3 Million MOT Extensions Allowed Since TheStart Of Lockdown

Thursday, 11. June 2020

A Freedom of Information (FOI) request submitted by MoneySuperMarket has revealed that more than 3m (3,025,345) cars and vans had their MOT extended since March 30.

 

Broken down by EU class, that is 2,788,594 passenger vehicles and 236,751 light goods up to 3000kg – roughly 65,000 cars per day. MoneySuperMarket predicts there could be another 1m cars with MOT extensions by June 1.

 

MOTs are automatically being extended by six months if it was due to expire on or after March 30 and if its eligible. However, it has recently been updated on May 27, that a MOT extension will no longer apply if you take your vehicle for a MOT and it fails. Your vehicle will need to be fixed and pass its MOT before you can use it again.

 

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) highlights that safety remains its top priority and drivers are at risk of prosecution if found to be driving unsafe vehicles. Vehicles must be kept in a roadworthy condition and garages remain open for essential repair work.

 

Car servicing and repair company, Kwik Fit, has said it expects to see a significant demand in MOT requests post the six-month extension period, as current trends suggest that most drivers will wait until the MOT extension is over before arranging for their MOT to be completed.

 

As a result, there will be a significant demand for MOT tests in October, November and towards the end of 2020, putting pressure on capacity, the company says.

 

According to statistics provided by MoneySuperMarket, of all MOTs due this year, 18% were due in April and May. Data based on drivers using the MoneySuperMarket car monitor, showed that October is expected to be the busiest month as 15% of all MOTs are due in within the month.

 

However, Kwik Fit says it is taking measures to increasing capacity at more than 500 MOT test centres across the UK and would encourage drivers to book the MOT in advance of the extended due date, especially if the vehicle is being used more regularly during that time.

 

Kwik Fit estimates that 25% of fleet drivers who could have deferred their MOT have still had a test on their vehicle. However, most drivers it would have expected during the weeks since the introduction of the MOT extension have chosen not to visit, due to the restrictions in place for lockdown.

 

New research by Kwik Fit also revealed that almost 1.1 million unroadworthy vehicles are set to return to the roads as lockdown begins to ease. An estimated 1,096,000 vehicles which would have received a six-month extension, would have failed a test with dangerous or major defects had they undergone a MOT.

 

Dan Joyce, fleet director at Kwik Fit, said: “Of the fleet vehicles which received an automatic extension, our experience tells us that around one in five would have failed a test if they had received one.

 

“Therefore, our on-going message to drivers whom have been using their vehicle or will now start to use their vehicle again whilst lockdown restriction are eased over the coming weeks and months, is to consider the roadworthiness and general condition of the vehicle prior to using it again more regularly.”

 

Kwik Fit have continued to offer MOT slots throughout its network during the MOT extension period and says that although volumes have significantly reduced during this time, it has seen some demand for MOT’s from key workers and people using their vehicles to continue with essential journeys during lockdown.

 

Three quarters of a million MOT tests still carried out in April

But despite the MOT extension, three quarters of a million tests were still carried out in April, figures from Motorway.co.uk have revealed.

 

A Freedom of Information (FOI) request to the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) made by the car selling comparison website showed that 746,157 MOTs were carried out in April 2020, down 80% on March 2020 – where 3,723,524 motorists took their vehicles for a MOT.

 

Perth in Central Scotland saw the biggest drop in MOTs last month, with tests down 85.7%, in comparison to March. Inverness saw 85.6% fewer MOTs in April, than in March.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

More than 20,000 motorists in the Birmingham area (21,324) took their vehicles for a MOT in April, and 18,170 tests were carried out by garages in the ‘S’ postcode area (Sheffield) last month.

 

 

 

 

 

Alex Buttle, director at Motorway.co.uk, said: “These figures from the DVSA show that despite motorists having the opportunity to postpone their MOT test, many have chosen not to do so. There could be several reasons why; with general car maintenance, ongoing value and safety issues likely at the forefront of many drivers’ minds.

 

“Saying that, the number of MOTs in April was still substantially lower than March figures, and we expect to see a similarly low level of testing in May, as lockdown restrictions have only been eased slightly this month.”

 

Automotive aftermarket ready to deal with MOT demand when 6-month exemption is lifted

New automotive aftermarket sector-specific guidance to ‘keep millions of vehicles roadworthy’ has been published by the Garage Equipment Association (GEA), Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF), Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI), Scottish Motor Trade Association (SMTA) and the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

 

The UK automotive aftermarket sector has signalled its readiness to cope with increased demand for MOT tests, service, maintenance and repair with the publication of Covid-19: Industry Guidance and Best Practice for Automotive Aftermarket.

