Selling to an ATF If your car is to be destroyed immediately, you should give the scrap dealer (officially known as an authorised treatment facility or ATF) your registration certificate and you will be issued with a certificate of destruction (CoD). http://local.intercars.co.uk/Selling_Your_Car_for_Scrap_London-r1343311-London_EN.html http://local.intercars.co.uk/Selling_Your_Car_for_Scrap_London-r1343311-London_EN.html Personal loans are one of the most popular ways of financing a new car. There are hundreds of banks, building societies and other lenders offering personal loans, so it is worthwhile shopping around for the best deals. http://local.intercars.co.uk/Taking_Out_a_Personal_Loan_London-r1343310-London_EN.html http://local.intercars.co.uk/Taking_Out_a_Personal_Loan_London-r1343310-London_EN.html When a large amount of rain falls over a short period of time, rivers, ditches, sewers and lakes can soon overflow into low-lying or poorly drained areas. With severe weather and floods seemingly on the increase, it's essential that you know what to do if you caught in such conditions. http://local.intercars.co.uk/Driving_in_Floods_London-r1343309-London_EN.html http://local.intercars.co.uk/Driving_in_Floods_London-r1343309-London_EN.html Vehicles can be powered by hydrogen in one of two ways: combustion or fuel-cell conversion . In combustion, the hydrogen is 'burned' in engines in essentially the same method as traditional petrol cars. In fuel-cell conversion, the hydrogen is turned into electricity through fuel cells which then power electric motors. http://local.intercars.co.uk/Hydrogen_London-r1343308-London_EN.html http://local.intercars.co.uk/Hydrogen_London-r1343308-London_EN.html Washing your car regularly can help protect the paintwork from damage and can give you the opportunity to spot potential problems such as chips in the glass or paintwork before they have chance to develop any further. Likewise, if you pay attention to the interior of the car, you may be able to fix small problems - such as a loose panel - before they become more serious and need the attention of a professional. http://local.intercars.co.uk/Cleaning_the_Car_London-r1343307-London_EN.html http://local.intercars.co.uk/Cleaning_the_Car_London-r1343307-London_EN.html An American tyre information system, sometimes found on tyres sold in the UK, consisting of a number and set of letters, For example 220AB. The number specifies the treadwear rating, which offers an indication of the expected usable life of a tyre compared to a standard tyre with a rating of 100. http://local.intercars.co.uk/Uniform_Tyre_Quality_Grading_System_UTQGS_London-r1343306-London_EN.html http://local.intercars.co.uk/Uniform_Tyre_Quality_Grading_System_UTQGS_London-r1343306-London_EN.html An International Driving Permit (IDP) is an internationally recognised document that allows you to drive a private motor vehicle overseas when accompanied by a valid UK driving licence. The IDP is recognised around the world and is printed in 10 languages, including English, French, German, Spanish, Chinese, Russian and Arabic. http://local.intercars.co.uk/International_Drivers_Permit_London-r1343305-London_EN.html http://local.intercars.co.uk/International_Drivers_Permit_London-r1343305-London_EN.html There are a number of quick and simple jobs you can do to keep your car regularly maintained; most of the checks and services can be done at little or no cost, and will save you time, money and inconvenience in the future. Here's a rundown of what you need to do and when to do it. http://local.intercars.co.uk/Car_Maintenance_Schedule_London-r1343304-London_EN.html http://local.intercars.co.uk/Car_Maintenance_Schedule_London-r1343304-London_EN.html If you decide that you want to remove expired endorsements from your driving licence, then you will need to apply to the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) using a D1 application form, and pay a fee of £19.00. Keep reading to learn all about how to remove expired endorsements. http://local.intercars.co.uk/Removing_Expired_Endorsements_London-r1343303-London_EN.html http://local.intercars.co.uk/Removing_Expired_Endorsements_London-r1343303-London_EN.html As the mileage of a car affects its price, and many buyers won't think of buying a car that has a very high mileage, some dishonest sellers may tamper with the vehicle's odometer to make it look as though it has covered fewer miles than it actually has. By reducing the apparent mileage, the car will not only become more attractive to a potential buyer, but it will also command a higher price. http://local.intercars.co.uk/Clocking_London-r1343302-London_EN.html http://local.intercars.co.uk/Clocking_London-r1343302-London_EN.html If, during your weekly tyre inspections, you find that your tyres have become worn or damaged, then you will need to change them. When buying new tyres, always remember that it is illegal to mix tyres of a different construction (cross-ply, bias belted or radial) on the same axle; it is recommended that only one type of construction is used for the entire car. http://local.intercars.co.uk/Changing_a_Wheel_London-r1343301-London_EN.html http://local.intercars.co.uk/Changing_a_Wheel_London-r1343301-London_EN.html An advanced traction control system that works to achieve optimum levels of grip. The system's computer monitors each wheel, enabling it to apply the brakes to ensure the car stays on course or to reduce the amount of power developed by the engine. http://local.intercars.co.uk/Electronic_Stability_Programme_ESP_London-r1343300-London_EN.html http://local.intercars.co.uk/Electronic_Stability_Programme_ESP_London-r1343300-London_EN.html