Posts By Oliver O'Brian
Speeding Tickets: How Many Before You Lose Your Licence?
Nobody likes that sinking feeling when you see flashing lights in your rear-view mirror. Speeding tickets are one of the most common traffic offences, but how many can you get before you actually lose your licence? The answer depends on several factors, including the severity of the offence, how quickly you rack up points, and whether you already have previous violations on your record. Let’s break it all down so you know exactly where you stand.
The Points System: How It Works
In most places, speeding offences add points to your driving record. The more serious the offence, the more points you’ll receive. If you hit the maximum number of points allowed within a certain period (typically two to three years), you could face suspension or even revocation of your licence.
- Minor speeding offences – Usually result in 3 points, depending on how much you exceeded the limit.
- Moderate speeding – Going well over the limit can mean 4–6 points.
- Excessive speeding or reckless driving – In some cases, this can result in 6–8 points or even an instant ban.
The number of points required for a suspension varies. In some regions, reaching 12 points in three years leads to an automatic suspension, while other places have a lower or higher threshold.
How Many Tickets Before a Suspension?
There’s no single answer, as it depends on the severity of each ticket. A few minor speeding tickets over a few years might not be a huge issue, but several in a short space of time can get you in trouble quickly.
For example, if you get three minor speeding tickets (3 points each) within three years, you’d have 9 points – which may not be enough for an automatic suspension but will put you dangerously close. However, if you get caught speeding significantly over the limit just twice, with 6 points per offence, you’d hit 12 points quickly, leading to a suspension.
Fighting a Ticket: When a Lawyer Can Help
Not all speeding tickets are cut and dry. In some cases, you may be able to challenge the charge with the help of a lawyer from OTD Legal. This could be due to inaccurate speed camera readings, unclear signage, or other mitigating factors. If you believe you’ve been wrongly fined or if losing your licence would have a significant impact on your livelihood, it’s worth seeking legal advice. In some cases, penalties can be reduced or even overturned entirely.
New Drivers: Stricter Rules Apply
If you’re a newly qualified driver, you need to be extra careful. Many regions have stricter rules for new drivers, meaning they can lose their licence with far fewer points. Some places enforce a rule where accumulating just 6 points within the first two years results in an automatic revocation of your licence. That means even two minor speeding tickets could send you back to square one, requiring you to retake your driving test.
Speeding vs. Dangerous Driving
While a basic speeding offence usually results in points and a fine, excessive speeding can be classified as dangerous or reckless driving, which carries much harsher consequences. If you’re caught driving at an extreme speed—such as 50 km/h over the limit—you could face an immediate licence suspension, hefty fines, or even criminal charges in some cases.
What Happens if You Ignore a Ticket?
Ignoring a speeding ticket is never a good idea. Failing to pay fines or respond to notices can lead to more severe penalties, including additional fines, a licence suspension, or even legal action. If you receive a speeding ticket, it’s best to deal with it promptly, whether that means paying the fine, attending a driving course (if offered), or challenging it in court.
Can a Driving Course Reduce Your Points?
In some cases, attending a defensive driving or speed awareness course can help reduce points on your licence or prevent them from being added in the first place. This option is usually available for minor speeding offences and can be a good way to avoid penalties while improving your driving skills. However, it’s not always an option, and you can’t take these courses repeatedly to avoid consequences.
Will Your Insurance Go Up?
Accumulating speeding tickets doesn’t just risk your licence—it can also have a significant impact on your car insurance rates. Insurance companies view speeding offences as a sign of risky behaviour, which means premiums can increase after just one or two tickets. If you rack up multiple violations, you could be classified as a high-risk driver, making it difficult or extremely expensive to get insured.
How to Avoid Losing Your Licence
No one wants to deal with fines, points, or the stress of potentially losing their licence. Here are some simple ways to stay within the limits and keep your record clean:
- Know the speed limits – Be aware of changes in speed zones, especially in residential areas or near schools.
- Use cruise control – This can help maintain a steady speed, particularly on motorways or long stretches of road.
- Leave early – Rushing because you’re late is one of the most common reasons people speed. Give yourself extra time.
- Watch for speed cameras – Fixed and mobile speed cameras are common. Staying aware of their locations can help you avoid unnecessary tickets.
- Stay alert – Check your speedometer regularly, especially when transitioning between different speed zones.
