Motoring Advice Archives

3 Reasons Why Airbags are Important

From seatbelts and airbags through to technological safety features like lane assist and cruise control, today’s level of vehicular safety has been achieved through several key advancements.

One of the best known and most widespread safety features in cars are airbags. First developed in the USA in the 1950s, airbags became mainstays in Europe in the 1980s. They are now standard safety features in vehicles globally.

What are airbags and how do they work?

Airbags are inflatable bags that cushion the body of the driver and passenger(s) in the event of a crash.

Despite their name, airbags are actually filled with a chemical compound that reacts to high temperatures. This causes the bag to fill with air, preventing the driver and passenger from hitting the car’s hard surfaces (such as the dashboard and steering wheel), as well as each other.

Vehicles are fitted with collision sensors at various points. When a severe collision is sensed, these sensors release an ignition compound. This sparks a chemical reaction, causing the compound in the airbags (a mix of sodium and nitrogen) to react. The airbag then inflates. This process takes place in a matter of milliseconds.

Once the bags have been inflated, they then deflate immediately. This allows people to leave the car if possible, or for emergency services to access it. As high temperatures are generated during this process, some people may experience minor burns as a result of airbag inflation.

Why are airbags important?

Airbags provide a cushioning effect for the driver and passenger(s). They also reduce the speed at which the body may collide with the vehicle’s dashboard, steering wheel, and other passengers.

The US-based NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) reports that:

From 1987 to 2017, 50,457 lives were saved by frontal airbags.
Airbags in combination with seat belts reduced the risk of death in frontal crashes by 61%. This is compared to a 50% reduction for seatbelts alone, and 34% for airbags alone.
As of 2012, 2,252 lives were saved by side airbags.

Where are airbags located?

The first airbags were located towards the front of the vehicle. They were fitted within the steering wheel and dashboard to protect both the driver and passenger from frontal collisions.

It’s worth knowing that American airbags tend to be larger and inflate faster. This is because they had traditionally been seen as a replacement safety feature for seatbelts, rather than as a feature working in tandem with seatbelts.

However, some vehicles may now have up to nine airbags, depending on the model and make. Alternative airbag locations include:

Knee airbags – Designed to protect the driver and front passenger’s knees from hitting the dashboard.
Foot airbags – Designed to reduce injuries to the lower legs and feet.
Side airbags – Designed to reduce impact for side (lateral) collisions. There are also side torso airbags.
Seatbelt airbags – Released from the seatbelt, across the shoulder and torso.
Curtain airbags – Released from the roof sill downwards, to protect the head and neck.
Centre airbags – Designed to prevent head contact between passengers and drivers, released between the front two seats during a lateral collision.

Do airbags have limitations?

Airbags reduce the damage caused by accidents – but they cannot prevent them. As mentioned above, other injuries (such as minor burns and scrapes) may be sustained as a result of airbag inflation. This is particularly the case for drivers wearing glasses, who may experience facial injuries as a result of airbag deployment.

Airbags should be used with other safety features, such as seatbelts, in order to ensure that all persons within the vehicle are as safe as possible. Airbags are designed to work for drivers and passengers in the correct sitting position. They may not work as effectively if, for example, a passenger is sat with their feet on the dashboard, or if there are objects on the dashboard that impede the airbag’s inflation.

Similarly, airbags are designed for adults. Children are at risk of injury if they are either unbelted or in rear-facing child safety seats in the front passenger seat of a vehicle. They should therefore always be in a car’s backseat if under thirteen years of age or 153cm height.

Upgrade your car and benefit from maximum safety

As technology and research improves, vehicle manufacturers are making cars safer than ever before. Contact us to gauge your car finance eligibility and learn how we can help you find a new vehicle that’ll have you feeling secure behind the wheel.

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My credit rating

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No impact on your credit score*

Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 12.4%, annual interest rate (fixed) 12.36%, 47 monthly payments of £196.44 followed by 1 payment of £206.44 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,939.12, total amount payable is £9,439.12.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

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What are the Different Types of Speed Camera?

Whether or not you’re a fan of speed cameras, as a driver on UK roads, you’ve got to get used to them. As such, it can be useful to know how to distinguish different types of speed camera, so that you can always drive within the legal speed limit on any journey you make.

What are the different types of speed camera on UK roads?

If a camera captures a driver speeding, it will take down details like the time and date of the offence, make and model of the vehicle, and speed of travel. Some types of speed camera also capture the face of the driver behind the wheel. A typical penalty for speeding is a fine and three points on your driving licence – but penalties can be worse if the speed limit was significantly exceeded.

