cars-grimsby

What to look out for when searching ‘Accident Repair Centres in Grimsby’

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 14:48:40 GMT

Before choosing a repair centre, it’s important that you do your research to ensure your vehicle will be returned to the road safely.

Customer service

Where a repairer is able to rely on a constant stream of work, via a contract with an insurer or work provider, they may not have to rely on customer service and reputation. Whereas a fully independent repair is reliant on word-of-mouth referrals and repeat customers. This is where you are more likely to find:

More personalised service
Direct communication with experienced team members
Clear updates throughout the repair process

Use of new and genuine parts

Here at CARS, we only use new and genuine parts to guarantee a safe and accurate repair. In contrast, some repairers may use non-genuine or second-hand parts, often with the best intentions (reducing costs). This may mean that your vehicle might not perform as expected when returned to the road, which is potentially even more dangerous if another accident occurs and could put the occupants at risk.

To protect your vehicle’s safety and resale value, we always recommend the use of new and genuine parts during repair.

Access to courtesy vehicles

Many drivers assume they’ll lose access to a courtesy vehicle if they don’t use an insurance-approved repairer or main dealer. This isn’t always the case. For example, here at CARS, we understand that many people rely heavily on their vehicles (whether that’s to get children to school or as part of employment) and as a result, we offer courtesy vehicles (manual and automatic) to our customers at no cost to them.

If access to a vehicle during repair is important to you, we always encourage checking that this an option prior to booking in for repair.

Ability to carry out modern repairs

When thinking of a repairer, you imagine an oily man in overalls with a spanner. However, we think they’re more like computers on wheels. The increase in the number of vehicles with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) such as emergency braking, lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control means that technicians need to have the relevant skills and experience to ensure repairs are done correctly. Now think of a smartly dressed technician, using a tablet to repair your vehicle.

A reputable repairer will invest in the latest technology to handle these repairs properly, and we encourage you to check this before choosing a repairer.

After care following repair

When you choose a reputable repairer, you’re not getting a one-off service. For example, here at CARS, we have a dedicated WhatsApp service for our customers to get in touch with any queries they might have, even after the repair is complete. In addition, we guarantee any paintwork we carry out for as long is the vehicle is owned, subject to an annual inspection.

From time to time, issues can arise. It’s worth speaking with a repairer to establish what their procedure is when something goes wrong, and if they have a complaints procedure in place. At CARS, we guarantee our repairs for the length of ownership of a vehicle.

We believe that the service of a trusted repairer goes far beyond the repairer.

Final thoughts

Searching for an accident repairer in Grimsby shouldn’t just be about locality. You should also consider the level of service offered, quality of repair and safety level of the vehicle once the repairs are complete. It’s your legal right to select a repairer of your choice, make sure you have as much information as possible before doing so!

Does car insurance cover repairs?

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 14:34:01 GMT

It’s one of the most common questions drivers ask: does car insurance actually cover the cost of repairs?

The answer isn’t always completely straightforward.

In principle, the purpose of insurance is to indemnify a person against loss. That means, if your vehicle is damaged as a result of an insured incident, the policy is designed to put you back in the position you were in before the loss, usually by covering the cost of repairs, subject to the terms, conditions, and excess of the policy.

However, cover will depend on the specific circumstances of the incident and the type of policy held, so it isn’t a blanket guarantee in every situation.

What’s usually covered:

Damage caused by road accidents (depending on fault and cover type)
Repairs after fire, theft, or attempted theft
Vandalism or malicious damage
Weather-related damage (roof tiles landing on a car)

What’s usually not covered:

General wear and tear (e.g. worn brake pads or tyres)
Mechanical or electrical breakdowns
Poor maintenance or neglect

Typically, insurance covers you for the unexpected, not general upkeep.

Understanding the different types of cover

Not all insurance policies are equal. The level of protection you have makes a big difference to whether repairs are covered.

Fully Comprehensive

This is the highest level of car insurance coverage. You are usually covered for third-party damage to another vehicle or person, as well as damage, fire or theft of your own vehicle – regardless of who is at fault. Your insurance provider may offer extra policy features for an additional cost. These include, but are not limited to, breakdown cover, windscreen cover and car key cover.

Third Party, Fire and Theft

This policy type covers you for theft of your vehicle or fire damage, as well as any damage you cause to other people and their property. This type of insurance policy will not cover any damage to your own car (unless it occurred as a result of fire or attempted theft), meaning you will have to pay for any car repairs directly.

Third Party Only

This is the minimum level of cover you can legally hold if you intend to use your vehicle on UK roads. This type of policy covers the costs of damage you cause to someone else’s vehicle or property, as well as any injuries you may cause to a third party. There is no cover for your own vehicle.

Common exclusions: When repairs aren’t covered

Even with comprehensive cover, there are situations where your insurer may refuse to pay for repairs.

Some common exclusions include:

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
Using your car for purposes not declared (e.g. business use)
Unauthorised drivers behind the wheel
Failing to report an incident promptly
Invalid MOT or unroadworthy vehicle

It’s always worth checking the small print of your policy, as this is where surprises come from. If you need any help understanding the insurance policy fine print, our team are here to help.

How to make a claim for repairs

If you’re involved in an accident or have damage on your vehicle and need to make a claim, just call CARS. Alongside our experience in vehicle repair itself, we have vast knowledge of the insurance claim process and getting claims passed when they would have otherwise been refused. We will:

Provide a thorough estimate directly to your insurance company, so you don’t have to
Take over all communication with your insurance company, including providing any evidence they require, making things as stress free as possible
Order all parts once authorisation is granted
Provide a courtesy vehicle where required, regardless of whether your insurer says you’re entitled or not
Repair your vehicle to the highest standard, using new and genuine parts, and manufacturer repair methods
Keep you updated throughout

Tips to reduce unexpected costs:

Choose the right level of cover for you at outset - Comprehensive cover is more likely to save you money in the long run if repairs are needed.
Set a realistic excess - A higher excess can lower premiums, although not by much. You should also make sure the excess you select is affordable if you need to make a claim.
Vehicle maintenance – Regular servicing helps avoid issues that insurance won’t cover.
Shop around at renewal – Better prices may be available by shopping around and not auto-renewing.

Final Thoughts

Car insurance can cover repairs, in the right circumstances and with the right level of cover. Understanding what your policy includes (and excludes) is key to avoiding unexpected costs. If you’re unsure about your cover or you’ve had an accident and need to make a claim, our team are here to help you.

What to Do If Your Car Has Scratches or Dents

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 14:13:52 GMT

It’s a frustrating moment… you walk up to your car and notice a scratch along the door or a dent you’re sure wasn’t there before. Whether it’s from a tight car park, a stray trolley, or a minor bump, cosmetic damage is something most drivers will face at some point.

The good news? In most cases, scratches and dents are easier (and more affordable) to fix than you might think.

First things first: Assess the Damage

Before jumping to conclusions, take a closer look at the damage.

Light scratches may only affect the finish and can sometimes be polished out.
Deeper scratches that expose the paint or metal will need professional attention.
Small dents with no paint damage may be repairable without repainting.
Larger dents, cracked bumpers or cracked paint could indicate more extensive repair work is needed.

Understanding the severity helps you avoid unnecessary costs, and ensures the repair is done properly.

Should you fix it straight away?

It can be tempting to ignore minor cosmetic damage, especially if your car still drives perfectly fine. However, leaving scratches or dents untreated can lead to bigger issues over time.

Scratches that go through the paint can expose the metal underneath, increasing the risk of rust.

More importantly, often what looks like minor damage can be a sign of something more sinister. For example, if a dent impacts any of the vehicle’s radar sensors, this may cause the vehicle not to respond correctly in a future incident, weakening its safety.

Always seek advice from a trusted independent repairer if you’re unsure.

Where should you take your car?

Many people search for a “car garage” when they notice scratches or dents, but cosmetic damage is usually better suited to a repair specialist.

Traditional garages tend to focus on mechanical work — engines, brakes, servicing — whereas cosmetic repair specialists are equipped with the tools and techniques specifically designed for bodywork repair.

This is where SMART repairs come in.

What are SMART repairs?

SMART stands for Small to Medium Area Repair Technology. It’s a modern repair method designed to fix localised damage without the need to respray entire panels.

Instead of replacing or repainting large sections of your vehicle, a SMART repair focuses only on the damaged area. If a SMART repair is possible, there are several benefits:

Cost-effective – You’re only repairing a very small area
Quicker turnaround – Many repairs can be completed in hours, not days
High-quality finish – Colour matching and blending ensure a seamless result

When is accident repair needed?

If the damage is more severe - for example, after a collision - a more comprehensive repair may be required.

Signs you may need accident repair include:

Deep dents affecting large areas
Cracked or heavily damaged paintwork
Misaligned panels
Structural concerns
Damage to/ around a camera and/ or sensor

In these cases, a full repair process ensures your car is restored not just visually, but safely and correctly.

Choosing the right repair specialist

Not all repair services are the same, so it’s worth choosing a specialist with experience in cosmetic and accident repairs.

Look for:

Proven results and customer reviews
Expertise in SMART and accident repair techniques
Honest advice
A repairer that uses new and genuine parts
A focus on quality finishes

A good repair specialist will assess your car properly and recommend the most suitable option. Before SMART repairs are offered, the repairer should always check for hidden sensors, like radar modules. The repair technique should be chosen carefully as filler or a build-up of too much paint material in these areas will inhibit the sensors from functioning correctly.

Final thoughts

Scratches and dents are part of everyday driving, but they don’t have to be permanent. Acting quickly, choosing the right repair method, and speaking to a specialist can make all the difference.

If you’ve noticed cosmetic damage on your vehicle and aren’t sure what to do next, getting in touch with an independent repairer like CARS is a smart next step.

CARS of Grimsby Becomes Official Member of NBRA

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 08:00:03 GMT

CARS of Grimsby Becomes Official Member of NBRA

This month, we have exciting news from our family business.

We’re now official members of the National Body Repair Association (NBRA). As an independent, family-run accident repairer, quality, honesty and care have always been at the heart of what we do. Becoming part of the NBRA reflects our commitment to maintaining the highest industry standards and continuing to deliver trusted repairs for our customers.

CARS of Grimsby’s Ongoing Commitment to Sustainability

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 15:01:05 GMT

August 2025 marked a major milestone for CARS of Grimsby Independent Accident Repair Centre as we officially moved into our new premises following a full refurbishment.

The new building isn’t just about extra space or a fresh look (although we’re very proud of both). It represents a chance to reflect on who we are, what we stand for, and how we can do better – for our customers and the world around us.

The vehicle repair industry isn’t inherently eco-friendly. From energy use to materials and processes, it’s a sector that comes with unavoidable environmental challenges. But at CARS of Grimsby, sustainability is a core part of our ethos. Our “green journey” is about making meaningful changes where we can, even if those changes are incremental. Every improvement matters.

As part of our refurbishment, we’ve taken a significant step forward by installing solar panels on the roof of our new building . This investment allows us to generate a portion of our own renewable energy, reducing our reliance on the grid and lowering our overall carbon footprint.

It’s a practical, long-term commitment, and one that aligns with our belief that responsible business means thinking beyond today and planning for tomorrow.

A big thank you to RSUK Group, who have been efficient and professional throughout the project.

CARS of Grimsby Accident Repair Centre surpasses 350 five-star Google reviews

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 10:00:02 GMT

We are proud to announce that our Lincolnshire-based accident repair centre has now surpassed 350 five-star Google reviews, reflecting our commitment to high-quality vehicle repairs and outstanding customer care.

This milestone highlights the trust our customers place in us when they need a reliable, stress-free accident repair service following a collision or insurance claim.

We provide solutions, as well as repairs - Many of our reviews mention how we help take the stress away after a car accident. Our team specialises in managing the entire accident repair process, offering clear guidance, honest advice, and practical support from the moment a customer contacts us.
Supporting customers with insurance claims - As an independent accident repair centre in the UK, we work for the vehicle owner, not the insurer. We help protect our customers’ rights, challenge unfair decisions, and ensure repairs are carried out correctly, safely, and to a high standard.
Clear communication throughout the repair process - Customers frequently praise our clear and regular communication. From initial assessment through to repair completion, customers are kept informed of their vehicle’s progress at every stage.
High-quality vehicle accident repairs - Our reputation is built on high-quality accident repairs and attention to detail. Every vehicle is repaired using correct repair methods and materials, ensuring safety, reliability, and an excellent finish.
Aftercare that continues beyond the repair bay - Our service doesn’t end when the vehicle is returned. Customers often highlight our thoughtful aftercare, including advice and ongoing support

Thank you to all of our customers!

Courtesy Cars at CARS – Grimsby’s Independent Accident Repair Centre

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 10:23:13 GMT

After an accident, the last thing you need is more worry. Between dealing with insurers, arranging repairs, and trying to keep life moving as normal, it can all feel overwhelming.

One of the biggest concerns we hear from customers is: “Will I be left without a car if I don’t use my insurer’s approved repairer?”

Let’s clear up a very common myth – that you won’t get a courtesy car if you choose an independent repairer.

This simply isn’t true.

At CARS of Grimsby, we understand how important your vehicle is to your daily routine… getting to work, doing the school run, or just staying independent. That’s why we make courtesy cars a priority for our customers, not an optional extra buried in insurance small print. In contrast, when your insurer insists on using a ‘preferred’ or ‘approved’ repairer, a courtesy car is only provided if your policy specifically includes courtesy car cover. If it doesn’t, you may find yourself without transport for days or even weeks while repairs are completed. This can come as an unpleasant surprise at an already stressful time.

Independent accident repair centres like CARS of Grimsby take a more customer-focused approach. In most cases, we provide a courtesy car regardless of your insurance policy wording. We believe staying mobile shouldn’t depend on technicalities or policy add-ons.

Our aim is simple:

Reduce disruption to your daily life
Take pressure off you after an accident
Make the repair process as smooth and straightforward as possible
Put the customer needs first

Choosing an independent repairer often means:

More personal, friendly service
Greater flexibility around repairs and timelines
A courtesy car when you need it most
Fewer restrictions driven by insurance contracts

You have the right to choose where your vehicle is repaired. At CARS of Grimsby, we’re here to support you through the entire repair journey, keep you moving with a courtesy car, and take the stress out of an already difficult situation. If you ever need advice after an accident, we’re always happy to help. No pressure, just honest guidance and dependable service.

Insurance Policy Support from CARS – Grimsby’s Independent Accident Repair Centre

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 10:23:08 GMT

After an accident, most drivers focus on getting their car repaired as quickly as possible.

What many people don’t realise, however, is that how your car is repaired (and what parts are used) can vary significantly depending on your insurance policy and the repairer you choose. This is one of the areas where being informed, and choosing an independent repairer, can make a real difference to the long-term safety, reliability, and value of your vehicle.

What your insurer does (or doesn’t) tell you

When taking out car insurance, it’s easy to concentrate on price and excess levels. One detail that often gets overlooked is the type of parts your insurer allows to be used during repairs.

Some insurance policies permit approved repairers to fit:

Recycled or second-hand parts
Refurbished components
Non-genuine or non-manufacturer parts

From an insurer’s perspective, this can be a cost-saving measure. While these parts may meet minimum requirements, they are not always the best choice for your vehicle’s long-term condition, performance, or resale value. Modern vehicles are designed with precise tolerances, advanced safety systems, and manufacturer-tested components. Using parts that don’t meet original specifications could lead to reduced durability over time, reduced safety and/ or complications if the vehicle is sold in the future.

The difference with an independent repairer

Independent accident repair centres typically take an alternative, customer-first approach. Usually, the focus is not on hitting insurer cost targets, but on carrying out repairs that are safe, durable, and built to last.

At CARS of Grimsby, we believe your vehicle deserves the same standard of care we’d expect for our own. That’s why we do not use second-hand or non-genuine parts in our repairs. Our stance is simple and driven by accountability. We offer a lifetime guarantee on our repairs, and that means we must have complete confidence in every part and repair method we use.

We independently repair all vehicles with longevity, safety, and integrity in mind. This isn’t about short-term fixes or ticking boxes for an insurer. It’s about making sure your vehicle is returned to you in a condition you can trust – today, next year, and for as long as you own it.

In summary, choosing an independent accident repair centre, like CARS, gives you:

Confidence in the quality of parts used
High standards of workmanship
Repairs designed to last, not just pass inspection
Protection for your vehicle’s safety and value

When it comes to your car, your safety, and your long-term investment, quality always matters. And we’re here to make sure you get exactly that, with consistent support, honest guidance, and independent repairs you can rely on.

Know your rights after a non-fault accident with the help of CARS – Grimsby’s Independent Accident Repair Centre

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 10:23:00 GMT

Being involved in an accident that wasn’t your fault is something nobody plans for. Even when you’ve done nothing wrong, the situation can quickly become stressful - damaged vehicles, unexpected phone calls, insurance paperwork, and the worry of being without your car. At a time like this, choosing the right repair centre can make all the difference.

Choosing an independent accident repair centre means you don’t have to handle the claim alone.

Independent accident repair centres, like CARS of Grimsby, deal with insurance claims every single day. We understand how confusing and time-consuming the process can feel, especially when you’re already juggling work, family, and everyday commitments.

If a third party is at fault, we can liaise directly with their insurance company on your behalf. This means:

No chasing insurers for updates
No endless phone calls or confusing forms
No pressure to accept solutions that don’t suit you

We manage the process from start to finish, keeping you informed and supported at every stage, so you can get on with your life while we take care of the details.

Managing a non-fault claim outside your own insurance policy often comes with significant benefits that many drivers aren’t made aware of:

No excess to pay – because you’re not claiming on your own policy
Your no claims discount stays protected
Greater control over how your vehicle is repaired
Less risk of your car being written off unnecessarily

Your car is more than just transport, it’s a valuable asset you rely on every day. That’s why you should choose an independent repair centre that repairs vehicles using:

High-quality, manufacturer-approved parts
Approved repair methods and specifications
Skilled technicians focused on safety and longevity

One of the biggest advantages of choosing an independent repairer is the level of care and communication you receive. You’re not just a claim number, you’re a customer who deserves clear explanations, independent advice, and practical solutions.

Can a SMART repair increase the value of my car?

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 09:38:42 GMT

Whether you're selling your car privately, part-exchanging it at a dealership, or preparing to return a lease vehicle, the way your car looks plays a huge role in how much it’s worth.

Even minor cosmetic damage such as scratches, scuffs or kerbed alloys can knock hundreds of pounds off the value… and give buyers a reason to negotiate the price down.

That’s where SMART repair can play an integral part!

A SMART repair is a fast, cost-effective way to tidy up your vehicle’s appearance and make it look fresh, clean and well cared for. In this blog, we’ll explain exactly how SMART repairs can help you increase your resale value and why so many vehicle owners choose these repairs.

Here are a few ways SMART repairs can increase the resale value of your vehicle:

Removing small imperfections and removing room for negotiation - Most buyers will walk around the car and point out every scratch, dent and scuff. SMART repairs remove these negotiation points and allow you to stand firm on your asking price.
Restoring a well-maintained look – First impressions matter. Fixing cosmetic damage makes your vehicle appear newer, more well-cared for and more reliable. This builds confidence and helps your vehicle stand out.
Avoiding additional charges – If your vehicle is on a finance deal, you may be liable for charges as a result of alloy wheel damage, scratches and dents upon returning the vehicle. SMART repairs fix these issues quickly and affordably, usually for far less than the leasing company’s charges.

Why choose a professional repair centre like CARS for SMART repairs?

Although some SMART repairs can be done by mobile operators, choosing an established accident repair centre offers major benefits. Here at CARS, we have widely experienced technicians, high-quality paint materials and colour matching technologies, controlled workshop conditions producing long-lasting results.

The Top 5 Most Common Car Blemishes – and how SMART repairs fix them

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 09:38:40 GMT

Even the most careful drivers pick up small bits of cosmetic damage over time, whether it’s a scuff in a supermarket car park, a kerbed alloy on a tight corner, or a stone chip from the motorway.

These small blemishes might not always affect the way your vehicle drives, but they do affect how it looks and its value.

That’s where SMART repairs (Small-to-Medium Area Repair Technologies) come in. They’re fast, cost-effective, and perfect for tidying up minor cosmetic damage without needing a full body shop repair.

Here are the top 5 most common car blemishes we see… and how SMART repair techniques can fix them safely and efficiently.

1. Bumper Scuffs & Scratches - Plastic bumpers take the brunt of everyday knocks and scrapes, especially in tight car parks or narrow streets. The most common signs of bumper damage we see are scuffs and paint transfer, light scratches, small dents or grazing.

✔ How SMART repairs fix this

Using localised sanding, colour-matched paint, and expert techniques, we repair only the damaged area — not the whole bumper. The result blends seamlessly with the original finish, often within just a few hours.

2. Minor Paint Scratches - Whether caused by keys, bushes, handbags, or accidental contact, paint scratches are one of the most frequent issues we see.

✔ How SMART repairs fix this

We carefully assess the depth of the scratch. Surface marks can usually be polished out, while deeper scratches are machine-sanded, colour-matched, painted and blended back to a factory-quality finish. There is usually no need for a full respray, although we always advise our customers on when we think this could be a better option for their vehicle.

3. Alloy Wheel Damage – Damage to alloy wheels is extremely common, especially with modern low-profile tyres making wheels more exposed. The most typical wheel damage we see includes scuffs, scraped edges, light gouges and small chips.

✔ How SMART repairs fix this

We repair the damaged area and repaint in your alloy’s original colour. The result restores a clean, sharp, like-new appearance without replacing the wheel.

4. Small Dents – These are perhaps the most common blemish we see, usually caused by car park door dings, shopping trolley impacts, low-speed bumps or minor knocks.

✔ How SMART repairs fix this

Paintless Dent Removal (PDR) is used to gently massage the dent out from behind the panel. No paint, no filler, just your original metalwork restored. It’s quick, cost-effective, and leaves no trace of damage.

5. Stone Chips - Driving around the country roads across Lincolnshire often means dealing with loose road debris. Stone chips on the bonnet, bumper, and wings are incredibly common.

✔ How SMART repairs fix this

We fill each chip with colour-matched paint, smooth the repaired area, and polish it to blend with the surrounding surface. Whilst this is a great option to give the panel some protection from the elements, with most modern colours, painting would be required to produce an invisible repair.

Why choose a professional repair centre like CARS for SMART repairs?

Although some SMART repairs can be carried out by mobile operators, choosing an established accident repair centre offers major benefits. One of the biggest benefits is that the vehicle will be repaired indoors, in a controlled damp- and dust-free environment.

Why should I use an independent repairer for my SMART repair?

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 09:38:38 GMT

SMART repairs (Small-to-Medium Area Repair Technologies) are an incredibly popular way to fix minor cosmetic damage quickly and cost-effectively. However, not all SMART repairs are equal.

While mobile technicians may offer quick fixes, choosing a trusted, established repair centre ensures that your vehicle receives the highest level of care, precision, and professional finish.

