Christmas Closing

We'd like to extend a huge thank you to all of our Customers & Suppliers for their support this year, one that will be remembered by everyone and not particularly fondly!

Whilst Christmas will be far from normal for most, our team will be taking a very hard earned break to spend time with their families. 

We will be closed for bookings from December 21st until January 4th, when we re-open at 8:30am - recharged and ready for 2021 and all that it will bring. 

This year we've chosen to support Leominster Meeting Centre who provide support people and families living with Dementia. Some charities have suffered greatly during the COVID-19 pandemic so instead of sending cards and gifts to our customers and suppliers, we've made a donation to their cause. 

Take care everyone and stay safe.  

Tim, Paul, Cheryl and the Oldfields Team. 

Re-opening with reduced Staff 1st May

This has, and continues to be, an extremely difficult time for everyone. The safety of our Team and Customers is very important to us and we have used our temporary closure time to look at our operation and develop plans on how we can more safely work through this difficult time.

Our workshop will be temporarily operating from approximately 9am until 4pm, MOT tests on a Monday or a Wednesday.

Ultimately we realise that living in this rural area how vital your vehicle is to you. We really appreciate your support and patience during this challenging time and have made this decision because we believe, with some changes, that we can work safely, minimising risk and helping our customers remain mobile. We'll be carrying out essential maintenance and repairs to help keep you mobile, so our key workers can get to work and others can make essential journeys in line with government guidelines.

We'd appreciate it if you take a couple of minutes to read how to stay safe and protect our workplace.

We have developed a COVID-19 INFORMATION SITE for our customers to show the changes we are making to how we operate in view of the current situation, along with what you can do to help our team.

As with everything during these strange times, we will continue to monitor the situation and government advice.

Ten Top Car Care Tips to help you throughout COVID-19

As the COVID-19 lockdown is extending by at least another 3 weeks, we thought it would be a good idea to provide a few tips for you while your vehicle is in infrequent use...

Tip #1 - Your battery

Whilst we must reduce our use of vehicles to #ProtectTheNHS it poses a problem for battery performance as vehicles are not being driven far enough to charge the battery.

To help this you can start and run your vehicle at least once per week. If you are popping to go shopping, when you start your vehicle, run it for 15 minutes before you head out. Running prior to leaving gives the vehicle the chance to warm up properly and will also charge your battery to help maintain it's life. Make sure when running it that you switch off consumers such as wipers, lights, heater and radio as this will help charge the battery. If you are not going out in your car and you can safely do so, move it forwards and backwards as part of this process.

If your car won't start and you don't have breakdown cover email Tim and we'll see what we can do to help.

Tip #2 - Check for warning lights

Check for warning lights on the dash. If the battery light comes on and stays on there is a good chance the battery won't be charging. This will require further attention and it would be worth contacting your breakdown cover company. If other warning lights come on, check your handbook to see how urgent it is, but if the vehicle feels normal (even with the warning light on) then please feel free to contact Tim to discuss and we can advise.

Tip #3 - Check your tyres

Have a visual check of your tyre condition and whether they look low of pressure. If you don't have a pressure gauge check visually

You should check your tyre pressures once a fourtnight as a matter of routine and top up as required, but it isn't always feasible to do that. Keeping your tyres at the right pressure for your car (normally found either in the door pillar, fuel flap or handbook) helps to reduce wear, reduce fuel consumption and is safer on the road.

We'd recommend you check your tyre pressures at least once per month. If you've got a tyre pressure gauge then check you tyre pressures and top them up at least once per month. When you do that pay attention to the pressure in the tyre and compare it against the tyre on the opposite side. Low pressures in an odd tyre might indicate a puncture, which could be checked by your local tyre depot. We'd recommend Malvern Tyres or John Wood Tyres in Leominster on Southern Avenue.

Tip #4 - Check your oil level

Oil is vital for your engine. Check the level is between the minimum and maximum mark and top it up if it's low, using the correct oil (the right oil is critical with modern engines). When you first start the engine after it has been stationary the right amount of oil is really important as it lubricates the engine quickly to prevent damage and engine wear.

Also check your screenwash and antifreeze levels whilst you are there.

Tip #5 - Brakes

Your brake disc surfaces will naturally corrode and this may result in noisy brakes. Check your brakes before you drive too far so you know how they feel. Try to use them more than usual during driving to help clean up the surfaces. It should clean up with use, depending on the original condition.

