Failed NCT – Suspension Problems – What you need to know…

If your NCT Test Report pinpoints your suspension system, please read on…

Your suspension system’s job is to make sure you have a smooth and safe journey every time. Irish roads will cause your suspension system to wear out and key components such as shocks, bushings,  struts, bushings and springs,will need to be replaced in order to maintain drive quality and provide best handling. Your wheel alignment may also have to be looked at.

The NCT pay particular attention to suspension as it can be one of the biggest causes of accidents. You can carry our some visual checks yourself as well. You can rotate the tyres yourself – this can help. Checking your wheel alignment and replacing bushings might be best left to the care of a professional automobile mechanic.

Here’s what to look out for…

You can visually inspect several components frequently for usage and wear, possibly preventing a large repair bill if you identify these problems early.

Tyres – Check your front tyres for signs of wear. Uneven wear most likely means that it is time for a front wheel alignment. Rotate tyres and align front end. Replace worn out tyres at once.

Shock Absorbers – Irish roads greatly reduce the amount of driving you will get out of your shocks or struts,  Things like  prolonged driving over potholes and uneven payment – will sharply reduce the lifespan of these components.

Driving stability, including steering and stopping, are affected by shocks or struts that are reaching the end of their life. With shocks, fluid leakage is one sign that they have failed as well as rhythmical bobbing up and down of the car after applying the brakes or too much leaning into corners while making turns. Replace defective parts.

Arms & Bushings – This is normally a job for your mechanic, but you can inspect these items for cracking or other visible signs of wear and tear. Wheel shimmy and vibration are two strong indications that a lower control arm or bushing has worn out. Take your vehicle to your garage mechanic for repairs.

Replace Parts

In addition to checking these main components, your suspension includes ball joints, coil springs, and stabilizer bar link. Replace aged or worn parts to ensure a safe and comfortable ride every time. Contact Car Parts Warehouse in Galway and we will advise you on the parts required.

What you need if you are driving your car to France this Summer

TIP OF THE WEEK.  What you need if you are driving your car to France this Summer.

Driving in France is on the right. It is compulsory to place converters or beam benders as they are more commonly known on your headlights if coming from Ireland to ensure that your dipped beams won’t dazzle oncoming traffic. Headlight converters or beam benders are available at most car accessory stores and are relatively easy to put on by following very simple instructions which are included with the product. You must also display an IRL sticker at the rear of your vehicle and caravan or trailer, if applicable. You must carry a warning triangle – it is compulsory to use one after an accident or breakdown in France. A spare set of vehicle bulbs is also necessary and any car accessory store will advise you on the correct replacement bulbs for your vehicle.

TIP OF THE WEEK.How to replace your headlight bulb

TIP OF THE WEEK. How to replace your headlight bulb

How to replace your headlight bulb.

Replacing your headlight bulb yourself is very easy. Having both headlights in proper working order is the key  to safe driving and it is illegal to not have both headlights illuminated at nighttime.

First, check your owners manual where you will be able to identify the type of bulb that needs replacing. Bulbs can be purchased in any auto parts store and are also available in most service stations.

Lift the bonnet and look behind the headlight. There will be some wires running to the back of the headlight with a plug on it going into the back of the headlight. Some unscrew, some you need to twist slightly, others have clips holding them in. They are all easy to figure out so don’t worry.

The bulb simply pulls out on most cases. Some you may have to turn first. Don’t touch the silver end of the new bulb as you remove it from its package. Installation is the same as removal from now on! No more worrying about the blue and red lights on your dashboard!!!