When we think about car safety, we usually focus on components such as the brakes, tyres or even advanced driver assistance systems. However, there is one component that often goes unnoticed, despite playing a vital role in preventing accidents: the shock absorbers.
Buying a car is one of the most important financial decisions many families make. However, nowadays there is more than one way to do it. Alongside the traditional outright purchase, options such as financing, contract hire (long-term rental) and leasing have become increasingly popular, each offering its own advantages and drawbacks. Choosing the right one depends on how you plan to use the vehicle, your budget and your personal preferences.
Traveling by car with children means paying attention to many more details than when traveling alone or only with adults. Safety, comfort, and peace of mind become priorities, especially on long journeys or during holidays. And although much of the attention is usually focused on driving itself, the truth is that the vehicle and its components play a fundamental role when young children are on board.
For years, the car has simply been a way to reach the destination. But more and more drivers are rediscovering another way of traveling: turning the road itself into part of the holiday. The rise of road trips — journeys where the route matters just as much as the place you arrive at — is gaining popularity among those looking for more freedom, spontaneity, and different experiences.
You might be surprised to know that whether you drive a hybrid with an internal combustion engine (ICE) linked with a 48-volt or 350-volt battery, or a fully battery powered electric vehicle (EV) with a 400-volt plus battery, it will also have a ‘traditional’ 12-volt car battery fitted to it.
Why this is important is because across Europe, in common with ICE powered cars and second only to tyre related problems, it’s 12-volt battery issues that cause the highest number of breakdowns, including EVs!
A guide to hybrid vehicles and the various forms available.
There is no doubt that motorists are in the middle of a time of major change. In terms of what powers a car, there are currently three distinct types of fuel to be considered: petrol/diesel, electricity and hydrogen. With regards to the latter, although some hydrogen powered cars are on the market, it is still yet to make a real impact.
Car owners and drivers come across countless vehicle related acronyms and many probably aren’t sure what they all mean. However, the following list comprises some of the most common, which are categorised under generic headings, and should make things clearer.
Using figures released by various reliable sources, in 2025, the average age of a car in the UK was nine and a half years, up from just over six and a half in 2005. What’s the average age of a vehicle and what should you do?
Car maintenance doesn’t have to be complicated or require extensive technical knowledge. In fact, many of the most common breakdowns could be avoided with simple, regular checks. Spending just a few minutes each month reviewing certain basic elements can make the difference between driving with peace of mind and facing an unexpected problem.
The battery is one of the most important components of a vehicle, although we often only think about it when it fails. It provides the energy needed to start the engine and power electrical systems, from the lights to the multimedia system, including engine management. However, its lifespan is limited and, under normal conditions, typically ranges between three and five years. The good news is that with a few simple habits, you can extend its life and avoid unexpected breakdowns.