Tip #6 - Parking brake

If you leave your vehicle stationary with the parking brake on for a prolonged period of time it will likely seize and stick on. If it safe to do so on your drive, release the parking brake while it is parked and leave the vehicle in gear. For additional security, put a chock under the front and rear wheels to stop it moving. Remember though, when you start the car to take it out of gear and remove the chocks before moving.

Tip #7 - Clean your car

Take this opportunity to clean the inside of your car and remove all rubbish from inside. It will help to prevent any bad odours or mould building up. Clean the outside of the car to remove any debris and dirt. Lift up wiper blades to clean the wiper rubbers to help their longevity.

Tip #8 - Fill with fuel

Not only will it stop you running out of fuel at this time, but if your fuel tank is full it will help reduce chances of condensation inside the fuel tank.

Tip #9 Security

Unused vehicles present an opportunity for unscrupulous people. Remove anything from sight to reduce any reason for a break in and always make sure you keep your car locked.

Tip #10 - Breakdown cover

This is a good opportunity to check your breakdown cover to see if you have home start included. We'd recommend upgrading it if you haven't as this will provide you with a bit of  re-assurance for when you do need to start using your car more regularly again.

Emergencies

Remember, even when we are closed we may be able to help in an emergency and we'd certainly be able to provide advice. Ring 01568 612436 for our Email address.

Temporary Closure Update 16th April 2020

Temporary Closure Update 16th April

Following the Government extension to the Coronavirus lockdown for another 3 weeks, we have decided to remain closed at this time. We will be continually monitoring the situation and will aim to return when we can safely operate.

Vehicle Hire

We currently have limited Hire availability.

• Fiat 500X
• Peugeot 108
• Vauxhall Movano
• Luton Van with Tail lift (from 1st May onwards) 

For information on vehicle hire visit www.oldfields-hire.co.uk

Remember; in an emergency or for essential MOTs & repairs...

If you have an emergency and your vehicle is not able to be used under the new temporary MOT guidelines, please contact me directly. We may be able to carry out some emergency work during our closure, so long as it is possible and safe to do so. We also have courtesy vehicles that could be made available. Please though, consider the Government Guidelines on going out during the COVID-19 pandemic and use this to assess if your vehicle requirement really is essential. I can't make any promises, but I will try find a solution for you in cases of need. 

If you haven't got my Email address send a message on our website or alternatively the email address is on our closed message 01568 612436. 

Oldfields Temporary Closure - Official Announcement 30th March

Temporary Closure

After much deliberation and consideration, we have taken the decision to temporarily shut from 24th March until further notice. Our plan was to stay open using special measures, but with updated and ongoing guidance we feel we aren't able to do so.

Whilst we are classed as an essential service and specifically excluded from the businesses told to close, we have to consider all aspects of the business along with the escalating situation. As you will appreciate this has been a very difficult decision because we don't want to let our loyal customers down, but we have to consider the severity of the situation and the impact on our staff.

If you are booked in with us, we won't be able to fulfil bookings until we re-open [please see below for in an emergency]. Anyone who was booked in, don't worry we will contact you as a priority in time for our return. 

If your MOT has expired or is due while we are closed...

If your MOT is due please don't panic, there is government guidance on what to do as they have issued a temporary change to MOTs to help us all through the COVID-19 crisis [please see our Coronavirus Temporary MOT amendments post below ]

In an emergency for essential MOTs & repairs...

If you have an emergency and your vehicle is not able to be used under the new temporary MOT guidelines, please contact me directly. We may be able to carry out some emergency work during our closure, so long as it is possible and safe to do so. We also have courtesy vehicles that could be made available. Please though, consider the Government Guidelines on going out during the COVID-19 pandemic and use this to assess if your vehicle requirement really is essential. I can't make any promises, but I will try find a solution for you in cases of need. 

You can contact me by Email tim@oldfieldsgarage.co.uk

Our thanks...

I'd like to thank our team for their commitment and continued support at this difficult time, in return we have paid them in full for March and plan on doing so in April. We'd also like to thank our suppliers for their excellent levels of service to help keep our customers on the road. We have paid all of our suppliers this month in full as usual. 

I'd like to sincerely thank our customers for their ongoing support, good wishes and custom. We understand that everyone is under pressure, but if you have an outstanding invoice or account due to us, payment would be very much appreciated at this difficult time.

Closing comments...

We've made this decision, not to close our business but to protect it. With your support we will be back as soon as we can safely do so. We are initially planning on closing for 3 weeks, however as you will appreciate we we are constantly reviewing this position and changing as required. 

