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Pros and Cons of Petrol Cars:

Advantages:

- Cost less to purchase
- No Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) to get blocked
- Engines are typically smoother
- Potential for lower maintenance expenses and higher likelihood of passing MOT tests
- Cheaper fuel

Disadvantages:

- Lower fuel efficiency
- Higher carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions
- Not as suitable for towing

Pros and Cons of Diesel Cars:

Advantages:

- Better fuel economy
- Longer distance between refuelling
- Excellent performance on motorways
- Engine doesn't require as much strain
- Lower CO2 emissions
- Well-suited for towing

Disadvantages:

- More expensive initial cost
- Potentially higher maintenance expenses
- Older models may not meet emission standards
- Unpleasant engine sound
- Risk of Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) blockages

What makes up the cost of a litre of petrol or diesel in the UK?

The cost of petrol and diesel at the pumps in the UK is influenced by various factors, including:

- Global crude oil prices, which are affected by supply and demand, oil refinery production, and capacity
- Pound-to-dollar exchange rate, as refined fuel is sold in US dollars per metric tonne
- Distribution expenses
- Retailers' profit margin typically 5-7%
- Fuel duty imposed by the Government, currently at 52.95p per litre
- Value-added tax (VAT) charged on every forecourt fuel transaction, currently at 20%

While some factors remain relatively stable, such as fuel duty and VAT rates, others, like oil and exchange rates, can fluctuate significantly, leading to changes in pump prices. High oil prices and a weak pound contribute to increased pump prices.

Why do fuel prices vary by location?

The fuel price can differ significantly depending on your location in the UK, and this contrast can even be observed between neighbouring towns.

The primary factor influencing local petrol prices is the level of competition. Areas with multiple petrol stations, especially those with supermarket forecourts, tend to offer lower petrol prices.

Conversely, retailers in more remote regions typically charge higher prices due to lower sales volumes and the need to cover overheads.

Breakdown Cover

Experiencing a vehicle breakdown is an unfortunate event many will encounter at least once. However, being prepared for such an occurrence is essential. This guide will delve into breakdown cover, the various types available, what they offer, and steps to take to mitigate issues.

While modern cars are more reliable, breakdowns can still happen unexpectedly. Without a breakdown cover policy, facing a breakdown could lead to many problems, causing stress and financial strain.

Nobody wants to find themselves stranded on the roadside, unsure who to call, mainly if it occurs far from home or at night. Repairs and towing costs can be significant, and last-minute breakdown service sign-ups are often more expensive than pre-arranged cover.

Considering these factors, it's wise to set off with a valid breakdown cover policy. With some providers offering cover for less than £20 per year, there's no excuse not to have one.

Already Covered?

Types of Breakdown Cover

1. UK Breakdown Cover: The most common type covers breakdowns within the UK. However, ensuring coverage across the entire UK is essential, especially in adverse conditions like snow or floods.

2. European Breakdown Cover: A specific policy covering European breakdowns is crucial if driving in Europe. It's vital to check coverage details and rules regarding vehicle recovery and repair.

3. Family Breakdown Cover: Provides cover for all family members, offering peace of mind, especially for parents of teenage drivers.

4. Multi-car Breakdown Cover: Ideal for households with multiple vehicles, offering cost savings and convenience by covering all cars under one policy.

5. Commercial Breakdown Cover: If using your vehicle for work, consider commercial breakdown cover, as consumer policies may not provide adequate protection.

What to Do After Purchasing a Policy

Once you've secured a breakdown cover policy, follow these steps to prepare for potential breakdowns:

- Keep a photocopy of the policy details in the glove box.
- Ensure you have a fully charged mobile phone and portable charger.
- Keep a torch and a high-visibility jacket in the car, especially for nighttime breakdowns.
- Ensure passengers have warm clothing for safety while waiting for assistance, especially during winter.

With these preparations, you're ready to hit the road safely, but remember to drive carefully to avoid breakdowns!

Lost and Stolen Car Keys

Misplacing your keys can be incredibly stressful, mainly when it happens at the most inconvenient times, just as you rush out the door. However, having your car keys stolen is even more distressing, as it often signifies a targeted attack, potentially resulting in the theft of your vehicle and the risk of a break-in at your home.

Stolen Keys

When your car keys are stolen, you'll face two significant challenges: the cost of replacing them and the security of your vehicle. Typically, replacing car keys is arranged through the manufacturer, especially for critical cards or keyless entry systems. Older cars with traditional cut-out pattern keys may offer more flexibility in replacement options.

