Expert Auto Repair in Grimsby

We have customers all over North East Lincolnshire and into Yorkshire, Greater Lincolnshire and from further affield. If you're happy to come to us - we're more than happy to see you!

When cars were initially fitted with airbags there was a lack of knowledge and confidence about the long term reliability of the systems. Car manufacturers and manufacturers of airbag systems agreed to validate them for a 10 year life span. Airbags work in way of a sodium azide tablet which produces the gas which inflates the airbag. This tablet, together with an explosive device are sealed. Although some moisture ingress is possible it should not affect performance. There will also be some natural chemical decay, but again this shouldn't stop the airbag from working. More recently manufacturers have increased the validation period to 15 years on later cars without making major changes to design and we are not aware of any airbag failures attributed to ageing.

There's not a standard change interval for cambelts. Depending on the model and the manufacturer, the recommended interval can be anywhere between 30,000 miles and 100,000 miles. There will often be a time-based interval specified too e.g. 60,000 miles or five years, whichever is the sooner. Sometimes the manufacturer will revise the recommended interval during the life of the vehicle so it's best to check with a franchise dealer as they will have the most up-to-date information. They will need to know the make, model, engine number and model year. In most cases cambelt failure results in serious damage to many other components in the engine - a major rebuild or even replacement engine will be required! It does no harm to renew the belt early. If you buy a used car it's wise to get the belt renewed if you are in any doubt that it has been renewed at the appropriate time.

The manufacturer is under no obligation to help you once the warranty has expired, as it's generally accepted that faults caused by manufacturing or material defects will show up during the warranty.

Regular servicing is important for health and to maintain the system working effectively. Up to 15% of the refrigerant gas will be lost annually. Run your air conditioning at least once a week throughout the year. Have the refrigerant gas checked regularly and topped up to manufacturers' recommended levels. Help improve hygiene and air quality with a regular cabin filter change, as it can become blocked with pollen. A regular air duct clean helps remove the bacteria and fungi that can cause unpleasant odours. Service air-conditioning units every 30,000 miles or two years to avoid costly repairs.