Latest news with #FixMyCar
North Wales Live
3 days ago
- Automotive
- North Wales Live
Car heat wave warning for anyone who doesn't use air con in winter
With hot weather on the way, many drivers could be in for an unpleasant surprise, according to car experts. A third of drivers have no idea there is a 45-minute service they should be getting done to their cars regularly - especially before a heat wave. Experts at FixMyCar found that many drivers are confused about how their air con works and most car services don't include a regas by default. Matt Wrankmore, Head of Garage Network at FixMyCar explains that a quick 45 minute garage visit can take your air conditioning from mild to ice cold. He said: 'Many drivers expect their car's air conditioning to just work when they need it to. However, the air conditioning system uses refrigerant gas and a compressor to cool the air in the cabin. Few people realise that over 10% of refrigerant gas escapes naturally every year, which means the cooling system's power drops significantly over time. "This is where the need for an air con regas comes in. Having the system 'regassed', essentially refilling the refrigerant gas, will have an instant effect on your car's air conditioning and will get you back to pleasantly cool journeys on our few scorching hot days this summer.' Car interiors are excellent at trapping and storing heat, making uncomfortable places if you don't have a functioning cooling system particularly if you're unaware of what air conditioning requires. The site found that 28% of drivers didn't know that the air conditioning system in their car needed to be regassed in order to stay cold. A further 1 in 10 (9.7%) drivers assumed it would be done as part of a Full Service. Many car services don't include an air con regas so you'll need to book it separately. According to data from FixMyCar, an Air Con Regas costs £72.64 on average. Most manufacturers recommend getting your air conditioning system regassed every two years to ensure it's always at an optimal cold temperature. According to the poll, almost a third of drivers are unsure when they last had an air con regas. Matt added: 'Another little-known fact is that a lack of use of your air conditioning could also exacerbate the problem. A car's air conditioning system has an oil in it that lubricates the seals and compressor to keep it functioning smoothly when in use. However not using the air conditioning frequently can cause the seals and compressor to harden or shrink which can then cause damage that results in larger refrigerant leaks down the line. "This is a particular problem for Brits. As we only get a few really hot days a year many of us don't use our air conditioning as often as we should. So, my best advice to drivers who want to maintain their cooling system better is to turn on your air conditioning regularly, even in winter – as crazy as that sounds!'
Scottish Sun
19-05-2025
- Automotive
- Scottish Sun
Car repair expert reveals affordable part that's a ‘game-changer' for hay fever sufferers – costing as little as £10
"Instead of filtering the air, it allows pollen and allergens to enter the car directly" BREATHE EASY Car repair expert reveals affordable part that's a 'game-changer' for hay fever sufferers – costing as little as £10 HAY FEVER season is here, and Brits with stuffy noses are feeling the strain – whether they're at home or on the go in their cars. Sneezing while driving can be especially uncomfortable and, more importantly, hazardous. Advertisement 3 Hay fever sufferers can enjoy a symptom-free drive by replacing their pollen filter and using air recirculation effectively Credit: Getty 3 A clogged pollen filter can allow allergens to enter your car, worsening hay fever symptoms for drivers Credit: Getty 3 Regular car servicing, including replacing the pollen filter, can help keep the air inside your vehicle clean and breathable Credit: Getty But according to an expert, a key car component that many motorists are unaware of could be the cause of heightened discomfort while driving during the summer months. A recent poll by FixMyCar revealed that more than 50% of mechanics reported that over half of the cars they service have not undergone a full service in over a year. And this often means that the pollen filter is no longer effective. Speaking exclusively to Sun Motors, Matt Wrankmore, Head of Garage Network at FixMyCar, explains that this simple car part can help alleviate hay fever symptoms while driving. Advertisement He said: 'Most modern vehicles are fitted with a pollen filter, also known as a cabin air filter. Its job is to trap pollen, dust, and other allergens, making the air inside your vehicle clean and breathable - a godsend for anyone suffering from hay fever. 