Personally I will be having a rest over the next week or so as it has been exhausting (and not just for me), navigating through all of this. Along with family time and rest, I'll be using it as a chance to plan for the future, whilst there is a huge amount of uncertainty, it gives a great opportunity to consider lots of things including what we do well, things we could do better and to revisit what Oldfields is all about to create the an improved vision for Oldfields in the future.  

Please stay safe and follow the government guidelines on staying home unless it's absolutely necessary to leave the house. Make sure you follow guidelines on social distancing - the 2 meter rule. Please also refrain from contact with friends and family other than your household unit. This is extremely hard and anyone who has a close family (or kids that live away). A nurse friend told me, "the Virus doesn't travel, people travel." If we stand still the virus dies. 

Thank you so much for your understanding and support during these difficult times for everyone. 

We'll be back raring to go as soon as it is safe to do so!

Stay safe and best wishes, Tim x 

Coronavirus Temporary MOT amendments - UPDATED 27th March 2020

Information on MOT's that are expired and due in the short term...

The government have today made an announcement on what to do with MOTs falling the near future.

"From 30 March 2020, MOT due dates for cars, motorcycles and light vans will be extended by 6 months. This is being done to help prevent the spread of coronavirus."

For the government information on vehicles falling after 30th March visit https://tinyurl.com/w3wxkcr

There is separate guidance information for those that expire before the 30th March https://tinyurl.com/tc98qaxx

UPDATED INFORMATION 27th March: 
The DVSA have clarified a couple of things that were a little bit grey as to how the 6 month extension would work and we thought we should share that with you. Like all of these things they are under constant review.

How will it work?
DVSA will start moving MOT expiry dates automatically in the MOT system from 30th March 2020. This will initially be done in a few batches, so that after a few days they are working 7 days ahead. That will mean that every Tuesday - the following Tuesday's tests are moved 6 months ahead.

How long will it last? 
The Government will keep this under review to manage the spread of COVID-19.

Corona Virus Outbreak, COVID-19

UPDATE 25/03/2020

We have taken the decision this morning that we will only be doing MOTs for vehicles that are booked in today and already here. We will not be opening until further notice. Please don't panic if your MOT is running out, we know the DVSA and VOSA are working on a solution to this problem and whilst we don't have any confirmation of this, we are expecting something to be announced in the coming weeks.

If you are booked in with us over the next few weeks, we have all of your booking details and will be back in touch as soon as we know where we are. We will have a significant backlog and will be keen to book you back in at the earliest opportunity, but please bear with us while we get to grips with things. If we haven't called you within a week of re-opening please feel free to call us.

Please stay safe and follow the government guidelines on staying home unless it's absolutely necessary to leave the house and refrain from contact with friends and family other than your household unit. Thank you so much for your understanding and support during these difficult times for everyone. We'll be back raring to go as soon as it is safe to do so.

UPDATE Number 3 24/03/2020 After much deliberation and consideration, we have taken the decision to temporarily shut from this evening until further notice. Our plan was to stay open using special measures, but with updated and ongoing guidance we feel we aren't able to do that as we would have hoped. Whilst we are classed as an essential service and specifically excluded from the business told to close, we have to consider all aspects of the business along with the escalating situation. As you will appreciate this has been a very difficult decision because we don't want to let our loyal customers down, but we have to consider the severity of the situation and the impact on our staff. If you are booked in this week, please bear with us and we will contact you shortly to discuss. We aim to complete essential MOT's booked in for this week, however this will be reviewed as things develop. Please keep an eye on this page to keep up to date with what is happening. I'd like to thank our team for their commitment and continued support as this difficult time. We'd also like to thank our suppliers for their excellent levels of service to help keep our customers on the road and finally our customers for their ongoing support, good wishes and custom. We understand that everyone is under pressure, but if you have an outstanding invoice for us your payment would be appreciated. We intend on paying suppliers as normal at the end of the month and have budgeted to do so. We've made this decision, not to close our business but to protect it. With your support we will be back as soon as we can safely do so. We are initially planning on closing for 2-3 weeks, however as you will appreciate we we are constantly reviewing this position. Stay safe and best wishes, Tim

UPDATE Number 2 - 24/03/2020
Please note we will not be taking any new bookings until further notice. Following a staff meeting we have taken the decision to close temporarily to new bookings. We will aim to honour bookings for essential MOT's this week.