 

Although workshops have been allowed to stay open throughout the lockdown, helping to keep vehicles roadworthy for essential journeys, guidance will help companies of all types and sizes in the aftermarket operate safely while minimising the risk of Covid-19 transmission.

 

Mike Hawes, chief executive at the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, said: “It is timely that the aftermarket can assure customers and colleagues that it is ready to re-open safely to ensure workers’ vehicles remain roadworthy.”

 

The best-practice guidance covers the entire aftermarket sector, including workshops, warehouses, mobile operations and parts distributors and covers every aspect of their operations, from clear communications with customers and colleagues to social distancing, sanitisation and hygiene, and collection/delivery of vehicles from vulnerable owners.

 

It is designed to complement government advice and help the aftermarket sector demonstrate safe practices for employees and customers across all points of interaction. It comes as vehicle mileages start to climb and the sector calls for an end to the six-month MOT extension.

 

Hawes said: “With government advice stating that workers should avoid public transport when returning to work, the use of private cars is likely to rise more sharply than it already has over recent weeks. Given many of these vehicles have been idle for weeks, a reconsideration of the six-month MOT extension needs to be made as soon as possible.”

 

The vital role of the aftermarket sector in supporting safe mobility of the UK workforce has been underlined as the IMI echoes the SMMT call for the six-month exemption to be scrapped.

 

Steve Nash, chief executive officer at the Institute of the Motor Industry, said: “There are serious risks in the extension remaining in place now. If vehicles are coming back onto the roads in volume it is vital for all road users’ safety that they are roadworthy.

 

“The other issue is that if all motorists wait up to six months from when their MOT expired to get their vehicle tested, there is going to be a big backlog of tests in the Autumn and Winter which could significantly overwhelm the sector. That’s without considering the likelihood of the market shrinking because many businesses are unlikely to be able to survive without work coming in.

 

“The SMMT’s proposal to scrap the extension makes a lot of sense for road safety and will be a vital boost for a currently beleaguered sector.” By Graham Hill thanks to Fleet News

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DVLA Issues A Scam Alert To Motorists

Wednesday, 13. May 2020

  • DVLA has recorded a 20% rise in the number of scams reported
  • These are all cons linked to DVLA services, such as vehicle taxation
  • Some 1,538 fraud cases were raised to the agency in the final 3 months of 2019
  • It provided examples of common scams that have been used in recent months

 

Motorists are being targeted by fraudsters using a range of different scam tactics in a bid to trick them into handing over money.

 

That’s according to a fresh warning by the DVLA last February, which has provided examples of scams it has been alerted to and traced in recent months.

 

There has been a 20 per cent rise in fraud attempts handed to the DVLA, with 1,538 reports made to agency in the last three months of 2019, new figures show.

 

Car owners have alerted the DVLA to a number of different con tactics being employed by scam artists.

 

Motorists have said they have been swindled out of money and targeted by fraudsters using fake DVLA websites, emails, texts and social media messages.

 

It has warned drivers that these are becoming more prominent, having received 1,275 scam reports in the final three months of 2018 – some 263 fewer than in the final quarter of last year.

 

To raise awareness of the types of fraudulent communication motorists might receive, the DVLA has released images of recent scams it has been alerted to.

 

It hopes this will help motorists be aware of what to look out for and issue a clear warning that if something offered online or by text message appears too good to be true, then it almost certainly is.

 

Scammers are targeting unsuspecting customers with links to services that don’t exist and messages of tax refunds, all of which are fake.

 

The reports also show that driver and vehicle documents are for sale on the internet.

 

The agency says anyone who is concerned about any calls, texts, emails or suspicious activity online, to always report these to the police via Action Fraud immediately.

 

DVLA chief information security officer David Pope said: ‘We’ve released examples of real life scams to help motorists understand when a scam is at work.

 

‘These websites and messages are designed to trick people into believing they can access services that simply don’t exist such as removing penalty points from driving licences.

 

‘All our tax refunds are generated automatically after a motorist has told us they have sold, scrapped or transferred their vehicle to someone else so we don’t ask for anyone to get in touch with us to claim their refund.

 

‘We want to protect the public and if something seems too good to be true, then it almost certainly is. The only trusted source of DVLA information is GOV.UK.

 

‘It is also important to remember never to share images on social media that contain personal information, such as your driving licence and vehicle documents.’

 

A spokesperson for Action Fraud added: ‘This can be a stressful time of year, sorting out finances for the year ahead. Fraudsters are aware of this and are using different ways to trick people.

 

‘Taking a couple of minutes to familiarise yourself with a few simple online safety tips can be significant in protecting yourself from becoming a victim of online fraud.

 

‘You should always be cautious when sharing personal information online and avoid being scammed by only using GOV.UK for government services online, such as the DVLA.