If your car keys have been stolen, you can take some steps to enhance your car security. These include:

- Parking your car away from your home or workplace.
- Using a steering wheel lock or wheel clamp.
- Contact the police to obtain a crime reference number for insurance purposes.
- Avoid exposing new keys to your home, as thieves may return for a second theft attempt.
- Keep your house and car keys separate to deter thieves. Conceal keys from sight, and consider investing in a secure box to prevent unauthorized access, especially for keyless entry systems.
- Store your keys away from the door, such as in a drawer or by your bedside. Keep your bag close at hand and ensure keys are stored securely within it or in a locked compartment.

Lost Keys

Losing your keys can cause significant inconvenience and disruptions for your entire family. The immediate reaction is to search, scouring every corner of the house, garden, and personal belongings in a desperate attempt to recall where the keys were last placed.

To aid in locating lost keys, consider using a tracker such as the Tile app. These devices can be attached to your keyring and synced with your smartphone, allowing you to emit a loud noise from the tracker and facilitating the quick location of your keys.

If you frequently misplace your keys, exploring insurance policies that cover vital replacement costs might be worthwhile, as repeated replacements can be costly. Spare keys can often be cut by reputable high street key cutters like Timpson, offering a more affordable alternative to manufacturer replacements.

Top 10 things you should always have in your car

Our cars often become a repository for odds and ends – shoes, air fresheners, forgotten receipts, and that lone coffee cup awaiting recycling. Nevertheless, there are essential items that you should always keep in your car to ensure safety and readiness for any situation.

1. High-visibility jacket

Visibility is crucial for safety in a crash, breakdown, or tyre change. A high-visibility jacket ensures you're easily spotted, particularly on motorways or busy roads. It can also serve other purposes, like makeshift slings or a covering after a wild night out.

2. Torch

A torch proves invaluable during night-time breakdowns or repairs. Opt for a longer-lived LED torch and keep spare batteries in the car. It's also handy for finding dropped items in the car at night.

3. Mini first aid kit and medications

A compact first aid kit with essentials like plasters, antiseptic wipes, and gloves ensures you're prepared for emergencies. Keep any prescribed medications or EpiPens in the car, clearly labelled, along with emergency contact details.

4. Water and food

Pack water and snacks before embarking on a journey, which is essential for hydration and sustenance during traffic jams or breakdowns, especially in hot weather.

5. Blankets/warm clothing

During colder months, blankets and warm clothing provide comfort and protection if the heating fails or during extended journeys or breakdowns.

6. Maps

Keep a UK roadmap in the car as a backup in case of SatNav failure or phone battery depletion. Printing directions from an online route planner before your journey adds an extra layer of security.

7. Weather-appropriate items

Adapt your car kit to seasonal changes. In winter, include a snow shovel, de-icer, antifreeze, waterproofs, and a tow rope. For summer, sunglasses, suncream, and extra water are essential.

8. Emergency triangle

Like a high-vis jacket, an emergency triangle helps warn other motorists of a breakdown. Compact and easily stored, it's a crucial safety item.

9. Insurance details

Keep photocopies of your insurance documents and any additional policies in a plastic wallet for easy access during emergencies or police checks.

10. Phone

A mobile phone is indispensable for navigation, communication, and emergencies. Ensure it's charged, and keep a car charger handy. Remember, using a phone while driving is illegal and can result in fines and penalty points.

By ensuring these items are in your car, you're better equipped to handle unforeseen circumstances on the road.

Top 6 Causes of Breakdowns

Breakdowns can be a nightmare, leaving drivers stranded and frustrated. Understanding the typical culprits behind breakdowns can help prevent them from happening. Here are the top 6 factors that lead to breakdowns in the UK.

1. Car Battery

Battery-related issues top the list of breakdown causes, with the RAC receiving over 450,000 callouts in 2014 alone. Several factors contribute to battery problems:

- Leaving lights, radio, and air conditioning on when the car is off.
- Short, frequent journeys that don't allow the battery to recharge fully.
- Neglecting battery maintenance, including keeping terminals clean.
- Faulty alternators can drain the battery and should be checked regularly.
- Ageing batteries may need replacing.

2. Tyres

Flat tyres and blowouts are common tyre-related issues leading to breakdowns. To prevent tyre problems:
- Regularly check tyre pressure, especially before long journeys.
- Avoid hitting kerbs and parking at uneven angles to prevent tyre damage.
- Uneven tyre wear may indicate alignment issues, requiring immediate attention.
- Ensure a spare tyre and jack are in the car and ready for emergencies.

3. Car Keys

Losing car keys can be frustrating and costly, especially with modern keyless entry systems. It's essential to take precautions against critical loss or theft.

