WINTER DRIVING
Its now arrived and we need to be aware of winter driving safety.
Tyres:
– Are your tyres up for it?
See the image to give you a guide on wet weather driving at speed. When we do a WOF or service we will always list the applicable tyre levels on your invoice & of course advise if they are low and recommend replacement time frames. 1.5 mm tread is actually a legal pass, However as the image proves in winter you will have virtually no grip. Therefore it would be our recommendation that at 2mm you seriously consider new tyres for your and others safety.
Wipers:
– Are yours clearing that screen?
Wiper blades should be replaced every six months to a year or as soon as you notice a difference in driving visibility. When wiper blades no longer make proper contact with the windshield surface, they can begin to squeak, chatter, skip, smear or streak reducing driving visibility. Wipers are checked on WOF inspection and also routine servicing.
Battery:
– Is that vehicle a bit slow/sluggish to start?
Post lock down we are seeing many vehicles requiring new batteries. Average length of life for a car battery is 3- 4 years and if vehicles weren’t started regularly or driven much ones nearing end of life will probably fail. We have a battery tester on site so can review in only a few minutes. We will do FREE battery testing if pre booked between 10am – 2pm weekdays.
So dont get caught out in the rain! We are a stockist of quality AA Batteries with a 24 – 36 month warranty.
Workshop Update:
A big thanks to everyone for there patience since re opening. Things have been pretty busy. Playing back log catch up plus we have had some delays with getting parts. This has caused a hold up and knock on effect for some job completions.
On this front sorry to say its not likely to get any better anytime soon it could actually get worse. Its about availability with parts and coming into the country. Sea freight is the best option currently so its taking time plus freight costs have risen dramatically. We will of course do our utmost to source new and even second hand to get the best price for you our valued customers.
With regards to the WOF extension of dates validity can we recommend you do try and keep these up to date for peace of mind & safety.
On a positive note we have invested in a software upgrade on our diagnostic tools which means we can now move from 2018 to 2020 vehicles. Not that we see many brand new 🙁
Once again we are on a staff hunt to find another qualified technician with 5 + years experience. So if any one knows of anyone looking please get them to forward a CV and cover letter to info@balmoralautorepairs.co.nz. Great package for the right person!
Stay happy, healthy & travel safe.