Here’s why more drivers are choosing reputable accident repair centres like CARS for their SMART repair needs:

A trusted reputation for quality - As a long-established accident repair centre, we always work to the highest standard. This includes technical preparation, professional painting and blending, high-quality materials and long-lasting finishes. Our SMART repairs don’t just look great, they stay great.
Expert colour matching – We have relationships with top-grade paint suppliers and use high-quality, precise paint-mixing technology. This ensures an excellent colour match and impeccable finish.
Controlled environments produce a better finish – Professional workshops give technicians the conditions required to achieve the best results. This includes consistent lighting, dust-free space, specialist tools, drying equipment and temperature-controlled spray booths where needed. This level of control means fewer imperfections, no contamination, and a much longer-lasting repair. This differs from mobile repairs performed outdoors which can be affected by wind, dust, rain, insects, inconsistent temperatures and the most important one of all, moisture. Prior to application of the protective finish, the base coat will absorb any moisture present in the atmosphere.
Repairs you can trust – Choosing a reputable repair centre provides peace of mind. Technicians should be experienced, skilled in both SMART and traditional repairs, able to identify suitable repair methods and honest in their advice. A less experienced repairer may attempt SMART repairs on damage that actually needs something more substantial to prioritise safety.
Professional SMART repairs can boost resale value - A properly restored finish is a major advantage when selling or part-exchanging your car. In contrast, poor-quality SMART repairs can reduce value. Potential buyers will pick up on things like uneven paint, mismatched colours and poorly blended repairs. A trusted repair centre like CARS gives your vehicle that ‘factory fresh’ appearance that improves buyer confidence and maximises value.

In summary, choosing a trustworthy, reliable and independent SMART repairer is more likely to result in a better finish, longer-lasting repairs, better professional standards and ultimately, technicians who care about your vehicle as much as you do. SMART repairs can be a brilliant solution — but they need to be carried out properly to look their best.

SMART Repairs Return for the New Year

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 09:32:17 GMT

As we welcome the new year, many of us are thinking about fresh starts. For your vehicle, that can mean finally dealing with the small knocks and cosmetic damage that have built up over time.

This January, we are pleased to announce the return of our SMART repair service. SMART repairs are designed to tackle minor cosmetic damage quickly and efficiently. This includes small scuffs, scratches, bumper damage, minimal wheel damage and minor paintwork issues. The result is a professional finish, with less downtime for your vehicle.

Reintroducing SMART repairs allows us to offer our customers a practical solution for everyday damage, whether it’s post-winter wear and tear or something you’ve been meaning to fix for a while.

We’re also here to provide reliable and fair advice around when we believe a traditional body shop repair is the best option for both you and your vehicle, in terms of quality, safety and cost.

For more information or to discuss whether SMART repair is right for your vehicle, get in touch with our team.

Did you know that Sam has an HGV Class 2 licence?

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 17:09:16 GMT

At CARS, we’re always looking for ways to enhance our services with advanced solutions for our customers.

That’s why we offer our HGV collection and delivery service to local haulage and transport companies. We understand that for many of these organisations, time spent off the roads results in a loss in revenue. As such, this addition to our streamlined process significantly reduces downtime for fleet operators and helps ensure a faster turnaround for essential commercial vehicles.

Businesses responsible for managing HGV fleets are encouraged to make use of the service – let us help you!

Sam can be contacted on 01472 453622 or via email at enquiries@cars-grimsby.co.uk .

Volkswagen Training Pass - Callum

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 09:30:02 GMT

We would like to extend a huge well done to Callum for achieving his Technical Paint Training with the Volkswagen Group.

As part of the Volkswagen Group, our technicians are on training pathways to perfect their skills. This group approval covers six brands: Volkswagen, Volkswagen Commercial, Audi, SEAT, SKODA and CUPRA.

Each team member is proud to engage in training to ensure we can continue to provide the best service for our customers!

Keep up the fab work Callum!

Open Event Recap

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 08:30:25 GMT

We would like to say an immense thank you to everyone that joined us for our Grand Opening Event on Saturday 30th August.

Since getting the keys to our new premises in mid-May, the team have been working non-stop on the building to get it CARS-ready! It was amazing for us to be able to celebrate such an immense milestone with family, friends, customers, colleagues and suppliers.

Our new premises enables us to continue providing high-quality repairs, alongside tailored and trusted customer service. Our commitment to training, development and advances in equipment means we are able to carry out repairs to many vehicle types, including cars, vans, motorhomes and Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs).

As a reminder, our new address is:

Unit 25

Estate Road 8

South Humberside Industrial Estate

Grimsby

DN31 2TG

If you’ve been involved in an accident or have damage on your vehicle, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our friendly team.

Paul M VWG Pass Article & Certificate

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 12:09:40 GMT

We would like to extend a huge well done to Paul for achieving his High Voltage Technician qualification with the Volkswagen Group.

As part of the Volkswagen Group, our technicians are each on training pathways to perfect their skills. This group approval covers six brands: Volkswagen, Volkswagen Commercial, Audi, SEAT, SKODA and CUPRA.

Paul embraces all training offered to him, ensuring we continue to expand the services we offer to our customers. Brilliant work Paul!

Open Event Article & Open Event Invitation

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 12:09:38 GMT

We have some exciting news to share!

We recently achieved our biggest milestone so far, and received the keys to our new premises on the South Humberside Industrial Estate, previously owned by Pattesons Glass.

We remain operational in our current building at present, but would like to take this opportunity to invite you to the Grand Opening of our new premises, taking place on Saturday 30th August between 1pm and 4pm.

As an independent, family-run business, this is an immense milestone for us, and we would love to celebrate with you. As always, we are family-friendly, so please don’t hesitate to bring your little ones!

Our opening event will include canapés, drinks and a raffle, with the proceeds being split between Growing Healthy Minds and East Marsh United. Any raffle prize donations will be greatly received, and further information around these initiatives can be found in the attached PDF.

If you are able to celebrate this special event with the team, please confirm your attendance to ebony@cars-grimsby.co.uk at your earliest convenience.

We look forward to hearing from you!

What is young driver excess?

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 08:49:04 GMT

For many young drivers, the cost of car insurance is extremely steep to begin with. This is because insurers view young and new drivers as a risk given their lack of experience, meaning that the potential for a claim being made is quite high.

As a result, in addition to the standard compulsory and voluntary excesses, a young driver excess may be applicable to these policies. This is dependent on age and will vary from insurer to insurer, however most policies tend to have this excess applied until they are over age 25.

It is important to remember when purchasing vehicle insurance that selecting a higher excess amount will result in lower premiums (and vice versa). Whilst this may be tempting to do, we encourage our customers to always select an excess amount that they can afford to pay, should the worst happen.

If you’ve had an accident, we always encourage calling CARS before your insurance company to ensure you receive credible and non-biased advice, tailored to your circumstances. Get in touch with our team on 01472 453622 for further information.

Visit our blog ‘ Common car insurance myths ’ to find out more.

What is protected no-claims discount?

Tue, 14 Jan 2025 15:03:07 GMT

Many insurance companies use no-claims discount (NCD) to reward their drivers for not making a claim during a specified timeframe, usually a policy year. This, in turn, encourages sensible driving behaviour.

For example, if four years pass by without a customer making a claim on their policy, they will have earned four years’ worth of no-claims discount. This discount usually results in a reduction in premium costs upon policy renewal. The discount will depend on the insurance company’s specific terms and the number of consecutive claim-free years. In some cases, there may be a maximum limit to the number of years of NCD that can be accumulated, and this should be checked with insurance companies on a case-by-case basis.

Protected no-claims discount differs from standard no-claims discount in the way that an insurer may allow for more than one claim to be made before the discount is lost or reduced. A fee may be payable for this added layer of protection, commonly in the form of slightly higher premiums.

We always encourage our customers to opt for the highest level of protection when it comes to their NCD. This will ensure that they have a greater level of cover if the worst happens.

Always remember that if you’ve been involved in an accident that wasn’t your fault, we have a method here at CARS which enables us to repair your car without impacting your NCD, even if it’s not protected. We also have various excess support options available to our customers. Call us on 01472 453622 for further information.

Visit our blogs ‘ How do I choose the right insurance company for me? ’ and ‘ I’ve had an accident; do I have to pay my excess? ’ for further information.

What is a non-approved repairer excess?

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 14:23:41 GMT

A non-approved repairer excess is an additional sum that will be charged in the event that you do not use one of your insurer’s approved (preferred) garages when you make a claim. The non-approved repairer excess is commonly in the region of £250, and is charged on top of the compulsory and voluntary excess.

Unfortunately, this additional excess is becoming more common and it’s increasingly difficult to find a policy without one. However, it’s important to remember that it is your right to take your vehicle to any repairer of your choice. Sometimes, a phone call with your insurer is enough for the additional excess to be removed but in more stubborn cases where your insurer is not willing to negotiate, we offer various excess support options to our customers to reduce the total amount payable.

We feel that this is unfair, given that in most cases approved/preferred repairers are allowed to fit second-hand or non-genuine parts. In comparison, here at CARS, we only use new and genuine parts. Additionally, we have an excess support package available to our customers, where the non-approved repairer excess may not be payable. If you need to make an insurance claim for accident repairs , don’t hesitate to get in touch with us to see how we can help you.

Things to look out for in your car insurance policy fine print

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 09:33:39 GMT

Although we deal with car insurance claims and repairs on a daily basis, we understand that purchasing car insurance can be bewildering and stressful at the best of times. For a start, there are many myths around consumer entitlement. To make matters worse, it can be hard to tell if the policy you’re purchasing is appropriate for your circumstances in the first place. In this blog, we highlight some of the things you should look out for when purchasing car insurance, especially in the fine print!

The use of second-hand and/ or non-genuine parts – Unfortunately, it’s becoming more and more common for insurers to grant their preferred repairs the use of second-hand and/or non-genuine parts to carry out a repair. Essentially, this means that if you take your vehicle to one of your insurer’s preferred repairers, your car may not be repaired with new or genuine parts. This is to keep costs down for insurers but may compromise repair quality and the safety of the vehicle being returned to the road. As an independent repair centre, we always use new and genuine parts to repair our vehicles. We can guarantee the use of new and genuine parts because we are not bound by the contract you have with your insurer.

Change of Circumstances – Some insurers state that any change of circumstance must be reported to them during the policy term, and not just at renewal. This may include (but is not limited to), change of address, change of occupation or any driving convictions. Different insurers have different requirements around this, so it’s always worth checking your policy fine print. In the event of a claim, your insurer may not pay out in full if you fail to disclose information which would have altered the purchase price of the policy.

Personal vs Business Use – Some insurers have strict requirements when it comes to vehicles being used for any kind of business activity. For example, if you use your vehicle for parcel deliveries, or carrying passengers for a fee, this must be disclosed to your insurer. Disclosing inaccurate information to your insurer could result in an insurer denying a claim or cancelling your policy.

Young Driver Excess – Many insurers now apply a young driver excess to their policies. This means that if you’re under a specified age, usually 25, and you make a claim on your policy, you could be paying an extremely high excess amount. If you’re a young driver, this is something you should look out for when purchasing car insurance. Remember to always select an excess amount that you can afford to pay, should the worst happen.

Here at CARS, alongside carrying out top-quality repairs, we provide credible and non-biased advice, tailored to our customers’ individual circumstances. Visit our advice centre, in particular the blogs ‘ How do I choose the right insurance company for me? ’ and ‘ What happens if I make a claim on my car insurance? ’ to find out more.

What is car insurance fronting?

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 09:33:34 GMT

With the ever-increasing cost of living, we’re all on the hunt for ways to save money wherever we can.

Car insurance costs have been on the rise for some time, especially for 17- to 24-year-olds. To ease these costs, it’s not uncommon for young drivers to add an older and more experienced driver, such as a parent or carer, to the policy.

Listing the parent or carer on the policy as the main driver when they are not, is known as fronting and is illegal. Car insurance fronting is a type of insurance fraud and could result in a penalty such as points on your license, a fine or a driving ban.

Unfortunately, fronting isn’t always detected by insurance companies. One of the main ways it could be discovered is when a claim is made, and an insurer identifies that the main driver has been disclosed incorrectly. This could result in them refusing to pay out for the claim, or they may even cancel the policy in full.

You should always ensure that any information you disclose to an insurance company is correct. If you are a young driver and you’re looking at ways to lower your insurance costs, our blogs ‘ How can I reduce the cost of my car insurance as a young driver? ’ and ‘ What is black box car insurance? ’ may be useful for you. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us for further advice.

What is traffic sign recognition?

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 11:13:58 GMT

Traffic sign recognition systems use camera technology to scan the road ahead for traffic signs.

This then connects to image processing and recognition software which makes a note of any changes and potential obstructions, before relaying a signal to the vehicle’s interior control panel or dashboard.

Whilst not a necessity, this is extremely useful when travelling in an unfamiliar area, or where you are unaware of the speed limit. Like other ADAS components, traffic sign recognition is not a replacement for human due diligence and attention.

What is blind spot detection?

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 11:13:47 GMT

Changing lanes when driving is the cause of many incidents, especially when travelling at high speeds. Even after checking your internal and external mirrors, it is still possible to miss a vehicle in your blind spot.

Blind spot detection is a type of advanced driver assistance system (ADAS), which typically operates via sensors located on a vehicle’s wing mirrors and bumpers. These sensors can detect if an obstruction such as a person or vehicle enters your blind spot, and will create a warning, such as flashing lights, steering wheel haptics or an audio alert.

In some vehicles, the warning will become louder and/or more obvious the closer the vehicle moves towards the obstruction. If the driver attempts a dangerous manoeuvre, some vehicles use automatic emergency steering and can even apply the brakes when needed, which is known as blind spot assist.

Should I admit liability after an accident?

Mon, 02 Sep 2024 10:00:01 GMT

Should I admit liability after an accident?

When customers phone us after an accident, we always tell them never to admit liability in the first instance. Whilst you can try and predict how you’ll react after an accident, you’ll never really know for sure until it happens. It’s an extremely stress-provoking and emotional experience, so we always recommend taking as much information as possible from the scene and phoning CARS to find out what to do next.

After the accident occurs, we recommend gathering the following information:

Personal details and insurance policy information for all parties involved
Personal details of any witnesses
Details of all vehicles involved, including registration, make and model
Date and time of the incident
Images/ videos of all vehicles involved, with close ups of all damage where possible
Images/ videos of any road markings
Dash cam footage, where available
A note of the weather conditions at the time of incident

As above, we always recommend contacting CARS before your insurance company. This can help you to avoid any pitfalls, and ensure you receive accurate and non-biased advice, tailored to your individual circumstances.

Remember, don’t apologise or admit responsibility for anything that has occurred until you are completely aware of what happened. This will protect you if the accident wasn’t your fault, and liability will be determined fairly via evidence provided.

If you want to discuss an accident you’ve been involved in, regardless of whether you were at fault, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today.

Can my car be repaired with second-hand parts?

Mon, 02 Sep 2024 09:45:14 GMT

Can my car be repaired with second-hand parts?

Whilst it may be tempting to repair a vehicle with second-hand parts to keep costs low, it is more important that the vehicle returns to the road in the way that the manufacturer intended when the vehicle was initially produced.

When taking out an insurance policy, all vehicles are allocated to an insurance group. This allocation is based on the estimated cost to repair the vehicle using new and genuine parts. As such, when making an insurance claim, if your insurer refers you to one of their preferred (approved) repairers, you should double check that they will only be using new and genuine parts.

Unfortunately, many insurers give their preferred repairers the authority to repair vehicles with second-hand or non-genuine parts to keep costs low. You should remember that you don’t have to take your vehicle to one of your insurer’s approved repairers, you can take your vehicle to a repair centre of your choice. When selecting a repairer, you should always check that they repair vehicles with new and genuine parts, and in line with manufacturer repair methods.

Read our blogs ‘ Do I have to take my car to one of my insurer’s approved repairers? ’ and ‘ How do I find a trustworthy and reliable accident repair centre? ’ to find out more.

At CARS, we only use new and genuine parts during repairs. When a vehicle is manufactured, it goes through rigorous safety checks and testing to establish its safety rating. As such, only using new and genuine parts, specific to that vehicle’s make a model, will ensure it maintains this safety rating and respond accordingly if involved in any future incidents.

Ultimately, the use of non-original equipment could impair the quality of repair and the safety of the vehicle. The aim of any high-quality vehicle body repair centre should be to reinstate the vehicle to the standard in which it left the factory.

Does the value of my car impact the cost of my car insurance policy?

Mon, 02 Sep 2024 09:30:00 GMT

Does the value of my car impact the cost of my car insurance?

The value of your vehicle will be considered by your insurer when your policy is being underwritten.

When determining the price of your insurance, your vehicle will be allocated to an insurance group. This grouping is determined by the estimated cost of repairing the vehicle using new and genuine parts and therefore the underlying value of the vehicle itself. For example, newer and more modern vehicles have increased technological advancements which means that the vehicle value and the subsequent cost of parts and repairs has increased substantially in recent years. This is likely to increase the cost of insurance premiums on the whole.

Your insurer will also consider a number of other factors when calculating the cost of your insurance premiums:

Driver age and experience
Level of cover required
Address
Occupation
Driver history
No-claims discount

In summary, the cost is based on risk to the insurer and the anticipated cost of repairing the vehicle. Further information can be found in our blog ‘ How are car insurance premiums calculated? ’.

What happens if my car fails its MOT?

Wed, 28 Aug 2024 09:18:39 GMT

What happens if my car fails its MOT?

An MOT involves several checks on your vehicle from safety components such as seatbelts, to mirrors, lights, and the braking and fuel systems. A standard MOT test usually takes between 45 to 60 minutes for a technician to complete.

You can drive your vehicle away as long as:

Your current MOT certificate is still valid.
No ‘dangerous’ problems were listed in the MOT.

Otherwise, you’ll need to get the vehicle repaired before you can drive.

Once these repairs are carried out, you will need to book a retest.

Advisories may also be found during an MOT, and whilst these may not result in a fail, they should be dealt with as soon as possible to ensure the vehicle remains safe and roadworthy.

We have established that some of the most common reasons for MOT failure are as follows:

Lighting and signalling issues
Damage to the windscreen and/ or wipers
Brake faults
Issues with the exhaust system
Insufficient tyre depth

You can visit our blog ‘ Common reasons for MOT failure ’ to find out more.

Evidence to take from the scene of an accident

Mon, 12 Aug 2024 12:13:51 GMT

Following an accident, you may need to make an insurance claim and/or determine liability. There are a few things you can do at the scene of the accident to make this process easier.

Vehicle information – Make sure to note the registration, make and model of all vehicles involved.
Driver and witness information – You should take the details of any drivers and witnesses. Impartial witness statements will be extremely helpful when it comes to confirming who was at fault for causing the collision. If the driver(s) is not the registered owner of the vehicle involved, we recommend also taking the details of the owner where possible.
Insurance information – At the very least, we recommend taking the insurance provider and policy number for all drivers/ vehicles involved. If any parties involved do not have valid insurance, this should be reported to the police.
Accident information – You should note the exact date and time of the accident, along with the road and weather conditions. Weather conditions will be a major point for an insurer when it comes to determining fault.
Images and videos – Photo and video evidence could be extremely helpful when it comes to determining liability of the accident. You should take images and videos of the damage to any vehicles involved, as long as it is safe to do so. Taking photos and videos of the surrounding environment, such as traffic and road markings is also important. If you have valid dash cam footage, it may be worth providing this to your insurer as well.

If you’ve been involved in an accident, we recommend calling CARS before your insurance company, to ensure you receive credible and non-biased advice.

What is GAP insurance?

Mon, 12 Aug 2024 12:03:38 GMT

Guaranteed Asset Protection (GAP) is an insurance type which provides financial cover for the depreciation in a vehicle’s value and is usually purchased alongside new vehicles.

In the event of a ‘total loss’ claim or ‘write off’, an insurer will usually agree to pay out the market value of the vehicle at that time. This often leaves motorists at a disadvantage, given that new cars can drop in value quite quickly. GAP insurance therefore covers the difference between the pay-out received from the insurance company and the amount that would be required to purchase an equivalent vehicle.

GAP insurance won’t directly replace a vehicle or pay out a vehicle’s value in full, as it is intended to be used alongside regular car insurance.

There are multiple types of GAP insurance, and insurers will likely apply their own policy terms and exclusions when providing the cover. As a result, we would always advise using a local and reputable insurance broker to purchase the insurance policy, to ensure it meets your individual circumstances.

Parts: Repair or Replace?

Fri, 09 Aug 2024 11:57:22 GMT

We understand that due to inflation, people are trying to reduce costs where possible. One unforeseen cost that may arise could be when something goes wrong with your vehicle that requires immediate attention.

Whilst it can be tempting to put cost at the forefront of the repair, what really matters is safety. In some instances, it may be perfectly safe to repair a damaged panel on your vehicle; however, where safety could be compromised, we always recommend replacing vehicle components.

For example, repairers are experiencing increased challenges when it comes to the use of different types of metals in vehicle manufacturing. Some vehicle panels are made of metals containing alloy, which is an extremely brittle metal that is likely to become weak upon impact and/ or manipulation during the repair process. As a result, to prioritise safety, it is often necessary to replace these panels rather than repair them.

If replacement is deemed a suitable option, there are still other factors to consider. For example, when replacing a panel with a high alloy content, the use of incorrect welding equipment can also make this metal extremely brittle, resulting in potential vulnerability if the vehicle were to be involved in another incident in the future.

As a result, whilst making the decision to repair or replace individual parts is vital when deciding on the safest method of vehicle repair, it is also important that the vehicle is repaired by an experienced, skilled technician, in conjunction with manufacturer repair methods, to ensure the vehicle is returned to a safe and road-worthy condition.

This should be considered when initially selecting a repair centre. Visit our blog ‘ How do I find a trust-worthy and reliable accident repair centre ’ for more information.

New vs Used Parts

Fri, 09 Aug 2024 11:48:48 GMT

Many repair centres may look to use second-hand or non-genuine parts to repair a vehicle in order to keep costs low. However, in some cases, this may not be safe or ethical. Ultimately, any vehicle returning to the road following an accident or other damage should be both safe and road-worthy.

Here at CARS, we recommend only using new and genuine parts, specific to your vehicle’s make and model. Before a vehicle is released for sale, it goes through rigorous testing to establish its safety rating. Only using new and genuine parts, and repairing the vehicle in line with manufacturer repair methods, will ensure it maintains this safety rating and respond accordingly if involved in any future incidents.

It’s worth noting that when you purchase insurance, your vehicle is allocated to an insurance group which is based on the cost of repairing your vehicle using new and genuine parts. However, there are many insurance companies that will allow their preferred (approved) repairers to use second-hand and/or non-genuine parts.

The legal minimum tyre tread depth

Mon, 08 Jul 2024 13:27:05 GMT

You should check your tyre tread depth at regular intervals to ensure your safety whilst out on the roads. Having worn tyres can increase the chance of being involved in an accident and you could be fined or face penalty points for driving a car with bald tyres.

The legal minimum tyre tread depth for cars and light commercial vehicles is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters and around the entire circumference. Once this limit is reached, you must replace your tyres to ensure they remain legal. At CARS, we recommend a minimum of 3mm to maximise vehicle safety and performance at all times.

When checking for tyre wear, you should look out for smooth patches of tyre tread and bulging or cracking in the tyre wall, amongst other factors.

