August 2025 Car Care Round‑up

Welcome to the August 2025 archive – a quick grab‑bag of the most useful car tips we published last month. Whether you’re puzzling over pricey air filters or wondering if a bent suspension is safe to drive on, we’ve got straight‑forward answers to keep you moving.

Safety and Performance Guides

Expensive air filters – worth it? We broke down premium versus standard filters, showing which designs actually improve airflow and protect the engine. Most drivers don’t need the $200 version; a good cotton‑swap or reusable filter often does the job for less.

Rear brake pads only? Swapping just the rear pads can be okay if the front pads are still thick, but we warned about uneven braking and reduced stopping power. Our tip: measure pad wear on both axles and replace in pairs when possible.

Clutch vs transmission issues – hearing a grind or a slip? We explained how a slipping clutch feels different from a failing gear set. Quick checks like the clutch pedal height and gear change smoothness help you pinpoint the problem before a costly repair.

Alloy rims and rust – many think alloy never rusts. Truth is, alloy can corrode in salty conditions, especially around the wheel hub. Regular cleaning and proper sealing keep them shining and rust‑free.

Quick Fixes and Legal Insights

Bent suspension safety – driving with a bent arm or strut isn’t just uncomfortable; it can affect handling and tire wear. Look for uneven tire wear, pulling to one side, or clunking noises. We urged a prompt fix to avoid safety hazards.

Rear windscreen wiper removal – in the UK it’s illegal to remove the rear wiper for MOT compliance and safety. If you’re thinking of ditching it for aesthetic reasons, keep it on to stay road‑legal and avoid fines.

Driving with a bad clutch – a worn clutch can cause jerky starts, a high rev before the car moves, or a burning smell. While you can limp to a garage, prolonged driving risks complete failure and may damage the flywheel.

Can a car run without spark plugs? Only a few specialty engines (like diesel or some modern hybrids) don’t need spark plugs. For typical gasoline engines, missing a spark plug means the cylinder won’t fire, causing rough running and damage over time.

All these articles aim to give you clear, practical advice without the jargon. Got a specific question that wasn’t covered? Drop us a message or swing by Northwich Tyres Centre – we’ll help you get back on the road safely and affordably.