'However, problems arise when the filter is not replaced regularly. Like any filter, it becomes dirty and clogged over time, ceasing to function effectively. Instead of filtering the air, it allows pollen and allergens to enter the car directly. 'A clogged pollen filter not only exacerbates hay fever symptoms but can also impact airflow, affecting the car's heating and cooling systems.' FILTER FAIL Having a full service every 12 months is likely to ensure the pollen filter is replaced, as this is typically included in a full service. Advertisement However, it's important to note that a pollen filter replacement is not part of an interim service. FixMyCar's latest poll highlighted confusion around car servicing, which may cause many drivers to miss this crucial maintenance and suffer unnecessarily during hay fever season. Change your car air filter and have your A/C checked if you suffer from hayfever When asked if they knew when a mechanic would replace their pollen filter, FixMyCar found that only 22% of drivers were aware. In fact, 30% of drivers believed pollen filters are replaced during both full and interim services, while 20% thought replacement was not included in any service at all. Advertisement A further 22% admitted they did not know when a mechanic would change the filter. FixMyCar spoke to 55 garages on its network, asking how many cars they see each month that have not had a full service in over a year. Alarmingly, over half of these garages - a figure of 58% - reported that more than half of the cars they service monthly had not undergone a full service in over 12 months. Even more concerning, 1 in 5 mechanics said that over three-quarters of the cars they see have not been fully serviced in over a year. Advertisement Wrankmore said: 'My recommendation to hay fever sufferers this year is to ensure your car has a full service if it hasn't had one in the past year. Not only will this help alleviate your hay fever symptoms while driving, but regular servicing is also vital for the overall health of your car. 'If the cost of maintenance is a concern and you opt for an interim service, but still want relief from hay fever, you can book a simple pollen filter replacement. "Pollen filters are inexpensive but invaluable for hay fever sufferers. 'With a new pollen filter installed, keep your windows closed, switch on air recirculation, and enjoy a symptom-free journey. Just remember to replace the filter every 12 months or 15,000 miles.' Advertisement DO IT YOURSELF For penny-pinching Brits, changing a pollen filter in a car yourself is both easy and affordable, with a standard filter typically costing around £10. A carbon filter, which helps with odours, may cost around £20, while online prices for cabin air filters generally range between £11 and £30, depending on the make and model. Better yet, no special tools are needed for the job - although occasionally a screwdriver or socket set might be necessary. The pollen filter is typically found under the bonnet in a cold air collector box, or inside the car - possibly behind the glove compartment or in the passenger footwell. Advertisement FixMyCar is a free, easy to use service that lets drivers compare and book garages online.
The Irish Sun
19-05-2025
- Automotive
- The Irish Sun
Car repair expert reveals affordable part that's a ‘game-changer' for hay fever sufferers – costing as little as £10
HAY FEVER season is here, and Brits with stuffy noses are feeling the strain – whether they're at home or on the go in their cars. Sneezing while driving can be especially uncomfortable and, more importantly, hazardous. 3 Hay fever sufferers can enjoy a symptom-free drive by replacing their pollen filter and using air recirculation effectively Credit: Getty 3 A clogged pollen filter can allow allergens to enter your car, worsening hay fever symptoms for drivers Credit: Getty 3 Regular car servicing, including replacing the pollen filter, can help keep the air inside your vehicle clean and breathable Credit: Getty But according to an expert, a key car component that many motorists are unaware of could be the cause of heightened discomfort while driving during the summer months. A recent poll by And this often means that the pollen filter is no longer effective. Speaking exclusively to Sun Motors, Matt Wrankmore, Head of Garage Network at FixMyCar, explains that this simple car part can help alleviate hay fever symptoms while driving. Read more Motors News He said: 'Most modern vehicles are fitted with a pollen filter, also known as a cabin air filter. Its job is to trap pollen, dust, and other allergens, making the air inside your vehicle clean and breathable - a godsend for anyone suffering from hay fever. 