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

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. 

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

Can any Garage Service my car and keep my Warranty valid?

One of the questions we get asked, as an independant garage, is "can you service my new vehicle" or "does it have to be serviced by a Manufacturers Approved Agent (also know as a Main Dealer)" to keep the Warranty valid.

The short answer to this question is No, it doesn't have to go to a main dealer. The reason for this is because of the "European Block Exemption Ruling," which stops Vehicle Manufacturers from stipulating that you must go to a main dealer. I'm going to try to explain the key elements without getting bogged down with jargon.

There are several things that you will need to consider before taking the plunge and moving outside of Main Dealer Garage Network.

Firstly, any garage can service your vehicle providing they follow the manufacturers service schedule correctly, use the correct oil and use parts that are original equipment matching quality approved (also called OE matching quality). Services also need to be recorded correctly.

1. Following the Correct Service Schedule
Good Quality Garages subscribe to technical data that ensures they have up to date vehicle information, including "Manufacturers Service Schedule" information. For example, at Oldfields Garage we subscribe to technical data from Autodata and Autovista. We also subscribe to Autowork for service schedule information. Other information sources are available, but we find that using these sources of technical gives us enough coverage for most vehicles.

2. Using the Correct Oil
To ensure we use the correct oil, we use Millers Oils who blend oils in the UK to meet various manufacturer specifications. Millers aren't the only company who blend the correct oils. In cases where Millers Oils don't have the correct blend we uses other suppliers. I've written a blog about using the correct oil here.

3. Matching Quality Parts
Original Equipment matching quality doesn't necessarily mean they have to be bought form the manufacturer. There are a number of aftermarket suppliers who have achieved OE Matching Quality status. We work carefully with our local suppliers to ensure we use high quality parts, which are of the required quality and readily available.

4. Recording Services Correctly
Once the service has been carried out using the correct schedule, oils and parts it must be recorded correctly. This is either in the service book that is provided with the car or with some manufacturers via the Online Electronic Service Record. The garage you use will normally need to subscribe to be able to update the Online Service History. We subscribe to most Online Service History systems to ensure service information is recorded correctly.

5. Is there Anything Else to Consider?
Some manufacturers offer an extended warranty and a goodwill system (although goodwill is becoming less seen in the industry). Some manufacturers only offer extended warranty to vehicles that have been serviced in there manufacturers.

About us: Oldfields Garage Services Ltd in Leominster carry out MOT testing, servicing and repairs for cars and light vans in Leominster, Herefordshire and the surrounding villages of Kingsland, Eardisland, Kimbolton, Bodenham, Luston, Stoke Prior, Yarpole, Docklow and more. 

Local Cause - Christmas 2015

We made a conscious decision in 2012 to give a little something back at Christmas time and every year since, we have supported a local cause or charity instead of sending Cards & Gifts at Christmas. As a small local business we aren't able to give to or support everything, but we do like to use Christmas as an opportunity to give something back to the community at a time that we look at what we have and reflect how lucky we are. It wouldn't be possible without the tremendous support we receive off our customers throughout the year!

We like to choose a different charity/local cause every year and this year we have decided to support the Marches Family Network and are making a donation of £150.00 to this cause. 

Marches Family Network are a fantastic local charity who provide respite care services for children with disabilities or special needs along with support for families of disabled children. 

For more details of their work visit the website www.marchesfamilynetwork.co.uk 

If you represent a local cause or charity in Leominster and would like to be considered for Our Local Cause for Christmas 2016 please get in touch with Tim Benson on 01568 612436. 

About us: Oldfields Garage Services Ltd in Leominster carry out MOT testing for cars, 4x4s and light vans and provide a variety of servicing options, which can be found by visiting our website.

What oil should I use for my car?

Using the correct oil for your car has never been more crucial. It can have a significant impact on the performance, emissions and long-term wear on your vehicle engine and may even cause component failure. Incorrect oil can cause blocking of EGR valves, DPFs and other emission control systems, turbo failure, engine bearing wear to name but a few possibilities - in more extreme cases these may not be too long before the fault occurs.

It is no longer relevant to use the viscosity rating (for example 10W40 or 5W30), because there can be many variations of the same viscosity oil. It also used to be the case that "some oil is better than no oil," but it's no longer true as the wrong oil can cause you problems.

