Motoring Advice Archives

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.

Rates from 9.9% APR. Representative APR 10.9%

Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

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 10.9%, annual interest rate (fixed) 10.87%, 47 monthly payments of £191.50 followed by 1 payment of £201.50 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,702, total amount payable £9,202.

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

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

Funding your new car doesn’t have to be stressful – and with My Car Credit, it won’t be. Check your car finance eligibility and discover how we can help you safely take to the road by emailing us at enquiries@mycarcredit.co.uk.

Rates from 9.9% APR. Representative APR 10.9%

Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

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Advantages of Cars on PCP with No Deposit

Car Finance or Personal Loan – Which is Best for You?

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 10.9%, annual interest rate (fixed) 10.87%, 47 monthly payments of £191.50 followed by 1 payment of £201.50 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,702, total amount payable £9,202.

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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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

If you’re looking to upgrade your current car make and model and have questions about your car finance eligibility, find out how My Car Credit can help by emailing us at enquiries@mycarcredit.co.uk.

Rates from 9.9% APR. Representative APR 10.9%

Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

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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 10.9%, annual interest rate (fixed) 10.87%, 47 monthly payments of £191.50 followed by 1 payment of £201.50 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,702, total amount payable £9,202.

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

key fob keyless theft tips

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 10.9%

Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

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Who is the Legal Owner of a Car on 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 10.9%, annual interest rate (fixed) 10.87%, 47 monthly payments of £191.50 followed by 1 payment of £201.50 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,702, total amount payable £9,202.

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 10.9%

Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

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Advantages and Disadvantages of PCP 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 10.9%, annual interest rate (fixed) 10.87%, 47 monthly payments of £191.50 followed by 1 payment of £201.50 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,702, total amount payable £9,202.

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 10.9%

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PCP: Is It Worth It?

How Much Does Car Finance Cost? Check Now!

What is a Guarantor 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 10.9%, annual interest rate (fixed) 10.87%, 47 monthly payments of £191.50 followed by 1 payment of £201.50 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,702, total amount payable £9,202.

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 10.9%

Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

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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 10.9%, annual interest rate (fixed) 10.87%, 47 monthly payments of £191.50 followed by 1 payment of £201.50 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,702, total amount payable £9,202.

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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Why Do I Need a Speed Limiter for My Car?

If you’re on the hunt for a new car for the first time in a while, you’ll have come across a few key changes to the market. From the 2030 petrol ban shaking up the sales of petrol and diesel vehicles, through to the inclusion of speed limiters in cars, there are a number of new factors that you’ll need to consider when looking for a new set of wheels.

This article will examine speed limiters, including what are they, why you need them and how they might impact your driving experience.

What is a speed limiter for your car?

A speed limiter for a car is exactly what it sounds like – it’s a safety device designed to prevent drivers from exceeding the speed limits of roads. From 6 July 2022, all newly launched vehicles in the UK legally have to be fitted with one. However, many car manufacturers – including Volvo, Ford, Mercedes-Benz, and Renault – adopted speed limiters in their new vehicles before this date.

Whilst all new cars in the UK now have to have a speed limiter installed, the speed limiter can be deactivated, but this won’t permanently disable it. Next time you switch the engine on, the speed limiter will also activate.

It’s critical to note that whilst a speed limiter is designed to prompt speeding drivers to stay within the limit, the driver is ultimately still responsible for doing so. As such, if any motorist is caught speeding, they are still responsible for any potential fine.

How do speed limiters work?

There are a number of different ways in which Intelligent Speed Assistance (ISA) systems can notify a driver if they’re in excess of the speed limit. ISA systems will use either GPS data or traffic-sign recognition in order to gauge the speed limit in any area. Although they have a high degree of accuracy, critics have pointed out that such systems may be vulnerable to inaccurate GPS mapping or temporary speed limits.

Speed limiters currently can work in any of the following ways. If the system detects that a vehicle is over the speed limit, it will alert the driver and automatically limit the engine’s power in order to reduce the vehicle’s speed in the instance of driver non-response. Alternatively, the ISA system can also provide a visual symbol and pedal vibrations, flashing visual signs and audio announcements, and can push back against any foot pressed down on the accelerator pedal.

Research is currently establishing which of these cues is the most effective at inciting response. In December 2025, the findings will be analysed and future ISA systems will implement the most effective one.

It’s important to distinguish a speed limiter from cruise control, which is designed to move the car at one set speed, without the driver’s foot on the pedal. With a speed limiter, the driver remains is in full control of the car, unlike with cruise control. Speed limiters can also be overridden if drivers need to pull away by pushing down sharply on the accelerator pedal.

Speed limiters can typically be found either on the steering wheel or indicator – but take care not to confuse them with the sign for cruise control, as the symbols can be similar.

Why have speed limiters been introduced?