'However, problems arise when the filter is not replaced regularly. Like any filter, it becomes dirty and clogged over time, ceasing to function effectively. Instead of filtering the air, it allows pollen and allergens to enter the car directly. 'A clogged pollen filter not only exacerbates hay fever symptoms but can also impact airflow, affecting the car's heating and cooling systems.' FILTER FAIL Having a full service every 12 months is likely to ensure the pollen filter is replaced, as this is typically included in a full service. Most read in Motors However, it's important to note that a pollen filter replacement is not part of an interim service. FixMyCar's latest poll highlighted confusion around car servicing, which may cause many drivers to miss this crucial maintenance and suffer unnecessarily during hay fever season. Change your car air filter and have your A/C checked if you suffer from hayfever When asked if they knew when a mechanic would replace their pollen filter, FixMyCar found that only 22% of drivers were aware. In fact, 30% of drivers believed pollen filters are replaced during both full and interim services, while 20% thought replacement was not included in any service at all. A further 22% admitted they did not know when a mechanic would change the filter. FixMyCar spoke to 55 garages on its network, asking how many cars they see each month that have not had a full service in over a year. Alarmingly, over half of these garages - a figure of 58% - reported that more than half of the cars they service monthly had not undergone a full service in over 12 months. Even more concerning, 1 in 5 mechanics said that over three-quarters of the cars they see have not been fully serviced in over a year. Wrankmore said: 'My recommendation to hay fever sufferers this year is to ensure your car has a full service if it hasn't had one in the past year. Not only will this help alleviate your hay fever symptoms while driving, but regular servicing is also vital for the overall health of your car. 'If the cost of maintenance is a concern and you opt for an interim service, but still want relief from hay fever, "Pollen filters are inexpensive but invaluable for hay fever sufferers. 'With a new pollen filter installed, keep your windows closed, switch on air recirculation, and enjoy a symptom-free journey. Just remember to replace the filter every 12 months or 15,000 miles.' DO IT YOURSELF For penny-pinching Brits, changing a pollen filter in a car yourself is both easy and affordable, with a standard filter typically costing around £10. A carbon filter, which helps with odours, may cost around £20, while online prices for cabin air filters generally range between £11 and £30, depending on the make and model. Better yet, no special tools are needed for the job - although occasionally a screwdriver or socket set might be necessary. The pollen filter is typically found under the bonnet in a cold air collector box, or inside the car - possibly behind the glove compartment or in the passenger footwell. .
The Sun
19-05-2025
- Automotive
- The Sun
Car repair expert reveals affordable part that's a ‘game-changer' for hay fever sufferers – costing as little as £10
HAY FEVER season is here, and Brits with stuffy noses are feeling the strain – whether they're at home or on the go in their cars. Sneezing while driving can be especially uncomfortable and, more importantly, hazardous. 3 3 3 But according to an expert, a key car component that many motorists are unaware of could be the cause of heightened discomfort while driving during the summer months. A recent poll by FixMyCar revealed that more than 50% of mechanics reported that over half of the cars they service have not undergone a full service in over a year. And this often means that the pollen filter is no longer effective. Speaking exclusively to Sun Motors, Matt Wrankmore, Head of Garage Network at FixMyCar, explains that this simple car part can help alleviate hay fever symptoms while driving. He said: 'Most modern vehicles are fitted with a pollen filter, also known as a cabin air filter. Its job is to trap pollen, dust, and other allergens, making the air inside your vehicle clean and breathable - a godsend for anyone suffering from hay fever. 'However, problems arise when the filter is not replaced regularly. Like any filter, it becomes dirty and clogged over time, ceasing to function effectively. Instead of filtering the air, it allows pollen and allergens to enter the car directly. 