UPDATED 24/03/2020
Following last nights announcement, we have all been been told that we should not leave the house without specific reasons as we Lockdown to reduce the spread of Coronavirus. Very specific directives have been placed on the only "reasons" that we should leave the house.

We have also been told who should close and the exclusions to this. Garages now have some clarity that we are officially classed as essential services and have been told that we should remain open during this time. Hire car companies also fall within this category. The government guidance document is HERE.

In view of this additional information, we will remain open, taking the steps we have outlined with some additional measures. As mentioned previously this will be constantly reviewed and we will only remain open while it is safe to do so.

Additional measures that have been and are to be implemented: 

• We are continuing to close our building to public access
• Arrangements have been made for parts and parcel deliveries to remove the need for them to enter the building
• We will introduce split breaks and lunches to allow social distancing of staff
• As of yesterday, office staff have been spaced to work 2 meters apart 
• Priority will be given to essential work such as MOTs, breakdowns and urgent safety repairs.
• Routine work will only be carried out if there is time to do so. 
• We will be reducing available capacity to spread work and allow time for additional required measures
• Priority will be given to essential work such as MOTs, breakdowns and urgent repairs. 
• Routine work will be alongside essential work will only be carried out if there is time to do so. 
• Collection and delivery will continue, but we will only drop vehicles back that allow for single driver returns. In most cases this will be limited to vehicles we have previously collected. 
• From 25th and where possible today, only one staff member in a car at one time, please be aware this is likely to slow vehicle collection and drop offs 

Please remember what you can do to help our team...

• Don’t bring your car to us if you might be carrying the virus or have been in contact with someone who has been infected. We will collect your vehicle for you!
• Do not enter our building 
• Make sure we have your up to date contact details by emailing service@oldfieldsgarage.co.uk with your reg number and best contact number for the day.
• Make sure your service book and locking wheel tool is on the passenger seat so we don’t have to search for them
• Bear with us; we are doing the best we can to get you back on the road with minimum disruption. 
• Pay for work carried out over the phone or by bank transfer prior to collecting your vehicle (our bank details are on the invoice which will be emailed to you once the work is completed).
• Please drop your keys through the letter box. Please only leave us with your car key and no other keys.

In view of this additional information, we will remain open, taking the steps we have outlined with additional measures to be  whilst it is safe to do so and we aren't affected direclty

We are sending best wishes to those forced to close and hope you get the support you need to come through this. Please follow government directives for everyone's safety.

UPDATED 23/03/2020

Please can we ask all customers to book their MOT as early as possible to help us manage demand. We are trying to book as far ahead as possible to ensure we can fit them all in. Thanks again for your support.

Due to the volume of work being booked in, we will be prioritising Key Workers during this time. .

UPDATED: 22/03/2020

Firstly, thank you for all of your support throughout these most challenging times. We as many of you are struggling to understand the gravity of this situation, many of our friends and colleagues are also in the same boat.

We understand how important it is to keep your vehicle legal, safe, maintained and mobile, during these unprecedented times, which is why the government has identified us as an essential transport service. We fully intend on staying open, providing it is safe to do so, and with this in mind we have made some changes to how we are operating to try to ensure we can continue to provide our service. We will obviously be reviewing this position on a daily basis.

What we are doing for our staff...

• As of Monday 23rd March, we've decided to close reception and the rest of the building to all visitors; customers and suppliers, to minimise the chances of transmitting this disease. 
• We will be holding Daily/Weekly Meetings, to discuss concerns and changes
• We're monitoring changes and guidance from the government and reviewing how this impacts our staff and our business.
• We'll support you if you have to self-isolate or if we have to close

What we are doing for our customers...

• We are providing non-contact transactions. You don't need to have any contact with our team when your vehicle is taken care of.
• If you are self isolating or in the vulnerable groups, we will collect your car and return it for you.
• Priority will be given to Key workers, please inform us if you fall into this category
• We will be sanitising keys, vehicle door handles, steering wheels and gear sticks when entering every vehicle.
• Our technicians are continuing to wear gloves for carrying out work on vehicles, but we are increasing changes of gloves with a minimum of fresh gloves for every vehicle.
• Hands are to be washed more regularly throughout all areas of the business
• Fresh gloves are now to be used for road testing vehicles
• All reception counter surfaces, door handles and other commonly touched surfaces will be cleaned & disinfected on a regular basis.
• Card machines will be cleaned & disinfected after every use and as a precautionary measure, we will be disinfecting cars keys when handed over to our counter staff.
• We are increasing our FREE local collection and delivery service
• We are withdrawing the use of courtesy cars temporarily to minimise the chance of spreading the virus and also help us increase our capacity for collection and delivery.
• We're doing our best to get your car back on the road for you
• We’ve introduced a minimum one day gap between Vehicle Hires as well as extra disinfecting of touch points

What you can do to help our team...