Final Thoughts: Drive Smart, Stay Legal
Losing your licence due to speeding tickets isn’t inevitable, but it can happen if you’re not careful. The key is to stay aware of your driving habits, keep an eye on your points, and make smart choices on the road. A couple of minor offences might not lead to an immediate suspension, but repeated violations—or a single serious one—can have lasting consequences. Drive responsibly, and you won’t have to worry about losing your licence anytime soon.
How Commercial EV Charging Services Enhance Customer Experience
Electric vehicles (EVs) are no longer a futuristic concept they’re a part of everyday life now. And with more EVs on the road, the need for accessible charging is growing fast. For businesses, adding EV charging isn’t just a bonus feature anymore! It’s an opportunity to connect with customers in a meaningful way. Curious how this works?
Meeting Customers Where They Are
Picture this: an EV driver pulls into your business’s parking lot. They’ve been running errands, and their car is low on charge. Instead of feeling stressed about finding a station, they’re pleasantly surprised to see your EV chargers ready to go. Right away, you’ve made their day easier and that matters.
People want to know they can charge their car without extra hassle, and offering this service shows that you’re paying attention to their needs. Plus, when you make life easier for customers, you’re creating positive experiences that stick with them.
Turning Charging Into an Experience
Let’s face it: waiting for a car to charge isn’t exactly thrilling. But you can turn that downtime into something valuable. Think about what makes your business stand out great coffee, unique products, or maybe a cozy atmosphere. Now imagine pairing that with EV charging.
For example, while customers wait, they can grab a snack, browse your store, or relax in your space. It’s a win-win: they get something productive out of the time, and you have a chance to engage them further. It’s not just about providing a service; it’s about creating an experience they’ll remember.
Drawing More People In
If your business has invested in commercial EV charging services, it’s like putting up a big welcome sign for a whole new group of potential customers. EV drivers are actively looking for places where they can charge their cars, and businesses that offer this service instantly stand out.
Here’s the best part: these customers aren’t just charging and leaving. They’re likely to spend time at your location while they wait, giving you more chances to make a sale or leave a great impression. Over time, this can lead to more foot traffic, new customers, and increased loyalty.
Showing You Care About Sustainability
More and more people care about the environment and want to support businesses that share their values. By offering EV charging, you’re sending a clear message: you’re committed to sustainability and reducing carbon emissions.
This isn’t just good for the planet it’s good for your brand. Customers appreciate businesses that take action on important issues, and being environmentally friendly can help set you apart from competitors. It’s a simple way to show you’re part of the solution, not the problem.
Making Charging Easy With the Right Tech
Nobody wants to deal with complicated or unreliable charging stations. That’s why the technology behind your chargers is so important. Things like user-friendly apps, contactless payments, and real-time updates about charger availability can make a huge difference.
When charging is simple and stress-free, it reflects well on your business. On the other hand, if it’s confusing or inconvenient, it could frustrate customers. Choosing reliable, easy-to-use charging stations ensures that your customers leave with a positive impression, not a headache.
Why It’s Good for Business
Let’s talk about the bottom line. Adding EV chargers isn’t just a nice thing to do; it’s a smart investment. For starters, it helps you stand out from competitors who haven’t made the leap yet. It also increases the amount of time customers spend at your location. Hello more sales!
There’s also a unique demographic factor. EV owners tend to be environmentally conscious, tech-savvy, and willing to pay for convenience. These are exactly the types of customers who value quality.
How to Get Started
Thinking about adding EV chargers? Here are a few things to consider. First, think about your customer base and location. Are you near a busy shopping center, a popular restaurant area, or a highway? These factors can help you figure out how much demand there might be for charging.
Next, decide on the type of chargers you’ll need. For customers who might be spending an hour or two at your business, Level 2 chargers are a great choice. If you’re catering to people who are just stopping briefly, faster options like DC chargers might make more sense.
Finally, don’t forget to let people know you have chargers available. Add signs around your location, list your chargers on popular EV charging apps, and include this info in your marketing. The easier it is for people to find and use your chargers, the more value you’ll get from them.
The Future of Customer Experience Is Electric
As EVs become more common, businesses that offer charging will naturally attract more customers and stand out from the competition.
Investing in EV charging today positions your business as forward-thinking, customer-focused, and ready to thrive in a more sustainable future. So, what’s stopping you? The future of customer experience is electric make sure you’re part of it.
