BLOG

23/11/2024 - Rear Brake Drums, shoes replacement with handbrake adjustment

 

Why You Shouldn't Ignore Your Rear Brake Shoes and Drums: 

When was the last time you thought about your car’s brakes? It’s one of those things that can easily slip under the radar until you notice a problem. But when it comes to your safety on the road, there’s no room for complacency. Here at Woodrow Way Garage, we recently had a customer come in for a brake issue that ended up needing a full replacement of rear brake shoes and drums, along with an adjustment to their handbrake. Let us walk you through the symptoms they were experiencing, how we fixed it, and why you might want to schedule your free brake check with us today.

Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore

Your car's brake system works hard every time you drive, and over time, parts wear down. Here’s what you might notice when your rear brake shoes and drums are getting worn or damaged:

  1. Reduced Braking Efficiency: If your car takes longer to come to a stop or you notice a soft brake pedal feel, it could be a sign that your brake shoes are worn down or not making proper contact with the drums.

  2. Squealing or Grinding Noises: One of the most common signs that something’s wrong with your brakes is noise. If you hear a high-pitched squeal when you apply the brakes, it could mean your brake shoes are worn thin. Grinding noises might indicate even more severe damage, possibly caused by the brake shoes wearing through to the metal.

  3. Vibrations When Braking: If you feel your steering wheel vibrating or your car shaking when you apply the brakes, it could be a sign of warped brake drums. This can cause uneven braking, making it unsafe to drive.

  4. Handbrake Issues: If your handbrake feels loose or doesn’t hold the car securely when parked, it might not be properly adjusted. Over time, the cables can stretch or components can wear, reducing its effectiveness.

  5. Visible Wear or Damage: Sometimes the problem is visible. If you notice any visible cracks, grooves, or an unusually smooth surface on the brake drums, it’s time for a professional inspection.

What We Did at Woodrow Way Garage

Our customer came in with several of these symptoms. They were experiencing a soft brake pedal, some squealing noises, and their handbrake wasn’t holding the car securely. Upon inspection, we found that the rear brake shoes were badly worn, and the brake drums had developed grooves that reduced braking efficiency. This is not a situation you want to ignore.

To fix the problem, we took the following steps:

  1. Rear Brake Shoes Replacement: We removed the old, worn brake shoes and installed new ones. This ensured that the shoes were able to properly engage the brake drums, giving the vehicle better stopping power and reducing the risk of further damage.

  2. Brake Drum Replacement: The brake drums had deep grooves that would have compromised the braking system’s performance. We replaced the damaged drums with new ones, ensuring smooth, effective braking.

  3. Handbrake Adjustment: After replacing the components, we also adjusted the handbrake. This involved tightening the cables and ensuring that the handbrake engaged properly, keeping the vehicle secure when parked.

By addressing these issues early, we ensured that our customer’s vehicle was safe to drive and in top condition. Not only did it improve their driving experience, but it also saved them from the possibility of more expensive repairs down the line.

Why You Should Book Your Free Brake Check

It’s easy to take your brakes for granted, but a brake failure can be dangerous and costly. That’s why we offer free brake checks at Woodrow Way Garage—so you can catch potential issues before they become big problems.

When you book your free brake check with us, we’ll inspect all the key components of your braking system, including your brake shoes, drums, pads, and fluid levels. We’ll let you know if any parts are wearing down and need attention, and we’ll provide honest, reliable advice on what needs to be done.

Don’t wait for symptoms to get worse. A small problem now could lead to more expensive repairs later. Book your free brake check with Woodrow Way Garage today and ensure your vehicle is safe and ready to hit the road with confidence.

Your safety is our priority!

Feel free to reach out to Woodrow Way Garage for more details or to schedule your appointment. You can contact us at 01452 929386. We look forward to keeping your brakes in tip-top shape!

 

22/11/2024 - Battery Replacement - Citroen C4 Cactus Breakdown  

 

Is Your Car Battery Ready for Winter? A Story from Woodrow Way Garage

 

At Woodrow Way Garage, we often get calls from drivers who are stranded in the cold, unable to start their cars. One recent example that stands out is a case where a car refused to start, and the culprit was a battery that had reached the ripe old age of 10 years. While batteries are often overlooked until something goes wrong, understanding the signs of battery failure and knowing when to replace your battery can save you from a lot of stress—especially as the weather turns colder.