• Don’t bring your car to us if you might be carrying the virus or have been in contact with someone who has been infected. We will collect your vehicle for you!
• Do not enter our building 
• Make sure we have your up to date contact details by emailing service@oldfieldsgarage.co.uk with your reg number and best contact number for the day.
• Make sure your service book and locking wheel tool is on the passenger seat so we don’t have to search for them
• Bear with us; we are doing the best we can to get you back on the road with minimum disruption. 
• Pay for work carried out over the phone or by bank transfer prior to collecting your vehicle (our bank details are on the invoice which will be emailed to you once the work is completed).
• Please drop your keys through the letter box. Please only leave us with your car key and no other keys.

What we are doing for our suppliers...

• We'll be communicating how we want deliveries to be made along with returning unused parts.
• We'll be paying on time, like we always do. We know you've got staff and overheads to pay, just like us. We need you to be here when we all get through this.

What we are doing for our community...

• We've offered a couple of days Free Van Hire including fuel and insurance (subject to being able to gain insurance), to a community COVID-19 response group, should they need to deliver goods to vulnerable groups. If you have something similar you wish to discuss please call Tim on 01568 612436 or email tim@oldfieldsgarage.co.uk
• We're offering to collect and return vehicles for vulnerable groups and those self isolating with a non-contact service. Please contact us if you need our help. 

Please bear with us while we adapt to ongoing changes. We'd like to thank ALL of our staff, customers and suppliers for their support through these difficult times. 

From field to your plate - Why do we only fit parts we supply?

You'd be forgiven for mistaking the above as a picture from space, but if you live in rural Herefordshire you will have identified it as a humble Potato. This actual one was leftover from the recent harvest of the field behind my house in Kingsland, but I would like to use it demonstrate some very important points for garage businesses like ours at www.oldfieldsgarage.co.uk.

Occasionally we get asked by customers if we would fit a part they have supplied and we have to explain that we don't fit customer supplied parts and this blog is intended to highlight some of the main reasons why. 

The right suppliers. We carry out a lot of work behind the scenes to carefully select suppliers who provide us with the right level of service at the right price and the quality of parts that meet and exceed the job requirements. We work with those suppliers to enable us to receive brilliant levels of service. Did you know that we have 20 + deliveries a day from just a handful of key suppliers? In some cases parts are sourced and available same day from over 60 miles away. If we don't support these suppliers, they won't be here in years to come. 

Traceable. Now I know where the above Potato is from, but it's very rare for us to trace exactly where things we consume are from. Imagine if that Potato was plastic? Our parts are sourced through a traceable supply chain so we know they aren't fake. Fake parts are becoming more prevalent and this can result in placing you, your family or your vehicle at risk of being unsafe or potentially causing unnecessary damage. 

The right parts. Our suppliers have invested £££s in systems that help minimise parts being sent incorrectly. We're all human and parts can be supplied incorrectly. Sometimes this is our fault. Sometimes this is our suppliers fault. Sometimes this is a manufacturers fault. The end result however, is that it's down to us to try and resolve. If we do have issues, we spend the time working with them to resolve the issue at no additional cost - sometimes this can take hours of time. 

Good old fashioned customer service. Parts issues are usually resolved the same day with minimum disruption to our customers. Where they can't be resolved the same day you will be kept informed and up-to-date with progress with a likely timescale. Subject to availability, we may even be able to offer a courtesy car to keep you mobile. 

Parts and labour warranty. When we fit parts we provide a minimum 12 months, 12,000 miles warranty against manufacturing defects. This includes parts AND labour. Our chosen suppliers often support us with parts warranty and also contribute towards the labour aspect and we pay for the remainder. We accept that where there is a shortfall that it is ultimately down to us to resolve. 

Investing in our future. Finally, we need to make a profit on parts. As a family business with the second generation now leading the way, we'd really like to be here for years to come. This isn't unusual or a terrible thing, every business needs to make a profit to be able to grow, invest in tooling, equipment, training & employ people from the local area. With profit we pay taxes, support local school and community events and ultimately put ourselves in a position to survive. 

Selling parts is a by-product of the work we carry out. Whilst we work with suppliers to ensure our monthly £££ spend means we benefit from trade prices, we realise that in some cases we are not able to supply parts at the same price as you'd buy online. 