Fixed speed cameras

Fixed speed cameras include the Gatso speed camera (first introduced to the UK in 1991), as well as the Truvelo Combi and Truvelo D-Cam speed cameras. The Gatso speed camera is rear-facing in order to avoid blinding drivers with their flash, which gave rise to the Truvelo Combi, which is forward-facing and uses infra-red technology to capture speeding.

Mobile speed cameras

These are typically deployed by the police, who will use them on particularly accident-prone stretches of road.

As the name indicates, mobile speed cameras are operated from within police cars and can move around or be mounted roadside on a tripod. They’re also manually operated by police in the form of radar or laser guns. Be aware that mobile speed cameras can operate in unmarked cars.

Speed and traffic cameras

These are usually used in urban areas, where you’ll see them mounted above the road on purpose-built poles. They use sensors in order to gauge whether a motorist is speeding or not, but can be used to monitor traffic and road junction violations too. They can also be found along dual carriageways in busy areas.

Average speed cameras

Average speed cameras work by recording a vehicle’s speed at two different points, and are therefore designed to keep traffic flowing evenly, as they aim to prevent drivers from slowing down when they see a camera and then immediately speeding back up. This is done via infrared sensors. They’re typically used on motorways and in towns and villages, as well as at sites of roadworks.

Variable speed cameras

If you’re a regular driver on smart motorways, you’ll be familiar with variable speed cameras, where they’re used to ease congestion or in case of hazards like accidents or weather events. Unlike the alternative types of speed camera, they’re less likely to be in use 24/7.

Find a car you feel safe in with My Car Credit

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Typical rate

Loan amount

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Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 12.4%, annual interest rate (fixed) 12.36%, 47 monthly payments of £196.44 followed by 1 payment of £206.44 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,939.12, total amount payable is £9,439.12.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

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What are the Most Common Car Dashboard Warnings?

If deciphering your car dashboard warnings feels like a complete mystery, this guide is for you. Symbols like the low petrol light are familiar to most drivers. But what about all those other car dashboard warnings that pop up from time to time? Fortunately, we’re here to help! Read on for a complete guide to the most common warning lights and what to do when they appear on your dashboard.

Colour coded car dashboard warnings

Most car dashboard lights use a colour coded system.

Green

Green lights are good and indicate a system is engaged or working as it should. Nothing to worry about here.

Yellow

Yellow lights are a warning that a system or component isn’t working correctly. You don’t necessarily need to pull over and call a tow truck, but you should take extra care when driving and get your vehicle checked out ASAP.

Red

When you see red car dashboard warnings, it’s best to pull over and switch off your engine as soon as possible. Red lights indicate a serious problem that could quickly escalate if not immediately addressed.

Now you know more about the colour coded system, let’s take a closer look at the most common car dashboard warnings.

Brake warning light

The brake warning light indicates a problem with your parking brake, or your brake fluid levels. Best case scenario, your parking brake is stuck, and you can get rid of the warning light with a quick readjustment. If this doesn’t work, you’ll need to get your brake fluid levels checked.

ABS warning light

This light indicates a problem with your anti-lock brake system (ABS). This is a critical safety feature that helps you pull off emergency stops, especially in wet and slippery conditions. Depending on the issue, the ABS car dashboard warning light may be accompanied by the Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) light. If you notice either is lit up, it’s best to reduce your speed, avoid braking suddenly and pull over when safe to do so.

Check engine car dashboard warning light

Also known as the ECU warning light, this symbol could mean anything from a minor issue with an electrical sensor to a serious mechanical failure. You can usually continue to drive with the check engine light on, but it’s best to look into the issue ASAP to stay safe and avoid irreparable damage.

Airbag warning light

This one will light up in red and indicates that your airbag safety system is compromised. Also called the supplemental restraint system (SRS) warning light, it’s not one to be ignored.

Power steering warning light

As the name suggests, this car dashboard warning confirms there’s an issue with your power steering. Sometimes getting it to turn off is as simple as restarting your engine. Other times, you may need to book your car into a service centre for a closer inspection. If there is a serious problem, you’ll probably be able to feel it as you manoeuvre the car. You can still drive with the power steering light on, but you’ll need to be careful as your steering assistance is compromised.

Engine temperature warning light

The dreaded engine temperature warning light is a tell-tale sign that your engine is overheating. Possible reasons include a leak in your coolant system or a more serious issue, such as a blown head gasket. This one is red, which means you should stop your car and turn off the engine as soon as possible. If you continue to drive, you run the risk of seizing the entire engine and causing permanent damage.