 

The Story of a 10-Year-Old Battery

 

We recently had a customer come in with a car that wouldn’t start. After a thorough inspection, we discovered that the battery had been in service for 10 years. That’s an impressive lifespan, but also well beyond the typical 3-5 years most car batteries last. With no signs of previous issues, the driver was taken by surprise when the car wouldn’t start one chilly morning.

 

It’s not uncommon for batteries to seem fine during mild weather, only to fail when temperatures dip. Cold weather can exacerbate an already worn-out battery, making it difficult for it to provide the power needed to start the engine. The battery’s capacity to hold charge decreases in colder temperatures, and older batteries are even more susceptible to this problem.

 

Warning Signs Your Battery Might Be on Its Last Legs

 

If your battery is on the verge of failing, there are a few warning signs to watch for:

1. Slow Engine Crank: If the engine turns over more slowly than usual or takes longer to start, it could mean the battery is losing its charge.

2. Dim Headlights: If your headlights are unusually dim or flicker, especially when you try to start the car, it could indicate that the battery is struggling.

3. Check Engine Light or Battery Warning Light: Modern vehicles are equipped with sensors that can detect a battery issue. If the battery warning light comes on, don’t ignore it.

4. Swollen or Leaking Battery: If you notice any corrosion around the battery terminals or if the battery case looks swollen or leaking, it’s time to replace it.

 

Why Cold Weather Makes Battery Problems Worse

 

As winter approaches, the cold can take a toll on even a relatively healthy battery. Cold temperatures cause the electrolyte inside the battery to become thicker, making it harder for the battery to generate power. Additionally, engines are harder to turn over in cold weather, requiring more power from the battery. If your battery is already weakened, the extra strain could be enough to cause a failure.

 

Get a Free Battery Check at Woodrow Way Garage

 

At Woodrow Way Garage, we know how important it is to make sure your vehicle is ready for winter. That’s why we offer free battery checks to all of our customers. We’ll test your battery, check for signs of wear or corrosion, and make recommendations for replacement if necessary.

 

If we find that your battery is nearing the end of its life, we’ll help you choose the right replacement for your car. We stock a wide range of batteries suited for all makes and models, so you can be sure we have the perfect match for your vehicle. And with winter on the way, having a reliable battery could be the difference between being stranded in the cold and getting where you need to go without a hitch.

 

Conclusion

 

If your car has been experiencing sluggish starts or you’ve noticed other warning signs, don’t wait until you’re stuck in a snowbank to replace your battery. At Woodrow Way Garage, we’re here to help you stay safe and prepared for winter driving. Stop by today for a free battery check, and let us make sure your car is in top shape for the months ahead.

 

Remember, when it comes to your car battery, prevention is key. A quick check now could save you a lot of trouble later. Stay safe out there—and let Woodrow Way Garage help you keep your car running smoothly all winter long!

 

 

 


21/11/2024 - Wheel Bearing Replacement - Renault Clio 2013

 

Why Wheel Bearing Replacement Shouldn’t Be Overlooked: A Garage’s Perspective

 

At Woodrow Way Garage, we see it all—the everyday wear and tear on vehicles, the minor maintenance jobs, and the more serious repairs that keep drivers on the road. One of the most common yet critical repairs we handle is wheel bearing replacement. Often overlooked until it’s too late, a failing wheel bearing can have serious consequences for both the safety and performance of your vehicle.

 

If you’re unfamiliar with the importance of wheel bearings, or you’re considering taking on this job yourself, we’re here to walk you through why it’s crucial to address a worn bearing as soon as possible, how we replace them in the garage, and why trusting a professional garage with this job is the safest bet.

 

What Is a Wheel Bearing?

 

A wheel bearing is a small but vital component in your vehicle’s wheel assembly. It’s designed to support the weight of the car while allowing the wheels to rotate smoothly. Bearings consist of steel balls or rollers inside a raceway that enables frictionless rotation. Without a properly functioning wheel bearing, your vehicle’s wheels would seize, and driving would be impossible.

 

They are exposed to constant pressure from the road and the weight of the car, making them susceptible to wear over time. A failing wheel bearing may cause your wheels to wobble, produce loud noises, or even fail completely, which can put you at risk of an accident.

 

Signs That Your Wheel Bearings Need Replacing

 

One of the challenges of wheel bearings is that, unless there’s a catastrophic failure, they often give subtle clues before failing completely. Here are the most common signs of a worn or damaged wheel bearing:

• Grinding or Humming Noises: A common symptom of a failing bearing is a grinding or constant humming sound coming from the wheel area. These noises often increase with speed and may change pitch when turning, as the load on the bearing shifts.