Think about the cost of a Potato and then how much you pay for your meal. You wouldn't take this Potato to your local chip shop now would you? The same scenario can be applied to pretty much any business. 

I hope this explains why we only fit parts we supply, if you'd like to understand more please get in touch with me. 

Thanks for reading, Tim

Oldfields Hire fleet expanded to 9 vehicles...

When we started hiring our VW Camper Van in 2017, we didn't envisage how much the Oldfields Hire part of our business would change! Jim Melia Car & Van Rentals retired and Bengry Motors were sold and Self-drive Vehicle Hire didn't sit within how they operate their business so we decided to add to what we offered.

We sold the Camper Van earlier this year (to the son of one of our long-standing customers) and the portfolio of vehicles has changed significantly! We may no longer offer Camper Van Hire, but we have 3 cars (with a couple more stand by options), 1 minibus and 5 vans!

Car Hire:

Dacia Sandero (2019)
Fiat 500X (2016)
Peugeot 108 (2017)

8-seat Minibus Hire:

Ford Tourneo Custom (2015)

Van Hire:

VW Caddy (2012) Small Van

Vauxhall Movano (2014) Medium Wheel Base Van, Semi High Top with Air conditioning
Renault Traffic (2014) Long Wheel Base, with Air Conditioning and Sat Nav
Renault Master LWB (2015) Large Van, Semi High Top
Citroen Relay Luton Van with Tail lift (2013)

For pricing details visit www.oldfields-hire.co.uk or to enquire about availability call 01568 612436

Oldfields Hire, Leominster

We've now added self-drive vehicle hire to the services we offer. We have an 8-seat Minibus, Caddy Van, Long-Wheel Base Renault Master and a Luton Van with Tail lift along with a Fiat 500X Car.

We will be looking to add to our list of vehicles as time goes on.

To enquire about availablility call 01568 612436 or visit our Hire webpage www.oldfields-hire.co.uk

MOT changes - New Items that come into the MOT test from May 2018

May 20th 2018 was an important date in the world of MOT testing as it brought some of the most significant changes to the MOT in recent times. 

Below are a list of the items that are now tested in the MOT. 

• brake fluid contamination
• additional braking device performance
• daytime running lamps
• front fog lamps
• reversing lamps
• bumpers
• prop shafts
• all rear drive shafts
• cab security
• cab steps
• floors
• passenger hand grips (quads and heavy trikes only)
• noise suppression material
• undertray security
• emission control equipment:
  • oxygen sensor
  • NOx sensor
  • exhaust gas recirculation valve
  • other emission control equipment
• engine malfunction indicator lamp
• diesel particulate filter (DPF) tampering
• fluid leaks - engine, transmission and so on

MOT Category Changes

May the 20th sees some major changes to the MOT testing system and the MOT test itself. Here is the first short explanation of one of the changes that are coming...

Firstly the update sees a change in the categories of "Pass, Fail & Advise." The principles are the same, but the new categories are as follows (with a summary of what it means):

Item result	What it means about the item	How it affects the MOT result
Dangerous	A direct and immediate risk to road safety or has a serious impact on the environment. Do not drive the vehicle until it’s been repaired.	Fail
Major	It may affect the vehicle’s safety, put other road users at risk or have an impact on the environment. Repair it immediately.	Fail
Minor	No significant effect on the safety of the vehicle or impact on the environment. Repair as soon as possible.	Pass
Advisory	It could become more serious in the future. Monitor and repair it if necessary.	Pass
Pass	It meets the minimum legal standard. Make sure it continues to meet the standard.	Pass

Customer Reminder Improvements

We are delighted to have made some improvements to our free MOT and Service reminder service.

Our customers will now receive an automated text message 30 days before your MOT expiry and then a final reminder 7 days before your MOT expiry date. We will also receive a Service reminder 14 days before your annual service.

To ensure you are able to receive timely reminders, please provide us with your mobile number by contacting us. If you have changed your mobile number since you were last in with us, please also let us know.

Visit Leominster Town, while we take care of your vehicle

We have a number of customers who use our services while they enjoy a visit Leominster! In 2017 The Sunday Times Newspaper listed Leominster as one of the best places to live in the UK.

Did you know?
We can offer you a lift into town where you can spend some time browsing one of the 200 + unique and independent shops, antiques markets and cafe's or even visit Grange Court, while your vehicle is with us for Service, MOT or repair. If you'd like to explore a bit further we run a small fleet of courtesy vehicles (subject to prior booking) or you can even make a stay of it and hire one of our campers, www.oldfieldscampers.co.uk.