4. Alternator

The alternator plays a crucial role in maintaining battery power while driving. Signs of a failing alternator include:
- The battery is weak or dead, even after recharging.
- Dim headlights when the engine is idle.
- Unusual noises or dashboard warning lights.

5. Starter Motor

A failing starter motor can prevent the engine from starting or cause slow cranking. Regular servicing can help identify potential starter motor issues.

6. Fuel Problems

Misfuelling or contaminated fuel can cause immediate breakdowns and costly repairs. Always double-check the correct fuel before refuelling, especially if you're not a regular driver.

Understanding these common causes and taking preventive measures can help drivers avoid the inconvenience and expense of breakdowns.

What to do in the event of a breakdown?

Experiencing a breakdown is a situation no driver wants to face, but it's a reality many encounter at some point. Your vehicle may break down when you notice warning signs like dashboard lights, sluggishness, or unusual noises. Here's what to do depending on the situation:

Broken down on a motorway?

If possible, exit the motorway at the next junction or pull into a motorway service area. If immediate stopping is necessary, switch on your hazards and safely move onto the hard shoulder. Signal left and pull over gradually if you can.

Park your vehicle as close to the left, with the wheels turned left. Aim to stop near an emergency roadside telephone, usually about a mile apart on the motorway.

Engage the handbrake, activate hazard lights, and use sidelights or fog lights if visibility is poor. Exit the vehicle from the left side doors, and stand as far from the road as possible, behind barriers or on a bank.

Avoid attempting repairs yourself; instead, contact your breakdown provider using your mobile phone or the emergency phone at mile intervals on the motorway.

If feeling threatened, return to your vehicle, lock all doors, and wait until it's safe to leave again. Provide your exact location when calling for assistance.

Wait for the recovery service, typically within 40 to 60 minutes, longer if there's traffic. They'll update you on the estimated arrival time.

Breakdown in a 'Free Recovery Area'?

If you encounter a breakdown in a free recovery zone, usually around long-term motorway repairs, you can use the SOS telephone box to call for free assistance. You can follow the marker posts to locate the nearest SOS telephone box, which indicates its direction. However, it's important to note that the free recovery vehicle will only take you out of the recovery zone, and you must call for further breakdown recovery if needed.

On a smart motorway?

If you break down on a smart motorway, head to an Emergency Refuge Area (ERA) or the hard shoulder. Contact emergency services or the Highways Agency via the SOS phone for assistance.

Follow their instructions and await further guidance; depending on your location, they may dispatch emergency services.

Breakdown on other roads?

If your breakdown occurs on non-motorway roads, follow these steps:

Pull over safely, activate hazard lights, and move your vehicle quickly if obstructing traffic.

Wear a reflective jacket and exit the vehicle with all passengers if there's a risk of being struck.

If it's safe, place a warning triangle at least 50 yards behind your car. Call for breakdown assistance and provide your location.

Remain safe until your car is recovered or moved.

Misfuelling

"Misfuelling" refers to when someone accidentally puts the wrong fuel into their vehicle. According to the AA, more than 150,000 drivers fill up their cars with the wrong fuel each year, most of them doing so in cars they need to become familiar with, such as rental or courtesy vehicles. This error can lead to significant expenses, so it is crucial to ensure that you use the correct fuel for your car.

Filling your car with the wrong fuel can lead to breakdowns, requiring potentially costly repairs. Therefore, paying attention and double-checking the fuel type required for your vehicle every time you refuel is essential. To help prevent misfuelling, you can purchase caps for your diesel from most car parts shops.

There needs to be a specific fuel cap available to prevent diesel from being put into a petrol tank because it's pretty challenging to do so. The standard diesel nozzle is larger than the filler neck of modern petrol cars, making it more common for petrol to be mistakenly put into a diesel car than vice versa.

What to do if you've misfuelled:

If you realise you've filled your car with the wrong fuel, do not turn on the ignition or start the engine. Refraining from starting the engine is imperative, as doing so will circulate the wrong fuel and potentially cause damage. Instead, put your car into neutral and push it to a safe location, or alert the petrol station staff for assistance.

Check if your insurance policy covers misfuelling, as some may offer a service at a reduced or free cost, although this will count as a claim against your insurance. If your insurance doesn't cover misfuelling, inquire at the petrol station if they have any contacts, or conduct a simple online search to find assistance.

If you realise you've filled your car with the wrong fuel while driving, stop the vehicle safely, turn off the engine, and contact your insurance provider or a misfuelling service for advice.

Petrol in a diesel car:

Petrol in a diesel engine acts as a solvent, reducing lubrication and potentially causing damage to the fuel pump and other engine parts. A small amount of gasoline in a diesel car, less than 5 litres, may not cause significant damage. In this case, top up with diesel and continue driving unless the car manufacturer or insurer advises otherwise.