• Vibration in the Steering Wheel or Car Body: If you notice vibrations in the steering wheel or in the car body, it could indicate that the wheel bearing is damaged and causing instability in the wheel.

• Uneven Tire Wear: A bad wheel bearing can cause the wheel to wobble, leading to uneven tire wear. If you notice that your tires are wearing down prematurely, it’s a good idea to have the bearings checked.

• Looseness in the Wheel: If the wheel feels loose when you shake it or there’s a noticeable play, this is a sign that the bearing may have failed.

• ABS Warning Light: In modern vehicles, the wheel bearing is often integrated with the ABS sensor. A faulty bearing may trigger an ABS warning light, signaling an issue with the wheel sensor.

 

The Wheel Bearing Replacement Process

 

At our garage, replacing a wheel bearing involves a series of precise steps. While some DIYers may attempt this repair themselves, it’s important to understand that it requires specialized tools and knowledge to ensure that it’s done correctly. Here’s how we typically approach the process:

1. Vehicle Lift and Wheel Removal: The first step is to safely lift the vehicle using one of our in garage vehicle lifts. The wheel is removed to expose the hub assembly and bearing.

2. Brake System Disassembly: We carefully remove the brake components, including the caliper, brake pads, and disc, to give us access to the hub. This step is done with care to avoid damaging any brake lines or parts.

3. Hub Nut and Bearing Removal: The next step is to remove the hub nut, which can sometimes be very tight. Depending on the vehicle, we may need to use a specialized bearing puller or press to remove the old bearing from the hub assembly. This is often the most difficult part of the job, as rust or wear can make the bearing stubborn to remove.

4. Inspection and Cleaning: After the bearing is removed, we thoroughly inspect the surrounding components for any damage, corrosion, or wear. We also clean the hub and raceway to ensure no debris is left that could damage the new bearing.

5. Installing the New Bearing: The new bearing is carefully pressed into place, either using a press tool or a bearing installation kit, making sure it is seated perfectly and securely.

6. Reassembly: After the new bearing is installed, we reassemble the brake components, rotor, and caliper. The wheel is then put back on, and the lug nuts are torqued to the manufacturer’s specifications.

7. Test Drive: Finally, after everything is reassembled, we take the vehicle for a test drive. During this test, we listen for any unusual noises and check the handling to ensure that the repair was successful and that the vehicle is safe to drive.

 

Why Trust a Woodrow Way Garage for Wheel Bearing Replacement?

 

While replacing a wheel bearing might seem like a straightforward job for a DIYer, there are several reasons why it’s best to leave it to the professionals:

• Specialised Tools: Removing and installing a wheel bearing often requires specialised tools, like a hydraulic press or a bearing puller, that most DIYers don’t have access to. Without these tools, it’s easy to damage the hub or other components.

• Expert Diagnosis: Sometimes, the symptoms of a worn bearing can be mistaken for other issues, like suspension problems or brake wear. An experienced technician can accurately diagnose the problem and ensure that you’re not replacing parts unnecessarily.

• Time and Effort: Replacing a wheel bearing is a labor-intensive job that can take several hours, especially if the bearing is difficult to remove. A garage can get the job done efficiently, so you don’t have to spend your weekend working on the car.

• Safety: If a wheel bearing fails completely while you’re driving, it can lead to a dangerous situation. Having it replaced as soon as symptoms appear can prevent a major breakdown and ensure your vehicle remains safe to drive.

• Warranty and Quality: Professional garages typically offer warranties on parts and labor. This peace of mind is invaluable, especially when it comes to critical components like wheel bearings. If something goes wrong after the replacement, you’ll have the reassurance that the work is covered.

 

Final Thoughts

 

Wheel bearing replacement is a necessary but often overlooked aspect of car maintenance. While the job can be done by DIY enthusiasts with the right tools, we strongly recommend leaving it to professionals who can get the job done right the first time. If you’re hearing strange noises from your wheels, feeling vibrations, or noticing handling issues, don’t wait—get your wheel bearings checked today by calling 01452 929386 or sending us a message. Preventing a full bearing failure can save you time, money, and the hassle of dealing with an unexpected breakdown.

 

At our Woodrow Way Garage, we’re always ready to help keep your car in top shape and ensure that you stay safe on the road. If you suspect a wheel bearing issue or need a routine check, don’t hesitate to give us a call or drop by for a professional inspection!