Oil warning light

Of all the car dashboard warning lights that can appear, the oil symbol is one of the most common. Best case scenario, your oil is running low and needs to be topped up. This is an easy fix if you’re near a petrol station. You’ll need to act fast as your engine needs lubrication to run. Without it you can quickly cause serious damage. If your oil light comes on again a day or so after topping up your tank, it could indicate a more serious issue like a faulty pump or a leak in the system.

Low tyre pressure warning light

The tyre pressure warning light makes it easy to detect leaks and punctures in the earliest stages. Also known as the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), this light detects abnormal drops in pressure. You can still drive with the TPMS light on, though it’s best to reduce your speed and be extra vigilant. Pull into a petrol station, when possible, to top up the air or change your tyre if necessary.

Battery warning light

The battery warning light can be a tricky one as it can mean a few things. Ideally, it’s just a prompt to replace your battery. This usually needs to be done every few years anyway. It could also mean your battery isn’t being charged by the alternator, which may indicate a more serious problem like an overheating engine.

Say goodbye to car dashboard warning lights

Hate the wave of anxiety that comes with car dashboard warning lights? It could be time to upgrade your vehicle. Newer cars simply don’t have the same mechanical issues as older vehicles, meaning you’re far less likely to see your dashboard light up like it’s Guy Fawkes night.

If you’re thinking about upgrading to a more reliable car, we’re here to help. Say goodbye to car dashboard warning lights and use our tailored car finance solutions to secure your dream ride. We’ll match your application with a wide range of lenders to unlock the best rates and maximise your chances of success, even if you’re worried about car finance poor credit.

If you’d like to learn more about the services we provide, get in touch with our friendly team on 01246 458 810 or at enquiries@mycarcredit.co.uk.

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My credit rating

X monthly repayments of
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Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

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*for illustration purposes only

No impact on your credit score*

Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 12.4%, annual interest rate (fixed) 12.36%, 47 monthly payments of £196.44 followed by 1 payment of £206.44 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,939.12, total amount payable is £9,439.12.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

Require more help?

Got a question you can’t find the answer to, or need some advice and guidance around taking out car finance? Our Car Credit Specialists are friendly, experienced, and here to help so get in touch today!

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What Causes Car Depreciation – And How Can You Avoid It?

Cars depreciate over time. It’s a fact. But did you know that depreciation isn’t completely out of your control? You can’t stop the clock. But you can be proactive when it comes to minimising depreciation. So, how can you avoid wiping value off your car? Read on as we dig a little deeper into what causes car depreciation, and how you can avoid it.

Smoking in your car

If there’s one thing that instantly turns off buyers, it’s the smell of stale cigarette smoke. Smoking isn’t just bad for your health. It can also wipe thousands of pounds off the resale value of your car. Lighting up in your car can knock a huge £2000 off the sell-on value. Like walls, furniture and clothing, smoke lingers on car upholstery and is instantly noticeable to prospective buyers.

Sometimes it’s possible to remove the smell using specialised equipment, though this can easily cost hundreds of pounds. But, in many cases, it won’t budge. Smoke can also infiltrate the air conditioning system and be extremely hard to flush out. Whether you’re thinking about selling your car privately or trading it in at a dealership, smoking is a guaranteed way to drag down your asking price and fast track car depreciation.

Scrimping on maintenance

From regular oil and coolant changes to routine washing to protect the paintwork and prevent rust, maintenance is a must when you own a car. As well as keeping your ride safe and reliable, staying on top of maintenance is one of the best ways to minimise depreciation.

When it comes to buyer peace of mind, a good service history can significantly boost the resale value of your car. Similarly, a lacklustre service history can wipe off a big chunk of your asking price. Remember to keep comprehensive records of every service or repair your car receives, even if it’s something simple like a filter change.

Not using manufacturer recommended parts

From alternators and air filters to radiators and clutches, cars often need replacements. That’s especially true when they start to age. Using manufacturer recommended parts is a good way to minimise car depreciation. While some mechanics will always use manufacturer recommended parts, others may suggest cheaper alternatives. It’s generally best to stick with parts recommended by the manufacturer. This will not only help your car run better but also helps position you as a reliable owner.

A bold paint job

While colours like hot pink and neon orange will stand out on the motorway, they’re not to everyone’s taste. Giving your car a bold paint job will usually fast-track car depreciation, unless you happen to find a buyer that loves lime green as much as you do. As a general rule, it’s best to stick with classic car colours if you want to minimise depreciation.