Why Inclusive UI/UX Is the Future of Financial Technology
Financial technology, or fintech, has transformed how we manage money, making financial services more accessible and efficient than ever. But as fintech becomes a mainstream solution for people of all backgrounds, the importance of inclusivity in design has never been clearer. Inclusive UI/UX ensures that fintech platforms serve diverse audiences, including users with disabilities, limited tech proficiency, or varying levels of financial literacy. By prioritising accessibility, fintech companies can not only improve their user experience but also unlock significant business opportunities.
The Accessibility Imperative in Fintech
Accessibility is no longer a “nice-to-have” feature—it’s essential. Regulations like the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) mandate certain standards, ensuring digital platforms are usable by individuals with disabilities. Beyond legal compliance, accessible design fosters trust and enhances usability for all users.
For example, consider features like screen-reader compatibility, high-contrast interfaces, and voice navigation. These tools make fintech apps usable for individuals with visual or motor impairments while benefiting other users, such as those in situations where hands-free interaction is necessary. Inclusive design doesn’t just cater to specific needs; it improves the overall functionality of an app.
Simplifying Complex Interfaces for Digital Literacy
Fintech platforms often deal with complex processes, such as investment management or financial planning. For users with limited tech proficiency, navigating these systems can feel overwhelming. Simplifying interfaces is key to making fintech accessible to everyone.
Intuitive user interface design services play a crucial role here, enabling seamless interactions even for beginners. Guided onboarding processes, tooltips, and micro-interactions help users understand complex features step-by-step. For instance, a budgeting app could use gamified progress tracking or personalised prompts to encourage user engagement without overwhelming them.
When fintech companies invest in user-friendly design, they not only enhance user satisfaction but also increase their appeal to a broader audience. This is particularly valuable in emerging markets, where digital literacy rates may be lower but the demand for financial tools is growing rapidly.
The Business Case for Inclusive Design
While inclusivity is often viewed through an ethical lens, it also makes good business sense. By prioritising accessibility, fintech companies can tap into underserved markets, such as elderly users or individuals with disabilities. Expanding the customer base leads to increased revenue and higher market share.
Furthermore, inclusive design fosters customer loyalty. When users feel that a platform genuinely caters to their needs, they are more likely to remain loyal and recommend the service to others. This can significantly reduce churn rates and improve long-term profitability.
Take, for example, a fintech app that incorporates voice-activated commands for visually impaired users. While designed for accessibility, this feature could also appeal to busy professionals who prefer hands-free functionality, creating a win-win scenario for both users and the business.
The Future of Financial Inclusion
Inclusive fintech has the potential to bridge significant financial gaps worldwide. By embracing accessible design, fintech companies can empower underserved populations, providing tools for better financial management and literacy. This not only supports individuals but also drives economic growth in developing regions.
Looking ahead, innovations like AI-powered personalisation could further enhance inclusivity by tailoring user experiences to individual needs. For example, AI could adjust app interfaces based on user behaviour, providing simplified views for beginners and advanced tools for experienced users.
As fintech continues to evolve, inclusive UI/UX will remain at the heart of its success. By investing in accessibility and simplification, fintech companies can create products that serve everyone, regardless of ability or background. This isn’t just the future of fintech; it’s the standard that will define the industry’s next chapter.
For businesses looking to lead in this space, partnering with experts in user interface design services is a critical step toward achieving inclusivity and innovation. Together, we can build a fintech landscape that works for all.
Understanding UK Number Plates: A Comprehensive Guide
Number plates are the backbone of vehicle identification in the UK. They not only identify vehicles but also provide insights into their origins and ages. This comprehensive guide is designed to help you navigate the intricacies of UK number plates. It covers their formats, legal requirements, and changes over the years, providing you with a complete understanding of this important aspect of vehicle ownership in the UK.
The Evolution of Number Plates
The UK’s journey with registration plates began in 1903 with the Motor Car Act, a significant milestone in vehicle registration. Since then, the format and design of the plates have evolved significantly, reflecting the changing times and the growing number of vehicles on the road. Initially, plates consisted of a one or two-letter code indicating the area of registration, followed by a number. As vehicle numbers grew, the format had to be revised to accommodate more combinations, marking a fascinating evolution in vehicle identification.
