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Daily Mirror
a day ago
- Automotive
- Daily Mirror
'I'm a used car salesman - there are three popular brands I would never buy'
While he acknowledges there are good examples of every car brand, the experienced motor trader warns against 'falling for a badge or bargain' because you could 'end up with a money pit' A veteran car dealer has revealed a trio of popular car brands he would never purchase second-hand - even if they're priced well. After almost two decades in the motor trade, Tom Kershaw is well versed in which models are most likely to leave their owners out of pocket - and which you can rely on. The salesman, from Bristol, warns even models from manufacturers that appear to be in good condition can quickly deteriorate into a costly nightmare to run. After conferring with experts from Number 1 Plates and drawing on average annual repair costs from Nationwide Vehicle Contracts, as well as his 18 years car-selling experience, the expert has identified which brands to avoid and explained his reasoning behind each one. "Some cars are beautifully made — until they start going wrong," the pro said. "And once they do, they don't stop. When you work in the business, you quickly learn which badges to walk away from." 3. Fiat Fiats, particularly the Fiat 500, are often seen as budget-friendly city cars, but Tom warns that their long-term ownership costs can be deceptively high. With an average annual repair bill of £413.21, common problems include electrical failures, clutch wear and suspension issues — especially on entry-level models. Tom's advice is to avoid any Fiat lacking a comprehensive maintenance record or showing large gaps between services. He added: "The Fiat 500 is everywhere, but they're often on their third clutch before they hit 70,000 miles. It's rarely worth the hassle. A Fiat without proof of regular maintenance? Walk away." 2. BMW BMW is another popular brand that Tom recommends approaching with caution. Although BMWs are celebrated for their driving experience, their maintenance costs can surprise unsuspecting buyers. With an average annual repair cost of £539.63, Beemers can become expensive to own once the manufacturer's warranty expires, especially diesel models with mileages between 70,000 and 100,000, with repairs 'easily exceeding' £1,000 if not addressed promptly. Tom stresses the importance of reviewing the car's full maintenance history, seeking invoices for significant work rather than just service stamps, and steering clear of vehicles with recurring MOT advisories. "BMWs are fantastic to drive, but once the warranty's gone, expect bills. Timing chains, EGR valves, DPF blockages — they all come knocking," he warned. 1. Land Rover Land Rover tops Tom's list of vehicle brands to avoid when buying used. With an average annual repair bill of £550.48, Land Rovers are among the most expensive vehicles to maintain. Tom has found that while these vehicles are visually appealing and feel high-end, their reliability can be found to be lacking. He frequently encountered repeat issues with certain models, including air suspension failures, electrical problems, oil leaks and gearbox problems, which he warned could often appear well before the vehicle reached 100,000 miles. Tom advises that buyers should only consider a used Land Rover if it comes with a complete dealer service history and documentation of major repairs. He concluded: "They look great and feel premium, but the reliability isn't there. I've had customers bring back Discoverys and Freelanders with the same issues again and again." Top tips for used car buyers Check the number plates for signs of multiple changes or Irish imports, which may indicate a history at auction or a previous write-off. Always request a full service history, including invoices for major repairs such as timing belts, brakes, and suspension. Use the MOT checker to spot repeat advisories, which can signal underlying issues. Trust your instincts — if something feels wrong, it likely is. Reliable vehicles rarely require a hard sell. So while Tom acknowledges there are good examples of every car brand, he he stands by his warnings: "People fall for a badge or a bargain. But if you end up with a money pit, it's no deal at all. Buy smart, not shiny." His final piece of advice: "Stick to brands with a reputation for reliability, and don't be afraid to walk away if the history doesn't stack up."