 

‘If you believe you have been a victim of fraud, please report it to us.’

 

Note: If you want to see the sample emails being sent out go to the original article by clicking here:

 

https://www.thisismoney.co.uk/money/cars/article-8037209/DVLA-says-cons-used-fraudsters-trick-motorists-handing-money.html

 

By Graham Hill thanks to This Is Money

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Warning To Take Care Of Your Battery During Lockdown.

Wednesday, 13. May 2020

The number of drivers visiting Kwik Fit over the past four weeks needing a new battery has been double the usual rate for the time of year.

 

Battery failures traditionally spike in the winter months due to the greater demands placed on them in starting cold engines.

 

The impact of the lockdown has seen battery failures over the past month increase to levels similar to the average for January over the past five years.

 

While this has mainly affected older vehicles, motorists with newer cars have also found their batteries struggling, says Kwik Fit.

 

The number of fleet vehicles, such as company cars, requiring new batteries has risen by around 10% compared to the same period last year. This is a significant indicator of the extent of the problem as not only are fleet owned vehicles newer than the average, they are more likely to have advanced batteries, to support ‘start-stop’ technology.

 

Roger Griggs, communications director at Kwik Fit, said: “Most of us associate battery failure with the winter months and having to call out a breakdown service to get us started after Christmas holidays.

 

“The lock down has had a dramatic effect on motoring and has been positive in helping control the spread of the virus, but this is one area which is storing up potential problems for motorists.

 

“We certainly don’t encourage anyone to use their car unnecessarily, but we hope that our advice will help some people avoid a nasty surprise when they next need their car.”

 

Kwik Fit’s battery experts advise motorists to take the following steps to help avoid encountering battery problems:

 

  • If you are not using your car at all, start the car once or twice a week and let the engine run for at least 15 minutes (stay in your car when you are doing this and the car must be outside).
  • Bear in mind that a colder engine takes more out of the battery to start, so if possible start your car during the warmer part of the day rather than first thing in the morning.
  • Check under the bonnet and inspect the battery terminals for signs of corrosion. Clean any corrosion and residue away from the terminals to allow a good clean connection with the battery.
  • If your car is parked on a driveway or garage, consider buying a trickle charger which can be plugged into the mains and keep your battery charge topped up – always follow the guidance in your vehicle’s owners handbook prior to connecting a trickle charger.
  • Check your battery’s age – most batteries are stamped with date codes and a battery more than five years old may be at risk of failure, especially if the car is only making short or infrequent trips.

 

By Graham Hill thanks to Fleet News

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Massive Drop In Oil Price Still Not Reflected At The Pumps

Saturday, 2. May 2020

The price of US oil has recently turned negative for the first in history as the coronavirus pandemic has caused global demand to collapse – but this is not yet being reflected fully at the fuel pumps.

 

Earlier last month, oil producing countries agreed to collectively slash global output by an unprecedented 10 million barrels a day, or about 10%. However, demand has dropped by 30 million barrels a day or more.

 

The price of a barrel of West Texas Intermediate (WTI), the benchmark for US oil, fell as low as minus $37.63 a barrel as oil producers are paying buyers to take it over fears that storage capacity could run out in May.

 

The impact on Brent Crude – the benchmark used by Europe and the rest of the world, has been less as there is still capacity in which to store it: it has fallen 8.9% to less than $26 a barrel.

 

According to the Fleet News Regional Fuel Prices tool, average petrol prices in the UK have fallen 11p a litre in the past month, but the wholesale cost of fuel has dropped by much more than that.

 

Currently, the average price of a litre of diesel is 111.64p, with unleaded at 106.91ppl. One month ago, they were 122.01ppl and 118.69ppl respectively.

 

Once tax and fuel duty have been factored in, the RAC calculates that under normal circumstances petrol prices should be about £1 a litre.

 

RAC fuel spokesman Simon Williams said: “The oversupply of oil continues to suppress the barrel price and it’s clear now that plans by some of the world’s largest oil-producing nations to limit production haven’t yet been enough to lift the price – there’s currently too little demand for oil in the first place.

 

“It’s right that retailers charge a fair price for fuel that reflects the price of the raw product, and in theory petrol prices could fall below £1 per litre if the lower wholesale costs were reflected at the pumps – but at the same time people are driving very few miles so they’re selling vastly lower quantities of petrol and diesel at the moment.

 

“This means many will be at pains to trim their prices any further.

 

“We also continue to be concerned about smaller forecourts that provide a vital service in areas where the supermarkets don’t have a foothold as many are already finding conditions tough with sales having fallen off a cliff since lockdown.

 

“It would be bad news all round if these forecourts shut up shop for good.”