Professional assistance is required if more than 5 litres of petrol is added to a diesel tank. The car must be drained; parts may need cleaning or replacing if driven with the wrong fuel.

Diesel in a petrol car:

Adding diesel to a petrol tank is less common due to the larger diesel nozzle. However, if this happens, and more than 5 litres of diesel is added, the car will not move, and the fuel will need to be drained and replaced.

If you accidentally add less than 5 litres of diesel to your petrol car, you can fix it by diluting it with petrol. The vehicle should still function, but you may experience a smoky exhaust, and the driving may feel different. It's worth noting that diesel in a petrol tank is less harmful than petrol in a diesel tank.

Claiming on your insurance:

If you start the engine after misfuelling, you'll likely need to take your car to a garage. Repairs may range from draining the tank and cleaning hoses to replacing parts of the engine or the entire engine, which can be expensive.

Some car insurance providers cover the costs of repairs due to misfuelling under accidental damage to the vehicle. However, as misfuelling becomes more common, some insurers avoid covering such maintenance. Therefore, it's essential to review your insurance policy to see if misfuelling is covered.

What is Unleaded?

Petrol, derived from petroleum through fractional distillation, encompasses crude oil and other fuels separated via a fractionating column. It's found during oil drilling and is distilled into fuels like petrol and kerosene and chemicals used in plastic production. Globally, approximately 95 million barrels of oil are consumed daily.

Petrol engines, unlike diesel engines, operate on spark ignition internal combustion. If ignition occurs early or is mistimed, it leads to a knocking noise, potentially damaging the engine. Petrol available at forecourts is a petroleum product that differs from diesel, though it originates from the same base product. Petrol types are categorised by octane numbers, indicating resistance to autoignition.

Octane rating measures a fuel's ability to resist engine knocking, which occurs when the fuel-air mixture explodes instead of burning in a controlled manner. A higher octane number indicates more excellent resistance to knocking.

There are typically three octane numbers associated with petrol: Research Octane Number (RON), Motor Octane Number (MON), and Anti-Knock Index (AKI). RON is measured under controlled conditions, while MON is tested under more rigorous conditions. AKI, an average RON and MON, is primarily used in North America and other regions.

Observed Road Octane Number is tested on multi-cylinder engines, offering real-world insights. Initially conducted on roads, the testing has shifted to test centres for enhanced accuracy.

Petrol's history dates back to the late 19th Century in Germany, with the advent of modern combustion engines. Unleaded petrol was introduced in the UK in 1988, replacing leaded petrol discouraged by the EEC.

E10 Petrol Explained: What is it and can my car run on it?

With E10 petrol now the standard grade in the UK, our handy guide breaks down what it is and whether your car can run on it.

The petrol you put in your car's tank changed in September 2021, with the previous 'E5' grade of standard unleaded being replaced with 'E10' across all filling stations.

The change was introduced as E10 brings slightly reduced carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions compared to E5. Still, it has disadvantages, as not all petrol cars are compatible with E10.

What is E10 petrol?

The 'E' in E10 refers to ethanol, with E5 having up to 5% ethanol mixed with at least 95% fossil-fuel-based petrol and E10 having up to 10% combined with at least 90% traditional petrol.

Ethanol is a type of alcohol that can be added to petrol in small quantities without significant disadvantages. The ethanol used in E10 and E5 is a 'biofuel', which is derived from fermenting crops to produce alcohol. These crops absorb carbon dioxide as they grow.

Why has E10 petrol been introduced?'

Increasing the bioethanol content in petrol means more carbon-dioxide-absorbing crops are grown, with the switch to E10 being equivalent to 350,000 cars being removed from the roads.

E10 doesn't produce less CO2 when burned in a car's engine, though—the CO2 savings are all due to how the ethanol is produced.

Can my car run on E10 petrol?

If your car is built after 2011, this simple answer is yes. Every petrol car built since then has been required to support E10.

Even if your car is older than that, you'll likely be able to put E10 petrol in it without worrying. For example, all Subarus made in 1991 are compatible with E10 petrol, while all BMWs, regardless of the date of manufacture, are said to be okay with the fuel. Around 95% of petrol cars in the UK are said to be E10 compatible.

If you need clarification, the Government has an E10 checker where you can find out if your car can run on E10.

What if my car doesn't run on E10 petrol?

Ethanol isn't kind to rubber, plastic and some metal components, such as those found in fuel hoses and seals, and using a fuel with twice the amount of ethanol in it compared to the old grade of E5 unleaded may result in issues. However, while regular unleaded may contain up to 10% bioethanol, super unleaded remains E5, so one option if your car is incompatible is to run it on super.