If you’re unsure whether your tyres are suitable, or just want general advice on vehicle maintenance, don’t hesitate to give CARS a call.

What is park assist?

Mon, 08 Jul 2024 13:27:03 GMT

Park assist is an extremely common advanced driver assistance system. The way park assist operates will differ from car to car, but in most cases, it is a system which uses sensors to aid with parking and other manoeuvres.

Whilst some vehicles offer assisted parking systems that require input from the driver to accelerate, brake and change direction, other vehicles offer fully automated parking, which rely heavily on driver trust as opposed to input.

With constant technological developments, we’re expecting to see further modernisation in vehicle park assist systems.

What is adaptive cruise control?

Mon, 08 Jul 2024 13:27:02 GMT

Adaptive cruise control is an increasingly common feature on modern vehicles, which typically operates using radar technology to automatically speed up or slow down a vehicle to keep pace with the traffic ahead.

This differs from traditional cruise control, as its advanced components are constantly adapting to the road and traffic in front, always maintaining a safe distance.

Most vehicles allow you to set a maximum desired speed for your vehicle, so if the car in front has a sudden (and potentially dangerous) increase in speed, your vehicle won’t replicate this behaviour, but will maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front. In some vehicles, you can also set the gap you wish to maintain from the vehicle ahead in metres or seconds.

In some cases, your vehicle may come to a total stop if an obstruction is detected.

The cruise control system is usually deactivated by applying the brakes. This highlights how important it is to remain alert at all times, regardless of any self-driving technology being used. These technological developments should never be a replacement for human attention.

If for any reason, the angle of the radar sensor is altered (for example, due to wheel alignment or removal and re-fit of the radar sensor itself), the system must be calibrated.

What is lane departure warning?

Mon, 08 Jul 2024 13:27:00 GMT

Lane departure warning is a driver assistance system designed to help avoid collisions that are caused as a result of drifting out of lane. The system detects lane markers and alerts the driver, usually via a warning light on the wing mirror and/ or vibration of the steering wheel. Lane departure warning signals will generally not create an alert when the driver is indicating appropriately to change lanes.

Some more advanced vehicles benefit from lane keeping assist. If this system detects a potential lane departure with no response, the vehicle will be steered back into lane. In some vehicles, the steering wheel movement will become stronger the closer your vehicle gets to the lane markers. Similarly, there is usually no alert when the driver is indicating appropriately to change lanes.

Some lane departure systems are activated automatically when a vehicle is switched on, whilst others have to be activated by manually pressing a button within the vehicle.

If turned on automatically, in some vehicles, the lane departure warning can be switched off, but will likely default back on again each time the vehicle is started.

Car maintenance tips to prevent expensive repair costs

jason@cars-grimsby.co.uk (Jason Barker) — Fri, 31 May 2024 08:25:29 GMT

Given the increase in the cost of living, many people are putting off paying for vehicle maintenance. Whilst it’s an understandable choice to make, not maintaining a vehicle could lead to compromised safety and more expensive repair costs in the future.

Change filters regularly

Your vehicle’s air and oil filters can become clogged over time, so it’s important that they’re replaced on a regular basis. These filters should be replaced as part of your regular annual service and it’s a relatively easy task to complete. However, poor quality filters could result in irreversible damage to your engine in the longer term.

Use your air conditioning

Air-con systems may leak over time, especially when not used regularly. Whilst you may not need to use your air-con in the winter months, it is beneficial to keep your air-con running at regular intervals to prevent receiving a large bill for air conditioning re-gassing.

Keep the fluids topped up

This is essential to your vehicle’s performance and safety. Too much or too little oil in the engine can be catastrophic. The engine oil can be checked when cold using the dipstick or by using the onboard computer in more modern vehicles. You should always ensure that you are using the correct oil type for your vehicle make and model.

The coolant level should also be checked periodically, when the engine is cold.

In addition, low brake fluid can lead to a spongey brake pedal, which can be dangerous and also requires immediate attention at a reputable service centre.

Have your vehicle serviced regularly

A highly-skilled mechanic can conduct a full check of your vehicle during a service. A service will likely include checking all of the above measures, as well as additional tasks to maintain the safety and performance of your vehicle. This can help to spot minor issues, before they become dangerous and costly problems. Visit our blog ‘ Why is it important to service my car? ’ for further information.

It's best to keep on top of your vehicle maintenance to prevent dangerous and expensive issues. If you spot any differences in your vehicle’s performance, it’s usually best to have this checked at a local repair centre .

Always call CARS with any concerns!

Do insurers provide courtesy vehicles?

jason@cars-grimsby.co.uk (Jason Barker) — Fri, 31 May 2024 08:22:27 GMT

Many of our customers automatically assume that they will be provided with a courtesy vehicle when making an insurance claim… after all, we all need a way to get from A to B.

Ultimately, whether an insurer provides you with a courtesy vehicle may depend on whether the incident was your fault or not. As a brief overview:

AT FAULT - If the incident you’ve been involved in was your fault and you’re making a claim on your own insurance policy, you might not be entitled to a courtesy vehicle, unless otherwise specified in your policy terms.
NON-FAULT – If you’ve been involved in an accident that wasn’t your fault and you’re making a claim on a third-party’s insurance policy, you are fully entitled to a courtesy vehicle whilst your vehicle is out of use, provided you do not have access to another vehicle. However, your insurer might tell you that you have to take your vehicle to one of their preferred repairers in order to have access to a courtesy vehicle. Read our blog ‘ Do I have to take my vehicle to one of my insurer’s approved repairers? ’ to find out more.

In comparison, at CARS, we offer all customers a courtesy vehicle when required, regardless of the fault of the claim.* We have several options available, from manual to automatic vehicles, and 3 or 5 door options. To ensure we are doing as much as possible on our green journey, the majority of our vehicles are hybrid. This means we can reduce our environmental impact, whilst still helping our customers. You can read more about our green journey via our blog ‘ How is CARS of Grimsby going green? ’.

Ultimately, if you’ve been involved in accident, we always recommend getting in touch with CARS before your insurance company. Not only will you receive a courtesy vehicle, you’ll also receive credible and non-biased advice, tailored to your circumstances.

*Subject to availability

The biggest mistakes people make after having a car accident

jason@cars-grimsby.co.uk (Jason Barker) — Fri, 31 May 2024 08:19:58 GMT

Unfortunately, being involved in an accident is an unsettling and stress-provoking event. Whilst you can predict how you’ll react; you won’t really know for sure until it happens.

In this blog, we explain the most common mistakes people make after being involved in a collision. These include:

Rushing to call your insurance company - Whilst most insurance companies advise that they must be informed of any incidents immediately, we recommend that you call CARS before phoning your insurance company. Dealing with insurance claims and insurance companies can be extremely difficult, as there are many myths around your legal entitlement. One of the biggest myths around car insurance is that they are there to repair your car – they are actually there to reimburse you financially in the event of a claim.

Your insurance company may try to tell you that you have to use one of their preferred repairers. It’s actually your right to choose a repairer of your choice. We always recommend choosing a local repairer who uses new and genuine parts, manufacturer repair methods, alongside offering excellent customer service. For example, bringing your vehicle to CARS guarantees that it will be returned to a safe and road-worthy state, whilst your experience will be nothing less than excellent. Visit our blog ‘ Do I have to take my vehicle to one of my insurer’s approved repairers? ’ to find out more.
Admitting liability – You should remember that an accident is an extremely stressful and emotional event. Don’t apologise or admit responsibility for the accident until you’re completely aware of what has happened. Instead, obtain the details of the third-party(s), including name, address and insurance information, along with the date and time of the crash.
Not gathering information from the scene – Taking photographic evidence and obtaining witness statements will also be of significant help should you need to make an insurance claim, or you’re having difficulty determining liability. Further useful information includes the driving conditions at the point of accident, the road quality and what type of damage was caused.
Not calling CARS of Grimsby! – Our number one piece of advice is that you should always call CARS before your insurer! We will be there to help you avoid the common pitfalls and guide you through the claims process. Check out our Google Reviews to hear what our customers say!

What is a SORN?

jason@cars-grimsby.co.uk (Jason Barker) — Fri, 31 May 2024 08:17:22 GMT

SORN stands for Statutory Off-Road Notification. A SORN is a declaration made to the DVLA informing them that you are going to take your vehicle off the road, and as a result, don’t want to tax it. During this time, it is illegal to drive your vehicle on a public road.

A vehicle with a valid SORN must be kept on private property, such as on a private driveway or in a garage. The vehicle cannot be kept in a local car park or on a public roadside. Keeping a SORN vehicle on a public road could result in a fine of up to £2,500. The only exception to this is where the vehicle is being driven to a test centre for a pre-booked MOT test.

If you purchase a vehicle that was previously registered with a SORN, the notification will not automatically transfer over. As the new owner, you are legally required to register a new SORN in your name. Similarly, if you are selling a vehicle with a SORN, you should make the new owner aware of the fact that the vehicle has been registered as off the road, and must be re-registered in this way if they are not looking to drive, tax or insure the vehicle.

A SORN is automatically cancelled when the vehicle is taxed, sold, exported or scrapped. You should note that any vehicle going back onto the road must have a valid MOT certificate before going on any journeys (excluding to a test centre for a pre-booked MOT).

What Is A Service History and Why Do You Need One?

jason@cars-grimsby.co.uk (Jason Barker) — Tue, 30 Apr 2024 10:15:37 GMT

Firstly, when purchasing a vehicle, you should always refer to the service history to check it has been serviced timely and correctly. As discussed below, this will help when you come to sell the vehicle in future.

A service history is proof that a vehicle has been maintained in accordance with manufacturer guidance. This is of particular importance when it comes to selling a used vehicle through the pre-owned vehicle market.

Regardless of whether you take your vehicle to a main dealer, or an independent repair centre, your service and any relevant paperwork can be logged in your service book, which will help to maintain the vehicle’s value. If your chosen independent repair centre uses original equipment and is VAT registered (like CARS), your manufacturer warranty will remain unaffected.

However, if you miss a service, your vehicle will have a partial service history which could limit how much you are able to sell it for in the future.

If you’re looking into buying a used vehicle, either privately or via a dealership, you should ask to see all the relevant paperwork. If the vehicle has been serviced and maintained correctly, each service will be logged and dated within the service book, along with any additional paperwork. For some more modern vehicles, you can check the service history online which may provide further information about the vehicle.

Visit our blog ‘ Why is it important to service my car? ’ for further information.

Car Insurance Explained

jason@cars-grimsby.co.uk (Jason Barker) — Tue, 30 Apr 2024 10:13:48 GMT

In this blog, we give an overview of the different types of car insurance policies available in today’s market, and look to uncover some common policy terms.

Policy Types

Fully Comprehensive – This is the highest level of car insurance coverage. You are usually covered for third-party damage to another vehicle or person, as well as damage, fire or theft of your own vehicle – regardless of who is at fault. Your insurance provider may offer extra policy features for an additional cost. These include, but are not limited to, breakdown cover, windscreen cover and car key cover.
Third Party, Fire and Theft – This policy type covers you for theft of your vehicle or fire damage, as well as any damage you cause to other people and their property. This type of insurance policy will not cover any damage to your own car (unless it occurred as a result of fire or attempted theft), meaning you will have to pay for any car repairs directly.
Third Party Only – This is the minimum level of cover you can legally hold if you intend to use your vehicle on UK roads. This type of policy covers the costs of damage you cause to someone else’s vehicle or property, as well as any injuries you may cause to a third party. There is no cover for your own vehicle.

You should always provide accurate information to your insurer and keep them updated with relevant changes.

No-Claims Discount

When purchasing a policy, you may also be asked if you hold any No-Claims Discount. This discount is a reward for policyholders not making any claims on their insurance policy during a specified timeframe (usually a policy year). It is offered by insurance companies to encourage sensible driving.

For example, if three years go past without a customer making a claim on their policy, they will have earned three years’ worth of no-claims discount. This discount usually results in a reduction in premium costs upon policy renewal. The discount will depend on the insurance company’s specific terms and the number of consecutive claim-free years. In some cases, there may be a maximum limit to the number of years of NCD that can be accumulated, and this should be checked with insurance companies on a case-by-case basis.

NCD is usually lost or reduced once a claim is made, which is likely to lead to an increase in higher premium costs at renewal. A time where this may not apply would be if the NCD is protected, as in this instance, an insurance company may allow a number of claims to be made in a policy year before the discount is lost or reduced. A fee is usually payable for this added layer of protection.

If you’ve been involved in an accident that wasn’t your fault, we have a method here at CARS which enables you to have your car repaired without paying your excess or impacting your NCD, even if it’s not protected.

Excess

An insurance company will also apply an excess to your policy, made up of compulsory excess and voluntary excess.

The compulsory excess is selected by the insurance provider and can vary depending on several factors, such as age, driving experience, and the type of vehicle – the risk. The voluntary excess is selected by the policyholder at the time of initial policy commencement. The total excess may become payable in the event of a claim.

Many people select a higher voluntary excess to benefit from lower premiums, assuming they won’t need to make a claim. Remember, nobody wakes up in a morning and expects to get into a motoring accident, so make sure you select an excess amount which is affordable for you if the worst should happen!

The claim process varies between insurers. Your excess is usually paid directly to the repairer upon completion of the repairs. Even though the accident may not be your fault, in some cases you may still be asked to pay your excess, which can be refunded once liability is agreed, and the claim is settled. There are other options to make sure you don’t pay your excess in certain cases. It’s certainly worth calling us to discuss these.

We have several blogs in our advice centre which offer information about how to choose the right insurance company, how premiums are calculated and what would happen if you needed to make a claim. Get in touch with CARS for non-biased advice, tailored to your individual circumstances.

What Is An Insurance-Preferred Repairer?

jason@cars-grimsby.co.uk (Jason Barker) — Tue, 30 Apr 2024 10:07:40 GMT

An insurance-preferred repairer, otherwise known as an approved repairer, is one which is authorised by your insurance provider to repair your car in the event of a claim. This could be because the insurance provider has beneficial pricing rates with the repairer, enabling them to carry out the work for a reduced cost.

There is an assumption that a preferred or approved repairer offers better quality repairs and customer service, simply because they are recommended by or associated with an insurance company. However, in some instances, this isn’t the case. For example, CARS of Grimsby is an independent repair centre, not affiliated with any insurance companies. However, we have committed to offering the best service to customers across all aspects. This includes offering faultless service to customers, only using new and genuine parts, and working in accordance with manufacturer repair methods.

An independent repairer relies on reviews and referrals to generate new business, so the service received is likely to be better than that offered by a preferred repairer which already has a guaranteed workflow. As a result, it is clear that high-quality repairs can be found outside of the approved repairer network.

Many insurance companies specify to individuals that they have to use one of their preferred repairers. However – this is not true! It is your right to take your vehicle to any repairer of your choice. Your insurer may state that they apply an additional excess for taking your vehicle to an alternative repairer. However, here at CARS, we have various excess support options available to our customers, so this fee may not be payable. We also take over all communication with our customers’ insurance companies, making the claim process as stress-free as possible!

The most important point to remember is that in the event of an accident, you should always contact CARS before contacting your insurance company. This will ensure that you receive trustworthy and non-biased advice, tailored to your circumstances.

The following blogs will provide more information around insurance-preferred repairers, and how to ensure you are selecting a repairer that will return your car to a safe, roadworthy state:

What Is Autonomous Emergency Braking?

jason@cars-grimsby.co.uk (Jason Barker) — Tue, 30 Apr 2024 10:05:21 GMT

Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) is a type of Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) which is usually built into newer and more modern vehicles. It was introduced to prevent collisions or reduce the impact of unavoidable incidents.

AEB works without any input from the driver. The system monitors the road and traffic conditions to warn the driver of upcoming danger. Dependent on the vehicle, it may also seek to detect pedestrians and other obstacles. The brakes will automatically be applied if the driver doesn’t respond quickly enough. To do this, the system relies on a combination of light detection, radar and/ or sensors to establish whether a dangerous situation is developing.

Whilst this system will give added reassurance when heading out on the roads, it is not a replacement for making sure you are alert at all times.

MOT Tests Explained

jason@cars-grimsby.co.uk (Jason Barker) — Tue, 30 Apr 2024 10:04:20 GMT

We understand that you might have many questions when it comes to your MOT:

Do you have to have an MOT every year?
What happens during an MOT?
How long does an MOT take?
How much does an MOT cost?
And so on!

The majority of vehicles are required to pass an annual MOT to prove that they are safe and roadworthy. An MOT involves several checks on your vehicle from safety components such as seatbelts, to mirrors, lights, and the braking and fuel systems.

If your MOT has expired, it is illegal to drive your vehicle on the road and you could be prosecuted for doing so. You should also note that driving without a current MOT invalidates your car insurance, and you are unlikely to be covered in the event of an incident and subsequent claim. The only exception is where you are driving your vehicle to a test centre.

An MOT usually takes between 45 to 60 minutes, but you should remember that if your vehicle fails its MOT test and repairs are needed, you could be without your vehicle for longer. You are not allowed to drive your vehicle if it has failed its MOT, unless you are taking it to a repairer, or its existing MOT certificate is still valid. However, if it fails its MOT with a dangerous fault, you won’t be able to drive it away at all, regardless of whether it has an existing valid certificate.

If your vehicle passes its MOT but the test centre has made advisories, you can legally drive it on the roads. However, we recommend that these advisories are dealt with by a local repair centre as soon as possible. This will ensure that your vehicle remains safe and roadworthy.

Whilst the cost for an MOT will vary between test centres, the maximum cost for a standard car is currently set at £54.85 (as at 15/03/2024). This cost may increase or decrease in the future.

We have established that some of the most common reasons for MOT failure are as follows:

Lighting and signalling issues
Damage to the windscreen and/ or wipers
Brake faults
Issues with the exhaust system
Insufficient tyre depth

You can visit our blog ‘ Common reasons for MOT failure ’ to find out more.

We recommend taking care of your vehicle and conducting regular maintenance to reduce the chance of your vehicle failing its MOT. This involves keeping the internal and external areas clean, as well as dealing with any faults or new issues (such as knocking sounds, pulling, etc) in a timely fashion, to prevent them from becoming more serious and costly issues.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Will my car insurance go up if I move house?

jason@cars-grimsby.co.uk (Jason Barker) — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 08:00:03 GMT

To work out your premium cost, insurance companies consider your individual risk factors to determine how likely you are to make a claim during your policy term. As such, changing your address could have an impact on the cost of your car insurance.

Insurers will look at several factors associated with the area to determine the risk to them. For example, they will look at the previous number of claims in that area, along with the number of accidents recorded. They will also look at other factors, such as traffic volumes and the number of ‘high-risk’ traffic systems, for example cycle lanes or busy roundabouts.

Parking availability will also have an impact. In some cases, parking your car in a driveway or garage may result in lower premiums. If you do not have access to this, you may be subject to higher costs.

It is no surprise that urban and dense city areas come with a higher premium cost. This is because the more vehicles on the road, the more likely an accident is to occur, and the more likely you are to make a claim. These areas are also more likely to have higher crime rates, which will be a contributing factor when working out insurance cost.

Read our blog ‘ How are car insurance premiums calculated? ’ to find out more.

We recommend shopping around for quotes to find the best deal for you. We also advise using a local broker to ensure the policy terms you accept are appropriate for your circumstances. Finally, you should always make sure that all information provided to your insurance company is truthful and accurate.

Is CARS of Grimsby linked to any insurance companies?

jason@cars-grimsby.co.uk (Jason Barker) — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 08:00:03 GMT

In the accident repair industry, it’s not uncommon for repairers to be approved by insurance companies. For example, if you’re involved in an accident and phone your insurance company, they are likely to tell you to take your vehicle to one of their preferred repairers. There might be a preferred repairer in your local area. If not, you may have to travel to an alternative town or city to have your vehicle repaired, which will be an issue if your vehicle is not roadworthy, for example.

You do actually have the right to take your vehicle to any company of your choosing, such as a non-preferred repairer, regardless of what your insurer tells you. This could mean that you receive better customer service, work carried out to manufacturer standards and with new and genuine parts. Unfortunately, not many people know this.

CARS of Grimsby is not affiliated with any insurance companies. We are an independent repair centre , serving Grimsby and the surrounding area. Whilst we are not automatically passed work by insurance companies, we carry out large volumes of insurance work for our customers, including taking over all communication with their insurance companies to ensure a stress-free claim process.

So, why take your vehicle to an independent repair centre instead of your insurer’s preferred repairer?

You will have access to a loan vehicle, should you require one, regardless of whether an accident was your fault or not.

An independent repair centre that has no guaranteed stream of work usually attracts customers based on referrals and reviews. As a result, it is important for them to provide top-quality service at all times.

Preferred repairers are often working on extremely tight profit margins and because of this, some are authorised to fit second-hand and/or non-genuine parts. In contrast, an independent repair centre has control over which parts they fit. For example, at CARS, we will only use new and genuine parts. This ensures each vehicle leaving us is safe, road-worthy and back in the state the manufacturer intended upon originally leaving the factory.

Independent repair centres can still repair modern and technologically advanced vehicles. Here at CARS, we are consistently upgrading our equipment to keep up with any industry changes. Furthermore, we are also invested in the training of our technicians, to ensure they are always above industry standard. As a result, we can repair almost any vehicle that comes through our door.

We recommend always contacting CARS before your insurance company, to ensure you receive credible and non-biased advice, tailored to your individual circumstances.

What is black box car insurance?

jason@cars-grimsby.co.uk (Jason Barker) — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 08:00:03 GMT

Telematics insurance, more commonly known as black box insurance, lets your insurer monitor your driving skill and style. This is usually done via a box-like GPS device, a plug-in device or in conjunction with an app downloaded on a smartphone. Your insurer will analyse information such as acceleration, braking, cornering, driving smoothness, miles driven, the date and time you drive and how often you take breaks when on longer journeys. You should check with each insurer, as the information they collate may be slightly different.

Based on this information, they will then score your driving, which will affect how much your insurance premiums are. A higher score indicates good and safe driving and could result in lower premiums. Some insurers also offer additional rewards such as vouchers or cashback. However, if an insurer sees evidence of poor and/or dangerous driving, the score will be lower and could result in a more expensive insurance policy.

Whilst this type of insurance was originally designed for young drivers as a way of rewarding safe driving by reducing premiums, other individuals may be able to buy this type of policy, regardless of age. Like any insurance policy, the cost will depend on several factors, such as age, address and the make and model of car. Visit our blog ‘ How are car insurance premiums calculated? ’ for further information.

How much does it cost to run a car?

jason@cars-grimsby.co.uk (Jason Barker) — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 08:00:03 GMT

Along with the overall increase in the cost of living, the costs of running a car are also on the rise. In this blog, we provide an overview of the things you should consider when working out how much it costs to run a car over time.

Service & MOT costs

We advise booking your vehicle in for an annual service and MOT to ensure it remains safe and road-worthy. Whilst a service is not technically a legal requirement, it will help to maintain your car and flag up any minor issues before they turn into larger, more expensive problems.

Fuel costs

While the cost of fuel may vary around the country and dependent on the brand, there are other variables to consider when estimating your fuel cost. You should consider the estimated fuel consumption of your vehicle and the fuel type (petrol or diesel).