Current Number Plate Format
The current system, introduced in 2001, is known as the “two-letter, two-number, three-letter” format (e.g., AB12 CDE). Here’s a breakdown:
- First Two Letters: Indicate the local registration office where the vehicle was registered. For example, “AB” could signify a vehicle registered in Birmingham.
- Two Numbers: Represent the age identifier, indicating the six-month period during which the vehicle was registered. The system uses March (represented by the year number) and September (the year number plus 50). For instance, “23” denotes a vehicle registered between March and August 2023, while “73” signifies registration between September 2023 and February 2024.
- Last Three Letters: These are random, so provide a unique identifier to ensure each registration is unique.
Legal Requirements and Display
Adhering to specific legal standards for UK vehicle registration is not just a formality, but a responsibility that ensures readability and uniformity on the road. Key requirements include:
- Material: Plates must be made from reflective material to enhance visibility.
- Font and Spacing: The font is standardised, and specific spacing between characters is mandated.
- Colour: The front plate must have black characters on a white background, while the rear plate should have black characters on a yellow background.
- Manufacturer’s Details: Plates must display the manufacturer’s name, postcode, and the British Standard number (currently BS AU 145e).
Special Vehicle Registration
There are several variations and special categories of number tagsin the UK:
- Personalised Plates: Owners can purchase personalised plates, provided they do not make the vehicle appear younger than it is.
- Trade Plates: Used by motor traders and vehicle testers, these plates allow unregistered vehicles to be driven legally.
- Show Plates: Designed for off-road and display purposes, these plates are not legal for road use.
Changes and Updates
The UK government occasionally updates number plate regulations to improve road safety and adapt to new technologies. For instance, the latest update in 2021 introduced the BS AU 145e standard, which includes features to enhance durability and legibility, such as improved resistance to bending, impact, and UV light.
Enforcement and Penalties
Driving with incorrect, illegal, or obscured registration plates can result in fines and penalties. Enforcement is carried out through automated number plate recognition (ANPR) systems used by police and other agencies to track and monitor vehicles.
The Future of Number Plates
As technology advances, vehicle number plates may undergo further changes, opening up a world of possibilities. Innovations like digital number plates, which can display different messages and update automatically, are being explored. These could offer enhanced security features and integrate with modern vehicle technologies, hinting at an exciting future for vehicle identification.
Understanding UK registration tags is not just about knowing your vehicle’s identification; it’s about being a responsible vehicle owner. These plates play a crucial role in vehicle regulation and road safety in the UK. By understanding their formats, legal requirements, and the ongoing updates, you can ensure compliance and avoid penalties. Whether you’re considering a personalised plate or simply staying informed about regulatory changes, knowing the details of UK number plates is essential for all vehicle owners.
How to Store an Electric Vehicle
Electric vehicles (EVs) have taken the world by storm, offering a greener alternative to traditional petrol and diesel cars. But what happens when you need to store your EV for an extended period? Whether you’re going on a long holiday or simply won’t be using your car for a while, it’s essential to know how to store it correctly. In this guide, we’ll delve into the nitty-gritty of storing an electric vehicle safely, ensuring its longevity and optimal performance.
Why Preparation is Crucial
Before we dive into the specifics, let’s address the elephant in the room: why is it so important to prepare your EV for storage? Well, just like any other vehicle, an electric car has components that can degrade over time, especially if left unused. Batteries can discharge, tyres can deflate, and various systems can become stagnant. Proper preparation ensures that your EV remains in tip-top condition, even after months of inactivity.
The Ideal Space for Storing Your EV
When it comes to storing your electric vehicle, not all spaces are created equal. Here’s what you should look for when storing your car:
1. Always opt for an indoor space, like a garage, to protect your EV from the elements. Rain, snow, and even the blazing sun can take a toll on your car’s exterior and internal systems.
2. Humidity can be an enemy to electric components. Ensure the storage space is dry and cool to prevent any potential damage.
3. Rodents and pests can chew through wires and insulation. Make sure the area is free from any critters that might see your EV as their next home.
Preparing Your Electric Car for Storage
Now that you’ve found the perfect spot, it’s time to get your car ready. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Start by giving your EV a thorough clean, both inside and out. Dirt and contaminants can damage the paint over time, so ensure it’s sparkling before storing.
2. Inflate your tyres to the recommended pressure. This prevents flat spots from forming if the car sits in one position for too long.