'A clogged pollen filter not only exacerbates hay fever symptoms but can also impact airflow, affecting the car's heating and cooling systems.' FILTER FAIL Having a full service every 12 months is likely to ensure the pollen filter is replaced, as this is typically included in a full service. However, it's important to note that a pollen filter replacement is not part of an interim service. FixMyCar's latest poll highlighted confusion around car servicing, which may cause many drivers to miss this crucial maintenance and suffer unnecessarily during hay fever season. Change your car air filter and have your A/C checked if you suffer from hayfever When asked if they knew when a mechanic would replace their pollen filter, FixMyCar found that only 22% of drivers were aware. In fact, 30% of drivers believed pollen filters are replaced during both full and interim services, while 20% thought replacement was not included in any service at all. A further 22% admitted they did not know when a mechanic would change the filter. FixMyCar spoke to 55 garages on its network, asking how many cars they see each month that have not had a full service in over a year. Alarmingly, over half of these garages - a figure of 58% - reported that more than half of the cars they service monthly had not undergone a full service in over 12 months. Even more concerning, 1 in 5 mechanics said that over three-quarters of the cars they see have not been fully serviced in over a year. Wrankmore said: 'My recommendation to hay fever sufferers this year is to ensure your car has a full service if it hasn't had one in the past year. Not only will this help alleviate your hay fever symptoms while driving, but regular servicing is also vital for the overall health of your car. 'If the cost of maintenance is a concern and you opt for an interim service, but still want relief from hay fever, you can book a simple pollen filter replacement. "Pollen filters are inexpensive but invaluable for hay fever sufferers. 'With a new pollen filter installed, keep your windows closed, switch on air recirculation, and enjoy a symptom-free journey. Just remember to replace the filter every 12 months or 15,000 miles.' DO IT YOURSELF For penny-pinching Brits, changing a pollen filter in a car yourself is both easy and affordable, with a standard filter typically costing around £10. A carbon filter, which helps with odours, may cost around £20, while online prices for cabin air filters generally range between £11 and £30, depending on the make and model. Better yet, no special tools are needed for the job - although occasionally a screwdriver or socket set might be necessary. The pollen filter is typically found under the bonnet in a cold air collector box, or inside the car - possibly behind the glove compartment or in the passenger footwell.
North Wales Live
22-04-2025
- Automotive
- North Wales Live
Mechanics warn over serious danger, and cost, of DIY car repairs
As the cost-of-living increases, mechanics are warning of the danger of drivers attempting to fix problems themselves, only to end up making things worse. Nearly two-thirds of mechanics report seeing an increase in cars arriving at their workshops with badly done DIY repairs that need professional fixing. A driver survey found that more than one in five drivers admitted to performing DIY repairs or maintenance on their vehicles in the past year specifically to save money. FixMyCar is urging drivers to be realistic about their abilities and consider the consequences. The company said simple tasks like checking tyre pressure, replacing bulbs and topping up fluids are suitable for home maintenance. But they warn car owners that DIY jobs such as brake repairs, engine diagnostics and extensive bodywork should be left to qualified professionals, as bodged attempts can compromise vehicle safety and lead to higher costs. Gordon Hamilton from Fife Autocentres, said: "What we're seeing is a bodgeflation effect. There's been a real increase in people bringing in cars after their DIY fixes have gone wrong. People watching YouTube videos, doing half-jobs with cheap parts, skipping regular servicing and topping up with the wrong oil are then left wondering why everything's gone pear-shaped. "Don't get me wrong, I completely understand why people are attempting fixes at home – life is getting more expensive and it's hard for many people to make ends meet right now. But I care about my customers and I want to protect them. The safety aspect, especially with DIY brake work, can be very dangerous. I urge them to pay for proper repairs now – it's safer and cheaper than fixing bodge jobs later." Matt Wrankmore, Head of Garage Network at FixMyCar said: 'This research confirms what we've been hearing from our mechanics nationwide – bodgeflation is real. Simple maintenance like checking fluids or changing wiper blades is great for DIY, but when people attempt complex repairs to save money, it often backfires. Getting professional help from trusted mechanics for these types of jobs is always more economical, and far safer, in the long run.'
