Parts, Spares & Scrap

Scrap a car - Derbyshire

2012-05-08T03:47:00.001-07:00

Megavaux offers a free scrap vehicle removal service throughout Derbyshire and the best part about is, you can earn cash for scrapping it. At Megavuax we offer a service that will take away your cars, bikes and vans throughout Derbyshire. We are a registered service which means you will have the correct and safe disposal of your vehicle.

Megavuax really is the right place for scrapping your car for cash in Derbyshire. This is not only because of our fantastic cash offers but also because your vehicle will be scrapped safely and legally.

If you wish to scrap your vehicle in Derbyshire and would like to scrap your Vehicle for cash, just complete our contact information form or call 01159 496566 for a quote.

Variable Geometry Turbo (VGT) Systems

2012-04-25T03:15:00.000-07:00

VGT systems, otherwise known as Variable Geometry Turbo Systems and Variable Nozzle Turbo boost control systems have been installed to a majority of diesel engine vehicles since the beginning of the 1990's. One feature of the control system is the variable turbo boost control, this has been designed in order to minimise "turbo lag" and to also provide a nearly constant turbo boost pressure at all engine speeds. The turbocharger in the boost control system has been fitted with a finned diffuser piston which in turn is operated by a vacuum controlled capsule, this allows you to achieve and obtain the turbo boost control effect.

Developed to increase the speed of the exhaust gases which strike the exhaust turbine at reduced engine speeds, the finned diffuser piston can also be changed to minimise the speed of the exhaust gases which strike the exhaust turbine at excessive engine speeds, this is done by changing the angle of he finned diffuser on the exhaust turbine.

At low engine speeds, the diesel engine management system control module (PCM) provides a control signal to a vacuum solenoid valve, this valve then opens which allows vacuum to be applied to the controlled capsules; this then leads to the finned diffuser piston being pulled towards the boost pressure control piston. When this takes place, the cross-section area between the exhaust gases and the exhaust turbine is closed, allowing the exhaust gases to pass through narrow cross-sectional areas before passing through to the exhaust turbine. Leading to an increase in the speed of the exhaust gases passing across the exhaust turbine, which in turn also increases the speed of the intake air turbine and increases the rate of boost pressure at low engine speeds.

However on high speeds, the vacuum is released on the vacuum controlled capsule. The finned diffuser is pushing open due to the spring tension inside the vacuum controlled capsule. When this happens, the cross-sectional area between the exhaust gases and the exhaust turbine is fully open. This then allows the exhaust gases to pass through a much larger cross-sectional areas before passing through to the exhaust turbine. This reduces the speed of the exhaust gases passing across the exhaust turbine, which in turn reduces the speed of the intake air turbine and reduces the rate of boost pressure at high engine speeds.

A Bus Company in China teaches it's Drivers not to Crash into Supercars

2012-04-02T05:28:00.001-07:00

Bus drivers in China have been instructed explicitly not to hit supercars, and to that end have been shown posters featuring the badges of various supercars... to help them remember.

Yep, according to Car News China, the average bus driver in Jinghua couldn't tell a Ford Focus from a Ferrari F40.

But now they have no excuse, because they officially know what the badges look like and how much the cars are worth...

This means that prior to ~~deliberately~~ accidentally squeezing through a ridiculously tight space, the driver can think, 'but no, this car is worth five million yuan...I'll hit that Kia instead.'

Car News China says that the insurance policies usually only cover a fraction of the cost of a typical supercar, leaving the remainder of the bill with the guilty party. It means that, were a bus driver to sleepily trundle into a Bugatti Veyron, the bus company could end up with a liability running into millions.

To educate their drives the bus company has filled their offices with posters explaining to their employees “Not what to hit”

The posters were hung on the walls of the company’s offices and serve as a warning to the bus drivers to be very careful when they see a supercar coming around. On the poster the logo’s of various supercar makers and the price of their automobiles. The drivers were called in a meeting and literally educated like a bunch of children on the financial dangers from a bus-supercar crash.

Luckily in the UK, Bus drivers and motorist are a little more careful with their driving, but just in case you come across the occasional idiot, Megavaux will give you the peace of mind that you can repair your Vauxuall cheaply and safely.

The price of replacing car parts...

2010-05-26T09:19:00.001-07:00

Aston Martin admirers should take note of this story and possibly feel glad this didn’t happen to them.

A £175,000 Aston Martin DBS lay broken in one of the most exclusive areas in London after thieves targeted the luxury car’s wheels. The car was left stacked up on bricks in Eaton Square, Mayfair earlier on this week.

However, it seems as though the thieves’ scheme to take all four wheels from the car was foiled as pictures show the driver’s rear wheel was left on the car with a rather contorted jack poking out from underneath the car. The metalwork around this wheel was also left damaged.

An Aston Martin expert estimated that the damage could cost up to £30,000 to fix, with the wheels are tyres alone easily costing £4,500 to replace. The body repair work could cost up to £3,500 and as the car was not properly suspended when the wheels were unceremoniously removed, there could be damage to the brake discs which could cost the owner several thousand pounds to repair with one newspaper suggesting a figure of up to £20,000.

In spite of wishing we could afford a posh car like the Aston, at Megavaux, we’re pleased that the Vauxhall parts we supply are available at a less heart-stopping price!

Why I love my Vauxhall Corsa

2010-02-23T03:07:00.000-08:00

This is my Vauxhall Corsa. Her name is Vivienne and she is 14 years old. Funnily enough, I’m not much older than the car!