Dogs riding shotgun

Are you wondering what causes car depreciation? Like cigarette smoke, pet odours can linger long after your dog has left the vehicle. If you love to take your pup to the river, lake or beach, that ‘wet dog’ smell can be incredibly hard to banish. As well as being unpleasant, pet odours can give potential buyers the impression that your vehicle isn’t well cared for.

If you use your car to transport a pet, it’s best to invest in a seat protector. This will help to keep the upholstery looking and smelling fresh. Use a high-powered vacuum to clean up any pet hair and be sure to regularly wipe down the interior of the windows if you have a drooler on your hands!

Stacking the odometer

What causes car depreciation to skyrocket? Higher than normal mileage. Short trips can quickly add up and push your odometer over the limit. The typical car will travel around 7000 – 7500 miles per year. So, a two-year old car should have around 14,000 miles on the odometer to be considered in ‘good’ condition. Anything less is considered ‘excellent’ while anything over pushes the car into the ‘overused’ category.

Swapping short trips for a journey on foot or by bicycle is a great way to keep your odometer down. Instead of driving to the shops, why not stretch your legs with a 10-minute walk. Rather than get behind the wheel for your daily commute, why not use public transport? Changing your mindset won’t just help you avoid car depreciation. It’s also a great way to squeeze in your recommended 30 minutes of daily exercise and reduce your carbon footprint. What’s not to love?

Buy second hand

One of the best ways to avoid car depreciation is to buy second hand. Purchasing a pre-owned vehicle means you’ll skip the 15 – 35% drop in value that most cars experience in the first 12 months. Over the next three years, many cars lose 50% of their original value. If you want to avoid car depreciation, one and three year birthdays are often the golden number.

Consider car financing

Want to avoid the worries of car depreciation? Why not consider car financing? Instead of buying a car in one lump sum, you’ll sign an agreement that gets you behind the wheel of a new vehicle right away. You’ll make monthly payments, usually for two to four years. With an option such as PCP financing, you have the flexibility to purchase the vehicle with a balloon payment at the end of the contract, or exchange or return the car for a new model. This means you won’t have to worry about selling the vehicle yourself.

Affordable car financing for your new car

As discussed, car depreciation isn’t completely unbridled. With a better understanding of what causes car depreciation, there are some easy things you can do to maximise the value of your car. That includes finding the right car financing.

Thinking about buying a new or second-hand car? If you’re wondering “how much car finance do I qualify for?”, you can use our handy calculator to find out how much car financing you could be entitled to.

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Repayment term

My credit rating

X monthly repayments of
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Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£X

*for illustration purposes only

No impact on your credit score*

Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 12.4%, annual interest rate (fixed) 12.36%, 47 monthly payments of £196.44 followed by 1 payment of £206.44 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,939.12, total amount payable is £9,439.12.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

Require more help?

Got a question you can’t find the answer to, or need some advice and guidance around taking out car finance? Our Car Credit Specialists are friendly, experienced, and here to help so get in touch today!

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What to Expect on Your First Driving Lesson

Learning to drive is one of life’s major milestones. But if you’ve never sat in the driver’s seat before, it can feel overwhelming. Feeling nervous before your first lesson is totally normal, and your instructor will expect it. That said, there are ways that you can soothe those nerves, and one of the best ways to do so is by knowing what to expect on your first driving lesson.

How to prepare for your first driving lesson

It’s sensible to ensure that you’ve got everything you need before you get behind the wheel. This will help calm any butterflies, and also ensure that you’ve covered all the necessary bases.

Remember to always book with a reputable driving school. Ask around your friends to see how they felt about their instructor, and check for online reviews. Be sure that you can dedicate the time to learning to drive, too – there’s no point stopping and starting lessons, as inconsistent practice won’t help develop your confidence or driving proficiency.

Have a provisional licence

Your instructor will check that you have a provisional licence before you set off. These can be applied for on gov.uk, where you’ll fill out the online form before waiting for the licence to arrive in the post.

Get familiar with The Highway Code

You’ll have to pass a theory test before you can take your practical test, and getting familiar with The Highway Code from as early as possible is a great way to give yourself the best possible start. By knowing the legal obligations drivers are required to follow, as well as being confident on road and driving safety and signposting, you’ll be in a better position to nail your driving lessons and theory test.

Be sensible

Consider what you’re going to wear to your lesson. Don’t wear high heels or flip flops to drive, and ensure that you’re comfortable.

It also goes without saying that you should be well rested, wear your glasses or contact lenses (if required), and never be hungover.

What to expect on your first driving lesson

Once you’ve got yourself ready for your first driving lesson, it helps to know what to expect.