You can also buy fuel additives that allow a car incompatible with E10 to use the stuff. However, it's worth crunching the numbers to see if an additive would be cheaper than super unleaded or vice versa.

E10 petrol FAQs

How will E10 petrol affect my fuel economy?

Ethanol is less energy-dense than oil-derived petrol, so you may see a slight hit to fuel economy by using a fuel with more ethanol; a figure of 3% is often quoted, though anecdotal reports indicate some drivers experience a 10% efficiency loss.

What if I put E10 petrol in an incompatible car?

The odd E10 tank is unlikely to negatively affect a car that isn't recommended for the fuel, so if you use E10 by mistake or it's the only fuel available when you need it, you should be okay. However, using E10 in a non-compliant car may cause issues. If you have a vehicle that can't take E10, having a bottle of additive handy may be an idea if you get caught short.

Is E10 petrol more expensive?

Nope. Don't expect the introduction of E10 to bring any financial advantages.

Can I use E10 in a classic car?

Probably not. Ethanol has a corrosive effect on components associated with internal combustion engines of older cars; this could cause issues with the vehicle's efficient working but could also result in a dangerous situation if the fuel lines perish due to extra ethanol. Ethanol also absorbs more water than oil-based fuel, so if you have a classic car you don't use frequently, you may find standard unleaded goes terrible between the occasions when the driver uses the vehicle.

Can I mix E5 petrol with E10?

Yes. If your car is compatible with E10, it is perfectly safe to combine E10 and E5. Think of it this way: if you have half a tank of E10 and add half a tank of E5, you essentially have an E7.5 mix—which will pose no issue for a car that can run on petrol composed of up to 10% ethanol.

Smart Motorways

The government introduced smart motorways to help alleviate congestion and enhance travel experiences. They employ technology to facilitate traffic flow and improve safety and speed. The technology is overseen by a regional control centre, enabling the opening or closing of additional lanes to optimise traffic flow and reduce commuting times during peak hours. Here's a concise summary of smart motorways from Highways England.

How to Use a Smart Motorway

When driving on a smart motorway, treat it like any other motorway. However, one notable difference is the use of technology in overhead signs. If a lane displays a red X, it is closed, and you must move out as soon as it's safe. The lane may be closed to allow emergency service vehicles to pass quickly, or there may be obstructions such as animals, pedestrians, or debris. Even if others disregard the closure, do not follow suit, as it's against the law.

If you encounter a speed limit sign, adjust your speed accordingly. During heavy traffic or busier periods, the traffic control centre may adjust speed limits to facilitate smoother traffic flow. Remember, speed limits on smart motorways are legally enforceable, and there are ample speed cameras to ensure compliance.

Dealing with breakdowns on a smart motorway can be challenging due to the absence of hard shoulders. In such cases, you should intermittently aim for an emergency refuge area along the motorway. Once stopped in a safe location, contact Highways England before your insurance provider, as they can provide guidance and may close lanes to facilitate recovery.

History of Smart Motorways

In 2014, the government launched a plan to convert a section of the M4 between Junction 3 (Hayes) and Junction 12 (Theale) into a smart motorway. This conversion required four years of work. Since then, numerous motorway sections across the country have been transformed into smart motorways, with the M42 near Birmingham being one of the earliest complete stretches in 2018, followed by sections on the M1, M6, and M25.

Seven More Smart Motorways Planned

The government has announced plans for seven additional smart motorways as a road upgrade initiative. These conversions, covering around 4,000 miles of road, involve removing hard shoulders. The initiative, overseen by the newly established Acceleration Unit within the Department for Transport (DfT), aims to expedite road upgrades. Darren Shirley, currently the chief executive of the Campaign for Better Transport, will lead the unit, reporting directly to Transport Secretary Grant Shapps.

According to reports, motorways earmarked for conversion include the M62, M6, M56, M40 and M42 interchange, A1(M), M25, and the M3. Despite safety concerns, this expansion will bring the total number of smart motorway stretches to 60 by the mid-2020s.

Additionally, Highways England will reaffirm its commitment to major infrastructure projects, including the construction of the Lower Thames Crossing. This project, set to be the most significant road-building venture since the construction of the M25, aims to alleviate traffic congestion on the M25.

The Acceleration Unit was established in response to delays in road construction and projects caused by the coronavirus pandemic. Transport Secretary Grant Shapps emphasised the importance of investing in infrastructure to aid Britain's recovery and create jobs, ensuring a greener, faster, and more resilient future.