 

Luke Bosdet, fuel price spokesman for the AA, added: “It is likely that once Covid-19 is defeated there will be calls for a review of UK pump prices during the current oil and commodity fuel price crash, as there were in the years after the 2008 to 2012 price spikes.”

 

At the end of March supermarket giants Morrisons and Asda reduced their fuel prices by 12p per litre for petrol and 8ppl for diesel as the coronavirus Covid-19 crisis continues.

 

The cuts follow a plunge in oil prices caused by a trade war between Russia and Saudi Arabia, which saw Saudi Arabia – which produces about 10% of the world’s oil – decide to slash prices and ramp up its production.  By Graham Hil thanks to Fleet News

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Michelin Provides Car Care Advice During Lockdown

Saturday, 2. May 2020

Michelin has issued special guidance for vehicles parked up for extended periods during the Coronavirus pandemic.

 

The company has detailed steps to follow before laying up vehicles, along with advice on periodic inspections and preparing them to re-enter service.

 

Brian Porteous, Michelin’s technical manager – Car, Van, 4×4 and Government Contracts, said: “Tyres can be damaged if certain precautions are not taken before the weight of a parked car or light commercial is supported for long periods, so it’s important owners follow some basic advice to ensure vehicles can be quickly put back into operation when normal business resumes, and without the need to replace tyres unnecessarily.

 

This isn’t just advice for big fleets; it’s as important for smaller operators, sole traders and consumers

 

Preparing vehicles

 

Before laying up a car or van, the tyres should be checked for damage and any cuts or penetrations that may deteriorate over time should be assessed by an expert. Many tyre dealerships remain open, often with mobile technicians available.

 

Inflation pressures should be set at the normal levels for the vehicle. Any tyre which is found to be under-inflated by up to 7psi can normally be re-inflated safely if there are no obvious signs of damage. However, if a tyre is under-inflated by more than 7psi, it should be removed and inspected by an expert to make sure that no structural damage has been caused.

 

Tyres inflated with nitrogen should have their inflation pressure checked in just the same way as those inflated with air. Whatever the inflation medium, ensure that a valve cap with a rubber seal is fitted to every tyre valve.

 

Make sure that tyres are not parked on stones or objects that might dig in. Also avoid tyres sitting for long periods in pools of water or other liquids, such as oils.  For longer periods, covering tyres to avoid exposure to sunlight will also prolong their life.

 

Clean tyres with mild detergent only and rinse well with cold water.

 

During extended parking

 

Even when not in use, tyre inflation pressures should still be regularly checked and corrected as necessary – ideally on a monthly basis, in line with standard Michelin recommendations. Any pressure loss should be investigated and the cause remedied.

 

Every four months, if a vehicle has not been moved, the tyres should be rotated a quarter turn.

 

Re-entry into service

 

Any tyre and wheel assembly which has been stored for a long period, on or off the vehicle, should be visually inspected for damage and any unusual signs before re-entering service. Pressures should be checked and set to the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendation.

 

Remember that tyres may reach the end of their service life whilst in storage. Tyres which have been in use for five years or more should continue to be inspected by a specialist at least annually.

 

Any tyres in service 10 years or more from the date of manufacture, including spare tyres, should be replaced with new tyres as a simple precaution – even if they still appear serviceable and have not reached the legal wear limit.

 

The date when a tyre was manufactured is located on the sidewall. Consumers should locate the code which begins with the letters DOT. A DOT code ending in “2210” indicates a tyre made in the 22nd week (May) of 2010.

 

“We appreciate that for most businesses and consumers, the very idea of parking vehicles for extended periods is an unfamiliar process and not something they want to be doing. However, by spending a few minutes inspecting and preparing a vehicle first, you will help to protect the condition of its tyres and ensure it is in the best possible condition for getting back on the road when the time comes,” Porteous added.  By Graham Hill thanks to Fleet News

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Will CoronaVirus Have A Positive Effect On Electric Cars?

Saturday, 2. May 2020

The views of Charley Grimston, co-founder of Altelium and CEO of CNC Asset Ltd

 

There have been plenty of good news stories coming from the automotive sector since the covid-19 outbreak, including car manufacturers switching their production lines to make ventilators. But, of course, there are concerns about the industry’s economic stability, at the beginning of April 2020 car sales were down 44 per cent.

 

However, there are three powerful reasons why the electric vehicle market will be supercharged by this dreadful virus and lockdown when it’s over.

 

Clean refuelling

 

Firstly, drivers will want electric vehicles because diesel and petrol forecourts will be perceived as unclean.  You have to hold the pump the previous person has used, touch the screen or enter the shop to pay. With electricity you can fuel up at your own home for consumers, or at a centralised depot for fleet owners.

 

We may all want to get back to normal but some things you can’t unknow, and one of those things is how infection is transmitted.