Wales Online
16-05-2025
- Automotive
- Wales Online
Drivers who wear Crocs behind the wheel could be hit with a £5,000 fine
Drivers who wear Crocs behind the wheel could be hit with a £5,000 fine As the weather warms up, many people choose to wear comfortable footwear such as Crocs - however experts are warning that drivers who wear the shoes could face a hefty fine Those who break the rule could land themselves with a £5,000 fine (stock image) (Image: Markus Bernhard via Getty Images ) Motorists are being cautioned by experts to don suitable shoes while driving to avoid potential fines on the road. With the arrival of warmer weather, many individuals opt for more relaxed footwear, and Crocs have become a particularly favoured choice. The popularity of Crocs has surged in the UK, with a staggering 1.3 million Google searches for the brand in just the last month, and celebrities from Stormzy to Kendall Jenner have been spotted sporting them. Despite their summer appeal, drivers who wear Crocs behind the wheel could face a hefty £5,000 fine, warn the specialists at Nationwide Vehicle Contracts. For our free daily briefing on the biggest issues facing the nation, sign up to the Wales Matters newsletter here According to Rule 97 of the Highway Code, it's imperative for drivers to wear "footwear and clothing which does not prevent you from using the controls in the correct manner.", reports Bristol Live. While there's no specific law against driving in summery footwear like Crocs or sandals, it's essential to choose shoes that ensure full and easy control over the vehicle's functions. The risk with such footwear is that it may slip off, leading to safety issues when trying to use the car's pedals. Article continues below Keith Hawes, Director of Nationwide Vehicle Contracts, emphasised: "While it is not illegal to drive shoeless or in improper footwear, drivers should hold off on wearing footwear that doesn't allow them to operate their car properly." He added, "Anyone who is driving has the responsibility to operate their car and pedals correctly. "So even with the warm weather, it may seem easy to slip on your Crocs and other sandals, however, this can have a large impact on your ability to drive and safely operate your car. Article continues below "Drivers should consider having an extra pair of shoes in their car, but they should make sure they are not too wide or too thick to avoid pressing two pedals at once. "Ultimately, an extra pair of shoes will mean drivers can avoid fines and prioritise safety on the roads by ensuring they have the correct footwear for their vehicle."
Daily Record
15-05-2025
- Automotive
- Daily Record
Driving in these popular shoes this summer could result in a £5K fine
Motorists are being warned to be cautious when driving in certain footwear. With summer fast approaching and temperatures continuing to soar, many people are opting for easy footwear that is comfortable to wear in the heat, so it's no surprise that Crocs are the must-have summer shoe for 2025. Demand for the popular footwear has skyrocketed in recent years, with 1.3 million Google searches for Crocs in the past month alone. However, experts are now warning that wearing Crocs when driving is not as convenient as many motorists may believe. Being caught wearing the clogs when behind the wheel could actually cost drivers £5000. Rule 97 of the Highway Code states that drivers must have 'footwear and clothing which does not prevent you from using the controls in the correct manner'. Whilst it's not illegal to drive in Crocs and sandals, drivers should err on the side of caution as if an accident occurs, the police can issue a fine of up to £5,000 if they find your footwear to be inappropriate. On top of that, drivers can be issued nine points on their license, which can lead to higher insurance prices and further consequences if caught by the police again in the future. Shoes that are not securely fastened to your feet may also be at risk of slipping, which could cause severe safety problems when reaching for the pedals. Keith Hawes, Director of Nationwide Vehicle Contracts, said: 'While it is not illegal to drive shoeless or in improper footwear, drivers should hold off on wearing footwear that doesn't allow them to operate their car properly. 'Anyone who is driving has the responsibility to operate their car and pedals correctly. "So even with the warm weather, it may seem easy to slip on your Crocs and other sandals, however, this can have a large impact on your ability to drive and safely operate your car. 'Drivers should consider having an extra pair of shoes in their car, but they should make sure they are not too wide or too thick to avoid pressing two pedals at once. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. "Ultimately, an extra pair of shoes will mean drivers can avoid fines and prioritise safety on the roads by ensuring they have the correct footwear for their vehicle." High heels can also significantly reduce your ability to operate pedals when driving. "Again, if your footwear affects your control of the vehicle, motorists could be hit with a £100 fine and three points on your licence. The same applies for flip flops and backless sandals. John Wilmot, CEO and founder of car leasing deals site said: 'It's easy to overlook how your choice of clothing or footwear can affect your driving, especially in hot weather, but even something as simple as a pair of flip-flops or a long skirt can reduce your control of a vehicle. 'If this leads to an accident or you're stopped by police, you could face serious consequences. 'So we're urging all drivers to think practically before getting behind the wheel this spring and summer - your outfit shouldn't compromise your safety or anyone else's.'