3. Most EVs have a smaller 12-volt battery in addition to the main one. Disconnecting it can prevent it from draining during storage.
4. Instead of engaging the parking brake, use tyre stoppers or chocks to keep the car in place. This prevents the brake pads from sticking to the discs.
Maintaining the Batteries
The battery is arguably the most crucial part of your electric vehicle. Here’s how to ensure it remains in prime condition:
It’s a common misconception that you should fully charge your EV before storing it. In reality, it’s best to charge it to around 50-60%. This level is optimal for battery health during prolonged periods of inactivity.
If you’re storing your EV for several months, it’s a good idea to check the battery charge every few weeks. If it drops below 20%, give it a little top-up.
Batteries don’t like extreme cold or heat. If your storage space isn’t climate-controlled, consider using a battery warmer in the winter or a fan in the summer.
Improvements in battery technology
In the realm of nanotechnology, carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have emerged as a game-changer, especially in the field of energy storage. These tiny cylindrical carbon structures, with diameters measuring just a few nanometres, have properties that can significantly enhance the safety and performance of batteries. But how exactly do they achieve this? Let’s dive in.
One of the primary concerns with batteries, especially lithium-ion ones, is the risk of overheating, which can lead to fires or explosions. This is often due to the build-up of heat during charging or discharging processes.
Carbon nanotubes have exceptional thermal conductivity. When integrated into a battery’s electrode or as a part of the battery’s structure, CNTs can efficiently dissipate heat, reducing the risk of thermal runaway—a primary cause of battery fires.
A battery’s efficiency is closely tied to its electrical conductivity. The better the conductivity, the more efficient the charge and discharge cycles become. Carbon nanotubes are excellent conductors of electricity. By incorporating CNTs into battery components, the overall conductivity of the battery can be improved. This not only boosts the battery’s performance but also reduces the chances of short-circuiting, a common safety concern.
Despite their minuscule size, carbon nanotubes are incredibly strong—many times stronger than steel because of this they are used in many products. When used in battery structures, they can provide added mechanical strength. This means that batteries can better withstand physical stresses, reducing the risk of damage or rupture that could lead to leaks or other safety hazards.
During the repeated charging and discharging cycles of a battery, the electrodes can degrade or form dendrites—tiny, needle-like structures that can pierce the separator between the electrodes. If the separator is breached, it can result in a short circuit, posing significant safety risks.
Carbon nanotubes can enhance the integrity of the electrodes. Their inclusion can prevent the formation of dendrites, ensuring the battery remains safe throughout its lifespan.
The unique properties of CNTs allow for more flexible battery designs. For instance, researchers are exploring the potential of creating bendable or foldable batteries for use in flexible electronic devices. Such designs, made possible by the inclusion of carbon nanotubes, can be inherently safer as they can adapt to various forms without compromising structural integrity.
Popular luxury vehicles for 2020
If you are interested in a luxury vehicle in 2020, you might be interested to know which vehicles are most popular according to drivers.
Whether you are looking for luxury car purchases or luxury car leases, buying a popular luxury car means many people like it, so it must have many good features. Here are some of the most popular 2020 options:
Porsche
This brand is famous for the 911 but there are many great options in the 2020 lineup. The brand has been expanding its choices in recent years to include great cars like the Boxter, Cayman, Macan and Cayenne.
All of their vehicles are fast with 300 HP and up. All of them have good handling and the insides feature very comfortable leather seats, advanced technology, and the cars are surprisingly reliable.
Tesla
Tesla is often in the news in 2020, and for good reason: It makes good, interesting vehicles. The Model 3, Model S, and Model X all get strong overall scores and are some of the best hybrid and luxury electric cars on the market. These vehicles have much longer ranges than the typical electric vehicle, which is what makes them popular.
Genesis
This brand is fairly new to the luxury car scene; it split off from Hyundai a few years ago. There are three luxury models available in 2020: the G70, G80, and G90.
While there are no SUVs available, sedan shoppers will love these cars. They have great interiors, plenty of power, and a long list of convenience, comfort and safety features. They also cost less than other luxury cars and are reliable.
Audi
You will have a hard time going wrong with an Audi car or SUV. There are 14 models and most of them get high scores in many review systems. In sedans, you have the A4, A6, and A8, and in SUVs the Q3, Q5, and Q7. For sports cars, there is the TT and R8.