 

Preserving environmental gains

 

Secondly, people will want to do things differently and better. Those who can afford to buy cars will want to play a part in making the world a better, greener place. Already we are seeing how nature is recovery as a result of the lockdown:  “This is the first time I have seen such a dramatic drop-off over such a wide area for a specific event,” said Fei Liu, an air quality researcher at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Centre describing levels of nitrogen dioxide over China.

 

The nationwide shutdown has led to a big drop in air pollution across the UK’s major cities.  For nitrogen dioxide pollution, new data shows that this has almost halved in London, Birmingham, Bristol and Cardiff.  Transport contributes 23 per cent of global carbon emissions and driving is by far the largest element of that, contributing 72 per cent of transport carbon emissions.

 

When the engines of the economy start again, we’ll want to try and preserve these gains. A report just published by the Journal of Nature has proved that electric vehicles produce less carbon dioxide than petrol cars across the vast majority of the globe.  There were lingering doubts in some quarters about the environmental credentials of electric cars, centred around the battery. This report lays those concerns to rest. So, when people start buying again, they will buy with the environment in mind – and that means electric.

 

Buy once, buy well

 

And thirdly those investing in new cars, especially fleet owners, will want to buy well. This global lockdown and coronavirus is like nothing we have ever experienced, but what many of us have experienced is recession. At times of recession, or worse, warranties become far more important to both the car owners and manufacturers.

 

To fleet owners, a long warranty is a sign of quality and reassurance. To the manufacturer it provides a way to demonstrate your belief in your product quality. A warranty allows a product to be sold on quality and therefore protects profit margins. Profitably is also protected further downstream, where a warranty allows the manufacturer to offer range of customer service and support, underwritten by their insurance.

 

How do we know this is the case?  We have been providing damage and breakdown extended warranty and renewable energy insurance for plant and machinery for over thirty years.  We have seen ourselves and our customers through huge fluctuations in the market, and what has provided consistent protection throughout this time is the warranty.

 

Developing warranties for EV batteries

 

Until now it has been difficult to develop warranties on electric vehicles, specifically the battery, because the technology is so new. Traditional lead acid batteries come with a raft of data and industrial standards, developed and refined over many years, which inform investment or warranty decisions.

 

There was a lack of data around electric batteries which held back investment decisions about the single most important component part – the electric battery. There’s too much risk involved to offer a good, long warranty if you don’t know what affects the product’s performance and longevity.

 

Now this final issue has been addressed. Intelligent data can now be gathered in real time from electric batteries and then enhanced with AI learning to describe the current, past and likely future performance of the battery at an individual cell level. Systems like Altelium are at the forefront of this. They unlock market potential because armed with this data the battery can be given second life uses.

 

Intelligent planning

 

Here again the warranty is the catalyst of change. A comprehensive warranty at individual cell level can include service and breakdown cover for the cell in it its second life situation as part of a static energy storage system. This extends the revenue stream for the manufacturer or the owner of the storage facility.

 

It also extends significantly any carbon footprint calculations for the car itself because the battery cells will be in operation for so many years.   Unlike Bernard London who suggested that recession could be ended through ‘planned obsolescence’ in 1930s, now the approach must be the total opposite. We must recognise intelligent planning and electric vehicles are the exemplar of how to energise the automotive market.  By Graham Hill thanks to Fleet News

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Following A Massive Collapse Of Crude Oil Prices Why Is There No Drop In Pump Prices?

Friday, 24. April 2020

The price of US oil has turned negative for the first in history as the coronavirus pandemic has caused global demand to collapse – but this is not yet being reflected fully at the fuel pumps.

 

Earlier this month, oil producing countries agreed to collectively slash global output by an unprecedented 10 million barrels a day, or about 10%. However, demand has dropped by 30 million barrels a day or more.

 

The price of a barrel of West Texas Intermediate (WTI), the benchmark for US oil, fell as low as minus $37.63 a barrel as oil producers are paying buyers to take it over fears that storage capacity could run out in May.

 

The impact on Brent Crude – the benchmark used by Europe and the rest of the world, has been less as there is still capacity in which to store it: it has fallen 8.9% to less than $26 a barrel.

 

According to the Fleet News Regional Fuel Prices tool, average petrol prices in the UK have fallen 11p a litre in the past month, but the wholesale cost of fuel has dropped by much more than that.

 

Currently, the average price of a litre of diesel is 111.64p, with unleaded at 106.91ppl. One month ago, they were 122.01ppl and 118.69ppl respectively.

 

Once tax and fuel duty have been factored in, the RAC calculates that under normal circumstances petrol prices should be about £1 a litre.