Speed limiters have been introduced in the UK in recognition of the 2019/2044 regulation of The European Commission. Despite having left the EU, The Vehicle Certification Agency in the UK still follows EU regulations, which is why this policy has been implemented in UK automobile markets.

There are a number of reasons why speed limiters are deemed necessary. Primarily, they are designed to improve road safety, making driving safer for motorists, pedestrians and cyclists. Manufacturers like Ford have suggested that speed limiters might also reduce the likelihood of speeding tickets (but remember that the driver is ultimately responsible for any fines accrued).

Otherwise, potential benefits to speed limiters include lower car insurance premiums as a result of lower risk of accident, as well as reduced CO2 emissions and greater fuel economy. Although, speed limiters do not yet have to be retroactively installed in older cars – they are only legally required in brand-new models at the moment.

Find car finance for your new vehicle today

Take the stress out of your search and get a car finance quote from My Car Credit today. Any rate you see is the rate you get, and we can even work with candidates with poor credit scores.

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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 10.9%, annual interest rate (fixed) 10.87%, 47 monthly payments of £191.50 followed by 1 payment of £201.50 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,702, total amount payable £9,202.

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 are the Most Popular First Cars for UK Drivers?

Getting behind the wheel for the first time is an exciting milestone. No doubt about it, a driver’s license comes with a newfound sense of freedom and independence. Of course, buying a car is the final hurdle. So, what are the most popular first car choices for new drivers?

Read on as we take a look at the best-selling models winning over new drivers. From the zippy Volkswagen up! to the tough-as-nails Suzuki Ignis, we have options for every new driver.

Volkswagen up!

It’s hard not to love the high-spirited Volkswagen up! Compact and fuel efficient, this model boasts a low price point and fantastic safety features. Not to mention a playful name! Perfect for city driving, the Volkswagen up! is easy to manoeuvre and park in tight spots. This is a huge plus for new drivers and makes the Volkswagen up! a solid addition to our roundup of the most popular first car models.

Most models fall into insurance group 10 or lower, which means you won’t have to fork out a fortune when it comes to paperwork. This is largely thanks to the standard 1.0-litre three-cylinder engine. It’s not a supercar but it will get you from A to B in style. You’ll also enjoy savings at the forecourt, with the Volkswagen up! offering around 50 mpg.

Looking for the most popular first cars with zero-emissions? Consider upgrading to the all-electric VW e-up! You’ll get almost 160 miles of range, plus a clean conscience when it comes to emissions and air pollution.

Honda Jazz

You’ll see everyone from brand new drivers to weekend football mums driving the dependable Honda Jazz. We love the sleek silhouette, sporty aesthetic and compact size. It’s not only cheap but also amazingly reliable. If you’re thinking of buying second-hand, it’s one of the most popular first cars for people on a budget. Buy new and you can get behind the wheel of the all-new hybrid model powered by a combustion engine and electric motor.

Hyundai i10

Safety is front and centre in the latest Hyundai i10 model. This makes it a top pick for parents looking for peace of mind. Beyond a full suite of safety features, extras like a rear-view camera, cutting-edge connectivity and intelligent climate control make the Hyundai i10 one of the most popular first car options. The basic model is great for new drivers, or you can upgrade to a higher trim level.

Depending on what trim level you choose, expect the i10 to fall into insurance groups 3 to 10. SE is the cheapest while the top-of-the-range N Line will set you back a little more. The i20 is a great upgrade if you’re looking for something a little sleeker.

Volkswagen Polo

The much-loved ‘supermini’ has undergone a glow up in the Volkswagen Polo. It’s a little more spacious than the VW up! which makes it great for road trips. Whether you’re heading to Wales for a camping weekend of hitting up festivals like Glastonbury and Latitude, the Polo will get you there without a fuss.

There are plenty of upgrades available but to be honest, the standard Life trim has everything a new driver needs. This includes electronic stability control, automatic headlights and more. No wonder it’s one of the most popular first car models in the UK.

Suzuki Ignis

Most new drivers don’t have the cash to drop on a luxury Land Rover. Cue the Suzuki Ignis, a micro SUV with all the grunt of a big offroad vehicle. It’s small enough to use as a city car but four-wheel drive functionality makes it more than capable of ploughing down mud-splattered trails. When it comes to versatility, the Ignis has earned its place in our most popular first car roundup.

Even better, it doesn’t cost a fortune to run. Under the hood is a small 1.2-litre engine that offers plenty of power and around 50mpg. Insurance is a little higher than usual, with the Suzuki Ignis falling into group 15 or higher despite its compact dimensions and small engine. Models start at around £16,000, though if you browse the second-hand market there are some great deals to be found.

Tips for buying your first car

New drivers are generally young, often studying or just starting out in the world of work, so it makes sense to keep costs as low as possible. Below, we cover some tips on how to stretch your pound further when shopping for your first car.