To get a flavour of what Leominster has to offer visit www.shoppinginleominsterhr6.com.

I have warning messages on my dash, what should I do?

Modern vehicles use complex systems systems to manage the performance of your vehicle. 

When these systems stop working correctly or a fault develops, you will usually get warning lights/symbols or messages appearing on the dash and this may or may not lead to noticeable symptoms when driving or using the vehicle. It is sensible to respond to any warning lights that come on, even if that is simply speak to your garage to ask for advice. 

Usually, warning messages will store a "fault code" in your vehicles onboard computer. 

"If you plug your laptop in, can you tell me what the fault is?" 

Unfortunately it isn't that simple! If a vehicle has a problem we would often start by reading the engine management system, either doing a full system scan or interrogating a specific system (for example the ABS system). This would usually give you a fault code or codes, but this is simply a starting point. A fault code alone will rarely give you the solution to a problem, but this information tells you where the fault lies. 

How long does it take to diagnose a fault?

Further technical information is used in conjunction with testing to try to diagnose the fault, which can be detailed or straightforward. It doesn't matter how good the garage or technician is, there isn't a definitive answer to how long a problem will take to resolve. There is often a fine balance between testing time and the cost of replacing a part. This can be complicated further by a fault being intermittent. A diagnostic check will usually start at an hour. In most cases we are able to find the problem within that time, but complex/wiring issues can take longer. We provide an initial diagnostic for a fixed price and we contact customers once this time has been taken. 

If you require a diagnostic check and are in the Leominster, HR6 area then please give us a call 01568 612436 or visit our website www.oldfieldsgarage.co.uk

Oldfields Garage Services use several computer based diagnostic machines, including Bosch KTS, SnapOn Verus Edge, Launch, VAG-Com (used for VAG technical diagnostics on VW, Audi, Skoda & Seat). We also subscribe to market leading staff training, technical support and technical information from AutoData, CarWeb Autovista. 

Preparing your car for Summer...

With the help of Approved Garages, we've put together just a few simple tips to help you ensure your car is ready for the Summer. 

• Air conditioning

Switch on your air conditioning system and put your hand in front of it – does it let our sufficient cold air? If you're travelling in warm weather (HOPEFULLY), keeping the vehicle cool can ensure the trip is comfortable for you and your family.

Oldfields Garage Services can re-gas your air conditioning system for £42 inc VAT. We can also combine this with an antibacterial treatment for your system for just £55 inc VAT. Keeping your vehicle air conditioning system topped up helps to clear your screen, can improve your fuel economy and helps to ensure you are comfortable. 

• Tyres

Tyres are the only thing between your car and the road! Making sure you have plenty of tread enables you to stay safe. Tyre pressure also plays a vital part in this (along with ensuring they don't wear prematurely and fuel economy is maximised). You should also check for rips, tears, bulges or bald spots.  

• Brake system

Your brakes need regular checks too – and it’s a good time to start thinking about them in summer. Inspect the brakes at regular intervals as advised in your user manual. Winter traffic tends to be slower than summer traffic and the freezing conditions have its toll on the brakes. We can have a visual inspection on your brakes to ensure these are in tip top condition. 

• Oil

This is simple enough to check – pull out the car’s dipstick and check the level and also the colour of the oil. Ensure it meets the mark (Below maximum, above minimum) and the colour should be a sort of amber (this tends to be black on a diesel). 

• Cool the Coolant

First of all, check the level of the coolant – is this between the minimum and maximum markers? Remember that the biggest reason for summer car breakdowns is due to overheating, so keeping the cooling system in order is vital. You should also check the concentration of the liquid. If you are not confident doing this, get Oldfields Garage Services to check the concentration for you. 

• Clearing the windscreen

You need a crystal clear view, especially with the sun glaring down and obscuring your vision. Ensure that your windscreen is in good condition, your washer fluid is topped up and replace any worn blades. Wiper blades tend to go hard over time and don't clear correctly. A new pair of blades can improve visibility (we also stock the most popular fitment Bosch wiper blades). Using screenwash fluid helps to clear your screen effectively. 

• Going on a journey?

If you're going on a long journey over the summer, you might want to book your car in for a pre-journey check. Call one of our team on 01568 612436 or Email service@oldfieldsgarage.co.uk. 

Summer Promotion - Are you planning for your 2016 summer holidays?