 

RAC fuel spokesman Simon Williams said: “The oversupply of oil continues to suppress the barrel price and it’s clear now that plans by some of the world’s largest oil-producing nations to limit production haven’t yet been enough to lift the price – there’s currently too little demand for oil in the first place.

 

“It’s right that retailers charge a fair price for fuel that reflects the price of the raw product, and in theory petrol prices could fall below £1 per litre if the lower wholesale costs were reflected at the pumps – but at the same time people are driving very few miles so they’re selling vastly lower quantities of petrol and diesel at the moment.

 

“This means many will be at pains to trim their prices any further.

 

“We also continue to be concerned about smaller forecourts that provide a vital service in areas where the supermarkets don’t have a foothold as many are already finding conditions tough with sales having fallen off a cliff since lockdown.

 

“It would be bad news all round if these forecourts shut up shop for good.”

 

Luke Bosdet, fuel price spokesman for the AA, added: “It is likely that once Covid-19 is defeated there will be calls for a review of UK pump prices during the current oil and commodity fuel price crash, as there were in the years after the 2008 to 2012 price spikes.”

At the end of March supermarket giants Morrisons and Asda reduced their fuel prices by 12p per litre for petrol and 8ppl for diesel as the coronavirus Covid-19 crisis continues.

 

The cuts follow a plunge in oil prices caused by a trade war between Russia and Saudi Arabia, which saw Saudi Arabia – which produces about 10% of the world’s oil – decide to slash prices and ramp up its production.  By Graham Hill thanks to Fleet News

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Motor finance expert warns that FCA Coronavirus proposals could leave NHS and other essential workers without cars.

Friday, 24. April 2020

This is a piece written for the press:
Last Friday the FCA issued a consultation document aimed at providing drivers with the most popular forms of finance some respite by forcing the finance providers to allow drivers a 3 month payment holiday.
Monday the 20th was the cutoff for interested parties to make their feelings known to the FCA before they issued their final instructions on the target date of Friday 24th April.
Leading car finance expert Graham Hill welcomed the move, ‘Whilst several funders have already announced that they would be offering drivers reduced payments or holiday periods this is a welcome industry-wide instruction’.
‘Personal contract hire is a much easier product to adjust as it’s a more simple rental product but PCP, by far the most popular consumer car finance product, is more complex as it raises the question that if the contract is extended by 3 months will that affect the optional Guaranteed Minimum Future Value?
‘Also the holiday period accrues interest, how will that be recovered by the finance provider? And given the way that PCP interest is calculated if the contract is only a few months old nearly all of the monthly payment is interest.
The FCA has gone further than recommending a payment holiday they have also proposed a way that PCP providers should deal with cars that end their contracts during lockdown:
Rob here is the complete section. The first part is fine, it’s the second part that causes concern:

PCP agreements reaching term end during the period this guidance is in force

Where a customer wishes to retain the vehicle, but does not have funds to cover the balloon payment due to coronavirus related financial difficulties, firms should work with the customer to find an appropriate solution. Given the increased potential for disparity between the balloon payment and the value of the vehicle in the current climate, firms should ensure that solutions do not lead to unfair outcomes. For example, refinancing the balloon payment might not be appropriate in the circumstances.
Where a customer wishes to return the vehicle, but this is impractical due to the coronavirus situation, firms should inform the customer that they are unable to use the vehicle once the agreement has been terminated or come to an end (if that is the case). The firm should inform the customer of the need to make a Statutory Off Road Notification (SORN) declaration if the customer is the registered keeper of the vehicle and they want to stop taxing and insuring it because it is ‘off the road’.
If the customer doesn’t want to buy the car he would normally have two choices, either use the car as a part exchange if there is equity in the car or simply hand the car back.
According to Hill, ‘With car dealerships on lockdown it is not possible for drivers to negotiate a part exchange and given the collapse of used cars it’s unlikely that there would be any equity in the car anyway.’
‘So with most drivers that are at the end of their PCP agreements with little choice but to hand the car back they are potentially looking at a situation that could leave them without a car unless the FCA adjusts its proposals, i.e. that drivers should be informed by the funder that they are no longer able to use the car.’
.
‘This could result in those who are dependent on their cars such as emergency service workers, NHS workers, doctors, midwives, care home workers and other essential workers being without their cars. This must not happen.’
The FCA have also recommended that if a driver reaches the end of his PCP agreement that he is told not only to stop driving it but also, if the car can be stored off-road on a driveway or private land, to file with the DVLA a Statutory Off Road Notice (SORN) that will enable the driver to cancel his insurance and stop paying the car tax.
According to Hill that is a highly dangerous recommendation. As he points out, ‘Without insurance what happens if the car is stolen off the drive or the land it’s parked on or damaged in any way? There has also been an increase in theft of Caralytic Converters from cars because of their precious metal content. If any of this happens without insurance drivers could be severely out of pocket. The FCA really needs to reconsider this proposal’
‘It also raises a more fundamental question. If the car is parked on the road the driver will have to keep the car taxed and insured even though he has been told he cannot drive it per the FCA instructions. But if he has told the finance company that he wants to hand the car back under the terms of the agreement if the car cannot be collected the tax and insurance should be the responsibility of the finance company as they are the legal owners of the car.
‘As the driver has been told he cannot drive the car he cannot be seen to be the keeper so again the responsibility rests on the shoulders of the finance provider. The instructions – as they are could have some very serious consequences.
Asked about the number of consumers the proposals could affect Hill explained, ‘I have calculated that there could be around 3 million new car PCP’s that are active and therefore could be requesting payment holidays. Used car PCP’s are more difficult to assess but there could be around 3 – 4 million active agreements looking for payment holidays.
‘With regard to PCP’ agreements coming to an end, as collections of end of PCP cars stopped in March, the highest month of the year for registrations, I believe that we could be looking at 450,000 cars coming to the end of their agreements between March and June.’
With the final instructions due out on Friday it is important that we don’t leave PCP customers without their wheels if only to get then to and from their local shops, whilst avoiding as much contact as possible, and keeping them off public transport.  By Graham Hill
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Car Thefts On Increase Due To Parts Shortages