Reliable

The last thing you want as a new driver it to be continually hit with repairs and maintenance bills. The most popular first cars are reliable and shouldn’t drain your bank account. Don’t be fooled. Reliability doesn’t necessarily mean buying new! Second-hand cars with a good servicing history can still be unswerving. According to the lads at Top Gear, the Honda Jazz is one of the most reliable used cars on British roads.

Economical

Fuel efficiency is a big concern for all motorists, not just new drivers. Of course, most new drivers aren’t as financially secure as their more experienced counterparts. This means it’s worth considering fuel efficiency when shopping for your first car.

Cheap to insure

In the UK, cars are categorised into one of 50 insurance groups. A national panel decides what group your car falls into based on a series of factors. These include performance, safety, security and the cost of repairs. Choosing cars in lower groups is a clever way to save on insurance. For example, cars like the Hyundai i10 and Fiat Panda fall into group 1 while luxury cars like the Audi E‑Tron fall into group 50.

Consider car finance

Want to get behind the wheel of your first car faster? Instead of settling for a subpar model, use car finance to stretch your pound further and secure the keys to one of the most popular first cars. Visit the My Car Credit website to get a car loan quote online and hit the road.

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Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

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Loan amount

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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 10.9%, annual interest rate (fixed) 10.87%, 47 monthly payments of £191.50 followed by 1 payment of £201.50 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,702, total amount payable £9,202.

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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Are Winter Tyres Worth It?

If you’re winter-proofing your vehicle to better handle colder temperatures and subsequent driving risks, you’re undoubtedly weighing up the benefits of winter tyres. Let’s take a look at whether or not they’re worth it for you.

What are winter tyres?

If you live in an area where roads become wet, icy and covered in leaf mulch during winter, having tyres designed for these conditions provides greater safety. In European countries like Germany, it’s a legal requirement to change your summer tyres over to winter ones from approximately October to Easter.

Winter tyres are designed to offer the greatest possible traction and grip in colder conditions. They do so by way of deeper grooves and narrow cuts built into their tread.

You can easily distinguish a winter tyre as it will have a ‘3 PMSF’ (a 3-Peak Mountain Snow Flake symbol) on their sidewall. Tyres with ‘M+S’ are also classified as tyres suitable for ‘mud and snow’, but are not subject to the same rigorous testing as the 3PMSF winter tyres.

Are winter tyres worth it?

Remember that if you’re driving your car through Europe in the winter months, you may be legally required to have winter tyres, so always check in advance before planning any road trip. The UK does not have legal requirements for winter tyre use.

When temperatures consistently drop below 7 degrees Celsius, summer tyres are less effective. They have less traction, and your vehicle’s overall stopping distance is therefore longer.

Winter tyres are designed to prevent the build-up of snow and ice on the tyre thanks to their narrow, deep grooves, which also help to reduce the vehicle’s stopping distance. As such, they provide greater grip in colder conditions – whether the weather is wet or dry.

For greater driving safety, security and confidence, if you live in an isolated and remote area, or if the UK is expecting a bout of cold weather, it’s wise to change your tyres over to winter ones. You’ll have greater control and stability, your tyres will respond quicker to braking, and you’re less likely to experience aquaplaning. Overall, then, you’re less likely to have an accident if you’re using winter tyres in cold conditions.

Are there drawbacks to winter tyres?

Winter tyres can be expensive, but it depends on your wheel size, car make and model, and tyre brand. Changing them over can also feel like a faff – particularly if you’re also swapping over to ‘winter wheels’. Plus, you’ll need to pay to store your winter tyres whilst they’re not in use if you don’t have a garage or secure shed.

However, using winter tyres can protect more expensive summer tyres, which may benefit you financially in the long term. Purchasing in the spring when demand drops can be a clever way of grabbing winter tyres at bargain prices, too.

Find winter car finance

If you’re thinking of upgrading your car for the colder months and have questions about your car finance eligibility, contact our friendly team on enquiries@mycarcredit.co.uk.

Rates from 9.9% APR. Representative APR 10.9%

Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

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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 10.9%, annual interest rate (fixed) 10.87%, 47 monthly payments of £191.50 followed by 1 payment of £201.50 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,702, total amount payable £9,202.

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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How to prepare for your first driving lesson

Have a provisional licence

Get familiar with The Highway Code

Be sensible

What to expect on your first driving lesson

You’ll go somewhere quiet

You’ll learn the cockpit drill

You will drive safely

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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.

What is keyless technology?

What is keyless car theft?

Protecting your car from keyless car theft – 5 tips

1. Choose cars with more sophisticated security

2. Choose key fobs with motion sensor

3. Deploy traditional security measures

4. Take care with your key fob

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

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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?

What are the other costs on top of driving lessons?

Provisional driving licence

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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?

How to work Android Auto in a car

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