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Insights

A guide to Congestion Charges

Are you visiting central London soon in your car or van? Depending on what vehicle you own, you may need to pay the Congestion Charge to drive in the zone. The Congestion Charge covers a small area within the capital. Our helpful guide covers everything you need to know about congestion charges. What is the Congestion Charge? The Congestion Charge is a policy implemented by the UK government on 17 February 2003 to manage traffic in London. The scheme is managed by Transport for London and is designed to reduce...

What are noise cameras?

Noise cameras detect and monitor sound emitted from a vehicle that exceeds a limit that has been set. They may also be referred to as acoustic cameras, with the aim to catch drivers who make excessive noise with their engines. Why are noise cameras being used? In the UK, it is illegal to modify exhaust systems to increase noise and power. However, this hasn't stopped some owners getting their cars modified. The rollout of noise cameras aims to clampdown on drivers who use illegally modified exhausts to break the legal...

What do different coloured exhaust smoke mean?

Normally, your exhaust should be quietly pumping out gases from the rear of your vehicle. If you find that the exhaust pipe is emitting smoke, then it could indicate an issue with your car or van. Our guide covers the different colours of smoke from your exhaust and what they could mean. What to look out for with a smoky car exhaust Exhausts can tell you a lot about the health of your vehicle's engine system. The exhaust is responsible for removing all the burnt gases and particulate matter out...

How to prevent a damaged windscreen

A damaged windscreen can occur at any time and can be costly if left untreated. But what causes a damaged windscreen and how can you prevent it? Our guide has you covered. Is driving with a damaged windscreen illegal? Driving with a damaged windscreen can be a motoring offence. If a crack or chip on the windscreen is large enough to obscure the driver's view, this could result in a fine as well as three points on your licence. According to the Highway Code, ?All glass or other transparent material...

What should you bring to your MOT?

Once your car is over three years old, by law, you must book an MOT test annually to ensure your car is roadworthy and safe to drive. If you continue to drive after your MOT is due its first test or after its current MOT has expired, your MOT certificate will no longer be valid, meaning you could be fined up to £2,500, be banned from driving and receive 3 penalty points. If you're taking your car for your MOT for the first time, you might be wondering what you...