Tax

The amount of tax charged is dependent on the age of the vehicle and in some cases, the level of CO2 produced. There may also be an additional charge payable for cars with an initial list price of more than £40,000. There are several resources online to check the exact rate of tax payable for your vehicle.

Insurance

Ultimately, the cost for your insurance will be calculated based on the insurance classification for your vehicle, and the level of cover chosen. We always recommend using a local broker to ensure you choose an insurer and policy suited to your individual circumstances. You can also read our blogs ‘ How do I choose the right insurance company for me? ’, ‘ What car insurance should I buy? ’ and ‘ What should I look out for when purchasing car insurance? ’ for further information.

Depreciation

Whilst not technically a running cost, you should also consider the loss in value over time when estimating how much your car will cost you. Whilst most cars will depreciate over time, you can minimise this loss by keeping a record of all servicing, dealing with minor issues prior to them becoming extensive problems, cleaning your car on a regular basis and keeping the mileage low where possible.

Finance

If you need to borrow money to buy a vehicle, for example via a finance arrangement, you should consider the interest and other fees associated with the repayment method.

Miscellaneous Costs

We also recommend budgeting for any miscellaneous costs where possible. For example, if parts on your car start to show signs of wear and require replacement, this will usually be an additional cost. Please remember that if you’re involved an accident and need to make a claim on your car insurance, we have various excess support options available to help our customers.

If you’ve been involved in an accident, have damage on your vehicle or just have a general query, don’t hesitate to get in touch!

Top Tips for New Drivers

jason@cars-grimsby.co.uk (Jason Barker) — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 08:00:03 GMT

Whether you couldn’t wait to get behind the wheel at 17, or you’ve waited until later in life to take your driving test, there are a number of things to consider if you’re a new driver.

Purchasing your first vehicle – There are a number of things to consider when purchasing your first vehicle, from reliability to fuel and insurance costs. For example, vehicles are grouped into different insurance classifications, with vehicles in group 1 being the cheapest to insure and vehicles in group 50 being the most expensive. You can visit our blog ‘ Things young drivers should consider when purchasing their first car ’ for further information.

Purchasing car insurance – Car insurance is typically more expensive for young and/ or new drivers, but there are a number of things that can be done to reduce car insurance costs, such as having a telematics box fitted. You should always make sure you’re buying a policy suited to your individual requirements. We advise using a local broker to purchase a policy where possible. Our blogs ‘ What car insurance should I buy? ’ and ‘ How can I reduce the cost of my car insurance as a young driver? ’ might also be helpful.

Basic maintenance – It’s essential to keep your vehicle in a safe, roadworthy condition at all times. This involves keeping the vehicle clean and also making sure the individual components meet legal requirements. For example, all tyres should have a minimum tread of 1.6mm by law. Here at CARS, we recommend a minimum tread of 3mm. Our blog ‘ How to take care of your vehicle ’ details the vehicle maintenance you should undertake on a regular basis.

Additional tuition – Passing your test is only the first step in your driving journey. Many individuals choose to bolster their experience by doing additional tuition, such as the Pass Plus scheme. This may expose you to several challenges that you’re yet to experience, such as driving at night. Proof of carrying out this additional tuition could also bring down your insurance premiums.

You can contact CARS for advice on all things car maintenance, repairs and insurance.

Do I have to phone my insurance company as soon as I’ve had an accident?

jason@cars-grimsby.co.uk (Jason Barker) — Fri, 01 Mar 2024 09:00:00 GMT

Unfortunately, being involved in an accident is an unsettling and stress-provoking event. Whilst you can predict how you’ll react; you won’t really know for sure until it happens.

Whilst most insurance companies advise that they must be informed of any incidents immediately, we recommend that you call CARS before phoning your insurance company. Dealing with insurance claims and insurance companies can be extremely difficult, as there are many myths around your legal entitlement.

Call CARS first for the following reasons:

We offer credible and non-biased advice, tailored to your circumstances. As we are not affiliated with any insurance companies, we will have your best interests at heart and make sure your needs are met.
We have a fleet of courtesy vehicles, available to our customers if required.* If you go to your insurance company direct and end up making a claim, they might tell you that you’re not entitled to a courtesy vehicle.
The customer service you receive will probably be better. An independent repair centre like CARS usually attracts customers based on referrals, recommendations and other reviews. Conversely, insurance approved repairers have an endless stream of vehicles to repair, automatically passed to them via insurers and other work providers. Therefore, they do not have to worry so much about reviews based on quality, which may impact the service you receive. We guarantee impeccable service every time.
You might not have to pay your excess. Yes, you read that right! Here at CARS, we have various excess support options available to our customers.

Remember that you don’t have to rush to contact your insurance company… you have time to think through your options and make the best decision for you. Call CARS on 01472 453622 , email enquiries@cars-grimsby.co.uk or read our blog ‘ Do I have to take my vehicle to one of my insurer’s approved repairers? ’ to find out more.

* Subject to availability.

Common Reasons For MOT Failure

jason@cars-grimsby.co.uk (Jason Barker) — Fri, 01 Mar 2024 09:00:00 GMT

There are a number of reasons your vehicle could fail its MOT, some of which could be avoided by regular maintenance and servicing. Here are some of the most common reasons for MOT failure:

Lighting & Signalling Issues

Unfortunately, these issues are responsible for a high amount of MOT failures. For example, blown bulbs or faulty indicators can result in an advisory or failure. In addition, if there is a more significant hidden problem, such as a faulty fuse or wire, this could also prevent your vehicle passing its MOT.

Prior to the test, you should make sure that all indicators and exterior lights are working correctly.

Windscreen & Wipers

Chips or cracks in the windscreen which are impacting the visibility of the driver could also result in MOT failure. Damage elsewhere could also result in an advisory or failure, if deemed large enough to cause visibility issues or potential danger. Furthermore, if you’re stopped by the police for driving with a damaged windscreen, you may receive a penalty or points on your licence.

Brakes

During an MOT test, a technician will inspect aspects of the braking components and how effective they are at stopping the car. As well as checking for brake efficiency, tests will be carried out to make sure the brakes are balanced from left to right, and whether there are any issues causing vibration through the steering.

Exhaust System

MOT technicians will mainly be checking for leaks in the exhaust system, most of which are caused by corrosion.

Tyres

To pass its MOT, the tread depth on your tyres must be at least 1.6mm, which is the legal minimum. Here at CARS, we recommend having a tread depth of at least 3mm at all times, to ensure your vehicle remains safe and roadworthy.

If you are stopped by the police whilst driving on tyres of insufficient depth, you could be facing a penalty or points on your licence.

Tyre safety can be compromised by cracking to the tyre walls and could also result in an MOT failure.

It’s worth noting that MOT regulations can change from time to time. Be aware that something listed as an advisory on your MOT one year could be listed as a failure the following year.

Ultimately, making sure your vehicle maintenance is carried out regularly will increase the chances of the vehicle passing its MOT. Furthermore, if you hear any sounds that are unfamiliar, or any new dashboard lights pop up, we recommend addressing these as soon as possible, to prevent a larger issue developing.

The following blogs can help you:

How to prepare for a road trip

jason@cars-grimsby.co.uk (Jason Barker) — Fri, 01 Mar 2024 09:00:00 GMT

As we move further into 2024, many of us will be setting off on road trips and other long-distance journeys. Here we share a few tips to ensure you and your vehicle remain safe whilst out on the road:

Stock up on critical items

It’s best to be prepared should the worst happen. We recommend packing the following items as a minimum: sat-nav, first-aid kit, torch, water, blankets and snacks. We also recommend having your documentation with you, such as driving licence and breakdown information.

Plan your route

It is vital that you plan your route ahead of time, including stops to ensure driving breaks and reduced tiredness. You should use up-to-date technology or go online to make sure that there are no roadworks impacting your desired route. You should also consider alternative routes in the event that roads become blocked due to accidents or other events.

Check weather conditions

As we move further into the year, we’re expecting the weather to get better. However, this may not always be the case! We advise checking the weather forecast ahead of time, to ensure your trip is not impacted by severe wind and rain! Adjusting your travel date and time in the event of severe weather could help you avoid a potentially unsafe journey.

Check vehicle components and fluids

Before embarking on any medium to long-distance journey, there are several checks you should carry out to ensure your vehicle remains safe and road-worthy. This includes, but is not limited to, tyre pressures, tyre tread depth, windscreen wipers, lights, air conditioning, as well as the level of screen wash, oil and engine coolant.

Our blog ‘ How to take care of your car ’ provides useful tips on how to keep your vehicle in excellent condition. If you have any concerns or have picked up on any changes in the way your vehicle has been driving in recent weeks, we recommend having your vehicle checked over by an accident repair centre , prior to setting off.

Fuel up or charge up

It is important that your vehicle is fully-fuelled or charged prior to heading off. Although you can plan to stop at fuel stations and charging points, you can never predict how a journey will unfold. For example, you may use more fuel/ power than anticipated if you end up in heavy traffic or held up behind an accident.

When am I entitled to a courtesy car?

jason@cars-grimsby.co.uk (Jason Barker) — Fri, 01 Mar 2024 09:00:00 GMT

When deciding where to take your car for repair, a huge deciding factor is usually whether the repairer offers a courtesy vehicle as part of their service.

If you’re making an insurance claim, the situation gets a little more complicated. As a brief overview:

AT FAULT - If you’ve had an accident that was your fault and you’re making a claim on your own insurance policy, you might not be entitled to a courtesy vehicle, unless otherwise specified in your policy terms.
NON-FAULT – If you’ve been involved in an accident that wasn’t your fault and you’re making a claim on a third-party’s insurance policy, you are entitled to a courtesy vehicle whilst your vehicle is out of use. However, some insurance providers might tell you that you have to take your vehicle to one of their approved repairers in order to have access to a courtesy vehicle. Read our blog ‘ Do I have to take my vehicle to one of my insurer’s approved repairers? ’ to find out more.

To avoid any confusion… here at CARS, we offer our customers courtesy vehicles when required, regardless of the fault of the claim.*

We have several options available, from manual to automatic vehicles, and 3-door vehicles to 5-door vehicles. Furthermore, the majority of our vehicles are hybrid, which means we can reduce our environmental impact, whilst still helping our customers.

Ultimately, you can take your vehicle to a local, independent repair centre without worrying about how to get around in the meantime. Read our blog ‘ What are the benefits of using a local repair centre? ’ to find out more.

*Subject to availability.

5 ways you could be invalidating your car insurance

jason@cars-grimsby.co.uk (Jason Barker) — Tue, 30 Jan 2024 10:38:42 GMT

With the number of specific terms included in your policy, it’s possible that you could be invalidating your car insurance without really knowing. Here are a few ways you could accidentally invalidate your car insurance:

Fronting – Incorrectly declaring another driver as the main driver of your vehicle could invalidate your car insurance. For example, this may occur if a young and new driver incorrectly declares a parent as the main driver of their vehicle in an attempt to reduce insurance costs.
Vehicle modifications – Making changes which impact the way your vehicle looks and performs without declaring them to your insurer could invalidate your insurance, especially if you need to make a claim. We recommend contacting your insurer to estimate the change in premium cost, prior to making any alterations.
Using your vehicle for business purposes – If you use your vehicle for business purposes, outside of travelling to and from a singular place of work, you could be invalidating your insurance. For example, if you are a mobile hairdresser, or you have a small business on the side which requires an element of travel, you should declare this to your insurer upon purchase of a policy.
Changing address – Your insurance company will take your address into consideration when agreeing your premium cost. Therefore, if you move home or change address for any reason, it is vital that you inform your insurer as soon as possible. This could either increase or decrease the cost of your insurance, as this is partially dependent on the higher or lower risk of theft in different areas of the country.
Driving without a valid MOT – Some insurers specify that a valid MOT certificate is a prerequisite to insuring your vehicle. As such, you must ensure that you have a valid MOT at all times and book your vehicle in for its next MOT in good time to avoid going over the deadline.

Our advice is to always be transparent with your insurer, especially when it comes to any previous claims or convictions (they WILL find out!).

What should I do if I’m involved in a hit-and-run?

jason@cars-grimsby.co.uk (Jason Barker) — Tue, 30 Jan 2024 10:38:40 GMT

Unfortunately, the number of accidents occurring with drivers fleeing the scene is on the rise. Here’s things to consider if you’re involved in a hit-and-run:

Take as much evidence from the scene as possible

If you’re unable to take the other driver’s contact and insurance information, there are other things you should try to obtain. For example, if you’re able and it’s safe to do so, take a picture or note of the registration, along with the vehicle make, model and colour.

You should also take images and/ or videos of the scene of the accident. This includes the damage to your vehicle and the environment, as well as evidence of any road markings or weather conditions. This will be useful information to pass on to your insurance company.

Take details of any witnesses

In this instance, eyewitness accounts will be extremely valuable. You should take details of as many witnesses as possible and check that they’re happy for their information to be passed along to the police and your insurance company.

Report the incident to the police

It is a legal requirement for the other driver to give you their details if they have caused injury to you or damage to your vehicle, and failure to do so must be reported to the police.

Report the incident to your insurance company

You are required to inform your insurance company that you have been involved in an accident, usually within 24 hours (although this may not be the same for all insurers). However, we advise phoning CARS before phoning your insurance company, so that you are in receipt of credible and non-biased advice.

Tips to avoid overnight vehicle burglaries

jason@cars-grimsby.co.uk (Jason Barker) — Tue, 30 Jan 2024 10:38:39 GMT

We have seen a recent spike in the number of vehicle burglaries taking place overnight in our region. Here are things you can do to keep your vehicle safe overnight:

Parking

If parking at home, parking in a secure garage or driveway is always a preferred option. If this is not a possibility, we recommended parking in an area that is well-lit and open to public view, ideally with CCTV or security patrols.

Take belongings with you

You may find your vehicle being targeted for vandalism or burglary if you have any belongings on display. This applies to any bags, parcels, coats or even loose change.

Adding an immobiliser or approved car alarm

Usually, modern cars already have a factory-fitted immobiliser to deter thieves. It would be wise to consider adding an immobiliser or Thatcham-approved car alarm to reduce the risk of vehicle theft.

Reduce your risk of ‘relay attacks’

This is becoming a more common method of vehicle theft due to the increase in the production of keyless vehicles. A ‘relay attack’ involves two people, one which uses a device to receive signal from the key fob inside the home and one standing by the targeted vehicle with a device to receive the signal. This has the same effect as having the key physically present, allowing the car to be driven away.

We do know that this signal is unable to penetrate metal, so it would be wise to store your keys in a metal box overnight.

Be safe with your keys

Keep your keys away in public and be aware of your surroundings at all times. At home, ensure your keys are out of sight, out of reach and as far away from the vehicle as possible.

How is technology transforming the accident repair industry?

jason@cars-grimsby.co.uk (Jason Barker) — Tue, 30 Jan 2024 10:38:34 GMT

In recent months and years, we’ve seen first-hand how technological advancements are starting to mould and shape the accident repair industry. There is huge emphasis on ensuring that employees receive sufficient training and equipment is kept up to date with the latest innovations. Here are a few examples of how we’ve noticed the impact of technology on the accident repair industry:

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) – Perhaps the most common advancement is the introduction of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems. Newer vehicles have modernised ADAS, such as automatic emergency braking, blind spot detection, lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control, which aim to avoid accidents that usually occur due to human error. ADAS comprises of active safety systems which rely on multiple data sources that continually monitor the external surroundings of the vehicle. For example, the systems use radar, cameras and other devices in image processing.

The introduction of such systems on modern vehicles has resulted in an increased need for training. Firstly, it is important that an estimator is trained to identify underlying damage which could impact the functionality of ADAS modules. These modules are not always visible, so it is important that estimators are both technically trained and equipped with knowledge to identify any potential issues. Additionally, these modules will usually need recalibrating as part of the repair, to ensure the vehicle is safe and road-worthy once repaired.

Furthermore, it is important that workshop technicians receive sufficient training to be able to carry out repairs to more modern, advanced vehicles. For example, here at CARS, we run regular ADAS training sessions from industry professionals, to ensure our technicians are equipped with knowledge on the most recent industry updates. The same also applies to our in-house equipment. To stay aligned with the newest technology, it is vital that equipment is kept in immaculate condition and updated where necessary.
Changes to parts – Increased use of electronics and computers has changed the auto-repair industry entirely, as newer vehicles are comprised of an increased number of complex parts. For example, there are a large number of individual parts used to make up the individual ADAS components. Therefore, waiting for a higher number of these more advanced parts, comprised with the advanced knowledge and equipment required during repair, can result in a longer repair time.
Access to diagnostic technology – A positive advancement we have seen in the accident repair industry is better access to innovative diagnostic technology. For example, the creation and advancement of diagnostic tools has made it easier to identify issues impacting the majority of vehicles. In some instances, this could result in a quicker and less expensive repair.
Advanced paint technology – In recent years, there has been a huge uptake in the utilisation of advanced paint matching techniques in vehicle repair. For example, here at CARS, we use computerised colour-matching software to analyse the existing vehicle colour shade and recreate an appropriate colour formula to match. This ensures that the repair blends more seamlessly with the existing paint finish.

We expect to see further advancements in the industry, and it is vital that employees receive sufficient training and equipment is upgraded to keep up with the latest developments.

How do insurance companies determine liability in an accident?

jason@cars-grimsby.co.uk (Jason Barker) — Tue, 02 Jan 2024 08:30:01 GMT

So, you’ve been involved in an accident that wasn’t your fault. Unfortunately, even though you might be 100% sure you didn’t cause the accident, you still have to prove this to your insurance company! We offer some tips on how you might be able to help your insurance company determine liability in the event of an accident.

Gathering Information from All Parties Involved – If you’re involved in an accident with another driver(s), you should exchange details to pass onto your insurance companies. This should include name, contact details and name of insurance company as a minimum. Your insurer will ask you for this in the event of you needing to make a claim.

Dash Cam Footage – Having a working dash-cam installed in your vehicle may be of extreme help when trying to determine liability. For example, if you’ve been involved in an accident that wasn’t your fault, but no witnesses were present, valid dash cam footage could provide your insurer with additional, possibly vital, information.

It is worth noting that each insurer will have different specifications on the type of dash cam footage they accept and use when determining liability. For example, some insurers state that the footage must have date and time stamping, or that the video must be of a minimum resolution to be used in the event of a claim. You should check this with your insurer if you are unsure.

Photographic Evidence – Whilst not as reliable as dash cam footage, you should take photographs from the scene of an accident. This should include photographs of the damage, all vehicles involved and the surrounding area. For example, tyre markings on the road or positioning of vehicles may help the insurer to determine the liability and fault of the accident.

Witness Accounts – If you’re involved in an accident, we recommend taking the details of any witnesses who were present at the time. You should record their name and contact details and check that they’re happy for you to pass on this information to an insurance company. Insurers can then use this information to determine liability.

In extreme cases, an insurance company might use accident reconstruction to determine liability of an accident, although this is rare.

How is CARS of Grimsby going green?

Tue, 02 Jan 2024 08:30:01 GMT

Whilst it’s inevitable that the car industry will have a negative impact on the environment in future years, we’re aiming to minimise our footprint and make positive change where possible.

Following the purchase of our new premises in 2017, we installed solar panels on the roof to start our green journey, along with LED lights which are automatic where possible. Additionally, each one of our courtesy vehicles is hybrid, reflected on the branding of each vehicle.

In addition, we use the lowest emission, water-based paint available to us, along with high transfer efficiency spray guns, designed to ensure more of the material is transferred to the vehicle rather than into the atmosphere within the spray booth. This ensures that we reduce our environmental impact, without compromising repair.

We recently installed a new eco spray booth, which is more energy efficient. The two main benefits are that we can lower our negative impact on the environment whilst lowering the cost of repairs, which subsequently benefits our customers.

Our projects for the future include going paperless with our workshop instructions and replacing some roof panels with natural skylight panels.

These are just a few ways we are looking to embrace a positive, green journey and reduce our negative environmental footprint.

Common car insurance myths

Tue, 02 Jan 2024 08:30:01 GMT

Every day, we have customers phoning up or coming in to see us, bewildered about things their insurance companies have told them. We endeavour to make sure everyone knows their rights when it comes to insurance issues, making for a stress-free repair process, should the worst happen.

You must take your vehicle to a repair centre specified by your insurance company – False! Following an incident, your insurance company is likely to tell you that you must take your vehicle to one of their approved repair centres, regardless of the distance between your address and the garage itself! We’ve seen many customers sending their vehicles to towns and cities a substantial distance away from them for repair, when they didn’t need to!

In reality, it is your right to take your vehicle to any repair centre of your choosing. We always recommend doing your due diligence to select a reputable repair centre and staying local where possible – visit out blog ‘ What are the benefits of using a local repairer? ’ for further information.
Your insurance company will only repair your car with new and genuine parts – Not true! If you did decide to go with your insurance company’s recommended approved repairer, your insurer may have granted them the use of non-genuine and/or used parts. Whilst this may result in a lower repair cost, it may also compromise the safety of your vehicle.

It’s worth checking your insurance policy documents to see exactly what you’ve agreed to.
Personal car insurance covers business use – Many people are unaware that their insurance policy doesn’t cover them for business use in line with their job role. If you’re travelling to more than one place during a day for your job, you may need to purchase additional business coverage.
Claiming on your insurance policy will always result in a significant increase in your premiums – Incorrect! We see so many customers here at CARS, and many are hesitant to claim on their insurance policies, even after major accidents! People tend to assume that making a claim will result in an extortionate rise in premium costs but in reality, the premium is likely to go up by a minimal amount, if at all. For example, we might estimate that it costs £2,500 to repair damage to your vehicle. It’s almost impossible for your insurance to go up by this amount. As a result, making a claim might be in your best interests.
Your premium will automatically decrease each year – Sadly, no. Many people assume that their insurance premium will go down on renewal each year. However, research has shown that insurance costs are on the rise – visit our blog ‘ Is the cost of car insurance going up? ’ for further information.

There are also many other reasons your premium may increase, such as change of address, change in vehicle or change in occupation, among others. We also encourage our customers to do their research before accepting the auto-renewal price supplied by their insurers, as there may be cheaper options available.

Things I didn’t know before working in the motor industry…

Tue, 02 Jan 2024 08:30:01 GMT

I’ve been working in the motor industry for around a year now and with a fresh perspective, it’s clear that some of the challenges faced within the industry are eye-opening!

Firstly, it’s become clear that not all insurance companies have their customers’ best interests at heart. Since joining CARS, I’ve realised that many (but not all) insurance companies rely on their customers not being educated about what to do when making a claim on their car insurance. For example, insurers have agreed labour rates and work methods with their approved garages, so they try and direct policyholders to take their vehicles to one of these garages. This may place the customer at a disadvantage, especially if the garage uses second-hand or non-genuine parts.

In reality, the customer has the right to take their vehicle to any garage they choose! Unfortunately, not many people actually know this, which is why we are pushing to make this a more widely known fact!
That leads me onto my next point… not all garages will fit new and genuine parts to your vehicle! In my opinion, it should go without saying that safety is paramount during a repair. However, this may become compromised if second-hand or used parts are fitted. To avoid this, you should always ask prior to booking your vehicle in at any garage!