Daily Record
12-05-2025
- Automotive
- Daily Record
Urgent warning issued to UK workers driving abroad this summer
Expert reveals truth about taking your company car abroad this summer. With summer holiday season fast approaching, many families might be planning on taking a road trip. Road trips offer a unique way to explore new places whilst also providing the flexibility to travel at your own pace and enjoy the journey as much as the destination. It's a great chance for kids to find their sense of adventure whilst creating wonderful family memories. Many motorists across the UK drive their company car as their primary vehicle, so they might be planning to use this car for their trip. However, experts are now warning drivers to think twice about taking their business car on personal holidays. Before planning your next European road trip in a company vehicle Nationwide Vehicle Contracts are now urging employees to check a number of regulations before setting off on their travels. Drivers can only take their company car on holiday with them if they ensure they have one thing - and this is permission. Employees must get written permission from your lease provider before taking your vehicle abroad. Most vehicle providers will issue a VE103B form , which is the official document allowing you to drive a leased or hired vehicle outside the UK. The VE103B includes your name and address, vehicle details, leasing company's permission, and your travel dates and destination countries. It is essential to carry this document with you when driving abroad, as you may be asked to present this at border control or during traffic stops. If you travel abroad without your VE103B or your lease company's permission, then your insurance may be invalid. Without valid insurance, drivers risk their vehicle being impounded at borders, which can potentially breach lease terms and result in penalties. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. Searches for 'driving company car abroad' increased by 31% in the past year in the UK alone, highlighting that many motorists are considering using their company cars to travel when off shift. According to Nationwide Vehicle Contracts people who plan to drive abroad in their company car should follow this advice to ensure a safe journey. Don't travel without correct insurance: Before you embark on your journey, make sure you have fully comprehensive cover and insurance for driving abroad. Have breakdown cover: If you're travelling to new countries, then European breakdown cover will be needed. This cover is rarely included in leased car contracts, therefore, drivers will need this cover in case their vehicle breaks down when travelling. Be wary of mileage limits: When taking your company car abroad, be mindful of your vehicle's contractual mileage limits. If you're planning a long-distance journey abroad, ensure your company car has sufficient mileage limits so you can travel safely.
Daily Record
05-05-2025
- Automotive
- Daily Record
Drivers' road rage response goes viral but experts warn it could result in £2,500 fine
A viral TikTok has left viewers in stitches after a driver shared her unique road rage response - but experts have warned against using it as it could result in a hefty fine or even prison time. Road rage is a familiar frustration for many drivers, often resulting in swearing, honking or rude gestures. However, a recent TikTok video has taken the internet by storm with its unusual take on handling road rage. The viral clip, which has more than 165k views on TikTok, features a driver who carries an egg in the front of her car, ready to use when another road user annoys her. Some users have been inspired by this idea with one viewer commenting "immediately puts egg in the car", but others have highlighted the potential risk of doing so. One user commented: "my son has an egg allergy, so if someone was to throw an egg at him or on his property, it could be so dangerous." Despite the humorous intent, driving experts from Nationwide Vehicle Contracts have issued a serious caution against throwing objects at other vehicles. Driving experts are strongly urging motorists not to take inspiration from this TikTok. Throwing items at other vehicles is classed as a criminal offence, due to the egg having the opportunity to distract or harm another driver. Additionally, throwing an egg at other cars might result in assault or vandalism charges. Vandalism fines can leave drivers with fines up to £2,500 or even a three-month jail term. Driving with an egg in your car to potentially throw at other vehicles undermines your safety, as well as other drivers. By throwing an egg at other drivers, you are not in full control of your vehicle and your decision-making on the road becomes impaired. Now, motoring experts have shared tips for when you experience road rage, with experts from Nationwide Vehicle Contracts advising those to follow the following advice so journeys are less likely to become stressful: Take deep breaths Before lashing out, the experts suggest taking deep breaths and remaining calm on the road. They recommend playing calming music and creating a safe environment within your car, which can be essential to staying safe on the road. Plan ahead If you are someone who easily gets angry on the road or prefers to avoid unpleasant journeys, then planning ahead can be beneficial. Try to avoid rush hour, busy routes or setting off too late as these can all contribute to increased stress while driving. Making sure you have plenty of time to reach your destination can help reduce frustration caused by other road users. Avoid multitasking Keeping your attention on the road should be your main focus when driving, and by doing so you will always be aware of your surroundings. It's common for drivers to take advantage of the bluetooth feature to chat to family and friends, or even find themselves singing along to music while driving. If you're feeling stressed it is best to avoid these distractions and refrain from using Bluetooth features to stay focused on the road. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. Pull over and take a minute If you feel overwhelmed with stress or highly frustrated with other road users, the expert recommends you pull over where it's safe to do so and take a moment to breathe and calm down. Take some time for yourself to reduce your heart rate, then when you feel ready and safe, you can begin driving again.