It’s completely normal to feel nervous about it all – your instructor will expect this. They are there to guide and support you. And don’t forget that they have their own set of foot pedals, too, so they can always help with the fundamentals like braking and clutch control if you need it. All professional driving schools use dual controlled cars – don’t take a first driving lesson in a vehicle that doesn’t.

When it comes to driving, practice makes perfect, and you’ll find yourself improving in your ability and confidence over time.

You’ll go somewhere quiet

Your instructor won’t expect you to drive from the get-go. They will check your eyesight by asking you to read a number plate, as well as your provisional licence. From there, your instructor will drive you to a quiet road where you can familiarise yourself with the fundamentals.

You’ll learn the cockpit drill

You’ll need to learn how to adjust items like your seating, steering, mirrors, and headrests so that you are supported, have easy access to controls, and a clear view of the road.

From there, you’ll likely be guided through the car’s functions, becoming more familiar with how to use the handbrake, gears, steering wheel itself, and the clutch. You’ll likely also be introduced to basics like use of your windscreen wipers and the car’s heating and cooling systems.

You will drive safely

Getting to grips with clutch control and use of the brakes and accelerator is best done via practice. Your instructor will encourage you to take your first drive – but don’t worry, you won’t be hitting any high-pressure roads just yet. You’ll learn how to safely move off and stop, and may use the ‘Prepare, Observe, Move’ routine.

You’ll probably stall, but don’t be embarrassed. It’s your first lesson, and making mistakes is natural. In fact, recovering in a safe, secure manner from a stall is a critical step in learning to safely drive.

Finance your learner car with My Car Credit

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Loan amount

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Repayment term

My credit rating

X monthly repayments of
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Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£X

*for illustration purposes only

No impact on your credit score*

Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 12.4%, annual interest rate (fixed) 12.36%, 47 monthly payments of £196.44 followed by 1 payment of £206.44 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,939.12, total amount payable is £9,439.12.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

Require more help?

Got a question you can’t find the answer to, or need some advice and guidance around taking out car finance? Our Car Credit Specialists are friendly, experienced, and here to help so get in touch today!

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How to Protect Your Car from Keyless Car Theft

Thief looking in a car at night with a flashlight

Keyless car theft is on the up. According to insurance company Aviva, between August 2020 and August 2022, customers with keyless cars were significantly more likely to make a car theft claim than those with standard vehicular locks.

As technology becomes more sophisticated, so do thieves. However, there are ways of safeguarding your vehicle against the risk of keyless car theft – and these are the best ways to do so.

What is keyless technology?

If you’re still using bog-standard car keys, you may not even be familiar with keyless technology. Designed to take the faff out of the search for car keys, keyless technology works through the transmission of short-range radio waves.

Drivers of keyless cars will have a fob that communicates with the vehicle via a series of codes. These codes indicate to the car that the driver is within range, and they can then start the ignition without having to put the key in.

What is keyless car theft?

Keyless technology is designed to make life more convenient for drivers, but unfortunately, criminals have wised up to the game.

Thieves will deploy technology in a ‘relay attack’, which mimics the signals and communication between the keyless fob and keyless car. Footage from front-door or doorbell security cameras has revealed how thieves will approach houses and lurk outside the front door. As keyless fobs are often kept within short range of the front door, this allows the criminals to capture the signals from the fob and direct them to the car. The car is then unlocked, allowing thieves to get in and drive away – all in as little as 60 seconds.

If your car still relies on traditional car keys, then you are not at risk of keyless car theft.

Protecting your car from keyless car theft – 5 tips

1. Choose cars with more sophisticated security

Data from Thatcham Research indicates that certain vehicles are less vulnerable to keyless car theft as a result of improved security features. Land Rover, in particular, was noted as a highly secure brand as a result of their ultra-wide-band radio technology, which prevents thieves from tracing the codes they need to commit the crime.

They highlighted four particular models as examples of vehicles that ranked ‘poor’ for security and are therefore at higher risk of keyless car theft, including cars made by Mazda and Vauxhall.

2. Choose key fobs with motion sensor

Car manufacturers like Ford have begun to fit keyless fobs with motion sensors. These sense when the fob has been stationary in place for a time, which deactivates the signal needed to start the car, meaning it won’t respond to relay attack. Once the car owner picks up the fob, full functionality is restored.

If you own a keyless vehicle and your fob doesn’t have motion sensor installed, you should investigate whether it’s possible to do so, to add an extra layer of protection against theft.

3. Deploy traditional security measures

Wheel clamps and locks for your steering wheel, gearstick and handbrake all great visual deterrents against keyless car theft. It’s probably also sensible to invest in a tracker system, which will help to track your car should it be stolen.