Monday, 20. April 2020

Car drivers and fleets are being warned by Tracker to be wary of opportunistic criminals looking to steal cars to fill a replacement parts gap caused by COVID-19.

 

The stolen vehicle recovery company says that police across the country are already fighting an increase in ‘chop shops’ – where stolen vehicles are stripped down and expensive parts sold on. But, it argues, the lack of legitimate parts could increase their popularity and profitability still further.

 

Clive Wain, head of police liaison at Tracker, explained: “These are unprecedented times, and sadly we cannot look into the future to see how long the current restrictions will affect the car manufacturer supply chain. However, what we can do is protect ourselves while it does.

 

“Sadly, whilst we are seeing many positives come out of the current crisis – such as communities pulling together and environmental benefits – we could in the coming weeks and months see criminals take advantage of new opportunities.”

 

The latest Tracker statistics showed that London and its nearest neighbours regularly see the highest frequency of car thefts and recoveries, followed closely by the West Midlands.

 

It also highlights northern regions creeping higher than the home counties in a list, which is topped by London, followed by Essex, the West Midlands, Manchester and Yorkshire (see below).

 

 

“With movement so restricted, most of us are using our cars far less frequently, so it is easy to get out of the habit of checking doors are locked and keys are secured after those rare essential journeys,” continued Wain.

 

“It’s even easier to forget these good habits after popping out to the car to collect something you left behind. 92% of the vehicles we recovered last year were stolen without the thief having possession of the vehicle’s keys.

 

“As such, we advise owners of all vehicles to take extra care to fully secure their vehicle and keep remote locking keys as far away from the car as possible, and in a closed tin so that they are protected against relay-attacks.”

 

Tracker’s top 10 regions where cars are stolen and recovered

 

2019 2018 2017
  1. London
  2. Essex
  3. West Midlands
  4. Manchester
  5. West Yorkshire
  6. South Yorkshire
  7. Herefordshire
  8. Surrey
  9. Kent
  10. Merseyside

 

  1. London
  2. West Midlands
  3. Essex
  4. Surrey
  5. Kent
  6. Manchester
  7. West Yorkshire
  8. Herefordshire
  9. South Yorkshire
  10. Leicestershire
  1. London
  2. Essex
  3. Manchester
  4. West Midlands
  5. Kent
  6. West Yorkshire
  7. Surrey
  8. Cambridgeshire
  9. Sussex
  10. South Yorkshire/ Nottinghamshire

 

Tracker’s vehicle security tips

 

Protect your key fob: Keyless car theft works through a relay-style electronic device tricking your key fob signal into thinking the key is near to the car and then the device can assume all key fob power. To prevent this, keep the key – and the spare too – away from where the vehicle is kept when not in used, and block the signal by keeping the key fob in a closed tin or faraday bag.

 

Switch off and lock up: Never leave your car running idle and unattended, even when defrosting windscreens and windows on a cold morning.

 

Make life difficult: Fit security posts or a substantial gate if parking on your drive, physical barriers will make thieves think twice.

 

Don’t advertise your stuff: Never leave your belongings on show, lock them in the boot or take them with you.

 

Keep paperwork indoors: Don’t store car documents or spare keys inside the car as it makes it easier for thieves to sell it on.