They all feature elegant interiors, sporty driving, and plenty of technology that is esy to use.
Mercedes-Benz
The flagship S-class is one of the best luxury vehicles around. It could be the most lavish vehicle on the American market. But there are many other options that are more affordable.
You have the C-Class, E-Class, GLC and GLE. They are all richly appointed with loads of high-tech features and strong engines with a more comfortable ride than some sportier luxury cars.
What Is The Difference Between Car Radio And Car Stereo?
Many people talk about the different sound systems you can get for your car, however, they use the expressions car radio and car stereo interchangeably. This leads to much confusion and can sometimes end up with someone buying the wrong thing or getting the wrong kind of car stereo installation.
So what is the difference? Can they be the same? Why is it important to know the difference?
Well certainly if you are thinking about buying one, you want to know what you are spending your hard-earned cash on. Therefore, we are going to walk you through what each one is and what they both include.
What Is A Car Stereo?
You may have heard someone use the words car stereo and then 2 minutes later they call it a sound system. This is because they are in fact, in modern times, often the same thing. The car stereo is the entire sound system that operates within your car.
However, there is some confusion due to the origin of the word. Stereo comes from stereophonic which refers to receiving sound from two channels. So originally a stereo system was the radio but over time the meaning has come to take on a new understanding.
So when you talk about getting a car stereo this usually includes the head unit as well as the speakers and amplifiers or any other audio additions. Overall, this is your entire sound system. Though it must be noted that it is always a good idea to double-check with the seller that this is what they mean.
What Is Car Radio?
Car radios essentially include only two main components. Tuners and receivers. However, some radios can also include a cd player, USB port, Bluetooth capabilities, and auxiliary cables. The portion that the word “radio” really focuses on however is its ability to receive and tune various AM/FM radio stations.
So if you are searching for a car radio it will be primarily with this function in mind despite some models including various other capabilities.
Why It Is Important To Know The Difference
You could be trying to purchase an entire sound system and then when you have already paid you then realize that all you have is a radio. Or alternatively, you could just be trying to purchase a tuner and receiver for radio stations and they quote you what an entire sound system would cost.
To avoid these confusions you need to understand what each of them means and that at times the seller may be referring to the same thing. Therefore, despite your newly acquired knowledge, it is always a good idea to make sure that you ask them specifics of what they include and what they themselves mean by these wordings.
Tips for Classic Car Maintenance
Keeping a classic car in good shape is a skill on its own. It takes work to have your vintage ride stay in good condition, but there are some steps to make it more manageable. Here are some tips for classic car maintenance.
Finding a Good Place to Store It
The material in a classic car is sensitive. You need to make sure your classic car storage spot is dependable because you want to preserve the vehicle for years to come. Whether you’re storing it in the winter or summertime, you need to find a spot that’s dark and moisture-free.
Seasonal storage at a facility that’s climate-controlled will help you relax because you know your vehicle is in good shape. Not to mention, they have on-site security to monitor things. You’ll have peace of mind to know your classic ride is safe.
Also, you can keep it in your home garage, but make sure it’s properly ventilated.
Always Check the Fluids
One of the main issues of old cars is fluid from years ago. You don’t want to be in a situation where the vehicle starts rusting due to moisture buildup. Make sure you do a thorough oil cleaning to ensure that you get rid of all old fuel.
Once you start riding your car again, you need to change the oil every 3,000 miles to keep fresh oil in it to have the car run properly. It’s a good idea to have a restoration expert check under the hood and the brakes to ensure that everything is sound. You never know what underlying issues your vintage car may experience unless you have a well-trained eye to spot it.
Flush the Coolant
Make sure you do this at least once a year. It’s such a pivotal part of your car’s engine. You don’t want this to freeze in the wintertime or overheat in the summertime.
Check the radiator cap at least a few times throughout the season to keep it from leaking. If your ride is from the 70s, you should see green-colored coolant. Once it starts turning brown, it’s a good idea to drain and flush the system first.
Changes are there’s rust building up. You never want to work with a corrosive system. Clean it out thoroughly before refilling it with fresh coolant before you properly store your vintage ride.
Regular upkeep and storage can help you extend your classic car’s life to help you enjoy it for years.
Benefits of a High-Output Alternator
Your stock alternator may not be enough to do specific things for your vehicle. You might want to take an off-roading trip with friends or put in a booming sound system. However, a powerful alternator can handle these functions. Here are some of the benefits of getting a high-output alternator.