On a more basic level, always take care to lock your car – no matter how quick you think you’ll be.

4. Take care with your key fob

Get into the habit of turning your key fob off completely overnight. You can check manufacturer guidance for how to do so. When the fob is off, it won’t respond to any signals sent by thieves.

Be careful where you store your fob in the house. Keep it away from doors and windows, and, if possible, at some distance away from the front and back doors in particular. If the fob is beyond reach of the relay attacks of thieves, it can’t pick up their signal.

You can also store your fob in a faraday pouch. The metal lining of these pouches blocks any signal from reaching the fob, thereby deterring thieves from keyless car theft.

5. Remove valuables from the vehicle and be sensible about parked location

Practising basic security measures, like removing all valuables overnight and parking in well-lit areas, will ensure that thieves don’t have extra incentive.

Upgrade to a more secure vehicle with My Car Credit

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Rates from 9.9% APR. Representative APR 12.4%

Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

What is a Guarantor Loan?

What Happens if I Can’t Pay My Balloon Payment?

Car Finance vs Personal Loan, what’s best for me?

Loan amount

£

Repayment term

My credit rating

X monthly repayments of
^£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£X

*for illustration purposes only

No impact on your credit score*

Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 12.4%, annual interest rate (fixed) 12.36%, 47 monthly payments of £196.44 followed by 1 payment of £206.44 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,939.12, total amount payable is £9,439.12.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

Require more help?

Got a question you can’t find the answer to, or need some advice and guidance around taking out car finance? Our Car Credit Specialists are friendly, experienced, and here to help so get in touch today!

or call 01246 458 810

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Driving Lessons Prices – What are the Total Costs?

You may think that the main cost to consider when booking driving lessons are the lessons themselves. Whilst they constitute the main bulk of the expense of learning to drive, there are other outgoings that you also need to consider when budgeting to learn to drive.

How much are driving lessons?

There’s no one figure when it comes to driving lessons costs, because it depends on a range of factors including your age, where you live, and the quality of the driving school, as well as whether you’re willing to book an intensive driving course, which can work out cheaper overall.

If you live in London, you can expect the prices of driving lessons to be higher compared to more rural areas. Expect to pay an average of around £30 a lesson, but different driving schools will quote their own rates. Remember that buying lessons in bulk may make them cheaper individually.

The DVLA reports that there is no minimum number of lessons or hours necessary in order to learn to drive, although the DVSA suggests an average of 45-47 driving lessons are typical, with extra private practice on top.

Younger learners may need fewer sessions than older learners, resulting in less overall expenditure on the lessons themselves. Ensuring that you’re learning with a reputable driving school means that you know you’re in professional hands, and are more likely to be a safer driver overall.

What are the other costs on top of driving lessons?

Provisional driving licence

You cannot drive on UK roads without a provisional licence, which costs £34 online or £43 via post.

Theory test

You have to pass this before taking your practical test. It costs £23 to book online, and you may want to make use of resources like the DVSA’s Official Theory Test and Hazard Perception Kit app to hone your skills for the test, which costs £15 for a 30-day subscription.

Learner insurance

If you’re learning to drive in another’s car, you should take out learner insurance so that you’re protected in case an accident occurs.

Insurers will price learner insurance differently, and you may benefit from daily, weekly, or monthly packages.

Practical test

On a weekday, a practical driving test will cost you £62, rising to £75 on weekends and bank holidays.

Remember that you may have to retake the test more than once – the pass rate in the UK is only 50%. You may also have to pay for the use of your instructor’s car on the day of the test itself.

Finance your first car

Once you’ve passed your driving test, you’ll need to account for costs like insurance and road tax, as well as financing your first car. Find out your car finance eligibility and see how My Car Credit can help you to safely take to the road in your new wheels by contacting us on enquiries@mycarcredit.co.uk.

Rates from 9.9% APR. Representative APR 12.4%

Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

How Do Car Finance Calculators Work?

What is Hire Purchase? – Simple HP Explanation

Financing a Second-Hand Car: 4 Options

Loan amount

£

Repayment term

My credit rating

X monthly repayments of
^£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£X

*for illustration purposes only

No impact on your credit score*

Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 12.4%, annual interest rate (fixed) 12.36%, 47 monthly payments of £196.44 followed by 1 payment of £206.44 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,939.12, total amount payable is £9,439.12.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

Require more help?

Got a question you can’t find the answer to, or need some advice and guidance around taking out car finance? Our Car Credit Specialists are friendly, experienced, and here to help so get in touch today!

or call 01246 458 810

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What is Android Auto – and What Does It Do in Your Car?