 

Plan for the worst: Take car security measures to protect your car from being stolen in the first place, such as installing security lighting where you park your car and using a steering wheel lock. If criminals find a way to steal your car, having a vehicle tracker fitted can help the authorities to recover your vehicle. By Graham Hill thanks to Fleet News

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Top Tips To Keep Your Car Healthy During Lockdown

Monday, 20. April 2020

Drivers can avoid a large number of breakdowns after the coronavirus lockdown is lifted by following some basic car care tips.

 

While car usage isn’t completely banned under the lockdown rules, many vehicles will be left parked up for extended periods or only used for infrequent short journeys.

 

“It is highly likely that there will be a spike, particularly in battery breakdowns, once the current crisis is over. However, unlike the first working day after the New Year it is unlikely that everyone will return to work or journeys on the same day,” a spokesperson from The AA told Fleet News.

 

The organisation said it will be making plans to cope with any surge in demand and advising fleet drivers on vehicle maintenance.

 

Following the Christmas period, breakdown providers see a spike in callouts usually caused by vehicles with flat batteries.

 

With the end of the lockdown not currently known, and the possibility of social distancing measures being extended, some vehicles could remain unused for months.

 

Bryn Brooker, head of marketing at Nextbase, said: “At such an unusual and challenging time for everyone, we want to reiterate to all vehicle owners to take good care of both themselves and their vehicles.

 

“Ultimately, leaving your car inactive for a while means you will need to make thorough checks. This is vital to ensure the roads are safe when non-essential journeys can be made again.”

 

Top tips to keep you vehicle healthy during the lockdown:

 

Battery

 

The battery is the most likely cause of a breakdown. Even newer vehicles, if left for long enough, can suffer a flat battery. Cars with alarms and connected infotainment systems have a higher power draw.

 

Cars with a healthy battery should last at least two weeks, without needing to be started up to re-charge the battery. If there’s any doubt about the condition of the battery, fleet drivers should start the car once a week and allow it idle for 15-20 minutes.

 

EVs and hybrid vehicles have 12-volt batteries, the same as conventional cars. However, they charge differently. Pressing the start button, so the ready light comes on, will operate the charging system. Doing this for 10 minutes once a week should keep the 12-volt battery topped up.

 

EVs, Hybrid and plug-in hybrid cars should not be left with a flat drive battery either, as the battery can become damaged if left discharged for long periods of time. The ideal to to keep 50-80% charge in the battery.

 

Brakes

 

Sometimes, when a vehicle is parked up for a long period with the parking brake on, the brakes can seize. To prevent this, it’s good practice to release the parking brake and move the vehicle a short distance back and forth, at the same time as running the engine. The parking brake shouldn’t be left off unless the vehicle is on private land with the wheels securely chocked.

 

Fuel

 

Person using fuel pump in filling station

 

Before parking a vehicle up for a long period, it’s a good idea to top up with fuel. Not only will this help with other measures, but a full tank doesn’t attract condensation, which could cause issues if allowed to build up over time.

 

Tyres

 

Check your tyre pressures and make sure they are at the recommended settings. A tyre that is partially deflated will put extra stress on the sidewall and may cause lasting damage if left that way for an extended period. If you have space, roll the car forward or backwards slightly to change the area where the stress on the sidewall is greatest. Keeping the pressure right will mean you are ready to go as soon as restrictions are lifted.

 

Paint

 

Car Cleaning

 

Cars and vans should still be washed regularly when not being used to protect the paint and trim from contaminants. Bird droppings, if left, could cause damage to the paint finish that can’t be removed with normal cleaning/polishing. Alloy wheels should also be cleaned of brake dust as this can cause pitting and staining, especially on wheels with a polished finish.

 

If you can’t get out with your bucket of water I’ve found that waterless car wash works pretty well. Parking under trees can leave a green type mould at the base of the windows. Use an old toothbrush with cleaner to get rid of it.

 

Ensure there is not food or drink left in the vehicle in an unsealed container and leaving the windows or doors open regularly to ventilate the car will prevent mould from forming inside.

 

DPF

 

Modern diesel cars are fitted with a diesel particulate filter to help reduce the exhaust emissions. These devices function by storing the harmful pollution then burning it off when the exhaust system gets hot enough – usually on a motorway.

 

If a vehicle is only used for short trips, such as shopping locally, the filter may become clogged. If the vehicle needs to perform a ‘regeneration’, where it clears the filter itself, a warning light will come on the instrument cluster, shaped like a filter. The engine must not be switched off while this light is illuminated. If unsure, check your handbook.

 

Whilst there are no rules relating to extended trips to clear the DPF as long as you don’t abuse the need to clear the DPF in order to keep you mobile the police will have a relaxed approach.

 

You need to drive for 15 minutes at a speed of over 50 miles per hour. Take a picture of the warning light with your phone to show the police if you get stopped. By Graham Hill thanks to Fleet News

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