It’s worth noting that if you choose a non-approved repairer (like CARS of Grimsby), the repairer will have the option to fit new and genuine parts, as they are not under any contract with the insurer to use second-hand or non-genuine parts.
Small bumps and scrapes aren’t actually as small as you might think. Like many people, I used to assume that minor damage only required a minor fix! It’s since become clear that what looks like small damage may result in damage that’s a lot more sinister. For example, there may be Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) components, such as sensors, which compromise your vehicle’s ability to use adaptive cruise control. These very sensors could be housed right where your bumper has a small dent. Before you know it, you need to replace a full bumper.

Regardless, safety should always be the most important aspect of the repair.
You must keep up with technological advancements in the motor industry. From electric and hybrid vehicles to autonomous driving technology, there's a constant push for innovation and adaptation to new technologies. Therefore, it’s extremely important that repairers continue to invest in the training and development of their employees, alongside consistent upgrades to equipment. For example, at CARS, our team members have regular ADAS training to ensure they can repair almost any vehicle that comes through our door. Unfortunately, the repairers not investing in these technologies will be able to repair less and less vehicles as time goes on.

At CARS, our aim is to educate our customers, arming them with as much knowledge as possible so they know what to do with their vehicle, should the worst happen!

About Us: Mark R

Tue, 02 Jan 2024 08:30:01 GMT

Mark R | Workshop Controller at CARS of Grimsby

I recently joined CARS as Workshop Controller. My aim is to ensure that the team works cohesively and efficiently, whilst also making work a happy place to be.

I have many years’ experience in the motor industry, across different elements, including an abrasive manufacturer, body shop distribution and more.

When I’m not at work, you’ll find me playing golf, snooker, pool or enjoying family time with my Wife and three children.

Favourite Drink – Guinness Cocktail

Favourite Holiday Destination - Rhodes

What is No Claims Discount (NCD)?

Fri, 01 Dec 2023 10:28:52 GMT

No-Claims Discount is a method used by insurance companies to encourage sensible driving behaviour. The discount is a reward for policyholders not making any claims on their insurance policy during a specified timeframe (usually a policy year).

In the event of changing insurance companies, NCD is usually transferrable, which allows customers to retain the discount even after switching. The individual terms should be checked with the insurance company in question, where applicable.

Please note that not all claims impact a customer’s NCD, so it’s always a good idea to check with the specific insurer.

Furthermore, if you’ve been involved in an accident that wasn’t your fault, we have a method here at CARS which enables you to have your car repaired without paying your excess or impacting your NCD, even if it’s not protected. Call us on 01472 453622 for further information.

Visit our blog ‘ How do I choose the right insurance company for me? ’ for other important factors to consider.

What Happens When I Bring My Vehicle Into CARS For An Estimate?

Fri, 01 Dec 2023 10:27:17 GMT

Please note that subtitles have been auto-generated.

Ever wondered what happens when you bring your vehicle in for an estimate? Many of our customers are concerned about bringing their car into CARS because they don’t know exactly what is required. In reality, the process of obtaining an estimate is usually a simple and quick process – and free of charge! Read on to find out more.

Usually, it’s best for you to bring your vehicle into us so we can investigate the damage up-close and also take images for later use. The benefit of bringing your vehicle in to see us is that this allows us to create a more comprehensive estimate. For example, if we needed to remove a damaged-component to investigate for any further damage behind, we have trained technicians on site to do this thoroughly.

Whilst one of our trained estimators is taking a look around your vehicle, one of our lovely office team will note down your details. This includes your name, email address and telephone number, and usually takes no more than 2 minutes. This is also a great chance for you to ask any questions you might have about the repair process, or about CARS as a whole.

Once we have all the information we require, one of our estimators will put your detailed estimate together on our internal workshop management system. We aim to have all estimates sent to our customers by the following working day.

We will then contact you via telephone or email for a follow-up, to cover off any questions you might have. All being well, we can then get you booked in!

From start to finish, you’ll be here at CARS for no more than 10 minutes (unless you wish to stay longer!) and should have your estimate within 1 working day!

Car Safety Checklist – Part 1

Fri, 01 Dec 2023 10:25:03 GMT

There are many things you should check on a regular basis to ensure your vehicle remains safe and road-worthy.

Fuel

You never know when you might end up in a situation where your journey is taking longer than you anticipated, possibly due to poor weather conditions, traffic jams, or other unexpected events. We recommend always having more fuel than necessary for your intended journey.

Tyres

Check that tyre pressure matches the manufacturer specifications. This can usually be found in the driver’s handbook.

Check that tyre tread meets the legal minimum of 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tread around the complete circumference of the tyre. At CARS, we recommend a minimum tread of 3mm.

Inspect the tyres for signs of wear, cuts and foreign objects.

Brakes

The problem with brakes is that they become less effective over time and this isn’t always noticeable. As a result, you should regularly test the brakes for responsiveness. If they are taking too long to react or feel different, have them inspected.

Your brake pads and discs will be inspected for wear at your regular service. If they are worn, they may require replacement.

Lighting

Ensure your headlights are clean to maintain safe visibility.

Ensure all exterior lights are working (including headlights, brake lights, fog lights, indicators, etc).

Screen Wash & Other Fluids

In more modern vehicles, you may be alerted to low screen wash levels via a signal on your dashboard. In older vehicles, you can check the screen wash levels in the tank under the bonnet. Always ensure you have a healthy level of screen wash in your vehicle in preparation for dirt, bugs or extreme weather.

You should also ensure you have appropriate levels of coolant and brake fluid prior to embarking on a long journey. Advice on how to check in your specific vehicle and the required fluid types for your make and model can usually be found in your manual or handbook. If you are unsure, we advise taking your vehicle to a local garage or repair centre.

Documentation

We recommend carrying legal documentation within your vehicle for ease of access. This includes your driving license, insurance information and any other required permits.

Cleanliness

We advise keeping your vehicle clean to reduce the likelihood of an incident occurring. This includes (but is not limited to) windscreens, brake lights, indicators and registration plates.

Emergency Equipment

First Aid Kit
Torch
Blanket
Reflective Triangle
Water
Spare Tyre (where possible)

The majority of these components will be checked by a skilled technician at your regular service. If you have any concerns about the safety or performance of your vehicle, you should take your vehicle to a local repair centre.

Common Myths About Car Repairs

Fri, 01 Dec 2023 10:21:05 GMT

There is a lot of contradicting evidence floating around in the car repair industry, and not knowing which to believe can be overwhelming. In this article, we cover some of the most common car repair myths:

Dealerships always provide better service – Dealerships may have an automatic stream of work provided to them, meaning they are not reliant on customer service or quality repairs to bring in work. Also, many service managers within dealerships are under constant pressure to hit financial targets. Unfortunately, this may result in a less than satisfactory experience.

You have to take your car wherever your insurance company specifies for repair – If you contact your insurance company after an accident, they are likely to tell you that you have to take your vehicle to one of their insurance-approved repair centres. This is incorrect, it is your right to take your vehicle to any repair centre of your choosing. We encourage our customers to do their due diligence when choosing a car repair centre, for example, it would be wise to visit independent review sites such as Google when making a decision.

Minor bumps and scrapes are the cheapest to fix – On the face of it, a small bump or scrape can seem to be minimal damage which would be cheap to fix. However, in modern vehicles especially, there may be hidden damage to a vehicle’s Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) components. These components aid drivers with parking, obstacle avoidance and other manoeuvres.

Another example of small repair might be a small scuff to an alloy wheel. Although an alloy wheel repair is fairly inexpensive, when a wheel has been impacted, a wheel alignment is often necessary. Once a wheel alignment has been carried out, vehicles equipped with ADAS may need recalibration of any radars or cameras.

Therefore, a small scrape might not always be what it seems.

A Beginner’s Guide To Car Jargon

Fri, 01 Dec 2023 10:19:04 GMT

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)

ABS is a safety feature which prevents the wheels from locking up during hard braking. This helps the driver to maintain control of the vehicle, improve steering and minimise stopping distances.

Horsepower

A unit of measurement used to describe an engine’s power output. Typically, a higher horsepower represents a more powerful engine.

Cruise Control

This is a system fitted to some vehicles which can be set to maintain a vehicle’s minimum or maximum speed.

Depreciation

Most cars will depreciate in value over time, especially in the early years. The depreciation is the rate at which a vehicle’s value falls in a specified timeframe.

Hybrid

A hybrid vehicle is powered by more than one power source, usually a petrol/diesel engine and an electric motor.

Immobiliser

This is an anti-theft device, usually found on newer vehicles. Typically, a transponder is fitted to the key, meaning the vehicle will only start when the key is present.

Modifications

Any change made to a vehicle which alters the way a vehicle looks or performs.

SORN (Statutory Off-Road Notification)

This is when a vehicle is registered as no longer being used or parked on the roads. The owner does not have to pay road tax during this time.

Insurance Group

Vehicles are allocated to an insurance group classification from 1 (cheapest) to 50 (most expensive). You can use this to compare costs of insuring different vehicles.

Power Steering

Steering that is aided by hydraulic or electric motors. This makes steering easier for drivers, especially at low speeds.

About Us: Callum

Fri, 01 Dec 2023 10:17:03 GMT

Callum | Workshop Technician at CARS of Grimsby

I joined CARS as an apprentice almost 8 years ago and I’m now a qualified painter. I get to work on many different types of vehicle, meaning I’m continuously expanding my knowledge of the wider industry.

Hobbies: When I’m not at work, you’ll find me doing DIY at home – I’m always on with a project! I also enjoy watching F1 and going on walks with my dog, George.

Best Quality: I am to come into work each day and aim to make everyone laugh!

Car Dashboard Warning Lights – A Guide

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 14:25:15 GMT

Ultimately, some warning lights represent more of a threat than others, but it’s best to get them checked out by a skilled technician at an appropriate repair centre.

How do I find a trust-worthy accident repair centre?

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 12:43:19 GMT

There are many variables to consider when searching for a reliable and trust-worthy garage to carry out repairs to your vehicle. Whilst it might be tempting to go with the cheapest quote you receive, you can’t put a price on safety!

Material quality, and whether parts are genuine or second-hand – Some repairers may use non-genuine or second-hand parts to keep repair costs low, even where this is not the safest option. At CARS, we recommend the use of genuine parts, specific to your vehicle’s make and model.
Repair or replace? – Whilst a less intrusive repair method may be better for the vehicle and the environment in some cases, there are many instances where a vehicle part becomes compromised and should therefore be replaced.
Adhering to manufacturer repair methods – When making your choice, you should establish which garages use manufacturer repair methods during the repair process. Whilst the cost of a repair will depend on whether or not the repairer follows manufacturer guidelines, safety is more important.
Labour rate – Labour rates can vary from business to business. You will often find that main dealers are more expensive due to their guaranteed workflow, whereas independent body shops are more likely to offer a discounted rate to attract and retain customers.
Estimate quality and attention to detail – To ensure that all repairs are carried out to the highest standard, the journey of high quality must start at the point of estimate. For example, estimators should be highly-skilled, and have access to manufacturer repair methods and specific data for your vehicle. For example, your neighbour may have an identical car to you based on appearance, but yours might have lane assist or automatic braking. It’s important your estimator knows the difference!

The aim of any high-quality vehicle body repair centre is to ensure the vehicle would behave the way the manufacturer intended if involved in an accident.

To help you choose the right garage with confidence, take a look at our guide: Questions to Ask About Your Vehicle Repair Guarantee .

What is multi-car insurance?

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 12:29:26 GMT

If you have more than one vehicle in your household, selecting a multi-car insurance policy might be more cost-effective and simpler to manage than insuring each vehicle individually.

Overall, multi-car insurance works just like standard car insurance. Policyholders can choose their level of cover as normal, from Third-Party Fire & Theft to Fully Comprehensive cover. This also means that the cover levels don’t have to be the same for each individual vehicle, and neither do the excesses.

To be eligible for multi-car insurance, the policyholders must live at the same address, but don’t have to be related.

Additionally, each driver has their own No Claims Discount. This means that individual drivers can continue to build their own discount, as long as no claims are made. Each individual can then take their discount with them if they switch insurer or vehicle. Those with a sufficient No Claims Discount are likely to benefit from reduced annual premiums.

The most common benefit to having a multi-car insurance policy is the saving in premium costs. It is also likely to be simpler to manage than having multiple individual car insurance policies.

As a young driver, it may be beneficial to be part of a multi-car insurance policy with at least one older, more experienced driver. This may balance out the overall premium for the policyholders.

We always recommend using a local broker to find a policy which is suited to your individual needs. Visit our blogs ‘ How do I choose the right insurance company for me? ’ and ‘ Which car insurance should I buy? ’ for further information.

Best Practices for Driving in Winter

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 12:26:42 GMT

Driving in winter can be a challenge and we often see an increased number of incidents in the colder months due to icy roads, reduced visibility and other weather-related hazards.

To stay safe while driving in winter conditions, we recommend the following:

Check the weather – Ahead of your journey, always check the weather forecast and road conditions. This gives you the opportunity to make additional preparations or postpone your journey if required.
Clear snow and/or ice – In more extreme weather conditions, it is important that you clear all snow and ice from the vehicle, including windows, mirrors, headlights and brake lights. This prevents snow coming off your vehicle in front of you or other drivers, whilst also bettering your visibility.

In addition, modern vehicles rely on sensors mounted on the vehicle exterior for advanced safety systems, such as autonomous braking, among others. These sensors must therefore be free from road dirt, snow and ice.
Increase your distance – You should increase the distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you. You require a larger stopping distance on slippery roads, so this extra space can help you avoid collisions.
Adopt a smoother driving style – In ice especially, you should avoid sudden braking, which can cause skidding. Instead, you should brake early and gently. Engine braking may also help, which is the process of slowing the car down by releasing the accelerator and shifting down through the gears, rather than using the footbrake. You should also avoid sudden steering movements.
Carry additional supplies – Extreme weather conditions can lead to an increase in road accidents, which may mean you get stuck in traffic for extended periods of time. You should keep additional supplies in your vehicle, such as blankets, snacks, water, additional clothing and a torch. It is also important to ensure you have a full tank of fuel, or full charge if you have an electric vehicle.

Most of all, it’s important to act with caution and patience in extreme winter weather conditions. Your safety and the safety of other road users is of the highest importance.

Why are timely vehicle repairs important?

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 12:12:16 GMT

Timely vehicle repairs are important for several reasons, ranging from safety considerations to legal implications.

Safety & Damage Prevention – Different types of vehicle damage can pose a risk to you, your passengers and other road users. Pivotal components such as brakes, tyres, steering systems and lights need to be in proper working condition to maintain a safe vehicle. In electric vehicles specifically, if cables become compromised, this could pose a serious risk of accident or injury.

Additionally, ignoring a small issue can lead to more extensive damage over time. This is because a minor issue could become a major, costly repair if left unaddressed. Tackling problems in a timely fashion can prevent them from escalating.
Maintaining Vehicle Value – Regular maintenance and timely repairs help to maintain your vehicle’s value. A well-maintained vehicle is likely to have a higher resale or trade-in value compared to a vehicle which has several faults or has not been looked after.

Servicing your vehicle at annual intervals is likely to ensure that any minor damages or faults are identified and addressed. Evidence of regular servicing could also result in a higher sale price.
Legal Implications – Neglecting vehicle damages or faults can result in legal complications. For example, driving with broken lights or signals such as brakes and indicators is considered a violation of road traffic laws. As a result, you could face fines or other penalties.

Furthermore, if you’re involved in a motoring incident and need to make an insurance claim, your insurer may inspect the vehicle for any prior damage which was not taken care of by the owner. For example, in some instances, your insurer may refuse to pay out if your tyres don’t meet the legal minimum standards.

Ultimately, dealing with vehicle faults or damages in a timely fashion reduces the likelihood of further, more serious damage and potential accidents. Regular servicing and maintenance ensures that your vehicle remains safe and road-worthy. Visit our blog ‘ How To Take Care Of Your Vehicle ’ for further information.

About Us: Maggie

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 12:08:56 GMT

I joined CARS in October 2012 as a Panel Beater, having previously worked in the vehicle repair industry for a number of years. I enjoy the variation in my role at CARS, as I get to work on a different type of vehicle every day.

It’s interesting to see how vehicles have changed with technology over time, and CARS is a great place for me to develop this knowledge. I hope to continue training and growing for years to come.

When I’m not at work, I enjoy spending time with my Wife and young Son. I have several hobbies, and am keen to learn about anything and everything I can!

Questions To Ask About Your Vehicle Repair Guarantee

Mon, 02 Oct 2023 08:00:00 GMT

Different vehicle repair centres offer different levels of guarantee and protection. For example, vehicle repair guarantees in dealerships and independent repair centres can vary in terms of coverage, duration and overall customer experience. It’s crucial to review the guarantee terms before authorising repairs from either medium. You should consider the following:

Guarantee Duration – How long does the guarantee cover the work for and are there any requirements for the guarantee to remain in place? For example, some repair centres require you to take your vehicle in for an annual inspection for your guarantee to remain in place.

Parts – Does the guarantee differ based on whether new or used parts are fitted? Does the guarantee differ based on whether parts are genuine or non-genuine? Fitting new and genuine parts is likely to be the most ethical repair method. However, in the event that non-genuine or used parts are fitted, it would be worth checking how this might affect your guarantee.

Coverage – Which specific repairs or services are covered by the guarantee? There may be some repair elements which are excluded from guaranteed coverage.

Transferability – This may be of high importance if you’re considering selling the vehicle. In the case of selling the vehicle, is the guarantee transferable to the new owner?

Other Exceptions – You may find that each repair centre applies different exceptions to their guarantees.

If you have any questions about the guarantees we offer at CARS, please don’t hesitate to give us a call on 01472 453622 .

Why Are Car Repairs Taking Longer?

Mon, 02 Oct 2023 08:00:00 GMT

In recent years, we’ve noticed an increase in the timescales required for multiple types of vehicle repairs. Here are some reasons why…

Increased vehicle complexity – Modern vehicles are now equipped with new technologies such as Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS).

Repairing or replacing elements of these systems often requires specialist knowledge and tools. Unfortunately, many independent repairers are unlikely to have access to this information, meaning that vehicles are being transported to alternative garages for services such as ADAS recalibration.

At CARS, we are able to carry out these more advanced services due to the consistent training and development of our team.
Availability of parts – There has been widespread impact to the vehicle parts industry, leading to delays. Unfortunately, waiting for one small part can have a knock-on effect to the repair process.

Additionally, given that vehicles are being fitted with more specialised and advanced parts, this may result in limited supply and subsequent delays.
Insurance claim process – In some cases, it may be wise to make a claim on your car insurance policy as an economical method of repair.

Unfortunately, insurance companies have been taking longer to process claims, largely due to an increase in the number of claims, compounded with staffing issues.

Furthermore, some claims may involve more complex circumstances in terms of gathering evidence and determining liability.

At CARS, we can take over communication with any insurance company to make the claim process less stressful for our customers.

How Can I Reduce My Car Insurance Costs?

Mon, 02 Oct 2023 08:00:00 GMT

With the overall increase in the cost of living, many people are now on the lookout for a way to decrease their car insurance costs. There are multiple different ways you can look to achieve a saving on your policy premium.

Shop around – Many people are quick to accept the auto-renewal price quoted by their existing insurance provider. This ignores potential savings that could be found by obtaining quotes from multiple insurance companies.

You should also consider the different policy terms and how this could alter your costs. For example, where your vehicle is stored overnight might reduce your premium. It would be worth testing these different options whilst completing an online quote.

Please note that the terms you select must be true and accurate, and providing false information could invalidate any claim.
Lower your annual mileage – Your estimated annual mileage also plays a part in determining your insurance premium costs. You should consider whether you are actually driving the number of miles you are paying for, as lowering the mileage could lower your costs.

The best way to establish your average annual mileage would be to look at previous MOT certificates, which should display both the mileage and test date. Additionally, if your vehicle has a warranty or service booklet, the mileage should be logged at each service.
Changing your voluntary excess – Voluntary excess is an amount specified by you which you agree to pay in the event of making an insurance claim. This is added to the amount of compulsory excess selected by the insurance company, and the total amount becomes payable by you.

Usually, the higher the excess, the lower the premium cost. However, the disadvantage to this is that you will be liable to pay the higher excess amount in the event of a claim. You should only select an excess that you could afford to pay if the worst should happen.
Vehicle make and model – The car you drive will impact your car insurance costs. Vehicles are allocated to an insurance group from 1 (cheapest) to 50 (most expensive). Choosing a vehicle with a lower insurance group classification is likely to result in lower premium costs.
Maintaining a clean driving record – Motoring convictions may increase your insurance premium costs. This is because your insurance company views you as posing an increased risk to them, which results in higher premiums.
Adding a named driver – Adding an experienced named driver to your policy may reduce your insurance premium costs. However, an alternative individual cannot be added as the main driver in place of yourself, as this may invalidate your insurance.

At CARS, we always recommend the use of a local broker to find a policy and provider suited to your individual circumstances and requirements. Visit our blogs ‘ How do I choose the right insurance company for me? ’ and ‘ How are car insurance premiums calculated? ’ for further information.

What Are The Benefits Of Using A Local Repairer?

Mon, 02 Oct 2023 08:00:00 GMT

Please note that subtitles have been auto-generated.

Many people we see at CARS assume that they have to use an insurance-approved repairer, which often means taking their vehicle out of town, sometimes up to several hours away. In truth, you can take your vehicle to a repair centre of your choice, including any that are local to you! So, here’s why it’s best to pick a local repairer:

Supporting a local business

It goes without saying that when you use a local repair centre, you’re contributing to the local economy by keeping money within your community. This supports businesses and helps to create more jobs in the local area.

Proximity

A difficulty we often see with non-local repairers is the travel requirements when arranging collection and/or delivery of vehicles. For example, it might be your responsibility to get your vehicle to another town or city, and a claims handler is unlikely to be able to confirm whether your vehicle is driveable.

With a local repair centre, arranging collection or delivery is likely to be far simpler, and you may still have the option of taking away a courtesy vehicle. Additionally, if you have any future queries regarding the work carried out to your vehicle or further damage, you can just pop back in!

Communication

Local repairers allow for face-to-face communication. This allows you to learn more about the repair process and ask questions to make sure that your vehicle will receive a high-quality repair, in accordance with manufacturer guidance. Ultimately, this ensures that your vehicle will be safe and road-worthy when returned to you.

Customer service

A local repairer which isn’t directly authorised by an insurance company is likely to rely heavily on recommendations, reviews and referrals to continue obtaining business. In order to do so, they have to provide high-quality customer service. In contrast, a non-local, insurance-approved repairer will have an automatic flow of work provided by an insurer or network. Unfortunately, in some cases, this may mean that they do not rely as heavily on providing quality customer service.

Ultimately, there are many reasons why choosing a local repair centre might be more advantageous than a non-local repair centre. You should carry out your due diligence to ensure that your vehicle will be repaired in accordance with high-quality standards regardless. Visit our blogs ‘ Why do repair costs vary from garage to garage? ’ and ‘ Do I have to take my vehicle to one of my insurer’s approved repairers? ’ for further information.