If you’re an iPhone owner and enjoy making the most of your device’s many apps, you’ll likely already know about Apple CarPlay.

But what if you’re an Android owner? What is Android Auto in a car, and how can it benefit drivers? Read on to find out…

What is Android Auto?

Being able to safely use your phone’s various features, from maps to music, whilst driving is no longer just a future tech goal.

Android Auto software allows you to mirror your Android phone screen onto your car’s infotainment system via a Bluetooth connection or USB cable. You can therefore use your phone’s various apps without illegally picking up the device itself.

With Android Auto, you can manipulate your car’s control dial, steering wheel buttons, or touch screen (depending on your model of car) in order to access the features you know and love on your Android phone.

How to work Android Auto in a car

You’ll need both an Android Auto-compatible car and a smartphone with at least version 6.0 Android software to work Android Auto. Any compatible phone with an operating system of Android 11.0 and above should connect wirelessly to your car, otherwise you’ll need a USB cable.

Android Auto is easy to set up in a compatible car – just plug your phone in and follow the onscreen instructions. Be aware that, whilst most cars are compatible with the system, some older models may not be, so it’s worth checking the specifications of your vehicle if Android Auto is a make-or-break feature for you.

Looking to upgrade your car?

If you want to upgrade your car to a new model with features like Android Auto, it’s important to also take a look at a car finance checker. Discover how My Car Credit can help you to finance your new wheels by emailing us at enquiries@mycarcredit.co.uk.

Rates from 9.9% APR. Representative APR 12.4%

Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

Electric Car: Lease vs Buy – Which is Best?

How Much Car Finance Do I Qualify For?

What is a Balloon Payment on a Car Loan?

Loan amount

£

Repayment term

My credit rating

X monthly repayments of
^£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£X

*for illustration purposes only

No impact on your credit score*

Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 12.4%, annual interest rate (fixed) 12.36%, 47 monthly payments of £196.44 followed by 1 payment of £206.44 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,939.12, total amount payable is £9,439.12.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

Require more help?

Got a question you can’t find the answer to, or need some advice and guidance around taking out car finance? Our Car Credit Specialists are friendly, experienced, and here to help so get in touch today!

or call 01246 458 810

Android apple Auto carplay Phone

Top 5 Safety Tips for Driving in the Dark

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) report that 40% of collisions occur at night.

Whether you’re a newly-passed driver or have many years behind the wheel, driving in the dark can pose risks to your safety. These are the top five tips for ensuring that you’re as secure as possible when you get behind the wheel at night.

Driving in the dark: 5 tips

Know how to use your lights

You should be turning on your dipped headlights an hour before sunset and an hour after sunrise to allow other road users and pedestrians to see your vehicle. Use your full beam when appropriate, but always flick it off whenever another vehicle is approaching to avoid blinding them. Ensure that the interior of your car remains dark to reduce the interference of internal light.

Don’t stare directly at oncoming vehicles, as this will dazzle you and your eyes may struggle to readjust. Direct your gaze down and to the left of the road, keeping your car aligned with the white line marking the road’s edge.

Vehicle maintenance

You can only use your headlights correctly if they are working. Before you depart for a night journey, ensure that your headlights and brake lights are working effectively, and stay on top of maintaining your car throughout the year. Remember that you can be pulled aside by police if your bulbs aren’t working.

You also need to ensure that your windscreens are clear – the dirtier the window, the more disruptive the glare from other vehicles will be, and the more likely your window is to steam up.

Stay alert

Do not get behind the wheel if you’re tired. You’ll be a danger to yourself and other road users. Take more rest breaks if you need them, particularly if you’re covering long distances.

Stay alert for pedestrians, cyclists and animals. Be aware that cyclists and children may not be wearing reflective clothing and may be less visible in darker areas. If you’re in residential areas, take particular care and always keep your speed down.

Test your eyes regularly

No matter your age, you must get your eyes tested frequently. You need to ensure that you’re wearing glasses if you need them, and that you’re updating your prescription accordingly.

Carry safety essentials

If you’re driving in the dark, it’s likely that you’re driving through the winter months. So, it’s worthwhile having a winter safety kit in your boot. Keep warm items on hand, as well as a torch, ice scraper and de-icer. Having a spare mobile charger is a good idea, too.

Step up your night-time driving safety

Looking for a car loan quote to finance the perfect car for night driving? Or maybe you’re curious about your eligibility for car finance? Whatever your query, contact My Car Credit on enquiries@mycarcredit.co.uk to find out how we can help.