As you should be aware, this year, we are celebrating 25 years looking after cars, 4x4 and light commercial vans in Leominster and surrounding villages.

Throughout the year we have been running promotions as part of our celebration and this July we're giving away a JEEP luggage set from our friends at www.aspenofhereford.com.

All you need to do to be in with a chance of winning these fantastic pair of suitcases is complete a feedback form and post it in the box in our reception. The winner will be drawn at random at the end of the month. It couldn't be simpler. 


A special thanks to our neighbors, Aspen of Hereford for providing the Luggage Set. If you'd like to see the Luggage, Bags and Giftware products they offer, why not visit their website www.aspenofhereford.com? 

How capable is your garage?

When you take your car or van to a garage you should feel assured that they have the capability to look after it!

Garages need to invest in keeping up to date with vehicle changes. This starts from the bottom up, apprentices are given the time to learn and assist more senior technicians and allowed to flourish over time. Senior technicians are provided with up to date information and have the resources to carry out work of a more technical nature.

At Oldfields Garage Services Ltd in Leominster, we do this in three ways.

Firstly - choosing the right staff. All of our staff are trained and have the necessary skills to carry out the level of work that is required. We have a mix of time served mechanics and younger team members, which gives us a blend of experience and the ability to keep up to date with modern changes with your vehicle. For example, our apprentice not only learns about general mechanical maintenance (which hasn't changed massively since cars hit the roads), but also the latest technology and systems on newer vehicles.

Secondly - providing training. We have access to excellent training, but being independent this doesn't tie us to any one provider. We make a conscious effort to invest in training for our team to update and refresh their skills and keep us up to date with technological changes. One example is

Thirdly - specialist tools, information and diagnostics. Oldfields Garage subscribes to several sources of technical information which enables us to carry out more technical diagnostics and procedural tasks. Throughout the year we invest in some of the latest specialist tooling which enables us to carry out work efficiently and in some cases simply just carry out basic jobs!

Some of our specialist diagnostic tools include Bosch KTS, Delphi Diagnostics, Launch (general diagnostics for most manufacturers), Delphi Diagnostics, VAG Com (Volkswagen, Audi, Skoda, Seat), Battery/Charging Testers, Oscilloscope (for advanced testing and vehicle data measurement).

About us: Oldfields Garage in Leominster is an award winning Garage who are approved by The AA and RAC. They subscribe to the Motor Industry Code of Practice and are part of the Approved Garages Network. 

25 Years Caring for Customer Vehicles

We are delighted to have reached a significant milestone in our history - Oldfields Garage has been looking after our customers cars and vans for 25 years. We'd like to take this opportunity to thank all of our customers along the way who have helped us get to where we are now and we look forward to seeing many of you long into the future.

Who would have thought when Paul & Cheryl Benson took over "Moons Garage" on Green Lane in 1991 that we would now be at our current site looking back at memories of customers former and present (fortunately some who have been with from the start) and still run by the same family, but now with eldest son Tim also working for the business.

So, how are we celebrating?

As a thank you to our customers and to celebrate our milestone we are going to be running some special promotions throughout the year, starting with the first - an exclusive chance for our customers to win VIP entry to the Betfair Premier League Darts in Cardiff!

What's the event?

Judgement Night, Motorpoint Arena, Cardiff on Thursday March 31st 2016

The 2016 Betway Premier League Darts season begins on Thursday February 4 as the sport's biggest names battle it out over 16 weeks at venues across the UK, Ireland and Holland in a bid to lift the coveted trophy at London's O2 on May 19.

Defending champion Gary Anderson will head into the season on the back of winning a second consecutive world title and will face Adrian Lewis - the man he beat at Alexandra Palace - in his opening fixture in Leeds.

Four other former Premier League champions will collide on the first evening of fixtures, with six-time winner Phil Taylor taking on 2014 champion Raymond van Barneveld.

Dave Chisnall v Peter Wright
Raymond van Barneveld v Michael van Gerwen
Robert Thornton v Adrian Lewis
Michael Smith v Phil Taylor
James Wade v Gary Anderson

How do I enter?

The competition is only open to Oldfields Garage customers who visit us between 26th January and March the 18th 2016 and complete a feedback form. The winner will be drawn at random on Monday 21st and announced via our Facebook Page.


About us: Oldfields Garage Services Ltd in Leominster carry out MOT testing for cars and light vans and provide a variety of servicing options, which can be found by visiting our website.

Return to www.oldfieldsgarage.co.uk