About Us: Danny

Fri, 01 Sep 2023 08:00:00 GMT

Danny

I’ve worked at various places in the automotive industry, from vehicle factories (such as Honda and Bentley) and accident repair through to cosmetic repairs for end of lease vehicles.

Working at CARS allows me to experience great variation with the number of different makes and models we repair. I also enjoy working within a small family team where you get seen and heard, as opposed to being a number within a larger organisation.

Hobbies: Most of my hobbies revolve around cars, my favourite being supporting my son with his karting.

Favourite Drink: I’m not much of an alcohol drinker. I loved a Cherry Coke growing up, but I mainly just stick to water these days!

Dream Car: Hopefully I can choose more than one! Anything in the Ford Cosworth range. Or I could narrow it down to the Ford RS200 Rally Car and the early Honda NSX.

Tips to Avoid Potential Car Accidents

Wed, 02 Aug 2023 13:29:40 GMT

Whilst heading out on the road remains a risk, there are things you can do to reduce the chance of causing an accident.

Regular Maintenance & Servicing – You should always maintain your vehicle in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations. This includes (but is not limited to), regular oil and filter changes, brake inspections, airbag checks and mirror adjustments.

Additionally, the legal minimum for tyre tread depth is at least 1.6mm across the central three quarters of the tread and around the entire circumference of the tyre. At CARS, we advise a minimum tyre tread depth of 3mm.

Your regular (usually annual) service should encompass the majority of our recommended vehicle maintenance components. This explains why regular servicing ensures that your vehicle remains safe and roadworthy.
Diagnostic and Repair Services – If your vehicle exhibits unusual behaviour (such as irregular sounds or movements), or dashboard lights start to appear, this suggests that you may need to take a trip to your local repairer. For example, a rhythmic knocking sound could indicate a damaged tyre wall and could result in a serious accident if driven at speed.

Skilled technicians can perform diagnostic tests to address and rectify problems, sometimes before the issue escalates further.
Keeping your vehicle clean – You should regularly clean your vehicle, especially your windows, mirrors, registration plates and lights, to ensure that you remain visible to other motorists – especially in poor weather conditions.

You should also carry out regular checks of your wipers and keep your screen wash topped up, to ensure you can keep your front and back windscreens clean from dirt, bugs or other weather conditions.

Will I have access to a courtesy vehicle whilst my vehicle is being repaired?

Wed, 02 Aug 2023 13:26:10 GMT

We all rely on our vehicles to get us from A to B, so it’s important to know we’ll have access to a courtesy vehicle if our vehicle is out of action.

There are a variety of factors impacting whether you will have access to a courtesy vehicle whilst your vehicle is being repaired.

If you’ve been involved in an accident that wasn’t your fault and are claiming on a third-party’s insurance policy, you should be entitled to a courtesy vehicle whilst your vehicle is out of use.

If you’ve been involved in an accident that was your fault and have to claim on your insurance policy, you are making a claim under the terms of your own contract. This may mean that you are not entitled to a courtesy vehicle, unless otherwise specified in the terms of your insurance policy.

Whilst many comprehensive car insurance policies include access to a courtesy vehicle if required, this may not be the case in every instance. Some insurers allow you to pay extra to have the courtesy car option added to your policy. However, there may be some restrictions and exclusions. For example, some insurance providers might state that you have to take your vehicle to one of their network-approved repairers in order to have access to a courtesy vehicle. We would always advise checking the terms of your insurance contract carefully to ensure the policy meets your needs.

To mitigate this, at CARS we have hybrid courtesy vehicles available to our customers, should they require one. This means that you can bring your vehicle to a local, independent repair centre without worrying about getting around whilst your vehicle is in for repair!

Pros and Cons of Buying a Used Car

Wed, 02 Aug 2023 13:24:32 GMT

Buying a used car can be more cost-effective than buying a newer model, but unfortunately, there might be some risks involved.

There are multiple methods you can use to buy a used car. In this article, we cover off the pros and cons of different purchase methods.

Buying a Used Car from Auction

Understandably, many people are often concerned with buying a vehicle from auction. Historically, vehicles sold at auction were viewed as quick sales which suggested to many that they may have hidden faults.

Pros

Buying a safe and reliable car at auction could result in a bargain.
Sales usually go through quickly.
Being with multiple bidders gives you an indication of what people are willing to pay for a particular vehicle.

Cons

Auctions can be seen as high-pressure environments, so you may have to make decisions very quickly. You should do your research beforehand and set a strict budget to avoid making decisions based on emotion.
You are unlikely to be able to test drive the vehicle or give it a thorough check.
There may be additional auction fees on top of the sale price.

Buying a Used Car Privately

There are multiple private channels to purchase a car, such as dealing websites or selling groups.

Pros

Purchasing a car privately is likely to be cheaper than purchasing a car from a dealership. There may also be more option for negotiation.
You are likely to be able to complete a thorough check of the vehicle and identify any areas of damage or other minor faults. This could also allow for further negotiation and potential reduction in the total sale price if minor issues are found.

Cons

Vehicles being sold privately may not have had a full check prior to sale, unlike the vehicles being sold at a dealership. You should do your research and make a list of things you want to check over to ensure you’re fully prepared.
Unfortunately, you may have limited protection if something were to go wrong with the vehicle down the line.

Things young drivers should consider when purchasing their first car

Wed, 02 Aug 2023 13:22:18 GMT

Most young drivers are super excited to get on the roads as soon as they are old enough to do so! In this article, we share with you a few tips to consider when purchasing your first car…

Budget – When considering the costs of purchasing a vehicle, whether outright or by finance, people often fail to remember the additional ongoing costs associated with their purchase. For example, different vehicles are allocated to different taxation bands. This could lead to a considerably higher cost layout per month.
Insurance Class & Security – Usually, vehicles are allocated to a numbered insurance group from 1 (cheapest) to 50 (most expensive). Purchasing a vehicle with a lower insurance classification is likely to lower the ongoing premium.

Vehicles with features such as alarm systems, automatic locking and tracking devices are deemed less likely to be stolen, which may decrease your insurance premiums.
Fuel Efficiency – Choosing a vehicle with good fuel efficiency can help you save money over time. It’s worth bearing in mind that fuel costs only ever seem to increase.
Reliability – Different vehicles are known for their different levels of durability and reliability.

Whilst we can never predict if something might go wrong with the vehicle of your choice, it’s worthwhile researching common faults associated with that vehicle make and model.
Safety – All vehicles have a safety rating. An excellent resource for identifying the safety rating for your desired vehicle would be euroncap.com.

As a new and potentially inexperienced driver, it is important that your vehicle has a good safety rating, should the worst happen.

Should I auto-renew my car insurance?

Wed, 02 Aug 2023 13:18:29 GMT

Many insurance policies now renew automatically at the end of a policy term, unless the customer specifies otherwise. This could mean that our customers are missing out on savings or discounts elsewhere.

Whilst this means that you can always be confident that you’re insured without having to remember to actively renew your policy, you may find that the price of your policy is increasing year-on-year, even if nothing has changed on the policy.

It’s important to know that many insurers change the terms of the policies from time to time. This could mean that the policy you are accepting is different to the one you previously agreed to. We advise doing your due diligence when it comes to reading into your policy terms.

Your insurance provider will usually send you a renewal reminder around three to four weeks before your renewal date. This reminder letter should contain the expected price for the forthcoming year, as well as the previous year’s price, so you can compare the difference in cost.

It’s worth noting that the expected price will be based on the information your insurance company holds for you. If anything has changed during the policy year, your insurer will need to know about this. Factors which affect your insurance premiums include the following:

Age
Occupation
Address
Vehicle Make, Model & Value
Annual Mileage
Prior Claims
Convictions

You should ensure that all information you disclose to your insurer is complete and accurate. Insurance providers may refuse a claim or even terminate your policy if it is found that incorrect information was knowingly supplied to them.

Research has shown that the significant number of people accepting their auto-renewal price has led to an overall increase in insurance premium costs across-the-board. An annual saving could be achieved by shopping around for insurance quotes from numerous providers.

At CARS, we recommend using a local broker to obtain quotes that are accurate and tailored to your individual circumstances. Visit our blog ‘ What should I look out for when purchasing car insurance? ’ or give us a call on 01472 453622 for further information.

About Us: Mark Avison

Wed, 02 Aug 2023 13:15:46 GMT

I started my working life on the local fishing docks at age 14, before getting my first job in the motor trade at 23.

More than 20 years later, I’ve never looked back. I’ve worked in various sectors within the motor industry, including sales, parts and estimating.

My favourite thing about working at CARS is the real buzz we get from turning a damaged car back to factory condition. It’s amazing to see the customers’ faces when they collect their vehicle.

Favourite Holiday Destination: Greece

Favourite Drink: Southern Comfort

Favourite Food: Tapas

Why should I use CARS instead of my insurer’s approved repairer?

Fri, 30 Jun 2023 11:50:22 GMT

There are many advantages to using an independent body shop over an insurance approved repairer.

Firstly, most people assume that they do not have access to a loan vehicle if they use an independent repair centre like CARS of Grimsby. At CARS, we offer hybrid courtesy vehicles to our customers whilst their vehicles are being repaired.

An independent repair centre like CARS usually attracts customers based on referrals, recommendations and other reviews. Conversely, insurance approved repairers have an endless stream of vehicles to repair, automatically passed to them via insurers and other work providers. Therefore, they do not have to worry so much about reviews based on quality and customer service.

Additionally, just because a repair centre is not insurance approved, does not mean they don’t adhere to high repair standards. When searching for an independent repairer, we would always advise doing due diligence. Here are some questions you could ask:

Will the estimator be using manufacturer repair methods to create the estimate?
How long will the repairs be guaranteed for?
Does the brand of paint used carry a manufacturer warranty?
Does the repair centre have a complaints procedure?

If you are obtaining estimates from various garages, ask each estimator to explain the repair process to you. This should give you a good idea of who is the most thorough and has the most knowledge.

It is also important to find out whether your chosen repairer will be using new and genuine parts to repair your vehicle. It is worth checking your insurance policy documents as a lot of insurance approved repairers are contracted to use non-genuine and second-hand parts where possible. The benefit of using a high-quality independent repairer (like CARS) is having the peace of mind that your vehicle will be repaired using new and genuine parts. Again, it is important to carry out your due diligence.

An extremely important factor when choosing your repairer, is to ensure that they are equipped to repair vehicles with up-to-date technology. This includes, but is not limited to, recalibrating cameras, lasers and other Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). Visit our ADAS blog for more information.

Using a local accident repair centre like CARS also means you can revisit us if anything were to go wrong, or if you have any further concerns in the future.

We always recommend phoning CARS prior to phoning your insurance company to ensure you receive high-quality customer service and credible advice tailored to your individual circumstances.

How Do I Challenge A Car Insurance Write-Off?

Fri, 30 Jun 2023 11:50:20 GMT

Following an accident or other damage, your insurance company may decide that your vehicle is a ‘write-off’. In some circumstances, you do not have to accept this decision and are entitled to challenge your insurer.

If you are involved in an accident that was your fault and the cost of repair goes above 60-70% of the vehicle’s value, most insurers will write the vehicle off, stating that the vehicle is an uneconomical repair. This is because you are making a claim within the terms of your insurance policy, and most policies state a maximum repair cost of 60-70%.

However, if you are involved in an accident that wasn’t your fault (non-fault), we would advise claiming directly via the other party’s insurance. In most cases, you have a legal right to have the vehicle repaired up to 100% of its value, and at a repair centre of your choice – without penalties, or having to pay your excess.

There are occasions where the vehicle may be written off, regardless of cost. This may happen when the vehicle is categorised as ‘A’ or ‘B’. Please see our blog ‘ What should I do if my vehicle is written off by my insurer? ’ to find out how write-offs are categorised.

What Is Low Mileage Car Insurance?

Fri, 30 Jun 2023 11:50:19 GMT

The price you pay for car insurance can be impacted by your annual mileage.

Low mileage car insurance policies are typically available for drivers who do fewer miles than the national average. Insurance companies deem that there is less likelihood of an accident occurring due to the decreased time spent on the roads. Less exposure = less risk!

The types of specialist low mileage insurance policies vary between insurers, and you may find that some insurance companies have specific criteria that must be met in order to purchase one of these policies. Some insurers allow you to pay for the miles you use by selecting a mileage cap, whilst other insurers may fit a device to your vehicle to monitor the miles covered.

The best way to establish your average annual mileage would be to look at previous MOT certificates, which should display both the mileage and test date. Additionally, if your vehicle has a warranty or service booklet, the mileage should be logged at each service.

As above, insurers are likely to offer different types of low mileage car insurance policies, each with their own terms and conditions, so it’s important you obtain accurate quotes. We recommend the use of a local broker to find a policy suited to your individual circumstances.

Visit our blog ‘ How do I choose the right insurance company for me? ’ for further information.

About Us: Abbie

Fri, 30 Jun 2023 11:50:09 GMT

Abbie | Finance Administrator

I joined CARS in 2020 after previously working for another local garage in the service department. I now work in accounts and specialise in supplier payments, VAT reconciliation and other financial administrative duties.

Favourite Holiday Destination: Florida

My Hobbies: Swimming, shopping & being Mummy to Ada

My First Car: Seat Arosa

Accident Repair Centres in Grimsby and Cleethorpes

Thu, 01 Jun 2023 09:44:11 GMT

Over the last decade or so, our team here at CARS of Grimsby Ltd have been helping customers wade through the tide of information in the car insurance world, guiding them to the most cost-effective route to putting their vehicles back on the road safely.

It may be because of the wealth of information on our website that we are often asked about the competition in our area. As a trusted industry voice, we like to share as much knowledge as possible and be transparent about the services offered by other local garages.

Here are a few accident repair centres based in and around the Grimsby and Cleethorpes area:

Marshall Paint & Body Repair Centre – Marshalls have a network of nine centres and offer a range of services, including SMART repairs.
Autocosmetix – Located in the heart of Grimsby and established in 2003, Autocosmetix offer a wide range of services from alloy wheel refurbishment and headlamp restoration, through to full accident repairs.
John Clark Bodyworks – John Clark Bodyworks is an independent, family-run accident repair centre located in Humberston. Established in 1978, they work on all vehicle makes and models, vans and light commercial vehicles.
Fix Auto Grimsby (UK) – This workshop undertakes repairs for private individuals, fleets and management companies. The scope of their repairs ranges from passenger vehicles to light commercial vehicles (to a maximum of 3.5 tonnes).

We also recommend visiting our blog ‘ Why do repair costs vary from garage to garage? ’ for further information.

What Is A SMART Repair?

Thu, 01 Jun 2023 09:41:10 GMT

We are often asked which is better, a SMART repair or a body shop repair.

But before we get into it…

SMART stands for ‘Small Medium Area Repair Technology’. SMART repairs have gained immense popularity within the automotive sector over the last 20 years. There are a range of different services under the SMART repair banner.

In this article, we are covering the difference between a body shop paint repair and a SMART paint repair.

When a bumper, for instance, is repaired using SMART repair techniques, it is usually left in situ and the attached components are typically masked out and painted around. As there is very little stripping required, the cost is often lower than a body shop repair. As a result, SMART repairs can typically be carried out at home or work from a van.

In contrast, when a vehicle goes into a body shop for a bumper repair, the bumper will usually be removed and stripped before being repaired. Although this process can be more expensive due to the additional labour required for stripping, there are advantages to this method of repair. For example, there is very little chance of contaminating the vehicle with overspray and less chance of the new paint delaminating.

Most reputable body shops have access to vehicle-specific data which allows the estimator to identify any sensors, like radar modules, based behind or attached to the bumper. If a bumper that houses a RADAR sensor is knocked out of alignment, the vehicle’s Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) will be impaired. This leads to a requirement for recalibration of the RADAR module.

Likewise, if an alloy wheel is hit on a curb, this can cause the steering geometry to be knocked out of alignment. At any point, when a vehicle’s steering geometry is altered (whether by accident or following realignment), an ADAS calibration must be performed.

For further information, please visit our ADAS blog here .

Can All Bumpers Be SMART Repaired?

Thu, 01 Jun 2023 09:38:41 GMT

The short answer is no, and this is where due diligence is required to see if a SMART repair is the best option. Here are just a few examples of why.

Audi state that a vehicle with adaptive cruise control has certain parts of the front bumper that must not be painted during a repair. This is because the adaptive cruise control system relies on sensors located behind the bumper, which can become non-operational due to the thickness of added paint layers.

Similarly, some models of BMW have blind spot sensors behind the rear bumper which can also be affected by any excess materials used during the repair process. Therefore, a SMART repair cannot be carried out in that area.

Due to the ever-increasing advances in safety systems on modern vehicles, combined with a move towards autonomous driving, these repair issues are not uncommon across all vehicle brands.

Our advice to anyone seeking a SMART repair solution would be to check with the repairer that they have access to vehicle specific data and the equipment required to carry out any calibrations that may be required post repair. This will ensure that the vehicle is returned to a safe and road-worthy condition and will not be vulnerable in the event of a future accident.

How To Take Care Of Your Car

Thu, 01 Jun 2023 09:36:19 GMT

How to Keep Your Car in Good Condition: 4 Simple Maintenance Tips

Here are 4 things you should do regularly to keep your car in good condition, or even extend its lifespan:

1. Check your tyres

It’s important to ensure that your tyres are at the correct pressure, especially before driving any long distances. You can check your tyres by attaching a pressure gauge to the tyre air valves, which are available at fuel stations. Do remember that the required tyre pressure may be different for the front and rear tyres, so always check your vehicle handbook.

Additionally, you also need to maintain the correct tyre tread depth. Legally, to drive your car on UK roads, each tyre must have tread of at least 1.6mm deep across 75% of the tyre width and all around its circumference. Be aware, uneven wear patterns on the tyre (wearing on an outside edge, for instance) could indicate a problem with a vehicle’s geometry.

If you’re unsure on whether your tyres are legal, you can pop into CARS of Grimsby or any other quality vehicle repair centre to have them checked.

2. Keep the fluids topped up

Keeping the fluids topped up is essential to your vehicle’s performance and safety. Too much or too little oil in the engine can be catastrophic. The engine oil can be checked when cold using the dipstick. Some more modern vehicle oil levels can be checked using the onboard computer. You should always ensure that you are using the correct oil type for your vehicle make and model.

The coolant level should also be checked periodically, when the engine is cold.

In addition, low brake fluid can lead to a spongey brake pedal, which can be dangerous and also requires immediate attention at a reputable service centre.

3. Keep your vehicle clean

You should always ensure that your vehicle’s number plates are visible, along with your lights and mirrors to avoid unnecessary obstructions to yourself and other motorists.

Furthermore, dirt under your wheel arches can lead to corrosion. Bird droppings can burn a vehicle’s paintwork, as can bugs and insects when left on the vehicle’s surface.

We recommend cleaning your car once per week, making sure you clean under all wheel arches and remove any contamination from the paint.

4. Have your vehicle serviced regularly

A highly-skilled mechanic can conduct a full check of your vehicle during a service. A service will likely include checking all of the above measures, as well as additional tasks to maintain the safety and performance of your vehicle. Visit our blog ‘ Why is it important to service my car? ’ for further information.

Summary

In summary, have your car serviced at a reputable service centre in accordance with manufacturer recommendations, check your tyres and fluid levels at least once per month – and don’t forget the screen wash, especially if you’re going on a long journey!

If you have any queries about the information provided above or want CARS of Grimsby to look over your vehicle, don’t hesitate to give us a call !

What Car Insurance Should I Buy?

Thu, 01 Jun 2023 09:32:05 GMT

There are multiple types of car insurance policies available, each offering different levels of cover. Usually, the cost of cover increases with the level of protection offered and any associated risk.

You should consider which of the following levels of cover is appropriate for you:

Fully Comprehensive – This is the highest level of car insurance coverage, often referred to as ‘fully comp’. With this type of policy, you are usually covered for third-party damage to another vehicle or person, as well as damage, fire or theft of your own vehicle – regardless of who is at fault. You may also be covered for damage caused by flooding.

Typically, you will not be covered for damage or injury caused by driving when under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or driving without a license.

Your insurance provider may offer extra policy features for an additional cost. These include, but are not limited to, breakdown cover, windscreen cover and car key cover.

Third Party, Fire and Theft – This policy type covers you for theft of your vehicle or fire damage, as well as any damage you cause to other people and their property.

It’s important to note that this type of insurance policy will not cover any damage to your own car (unless it occurred as a result of fire or attempted theft). This means that you will have to pay for any car repairs directly.

Third Party Only – This is the minimum level of cover you can legally hold if you intend to use your vehicle on UK roads. This type of policy covers the costs of damage you cause to someone else’s vehicle, as well as any injuries you may cause to a third party. There is no cover if your own car is damaged or stolen.

Regardless of the chosen policy type, your insurer may choose to limit any claims or even cancel your policy if you fail provide accurate information when the policy is purchased. It is also important to update your insurer with any information that may affect the policy during its term.

Things that may affect your policy may include claims, convictions, vehicle modifications or even keeping your vehicle at a different address from the one provided to the insurer.

Visit our blog ‘ How do I choose the right insurance company for me? ’ or give us a call for further information.

A Guide To Summer Road Safety

Thu, 01 Jun 2023 09:27:11 GMT

When the summer months approach, many of us get ready to head off on our annual summer holiday. For many people, this could be the longest journey their car goes on all year. So, it’s important to ensure that you’re appropriately prepared for summer driving!

Make sure your car is in tip-top condition! Read our blog ‘ How to take care of your car ’ for further information.
Heavy traffic – Traffic is likely to be heavier during the summer months, with more people travelling to get to their holiday destinations. We encourage you to keep a safe distance from other cars and remove any distractions, such as phones.

With more sudden and unexpected vehicle movements, you need to be alert and focused at all times.

One major point we would like to stress is that wet roads can be extremely dangerous in the summer months. Due to the glare from the Sun reflecting off wet roads, sometimes it may be difficult to see the brake lights of the vehicle in front. Additionally, it may take longer to bring a vehicle to a stop in wet conditions.
Get prepared – This brings us onto our next point. You should plan ahead for any potential traffic incidents. For example, pack plenty of fluids and snacks in case you get stuck on the road for any length of time.

It is also important that any mobile devices are charged, should you need to get in contact with family members, friends or the emergency services.

Additionally, it may be wise to use a Sat-Nav even if you are familiar with your route, as most modern Sat-Nav systems give you regular updates on traffic and road conditions.
Ensuring all fluids are topped up – You should make sure you have enough fuel for your journey, remembering that your journey may take longer due to the increased likelihood of traffic jams.

You should ensure that you have the correct level of oil in your vehicle, to reduce the likelihood of overheating and/or engine damage.

Also, cooling systems are at risk of overheating in the warmer months. It’s important that you check the coolant level regularly to avoid damage due to overheating.

Topping up your windscreen washer fluid is also vital to maintain acceptable vision whilst driving.

We encourage you to check that your vehicle is safe and road-worthy before driving any long distances. If you need any advice, feel free to give us a call !

About Us: Sam

Thu, 01 Jun 2023 09:23:02 GMT

Sam | Customer Relationship Manager at CARS of Grimsby

I joined CARS in 2022 after working as a Production Manager in the signage industry for several years.