Rates from 9.9% APR. Representative APR 12.4%

Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

How to Finance a Car in 4 Easy Steps

How Do Car Finance Calculators Work?

What is CS Car Finance?

Loan amount

£

Repayment term

My credit rating

X monthly repayments of
^£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£X

*for illustration purposes only

No impact on your credit score*

Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 12.4%, annual interest rate (fixed) 12.36%, 47 monthly payments of £196.44 followed by 1 payment of £206.44 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,939.12, total amount payable is £9,439.12.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

Require more help?

Got a question you can’t find the answer to, or need some advice and guidance around taking out car finance? Our Car Credit Specialists are friendly, experienced, and here to help so get in touch today!

or call 01246 458 810

driving Lights Night safety

How Many Errors are Allowed on a Driving Test?

The government regularly publishes statistics on the pass/fail rate of driving tests – between January and March 2022, the pass rate was 47.1%. That means less than half of drivers are passing their test, either because of minor or major faults. Given the expense of learning to drive, it’s worth trying to nail it first time – but doing so means knowing how many errors are allowed on a driving test.

How many errors are allowed on a driving test?

If you get fifteen or more minor faults, you’ll be failed by your invigilator. That said, if you repeat the same minor fault, you’ll also be failed, even if you haven’t hit the full fifteen minors. This is because you’re indicating to your invigilator that you haven’t mastered the requisite skill and aren’t recognising your error.

What are the serious faults?

If you make a serious or dangerous fault, regardless of whether you’ve made any minors, you’ll fail your driving test.

A serious or dangerous fault constitutes any error that endangers yourself and other road users. In other words, this means a mistake that might have resulted in a significant accident. You won’t know whether or not you performed a serious fault until the test is over.

What are the most common errors on a driving test?

Not checking mirrors

Checking your mirrors is wise before performing most actions in a vehicle. If you change lanes without checking your mirrors, that would likely constitute a serious fault. But moving off without doing so, or not judging a junction accordingly, is also a minor, unless it’s a more serious incident.

Make it obvious to the examiner that you’re using your mirrors by turning your head slightly when you do so.

Hesitation and lack of decision at junctions

Negotiating junctions can be stressful for learner drivers. You need to ensure that you’re driving safely and aren’t being reckless with your decisions. Any dangerous move at a junction will constitute a major fault and immediate fail.

However, you also need to avoid hesitating excessively. If you miss an opportunity to safely pull out once, you won’t be penalised for this. However, if you miss multiple chances to safely pull out and are subsequently holding up the traffic behind you, then you’ll get a minor.

Mounting the kerb and ignoring traffic lights

If you touch the kerb when performing a manoeuvre, this is only a minor fault. But mounting the kerb, or crashing into it, will be a major fault and result in immediate failure.

You need to avoid driving through a red light at all costs, as this is illegal. Always heed the lights but also ensure you move away safely – and remember to never stop in any designated cycle box, even if there’s no cyclist there.

Nail your driving test – and your car finance

If you’re a new driver wondering about your car finance eligibility, My Car Credit can help. To find out how we can support your car finance needs, send us an email at enquiries@mycarcredit.co.uk.

Rates from 9.9% APR. Representative APR 12.4%

Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

Am I eligible for car finance?

What’s the Cheapest Way to Finance a Car?

7 Advantages of Used Car Hire Purchase

Loan amount

£

Repayment term

My credit rating

X monthly repayments of
^£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£X

*for illustration purposes only

No impact on your credit score*

Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 12.4%, annual interest rate (fixed) 12.36%, 47 monthly payments of £196.44 followed by 1 payment of £206.44 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,939.12, total amount payable is £9,439.12.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

Require more help?

Got a question you can’t find the answer to, or need some advice and guidance around taking out car finance? Our Car Credit Specialists are friendly, experienced, and here to help so get in touch today!

or call 01246 458 810

driving test errors fault pass

From seatbelts and airbags through to technological safety features like lane assist and cruise control, today’s level of vehicular safety has been achieved through several key advancements.

What are airbags and how do they work?

Why are airbags important?

Where are airbags located?

Do airbags have limitations?

Upgrade your car and benefit from maximum safety

Rates from 9.9% APR. Representative APR 12.4%

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Whether or not you’re a fan of speed cameras, as a driver on UK roads, you’ve got to get used to them. As such, it can be useful to know how to distinguish different types of speed camera, so that you can always drive within the legal speed limit on any journey you make.

What are the different types of speed camera on UK roads?

Fixed speed cameras

Mobile speed cameras

Speed and traffic cameras

Average speed cameras

Variable speed cameras

Find a car you feel safe in with My Car Credit

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