If you speak to your local garage they will be able to help you identify the correct oil for your vehicle. At Oldfields Garage Services Ltd, Leominster, we use the vehicle registration number to check and ensure the specification supplied meets the manufacturers requirements. We only use premium quality oils when servicing vehicles and our preferred supplier is Millers Oils.

Why did we choose Millers to be our main oil supplier?
We've chosen Millers Oils because they blend the oils themselves in the UK, carry out extensive research and provide technical support to ensure the oils are correct for our customers vehicle. Their automotive range is specially formulated using the latest additives to maximise performance and minimise emissions.

What should I do to top up my oil?
Next time you go to top the oil up on your car or van it might not be sensible to pick one up from the local supermarket (unless it exactly matches your vehicles required specification). I'd recommend you go to your local reputable service or repair garage to ask them to supply you with the correct oil to top it up if required - they might even top it up for you!

Millers Oils provide a useful "which oil" checker here. Other oil manufacturers also provide similar systems.

 

What is the difference between a Service & MOT?

We are sometimes asked what's the difference between a Service and MOT? I'm going to try to explain this as succinctly as possible. In the simplest of terms, the MOT is a legal requirement and must be carried out on Cars and Vans at least once per year to ensure the vehicle is safe for the road. Without a valid MOT, your vehicle will not be able to be legally driven on the road, with the exception of taking it to and from an MOT test centre. 

Servicing on the other hand is aimed at maintaining your vehicle, helping to ensure it operates at its optimum level. Vehicle manufacturers recommend servicing after a certain amount of miles (usually around 10,000) or after a certain period of time (usually 12 months). Timescales and mileage recommendations vary depending on the vehicle and manufacture. Servicing is increasingly important with modern vehicles to ensure miles per gallon efficiency remains strong and components of the vehicle don't wear or damage prematurely - causing  unnecessary expensive repair bills. Items that have a recommended service life can include engine oil & filter, air filter, cabin filter, fuel filter, spark plugs (on petrols), cambelts/timing belts, air conditioning systems, brake fluid and so on. Whilst the vehicle is still in its warranty period it is important to carry out servicing to the schedule set by the manufacturer using parts and oils that meet manufacturer's specification. You don't however have to take your vehicle to a main dealer to keep the warranty valid due to the European Block Exemption Laws. 

With quality servicing there will inevitably be some crossover with the requirements of an MOT and this will vary depending on the level of Service that is carried out. 

For an example on a major service, like our Silver Service we would pre-flush the engine, cleaning the inside of the engine ready for fresh oil and renewing the oil filter. We also change the cabin filter, fuel filter, air filter and spark plugs as necessary, check the vehicle underbonnet levels, tyre condition and pressures along with inspecting safety items, such as brakes, brake pipes and other safety/maintenance checks.

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.

www.oldfieldsgarage.co.uk/services/servicing

How to choose the best MOT station for your needs?

Here at Oldfields Garage Leominster, we don't believe in rushing an MOT or heavy discounting to entice customers to come to us. 

We aim to provide a fair MOT that ensures our customers and their families are safe in their cars or vans, making you aware of advisory items that may require consideration/attention in the future. We allow 45 minutes to an hour for every vehicle (and if it requires more time to inspect fully we are happy to do that). 

The MOT test is designed to ensure all road using vehicles meet a minimum standard. The standard is set by the DVSA and all MOT testers have to attend an MOT testers course to be able to carry out the test. It is the responsibility of the Testing Station to manage and monitor the quality of the MOT. 

Our MOT testers are experienced and trained technicians who not only carry out MOT tests, but also routine maintenance - giving them a better understanding of assessing vehicle safety.

What vehicles can Oldfields Garage Test?
Oldfields Garages can test Class 4 vehicles. Vehicles are tested based on their Class rating, with cars and vans under 3 tonne being rated as Class 4. Motor Caravans, Dual Purpose Vehicles (such as twin cab pickups), vehicles up to 8 seats and Private passenger vehicles and ambulances 9-12 seats are also class 4. 

For full details on vehicle MOT classes visit https://www.gov.uk/getting-an-mot/mot-test-fees.