I thoroughly enjoy my role as it combines my passion for cars with my keen ability to help people. Although customer service was a part of my previous job, prior to joining CARS I’d never been in a situation where I had to help people who’d just been in a car accident and were understandably upset.

I feel privileged to hand over fully repaired vehicles to our customers and put smiles back on their faces.

My Hobbies: Watching the F1 and sneaker shopping.

Favourite Holiday Destination: New York

Dream Car: BMW M4 Competition G82

The Pros & Cons of Electric Vehicles

Fri, 28 Apr 2023 10:12:17 GMT

The number of electric vehicle (EV) sales have risen dramatically in recent years, with the number of available vehicle types also on the rise.

EVs are generally more expensive to purchase than petrol or diesel vehicles and they generally have more upfront costs; however, their servicing and maintenance costs are lower, as they have fewer moving parts and fewer items prone to wear and tear over time. This means that, usually, their total cost of ownership is lower than a conventional petrol or diesel vehicle.

As EVs rely on a rechargeable battery, there is a subsequent reduction in emissions and less of a negative impact on the environment. This is probably the most prominent benefit of purchasing an electric vehicle over a petrol or diesel vehicle.

Unfortunately, one of the biggest concerns surrounding EVs is their range and issues with public charging points. For example, say you were heading on a journey, and you’d prepared by planning your route and charging your vehicle prior to setting on your way. You’d scheduled in a stop at a charging point, but when you arrive there are four people in the queue in front of you, with each of their vehicles taking 30 minutes to charge. You’re therefore adding at least 2 hours to your journey time, before charging your own vehicle.

Evidence has also shown that electric vehicles perform less efficiently in the winter, with colder weather having a negative impact on battery life. The additional energy required to power the heating system will also negatively impact the vehicle range. Additionally, it may take longer to fully charge your vehicle in the colder months, with both private and public charging points being affected.

Furthermore, if you live in a city (for example) and don’t have a driveway or regular parking space, you are unlikely to be able to install or have access to a charging point. This increases your reliance on public charging spaces which are still relatively limited. Alternatively, if you live in a rural area with a driveway, you may be able to install a charging point at your home.

Our opinion at CARS is that the future of electric vehicles will likely be short-lived and alternative power sources will likely become more popular.

What is ADAS?

Fri, 28 Apr 2023 10:12:15 GMT

Advanced Driver-Assistance S ystems, or ADAS as they're more commonly known, are features that can enhance the driving experience. They typically fall under one of three types of system; Camera, Radar/Lidar, and Ultrasound. Click through the tabs below to learn more about each type and the features commonly within them.

I’ve had an accident, do I have to pay my excess?

Fri, 28 Apr 2023 10:12:12 GMT

Insurance policy excesses are generally comprised of two elements: compulsory excess and voluntary excess.

It is worth noting that there may be additional policy excesses or premium loadings for younger or newer drivers, so make sure to check the policy terms thoroughly. You should also be aware of whether the insurer will load your excess if you choose your own repairer (outside of their network) in the event of a claim.

Ultimately, you should not let your car insurance excess deter you from making a claim if this is the best option for you. Due to the complexity of modern cars, the repair costs are often far more than the insurance excess. CARS have various excess support options available, and we recommend giving us a call to discuss this in further detail.

Visit our blog ‘ What happens if I make a claim on my car insurance? ’ for further information.

Is the cost of car insurance going up?

Fri, 28 Apr 2023 10:12:09 GMT

Please note that subtitles have been auto-generated.

With the increased cost of living in the UK, many motorists feel they’re paying too much for their vehicle cover. According to Confused.com, the average cost of a car insurance policy in the UK is £629 (as of December 2022). But why is car insurance getting so much more expensive?

Rising Claim Costs – We have personally experienced supply chain issues and increased costs for parts, leading to a more expensive repair. This is further impacted by insurance companies working against each other. An example of this is where Customer A is hit by Customer B. Insurer A (rather than dealing with the claim themselves) factor the claim out to a claims management company who then overinflate the claim and hire costs, resulting in increased costs for Insurer B. Additionally, the Association of British Insurers (ABI) has suggested that paint and material costs have increased by around 16%, whilst energy inflation has added more than £70 to each repair.

Increased Technology – A number of more modern, advanced vehicles now benefit from keyless driving and/ or entry. This has led to an increase in car theft and a subsequent rise in insurance premium costs.

Insurance Premium Tax (IPT) – IPT is levied on most insurances. The standard rate of IPT rose to 12% in 2017, up from 6% in 2015. As a result, an insurance premium of £500 becomes £560 once IPT is added. Coupled with ongoing increases in the cost of living, there is potential that IPT could rise again in the future.

Accepting Your Renewal Price – Many motorists simply accept their renewal quote each year, without doing any additional research. This results in a high volume of missed savings. Given that many insurance providers increase their prices with inflation each year, the acceptance of such policy costs results in a rise in premiums across the board.

Overinflated Hire Costs – It is common for customers to be given a courtesy vehicle following an incident. Often, the cost of this is claimed via the third-party insurance company and the costs may be overinflated.

As always, we recommend using the services of a reputable insurance broker to find an insurance policy which meets your individual requirements. Please also visit our blogs ‘ How are car insurance premiums calculated? ’ and ‘ How do I choose the right car insurance company for me? ’ for further information.

How can I reduce the cost of my car insurance as a young driver?

Fri, 28 Apr 2023 10:12:08 GMT

Young drivers who have recently passed their driving test are likely to pay more for car insurance due to the increased risk they pose to the insurance company.

There are several factors worth considering when trying to lower your premiums:

Add a named driver to your policy – Adding a driver with more experience could reduce your overall risk level and result in lower premiums. For example, you could consider adding a parent to your policy, although they cannot pretend to be the main driver as this is illegal.

Pay annually – Paying annually is cheaper than paying monthly, as insurers charge interest on monthly instalments. Consider privately saving your premium amount throughout the year in order to benefit from making an annual payment.

Use a telematics device – Known commonly as a black box, this device will be fitted to your vehicle to monitor a number of driving characteristics, such as mileage covered, acceleration, braking and the time of day. The price of your insurance may go down if your insurer deems you a sensible, safe driver. Please note that in turn, your insurance could increase in price if you are deemed to be driving dangerously.

Choosing a car with a lower insurance classification – Each vehicle is assigned an insurance group classification from 1 to 50, with 1 being the cheapest and 50 being the most expensive. Choosing a car with a low insurance classification is likely to result in lower insurance costs. We recommend exploring the classification of a vehicle before purchasing it or entering into a financing arrangement.

Avoid unnecessary features – There are a number of additional add-ons that can be applied to insurance policies, such as breakdown cover or key cover. Whilst these may be useful, it may be cheaper to buy these features separately.

We always recommend using a local broker to ensure you purchase a policy suited to your individual needs. It is your duty to ensure that the information you supply to the broker and insurance company is correct and truthful.

We know that car insurance can sometimes feel like a minefield, so visit our blogs ‘ Car Insurance Jargon Buster ’ and ‘ How do I choose the right insurance company for me? ’, or give us a call for further information!

The CARS Vision

Fri, 28 Apr 2023 10:12:07 GMT

Please note that subtitles have been auto-generated.

The main objective of CARS is to repair accident-damaged vehicles , including (but not limited to) cars, vans and Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs). Our ethos is to provide effective and consistent service to our customers, and ensure they feel fully informed throughout their repair journey.

We understand that no two customer journeys are ever the same. Unfortunately, if a person is visiting us, it’s often because they’ve suffered an incident or damage to their vehicle – whether it be their pride and joy, life bud of a business, or the family taxi. Therefore, we value taking the time to really communicate with our customers and to fully understand their worries, concerns, or general queries. It is that which has allowed us to become a trusted entity within our industry.

Ultimately, the goal of any credible accident repair centre should be to return a vehicle to the state in which the manufacturer intended upon originally leaving the factory. To do so, CARS uses manufacturer repair methods, the most up-to-date tooling, leading paint refinish materials, and genuine parts to ensure all vehicles leaving the premises are safe and road-worthy.

As a family-run business, we pride ourselves on offering high-quality, efficient, and friendly service to new and returning customers.

If you would like a repair quote, or even just advice about a motoring query you may have, please don’t hesitate to give CARS a call .

About Us: Lisa

Fri, 28 Apr 2023 10:12:05 GMT

Lisa | Director at CARS of Grimsby

Having always had a hand in the business, I officially joined CARS in 2014 following a lengthy career with the Department for Work & Pensions (DWP). Along with Jason, I am responsible for the daily running of the business, specialising in accounts and other financial aspects.

I am passionate about maintaining the CARS ethos of putting the customer at the forefront of everything we do. We wouldn’t be here without you!

My Hobbies: Walking weekends in the Lakes with Jase (talking business!) or on the beach with our dog, Nelly.

Favourite Drink: White Wine & Lemonade or a Whiskey!

Best Car I’ve Ever Owned: Audi TT

Will having a dash cam reduce the cost of my car insurance?

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 08:44:31 GMT

Dash cams are becoming increasingly popular with drivers, as they can be used to provide recorded evidence which can aid and protect motorists in the event of an incident .

There are many types of dash cams available, from simple versions with audio and video recording, to those with numerous add-ons, such as Road Safety Alerts, built in GPS and Time and Date stamping.

There are several ways that having a dash cam can benefit you financially. Firstly, several insurance companies are offering reduced premiums to drivers who have dash cams fitted to their vehicles, as they believe that drivers who know they are being recorded are likely to be more cautious on the roads.

Next, if you are involved in an accident , the dash cam footage can be used as credible evidence to prove who was at fault. This could be extremely helpful in terms of preserving your No Claims Discount, if applicable. To prove what happened during the incident, you can send the footage directly to your insurance company for viewing. Most leading motor insurance companies are now accepting dash cam footage as evidence in the event of a claim.

It is important to note that not all insurance companies offer discounts or financial incentives for having a dash cam fitted. Furthermore, some companies have additional requirements that the chosen dash cam must have. For example, some insurers state that the footage must be high-resolution with clear number plate recognition, whereas other insurers highlight the necessity to have Time and Date Stamping.

Whilst fitting a dash cam is a simple task for many, some insurance companies state that the device must be fitted by an industry professional. We would therefore advise checking each of these points with your insurer.

You should note, if you inform your insurer that you have a dash cam fitted and are benefitting from discounted premiums for doing so, you must be able to provide dash cam evidence to your insurer in the event of a claim. If you are unable to provide relevant evidence to your insurer because your dash cam wasn’t switched on (for example), you may be penalised. Again, we would advise checking the exact terms of use with your insurer.

If you wish to find further information, there are a number of review websites, such as TechRadar, which provide a detailed overview of the dash cams available in the market.

What should I do if my vehicle is written off by my insurer?

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 08:44:30 GMT

An insurance write-off is usually a vehicle which is damaged beyond repair, or beyond the point of the repairs being economical.

The general rule of thumb is that most insurance companies will write a vehicle off if the repair exceeds 70% of its value. However, in some cases the customer has a legal right to have their vehicle repaired up to 100% of its value. If you do not wish for your vehicle to be written off, it is worth asking the insurance company for the finer details around their mathematical calculation. If you do need any help with this, we are on hand to assist.

If you’re involved in an accident and put in a claim with your insurance company, they will assess the damage to the vehicle to decide whether it’s a write-off. This includes a calculation to estimate how much it would cost to repair the damage and whether this is economical, considering the vehicle’s value.

If your insurance company decides your car will be written off, they will usually offer a settlement in line with the market value of the car at the time of the incident, less the excess amount on your policy.

Your vehicle will fall into one of the below categories:

Category A – This typically includes vehicles involved in extreme incidents, such as fires. In this instance, no parts can be recycled or reused, and the vehicle must be destroyed.

Category B – The vehicle is damaged beyond repair, but some parts can be recycled. A Category B vehicle cannot be sold on second-hand, as the vehicle is not allowed to go back onto the road.

Category C – The vehicle can be repaired , but the repairs are likely to cost more than the vehicle is worth. You can continue to use the vehicle if it is repaired to a roadworthy condition.

Category D – The vehicle can be repaired , and the cost of repairs may be less than the vehicle is worth, but additional costs (such as transportation costs), create a total cost which is over the vehicle’s value. You can continue to use the vehicle if it is repaired to a roadworthy condition.

Category N – The vehicle can be repaired following non-structural damage. You can continue to use the vehicle if it is repaired to a roadworthy condition.

Category S – The vehicle can be repaired following structural damage. You can continue to use the vehicle if it is repaired to a roadworthy condition.

When your vehicle is written off, ownership passes to your insurance company who provide you a pay-out in compensation in exchange. You should follow the below steps if your vehicle is written off:

Apply to take the registration number off the vehicle if you want to keep it.
Send the vehicle logbook (V5C) to your insurance provider, but keep the yellow ‘sell, transfer of part-exchange your vehicle to the motor trade’ section from it.
Inform the DVLA that your vehicle has been written off. Please note that you could be fined £1,000 if you do not contact the DVLA.

For further assistance, don’t hesitate to give CARS a call !

Will the points on my licence affect my car insurance premium?

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 08:44:29 GMT

Licence penalty points can be given for several driving offences, the most common being speeding or dangerous driving. The number of points received usually depends on the offence committed. The more serious the offence, the more points received and the higher the potential increase in insurance costs.

If you hold penalty points on your licence, you may pay more for cover, and some insurers might be unwilling to cover you at all. This is because insurance companies calculate the premiums payable based on the risks associated with each individual customer and their individual circumstances.

You are obliged to inform your insurer of any current points on your licence at policy commencement. Please also note that some insurers state in their terms and conditions that they must be notified of any additional points received during the policy term. If you do not disclose penalty points or driving offences to your insurer and then try to make a claim, they may refuse to pay out in full or sometimes, they may not pay out at all.

Whilst it’s not a particularly bad idea to compare car insurance quotes online, it’s not always easy to understand the policy terms and requirements. Simply selecting the cheapest cover could cost you far more if you need to make a claim.

Therefore, we always recommend using a local broker who will ensure you have a policy which meets your needs and will also be there if the worst should happen. If, however, you do choose to purchase your cover online, make sure you read the small print and call the provider to confirm the details with you.

You should consider the cost, level of cover and the voluntary excess you would be able to pay in the event of making a claim. For further information, please visit our blog ‘ How do I choose the right insurance company for me? ’

If you have points on your licence and are concerned about the potential increase in insurance costs, there are a number of variables you could consider to lower the premiums payable:

Consider fitting a telematics device – Telematics devices, known commonly as black boxes, monitor driving styles and provide real-time data to your insurance company. This encourages safer and sensible driving, for which insurance companies may offer lower premiums. In turn, less erratic driving will increase the lifespan of your vehicle.

Increase the voluntary excess amount – Usually, the higher the excess, the lower the premiums. However, you should note that you will be required to pay the excess amount in the event of a claim, so you should make sure you select an excess that you can afford.

Increase your safety measures – The cost of your insurance may increase if your car is parked on a road, rather than a secure garage. You should park your vehicle in a garage if possible.

Have a dash cam fitted – Some insurance companies may offer reduced premiums if you have a dash cam fitted to the vehicle. You should check with the insurance company to identify if this is a possibility for the policy type you are considering. For further information, please visit our blog ‘ Will having a dash cam reduce the cost of my car insurance? ’

What should I look out for when purchasing car insurance?

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 08:44:29 GMT

Car insurance is essential in giving you financial protection in the event of an accident .

What is fully comprehensive insurance?

Fully comprehensive insurance pays out if you damage your car, someone else’s car or cause injury in an accident , even if you’re not at fault. You might also be covered for other events, such as vandalism, for example.

What is third party insurance?

This is the minimum level of cover you can legally hold unless you officially register your car as off-road with a Statutory Off-Road Notification (SORN). This type of policy covers the costs of damage you cause to someone else’s vehicle, as well as any injuries you may cause to a third party. There is no cover if your own car is damaged or stolen.

What is third party, fire and theft insurance?

As above, this covers other people but offers you no protection if your own car is damaged in an accident. This type of policy differs from generic third-party insurance in the way that it covers repairs or replacement if your car is stolen or damaged by fire.

What are car insurance groups?

All cars are assigned a car insurance group from 1 (lowest/ cheapest) to 50 (highest/ most expensive). Your insurer will take this into consideration when calculating your forthcoming premiums. The insurance groups are subject to change and are dependent on several factors, such as:

The value of the vehicle
The vehicle’s safety and security features
The vehicle’s performance
Potential repair costs

As well as numbered groups, lettered suffixes are also allocated to each vehicle, which correlate to the safety level, as follows:

A = Meets the level of security requirements for this vehicle.
D = Does not meet the security requirements for this type of vehicle. This may increase the group allocation of the vehicle and subsequent repair cost.
E = Exceeds the security requirements for this type of vehicle. This may decrease the group allocation of the vehicle and subsequent repair cost.
P = There is not enough available data to classify the car into an insurance group. The rating is therefore classed as provisional.
U = The operative level of security is unacceptable. Usually, the insurer may require you to upgrade the vehicle’s security before providing cover.
G = Applies to imported vehicles which were not built for the UK market.

It is therefore worth noting that ensuring your vehicle has appropriate safety and security measures could result in a lower insurance group classification and lower premiums.

We also recommend exploring the potential cost of car insurance before purchasing a new vehicle. Visit our blog ‘ How do I choose the right insurance company for me? ’ for further information.

What is no-claims bonus?

Most insurers offer you a discount for not claiming on your policy. The discount increases with each year that you don’t make a claim, subsequently reducing your premiums. If you have an accident and you make a claim on your car insurance, you may lose part or all of your no claims discount, therefore pushing your premiums up.

It is important to note that this may remain the most cost-effective option if you need to make a claim following an accident, due to relatively high repair costs.

Protected no claims bonus is where an element of cover is placed on your standard no claims bonus, meaning you can make claims without affecting your discount. Insurance companies may, however, place a limit on the number of claims you can make before losing the additional protection.

What is insurance excess, and do I have to pay it?

The level of compulsory excess is decided by your insurer. The voluntary excess is an amount selected by you, which you agree to pay in the event of a claim. You should therefore make sure you select an affordable excess amount. Usually, the higher the excess, the lower the premiums. At CARS, we offer to help our customers with their excess to make the cost of their claim more manageable.

Will I have to take my vehicle to my insurer’s approved repairer?

In short, no. Your insurance company may try to tell you that you can only use one of their approved repairers, but this is not the case. It is your legal right to take your vehicle to a repair centre of your choice.

Your policy may state that an additional fee will become payable if you choose to take your vehicle to a repairer of your choice, or that they won’t give you a courtesy vehicle. A local repair centre , like CARS, would be able to help you with this additional premium and could also provide you with a courtesy vehicle for as long as required.

You should ask for the following information in respect of the insurance company’s approved repairers:

Location – It is possible that your insurance company may not have any approved repairers local to you and there may also be additional travel or recovery costs associated with getting your vehicle to the garage. It is also possible that it might not be safe to drive to the repairer if your vehicle isn’t road-worthy after an accident. Furthermore, the approved repairer may not be willing to offer you a courtesy vehicle.
Customer Service and Reviews – Before purchasing a product or service, you would usually look at reviews of, say, your top-three choices and pick the best. Insurance companies are unlikely to take this into consideration when agreeing their list of approved repairers. It’s possible that you may receive a better service by taking the vehicle to a local repair centre of your choosing.
Repair methods – Several insurance companies grant their approved repairers the use of second-hand or non-genuine parts during a repair. This can alter the safety and performance of your vehicle. Ultimately, your car should be returned to the state at which the manufacturer intended upon originally leaving the factory.

You may find it effective to use a local broker when arranging car insurance, or if you want just a simple chat, feel free to give us a call and we can offer you impartial advice.

Why is it important to service my car?

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 08:44:28 GMT

Usually, your car is required to be serviced at certain mileage intervals or time spans. This criterion is set by the manufacturer. Whilst servicing your car isn’t technically a legal requirement, there are several reasons why getting your car serviced regularly is vitally important.

Maintaining the value

Should you choose to sell your car in years to come, evidence of regular and reputable servicing (in other words, a full service history), is likely to attract more potential buyers and a higher sale price.

Maintaining the warranty

You may be required to have your car serviced at regular intervals to retain the vehicle warranty. However, do note that you are not required to have your vehicle serviced by the dealer or garage you purchased it from, but you should select a VAT registered garage and insist on the use of OE (Original Equipment) quality parts.

Safety

As part of your service, a skilled technician should carry out essential checks to ensure your vehicle remains safe and road-worthy. Any damaged or worn components could hugely impact your vehicle’s safety and performance, increasing the likelihood of an accident or other damage.

Longevity

Regular services are likely to improve the lifespan of your vehicle – when you take care of something, it usually lasts longer! Having your car serviced at regular intervals is likely to identify early issues which could become more expensive down the line. For example, replacing your air and oil filters ensure your engine is running smoothly and efficiently. Not doing so could result in your engine not being safe for use and requiring repair or replacement, which could be costly.

Future Insurance Claims

Should you make a claim on your car insurance following an accident or other damage, one of the things an insurance engineer could check is whether your vehicle is road-worthy. For example, if your tyres or brakes are in poor condition, it may take you longer to stop in an emergency. Your insurer may refuse your claim because you haven’t mitigated the risk of any damage in an accident. Regular servicing will identify any worn components, ensuring your vehicle is in tip-top condition, keeping you safe as the manufacturer intended.

There are multiple ways you can identify when your car needs a service :

Dashboard warning signals
Unusual sounds, such as squeaking, rattling, or ticking
Vibrations and juddering
Less effective braking
Frequent stalling

At CARS, we offer multiple service types tailored to your individual needs. In some cases, you may even be able to wait with us whilst we fix your vehicle. If you want to get booked in, or just want to have a free health check on your vehicle, pop down to see us!

Why do repair costs vary from garage to garage?

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 08:44:27 GMT

Wouldn’t it be easy if all accident repair centres charged the same for each type of vehicle repair, leaving you only to narrow them down by levels of customer service?

In truth, there are several different variables which impact the cost of a vehicle repair, and each garage will exercise different levels of care and due diligence when looking at these variables. These include, but are not limited to, the following:

Material quality, and whether parts are genuine or second-hand – At CARS, we recommend the use of genuine parts, specific to your vehicle’s make and model. Some repairers may choose to use second-hand or non-genuine parts to lower the cost of the repair, but this may impact the overall safety level of the vehicle. The aim of any high-quality vehicle body repair centre should be to return the vehicle to the standard in which it initially left the factory.

Repair or replace? – Although it may be cheaper to repair a damaged vehicle part in many cases, it may not always be ethical. Some repair centres choose to repair damaged vehicle parts rather than replace them, even where this may compromise the safety level of the vehicle.

Adhering to manufacturer repair methods – The cost of a repair will depend on whether the repairer follows manufacturer guidelines. A high-quality repairer will follow the data provided by the manufacturer and if you’re between garages trying to decide which to use, this would be a good detail to confirm!