Extensive Battery Power
You don’t want to end up in the middle of the highway because your battery goes dead. Getting a high-amp alternator can help you extend your battery life. You’ll save money from having to fix your alternator or constantly replace one.
Before traveling long distances, you should get a reliable alternator to juice up your battery. It’ll help you feel more confident on the road, especially during wintry weather. The extra power helps your vehicle cope with the high battery discharge rate in the colder months.
No one wants to be stranded when it’s snowing and icing outside. Additionally, you feel more comfortable when stuck in traffic. Think about this when you decide to purchase a high-output alternator.
Handles Your Extreme Audio
You might want to boost your audio system in the vehicle. Maybe you’re putting GPS navigation in it for your road trips. You might want a digital dash with a screen to entertain your family.
All of these amenities require more power. A high-output alternator can meet the demands of your audio system. If you have a high-watt stereo, it takes massive power to ensure that it works properly.
Think about how taxing this is to your car battery. Invest in the best sound quality of your vehicle while getting the necessary amps to keep your engine running for your back and forth commutes.
Good for Off-Road
Maybe you have a trip you’re planning with a couple of friends on heavy terrain. Pick a powerful alternator to keep those big wheels and engines going on this tough turf. Additionally, the big lights need more juice because they light up bright from the battery power.
You never know if you need to take a heavy object in your off-road vehicle through a big storm. The plow in front doesn’t just run on fuel, but it requires an alternator strong enough to keep the motor going.
When you invest in a high-output alternator, it can help you extend the life of your vehicle, boost up your audio entertainment, and more to create a better driving experience.
How does a new car save you money?
If you happen to own an older car that has just gone out of warranty, then get ready for increased maintenance expenses and the possibility of having to make major repairs that can be expensive. There are many advantages of owning a new vehicle. Here is a closer look at the costs of continuing to own an older car to help you decide if it is time to replace your car with a newer one.
Increased Maintenance
As a car gets older it needs more maintenance to keep it running properly. Many parts are designed to last through the warranty period; however, after a car is about three to five years old, things just start falling apart.
A summary report from V12 Data of the auto aftermarket parts industry research, shows that typical increased maintenance expenses for older cars come from these items and more:
- More frequent air, oil, and fuel filter changes.
- More frequent oil changes.
- Start using premium grade oil that is more expensive.
- Fuse replacements.
- Brake drums and brake pads.
- Start using fuel additives.
- More frequent spark plug changes.
- Light and headlamp replacement.
- Wheel alignment.
- Battery replacement.
Owners of older cars are twice as likely to expect to pay more than $1,300 per year for auto maintenance, when compared to owners of newer vehicles. Many find that they save money on these expenses by getting car loans to buy a new vehicle or an almost-new, low-mileage vehicle that is still under warranty.
Increased Repairs
Along with the increased maintenance costs there may be a need for increased repairs, some of which are very costly. Typical repairs for older cars come from these items: upholstery repair, paint deterioration, that requires a new paint job to repair, windshield and window cracks and oil leaks. These are just some of the problems that you will encounter with an old car. Why not get a car loan and avoid them instead?
Major repairs to the drivetrain and engine are costly. Many have to borrow to cover these expenses.The most expensive problems reported by Car Health Monitor Reviews and the average price converted to Canadian dollars to make the repairs are: engine replacements, ring & cylinder repair, transmission damage and break system tunings.
Fuel Economy
A brand-new car may be more fuel-efficient than an older one. This can be a big expense if you drive frequently and use more gas to go the same distance in a less fuel-efficient older car. You can use an online fuel calculator to get the information for your older car and compare it to the fuel economy of the newer vehicle.
Emergency Road Service and Towing
An older car may have more problems that require emergency road assistance and towing. If the car is in the repair shop for an extended period, there could be a need to pay for a rental car while it is being repaired. Depending on the tow truck company, getting your car towed could be costly. Why not get a new car and not wait until your car is broken down on the road?
New cars can have problems; however, the big repairs should be covered by the warranty and they are less likely to occur. With an older vehicle, there is always the chance of some major repair being suddenly needed without any time for preparation. This is the main reason why getting a new car can save money. Other reasons could be towing, fuel economy, and the need for road-side assistance. You can avoid all of these problems but getting a new car today.