Estimate quality and attention to detail – A high-quality repair centre should always have highly-skilled technicians, working to manufacturer methods using quality replacement parts. To ensure that all repairs are carried out to the highest standard, the journey of high quality must start at the point of estimate. For example, estimators should be sufficiently trained to identify damage that may have impacted your vehicle’s Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), resulting in a need for recalibration. Additionally, there are multiple paint types used on vehicles, such as metallic or three-stage pearl, which impact the time needed for repair and subsequent repair cost.

Labour rate – Labour rates are variable from business to business. You will often find that main dealers are more expensive due to their guaranteed workflow, whereas independent body shops are more likely to offer a discounted rate to attract the customer.

In summary, whilst any body shop carrying out accident repairs should be quality-focused and reputable, they all operate differently and appeal to customers for different reasons. Whilst hourly rates are important, it is far more important that the repairer puts quality at the forefront of everything they do.

About Us: Jason

jason@cars-grimsby.co.uk (Jason Barker) — Mon, 03 Apr 2023 08:43:58 GMT

Jason | Managing Director at CARS of Grimsby

I was born and raised in Grimsby, and always had a passion for everything automotive! After leaving school, I initially worked on the Docks with my Dad, before venturing into the car industry.

Although I was quite old for an apprentice at age 27, my passion for the car repair industry propelled me at an extreme rate. 25 years later, we own a successful accident repair centre founded on quality and excellent customer service. Our business has gone from strength to strength, and we’ve been at home in our bigger premises on the South Humberside Industrial Estate since 2018.

When you love what you do, it never feels like work – and I never have ‘Sunday feeling’!

Favourite Holiday Destination: Santorini or The Lakes

Favourite Drink: Jack Daniel's Anything

Best Car I’ve Ever Owned: Porsche Cayman S

What happens if I make a claim on my car insurance?

Tue, 28 Feb 2023 16:07:10 GMT

Please note that subtitles have been auto-generated.

Each vehicle and incident should be analysed on a case-by-case basis. When a damaged vehicle arrives at CARS , we look at the damage and insurance policy information to establish whether it is most cost-effective for our customer to claim on their car insurance or pay for the repairs themselves.

Nonetheless, many remain concerned about claiming on their insurance due to the potential cost implications.

Firstly, a common concern is that of increased premiums. In actuality, the amount that your car insurance premium may increase by is dependent on several factors, such as the type of claim, the severity of the accident and whether the accident was your fault. Your premiums may increase if you make a claim, however, in some instances, this may be far cheaper than paying for the cost of the repairs outright.

Furthermore, when making a claim on your car insurance, your excess may become payable. This is comprised of the compulsory excess, set by the insurance company at outset, and voluntary excess, set by the policyholder at outset. When commencing a car insurance policy, you should make sure that the excess level you select is affordable, as this will have to be paid in the event of a claim. At CARS, we can help you with this to make the overall cost more manageable.

There is also clear question around how making a claim will impact any no-claims discount you may hold. Any protected no-claims discount is unlikely to be affected if you make a claim. Although, it is important to note that several insurance companies have a rule regarding the maximum amount of times you can make a claim before your discount is affected.

Any impact on your standard no-claims discount will depend on what is written into your policy. For example, there are some instances where your discount will not be impacted, such as where your car has been vandalised or where you’ve been involved in an accident that wasn’t your fault. Alternatively, your discount may be reduced or removed, potentially increasing your premiums if you’re at fault.

When making a claim, your insurance company is likely to tell you that you must take your vehicle to one of their approved repairers. This is not true, and you must be aware of your rights to the following information:

The location of their approved repairers – It is possible that your insurance company may not have any approved repairers local to you and there may also be additional travel or recovery costs associated with getting your vehicle to the garage. You must also consider whether it is safe to drive your car to the repairer. For example, the type of accident and subsequent level of damage may mean that your car is not road-worthy. Furthermore, the approved repairer may not be willing to offer you a courtesy vehicle, potentially leaving you without a way to get back home. We would advise taking your car to a local garage to check whether it is safe to drive to an approver repairer in another location, should you choose to do so. A local garage is likely to be better equipped to give this advice than a claims handler.

Their customer service and reviews – Before purchasing a product or service, you would usually look at reviews of, say, your top-three choices and pick the best. Insurance companies are unlikely to take this into consideration when agreeing their list of approved repairers. It’s possible that you may receive a better service by taking the vehicle to a local repair centre of your choosing.

Repair methods – A number of insurance companies grant their approved repairers the use of second-hand or non-genuine parts during a repair. This can alter the safety and performance of your vehicle. Ultimately, your car should be returned to the state at which the manufacturer intended upon originally leaving the factory.

Whilst you don’t have to take your car to an approved repairer, it is important to note that if you choose an alternative, independent repairer , you should ensure that they have the appropriate knowledge and skill to return your vehicle back to its pre-accident condition.

Your insurance company may state that they levy an additional fee for you choosing an alternative repairer, but at CARS, we can also help you with this charge to reduce the overall costs payable.

We will also take over all correspondence with your insurance company, dealing with all estimates they require, so you don’t have to.

How will vehicle modifications impact my insurance premium?

Tue, 28 Feb 2023 16:07:08 GMT

A car modification is any kind of alteration to a vehicle which changes the way the vehicle looks, performs, or behaves and isn’t part of the factory’s standard specifications.

Any modification is likely to impact your regular premiums. For example, a car with upgraded alloy wheels is likely to be deemed more expensive and is more likely to be broken into. Similarly, if you make engine modifications to increase a car’s power and performance, most insurers will see the vehicle as a higher risk. The premiums will therefore be higher to counteract the increased risk.

In contrast, some modifications may lower your insurance premiums. Parking sensors could reduce the likelihood of causing damage to your vehicle whilst parking, therefore reducing the premiums payable.

Insurance companies may also give you the option to fit a telematics device, known commonly as a black box. These devices monitor driving characteristics, such as acceleration speeds and braking severity, and adjust the premiums accordingly. It is worth noting that whilst this could reward you with lower premiums for safer driving, you may pay increased premiums if your driving is deemed risky in any way. There may also be a penalty for driving at specific times, such as late in the evening.

It is important to note that if a technician comes out to fit a telematics device to your vehicle and discovers any kind of modification which was not declared to the insurance provider, they may refuse to fit the device and ask you to speak directly with the provider before the installation can be carried out. This could result in a second visit to your vehicle and there could be a cost for this.

When purchasing a new vehicle, you should also consider whether there have been any modifications made to the vehicle by the previous owner as these could also impact your premiums. If you are unsure, you could ask a local repair technician to look over the vehicle to ensure you are relaying the correct information to your insurance provider.

Insurance companies may vary in the way they view different modifications. We would advise calling your insurance provider before making any modifications to help you make an informed financial decision.

If you don’t declare modifications on your car insurance and then need to make a claim, your claim may be refused, and your insurance may be void. It could also lead to cover being more expensive in the future.

For further advice, just give us a call !

How do I choose the right insurance company for me?

Tue, 28 Feb 2023 16:07:07 GMT

Selecting the right insurance company can be a difficult task, especially without any professional industry knowledge. At CARS, we want to equip you with sufficient details to enable you to make an informed decision.

In the first instance, individuals usually look to price comparison websites such as GoCompare , uswitch , Compare the Market and Money Super Market to review and compare the policies offered by different insurance providers. Comparison sites allow you to get quotes from multiple providers in one space. Most people then set filters to rank the policies from the cheapest to the most expensive. However, there may be several reasons why comparison sites aren’t always appropriate for your circumstances:

Ranking – Comparison sites often rank entirely in terms of pricing and may not consider other important factors, such as quality and customer satisfaction ratings.

Inclusivity – Some companies choose not to advertise on comparison sites at all, meaning you may not gain an accurate representation of all policies available in the marketplace.

Sponsored Listings – Some sites are sponsored by insurers, meaning they’ll put the policies from those insurers near the top of their listings. Without extensive care and due diligence, this could result in a customer purchasing a more expensive policy, or one which is not aligned to their needs.

Alternatively, you could choose to explore insurance companies via direct channels. Factors to consider include:

Reputation – Research the companies you’re interested in, with a clear focus on their reputation and financial strength. There are a number of different strength rating agencies, such as Moody’s and Standard & Poor’s, which provide detailed reports and comparisons of companies across the industry.

Ease of Interaction – Gain an understanding of how you will be able to interact with the company. Some providers offer ‘live chat’ and 24/7 customer service facilities which may be of particular interest.

Recommendations – The best recommendations are often those which come from family members, friends and colleagues. Similarly, you should consider exploring a company’s reviews to obtain details of other first-hand experiences.

Whether you purchase a policy via a comparison site or direct, you should consider the following points:

Voluntary Excess - This is the additional amount you will pay if you make a claim. The higher the excess, the lower the premiums. You must select an excess that you can afford to pay in the event of a claim.

Approved Repairer – Some insurance companies suggest that you may have to take your car to one of their approved repairers. They may not give you sufficient information on these repairers or their customer reviews. In reality, it is your right to take your vehicle to a repairer of your choice. There may be an additional fee for this, but please give us a call if you’re concerned!

Loan Car – You may require access to a loan car if you’re without your car for a period of time. However, it is important to note that you may only be able to access a loan car from your insurance company if you use one of your insurance company’s approved repairers. Should you take your car to a repairer of your choosing, they may be able to offer you access to a loan car.

We would advise going to a local insurance broker to discuss your policy requirements with them.

If you still find yourself confused after reading the above information, don’t hesitate to give us a call !

How are car insurance premiums calculated?

Tue, 28 Feb 2023 16:07:06 GMT

The cost of your car insurance premium is based on factors that the insurance provider will use to assess how likely you are to make a claim and how big of a risk they believe you to be. These factors include:

Your address – Insurance providers will look at a variety of factors for your residential address, including the average claim history, the crime rate and general driving behaviour.

Your age – Your age can affect how much you pay for car insurance. Typically, young people are considered higher risk drivers due to their inexperience and likelihood of being involved in an incident. Providers often recommend policies with telematics boxes for young drivers, as these monitor driving characteristics and adjust the premiums accordingly. Similarly, older drivers over 70 may pay more for insurance given the likelihood of an accident.

Your occupation – Insurance providers consider whether your occupation increases or decreases the likelihood of you making a claim. For example, social and community workers may pay a higher premium due to the increased hours spent driving and chance of visiting areas which have high crime rates.

Your driving history – Providers will consider your years of experience, prior claims and driving convictions when calculating your premium. They typically want to know of any claims made in the past five years, including any non-fault claims. If you’ve not made any claims for a year or more, you may have accrued an element of no-claims discount, which can lower the cost of future premiums.

Your mileage – Having a higher mileage allowance is likely to increase your insurance premiums, as the further you drive, the more likely you are to be involved in an accident.

The type of vehicle – The make and model of vehicle can impact the premiums payable. More expensive vehicles will create a higher cost for providers in the event of the vehicle being written off and your insurance cost will be higher.

Where your vehicle is left overnight – The likelihood of car theft increases overnight, with more burglaries taking place after dark. Parking your vehicle in a garage or secure driveway is therefore considered safer than parking on a public road. If you don’t have a garage or driveway, we suggest selecting somewhere which is well-lit, with CCTV if available.

How much excess you’re willing to pay – If you make a claim, the total excess payable is made up of compulsory excess and voluntary excess. The higher the voluntary excess, the smaller the amount needed to be contributed by the insurance provider, resulting in a lower insurance premium. However, you must select a voluntary excess amount which you could afford to pay in the event of an accident.

If you need a bit more information or want a chat about any of the above, don’t hesitate to give us a call !

Do I have to take my vehicle to one of my insurer's approved repairers?

Tue, 28 Feb 2023 16:07:03 GMT

Please note that subtitles have been auto-generated.

Insurance companies often state that damaged vehicles must be taken to one of their approved repairers. However, if you need a car repair in Grimsby , you have the legal right to choose a repair centre that works best for you – not just the one your insurer suggests.

What Is an Approved Repairer?

An approved repairer is one which is authorised by your insurance provider to repair your car in the event of a claim. This could be because the insurance provider has beneficial pricing rates with the repairer, enabling them to carry out the work for a reduced cost.

Know Your Rights When Choosing a Repairer

You must be aware of your rights to the following information:

The location of their approved repairers

It is possible that your insurance company may not have any approved repairers local to you and there may also be additional travel or recovery costs associated with getting your vehicle to the garage. You must also consider whether it is safe to drive your car to the repairer. For example, the type of accident and subsequent level of damage may mean that your car is not road worthy. Furthermore, the approved repairer may not be willing to offer you a courtesy vehicle, potentially leaving you without a way to get back home. We would advise taking your car to a local garage to check whether it is safe to drive to an approver repairer in another location, should you choose to do so. A local garage is likely to be better equipped to give this advice than a claims handler.

Their customer service and reviews

Before purchasing a product or service, you would usually look at reviews of, say, your top-three choices and pick the best. Insurance companies are unlikely to take this into consideration when agreeing their list of approved repairers. It’s possible that you may receive a better service by taking the vehicle to a local repair centre of your choosing.

Repair methods

Several insurance companies grant their approved repairers the use of second-hand or non-genuine parts during a repair. This can alter the safety and performance of your vehicle. Ultimately, your car should be returned to the state at which the manufacturer intended upon originally leaving the factory.

What to Consider with Independent Repair Centres

Whilst you don’t have to take your car to an approved repairer, it is important to note that if you choose an independent repairer, you should ensure that they have the appropriate knowledge and skill to return your vehicle back to its pre-accident condition.

How CARS of Grimsby Can Help You

Your insurance provider might state that they will charge an additional sum on top of your excess if you choose to take the vehicle to an accident repair centre of your choice. At CARS of Grimsby, we can help you manage this. We will also take over all communication with your insurance company and deal with any estimates which they may require.

Need Car Repairs in Grimsby? Contact CARS First

If you need car repairs in Grimsby or you’ve been involved in an accident, call CARS of Grimsby before contacting your insurer. We’ll give you clear, local advice and handle the full repair process on your behalf.

Car Insurance Jargon Buster

Tue, 28 Feb 2023 16:07:01 GMT

Approved Repairer – A repair centre which has been credited to carry out work on your vehicle by your insurance company. Do remember that you don’t have to use one of your insurance company’s approved repairers and have the right to take your vehicle to a repair centre of your choice.

Comprehensive Cover – The highest level of car insurance coverage, often referred to as ‘fully comp’. With this cover, you’re protected for accidental damage, fire and theft. Some policies also offer cover for medical expenses and damage to personal effects in the car, although please note that policies vary between insurers and you must check this before purchase.

Compulsory Excess – A fixed amount you have to pay when making a claim on your car insurance policy. This amount is determined by your insurer and depends on different factors such as age and car type. This type of excess is set by your insurer and is non-negotiable.

Fault Claim – Usually, this results from an accident where you are to blame or where the insurance company can’t recover the costs from somebody else, for example where the other driver is not insured or cannot be traced.

Fronting – Where a driver declares to a car insurance company that they are the named driver, but someone else is actually the main user of the car.

Insured Value – The total amount that the insurance company will pay out for your car if it’s deemed a total loss, or beyond economical repair.

Modifications – Any changes made to your vehicle which alters the way it looks, behaves or performs. Any alteration made to your vehicle should be declared to your insurer and could impact your premium. You should consider phoning your insurance company before making the changes.

Non-Fault Claim – A claim where your insurer is able to recover the cost of the claim from someone else, usually the person who is to blame for the accident or damage.

No Claims Discount – You receive a years’ no claims discount for each year you drive without making a claim on your insurance policy, subject to an overall maximum. The discount then reduces the cost of your car insurance premium at renewal.

Protected No Claims Discount – If you need to make a fault claim on your car insurance, you may be deemed a higher risk driver in the eyes of your insurer, and this may result in an increase in your premium for the following year. It would therefore be wise to protect your no claims discount, as this means that even if you are considered an increased risk, you will still benefit from an element of no claims discount in future years.

Third Party, Fire and Theft – Insures you against fire, theft or damage to your car if it’s stolen, or any damage you cause to other people and their property.

Third Party Only – This is the minimum level of car insurance required by law. It usually only covers any damage you cause to other people and their property.

Voluntary Excess – The amount you are willing to pay towards the cost of a claim. Usually, the higher the voluntary excess, the lower the regular premium. This is paid on top of compulsory excess.

Visit the Advice Centre for more information, or just give us a call !

What should I do if I'm involved in an accident?

Tue, 28 Feb 2023 16:06:59 GMT

Please note that subtitles have been auto-generated.

Firstly, move your vehicle into a safe place, away from any moving traffic.

Your safety and the safety of those around you is most important. If you’re unfortunate enough to be involved in a collision, check on everyone in your vehicle to make sure they are ok. If you, or anyone else involved in the collision is injured, ring the emergency services immediately. Try to remain as calm as possible.

If appropriate to do so, switch on your hazard lights to prevent a further accident occurring. Get yourself and any passengers to a place of safety, ideally away from the roadside and behind available barriers.

Don’t apologise or admit responsibility for the accident until you’re completely aware of what has happened. Instead, obtain the details of the third-party(s), including name, address and insurance information, along with the date and time of the crash.

Taking photographic evidence and obtaining witness statements will also be of significant help should you need to make an insurance claim. Further useful information includes the driving conditions at the point of accident, the road quality and what type of damage was caused.

If the other party(s) leaves the scene without stopping, contact the police immediately. You should also contact the police if you believe the other party caused the collision on purpose.

Phone CARS of Grimsby before phoning your insurance company and we will be there to help you avoid the pitfalls and guide you through the claims process.

How much will it cost to repair my car?

Tue, 28 Feb 2023 16:06:49 GMT

This is one of our most-asked questions. The truth is, there are several variables which can impact the cost of a repair. We want to address these here and equip you with sufficient information, enabling you to make an informed decision when it comes to any future repairs.

These variables include, but are not limited to, the following:

Material quality, and whether parts are genuine or second-hand – At CARS, we recommend only using genuine parts, specific to your vehicle’s make and model. Some repairers may use second-hand or non-genuine parts to carry out repairs. This will lower the cost of the repair, however it is important to note that when a vehicle is manufactured, before being released for sale, the car will go through rigorous testing to establish its safety rating.

The use of non-OE (Original Equipment) will impair the quality of the repair and ultimately, the safety of the vehicle, should it be involved in another incident. The aim of any high-quality vehicle body repair centre should be to reinstate the vehicle to the standard in which it left the factory. After all, we are travelling around in a 70 miles per hour safety cell.

Repair or replace? – In some cases, it may be cheaper to repair a damaged panel than to carry out a replacement. Although a repair in many cases is cheaper, is it always ethical?

On modern cars, more and more, as repairers we are being challenged by the use of different types of metals in vehicle manufacturing. For instance, some panels are made of metals containing alloy. These types of metals are extremely brittle and become weak during impact, and manipulation during the repair process. In a lot of cases, these panels should be replaced.

Conversely, if a repairer is choosing to replace a panel with a high alloy content, the use of incorrect welding equipment can also make this metal extremely brittle, resulting in the vehicle becoming vulnerable if it were to be in another accident.

Adhering to manufacturer repair methods – The cost of a repair will depend on whether the repairer follows manufacturer guidelines. As stated previously, vehicles should always be returned to the state in which the manufacturer intended. This means that the repairer should always follow data provided by the manufacturer and a good start when choosing your repairer would be to ask whether they adhere to this. After all, it will be the manufacturer who is best equipped to provide the best data for repairing your vehicle.

Estimate quality and attention to detail – It is important to note that there will always be grey areas when it comes to choosing whether to repair or replace, among other factors. Estimators have a varying degree of knowledge and experience.

In short, your chosen repairer should have highly skilled technicians, working to manufacturer methods and using quality replacement parts. The only grey areas which will then impact the cost would be estimate quality and the labour rate.

Older vehicles are fitted with passive safety systems that only become active at the point of impact. These safety systems include items such as your seatbelts and airbags. In contrast, newer vehicles have modernised Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), such as pedestrian avoidance, automatic emergency braking and blind spot detection, which aim to avoid accidents that usually occur because of human error. These active safety systems rely on multiple data sources which are continually monitoring the external surroundings of the vehicle. The systems use radar, cameras and other devices in image processing, to help your vehicle with collision avoidance.

It is important that an estimator is trained to identify underlying damage which could impact the functionality of ADAS modules, as these systems will usually need recalibrating to ensure the vehicle is safe and road-worthy once repaired. Furthermore, these modules are not always visible. As such, estimators should have access to manufacturer data, enabling them to carry out an investigation to find the specific modules that require recalibration.

The estimator will make the decision to repair or replace based on manufacturer data, in conjunction with their knowledge and experience of accident repair. They should also take into consideration the least intrusive method of repair and how damage to one area of the vehicle could impact other aspects of its safety and performance. Repair centres will incur a cost for the use of this manufacturer data, which will impact the subsequent cost of the repair.

Choosing not to follow the guidelines set out by manufacturers when repairing vehicles may lower the cost of a repair, however this could possibly mean that your vehicle may not respond correctly if it were to be involved in a further incident.

Labour rate – Rates are variable from business to business. Main dealers are often far more expensive than independent body shops. This is mainly because main dealers have a guaranteed workflow, whereas independent body shops are more likely to offer a discounted rate to attract the customer. This may also be reflected in the customer service you receive.

We hope you’ve found this article useful. In summary, here are some key questions you may ask when sourcing estimates from a potential accident repairer :

Are new and genuine parts being used to repair my car? You may be happy to use recycled parts, as this could be better for the environment. However, it would be wise to ask for the history of those parts, and photos of them before having them fitted to your vehicle.

Will the repairer adhere to manufacturer repair methods? The vehicle should always be returned to the state in which the manufacturer intended.

Is the estimator qualified to recognise the exact specification of my vehicle, identifying safety systems such as ADAS? There is more to vehicle repair than meets the eye, and an estimator should be able to identify both visible and non-visible damage.

The real cost to you will depend on whether you choose to pay for the car repairs yourself or make a claim on your insurance. Making a claim on your insurance is often seen as a negative option or last resort, when, although your premiums may increase in future years, this is unlikely to be equivalent to the amount you would pay upfront if you chose to pay for the repairs yourself.

How CARS was founded

Tue, 28 Feb 2023 16:06:45 GMT

CARS of Grimsby is a family-run accident repair centre and was founded in 2012 by Jason & Lisa Barker.

Here are some words from our Managing Director:

After years of upskilling and learning as much as possible about the vehicle body repair industry, I built up a fleet of mobile accident repair vehicles, carrying out work across Lincolnshire and beyond. We reached a point where we’d maximised our growth on this path, and wanted to achieve something bigger…

Initially, we opened our first bodyshop on Birchin Way in Grimsby. We wanted to become the go-to garage in the area, offering credible, non-biased advice, and of course, repairs of the highest quality.

In late 2013, we opened a satellite site offering high quality repairs for the HGV industry . In 2017, we bought our new premises on the South Humberside Industrial Estate and carried out a full refurbishment, including the installation of high-tech estimation and repair equipment, bringing all operations together under one roof.

Almost 11 years from when we first started CARS, we now have a highly qualified and knowledgeable team, offering combined experience of over 100 years and a broad range of auto services throughout Grimsby, Cleethorpes and beyond.

We are a fully independent business and are not associated with any car insurance companies, which allows us to provide a high-quality service and satisfactory customer journey.