Vivienne has a 1.2 litre engine and probably missing most of the horsepower she was born with. Sometimes I wish she was a little more ‘gutsy’, but when you buy a small car because you a.) can’t afford the insurance on a bigger car and b.) don’t have 2.4 children and don’t need a big estate car, there has to be some give and take!

I’ve had my Vauxhall Corsa for almost 3 years now and she is just as lovely today as the day I first decorated her with flowers. My Corsa might be old, but unlike my first car, a dilapidated Peugeot 106 with four gears and a manual choke, Vivienne has been reliable. She has refused to start on only two occasions – both because her engine wasn’t turned over for two weeks. She’s never failed an MOT, although the garage has provided me with short lists of advisory things to do. This is fair enough as all vehicles require maintenance. Whether your car is old or new, you can’t be complacent about keeping it running properly as demonstrated in this article about the need for car maintenance.

My Vauxhall Corsa is reliable because I look after her. I love the freedom my car gives me as it means I can go where I want, when I want. As I live somewhere relatively awkward, I can’t rely on public transport to get me to work or to the supermarket for a week’s shopping. Because of this, I need my car to be reliable and my Corsa is exactly that.

Maintenance really is the key to keeping your car running smoothly, how else could my 14 year old Corsa be in better shape than my boyfriend’s 6 year old Seat?

Here are my key tips for keeping your car working well for you well into its dotage:

Check oil and water regularly. The moving parts in the engine need to be lubricated so low oil levels can cause damage to your engine.
Check your tyres. Low pressure increases fuel consumption as well as making your vehicle less responsive when you need it most.
Get strange noises looked at as soon as you notice them. I ignored noise at the back of my Peugeot for weeks and one day, the exhaust pipe just fell off!
Clutch control is very important. You could drive without a clutch but you would ruin your gear box and that is a big job for your mechanic. On my Vauxhall Corsa, there is a little clip on the cable that stops it from ‘slipping’ and snatching from you. However, if you’re heavy-footed on the clutch, you could wear the cable – again, on my Peugeot the cable just snapped because I was using it far more than I should. I have learned my lesson now.
Go down to your local breaker’s yard. I always go to Megavaux for spare parts for my car because they know their Vauxhall car parts, they’re really good guys there and its much cheaper going to Megavaux than going to a cowboy mechanic who charges you for work and parts that they haven’t done or used!

Why Your Car Isn't Rubbish

2010-02-23T02:21:00.000-08:00

By Paul Lanham

Every year, cars in Britain must pass a test to declare them 'roadworthy' and safe for the year ahead. This test is called an MOT and owners can be punished by law if their vehicle does not have a valid MOT certificate. Lead by the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA), MOT's are often dreaded by car owners as they can be extremely costly and there is a perception that garages are out to fleece unsuspecting motorists. In some cases, this has been proved to be true with watchdogs flushing out the rogue mechanics. Local councils now often offer MOT test centres that do not offer repairs so mechanics have no incentive to pretend there are issues with your vehicle which should be some comfort to motorists who are currently feeling the pinch thanks to Britain's prolonged economic troubles.

Do you know what issues will cause your car to fail its MOT? Sometimes, an MOT failure is easier than you might think. For example, a broken indicator bulb, low tyre tread or a worn out windscreen wiper is enough to fail your MOT. However, if there are several minor faults with your vehicle then the blame lies solely with the car's owner. The key to passing an MOT is good maintenance.

In January 2009, figures were released under the Freedom of Information Act that showed a shocking first time MOT failure rate of cars registered in 2004 and MOT tested for the first time in 2007. What is interesting is that some of the recurring faults that caused cars to fail their MOT in 2007 are due to genuine manufacturer faults, but so many are due to poor maintenance. For example, the Citroen Berlingo saw a 21.5% first time failure rate. However, this is a commercial vehicle that is very likely to be abused by its driver. The same goes for the Ford Mondeo as it is a popular choice for fleet drivers so the higher than average mileage means wear and tear is substantial but unlikely to be the fault of manufacturers. Brakes, tyres and suspension are all easy victims when a car does high mileage, particularly over the three years that a new car does not require and MOT.

What was most surprising was that family cars did not fare as well as one would hope. The Renault Scenic has a 23% first time failure rate with nearly half of MOT failures due to tyres. 16% of Renault Scenics failed because of 'the driver's view of the road' which could be down to chipped windscreens, worn out wipers or damaged washer jets.

The model of car that performed worst in the vital first MOT was the Renault Megane with 28% of 3 year old cars embarking on their first MOT failing. Renault explained this by stating that it was the second-best selling car in its segment with a majority of its sale to company fleets. So again, probably due to high mileage and no-one is accepting responsibility for maintenance.

How did the nation's favourite car, the Vauxhall Corsa fare? 24.7% of Corsas failed their first MOT. Again, this was down to wear and tear from town driving. Stopping and starting in traffic wears the clutch and gearbox down quicker than regular motorway driving. Speed bumps are lethal for a car's suspension and as Corsas dominate towns, they will see far more speed bumps than many other models. As this is a popular model of car, it is easy to find Vauxhall Corsa part at a breaker's yard to minimise costs.

How can drivers avoid first time MOT failures?

- Check lights regularly. You can do this by reversing up to your garage door and seeing the lights in the reflection.

- If you get a chip on your windscreen then get it sorted ASAP. Chips can very quickly become cracks and could compromise your safety in a collision. It is much cheaper to fix a chip in your windscreen than replace the whole windscreen!

- When you check your oil and water, check your tyre tread and how well tyres are pumped up. Petrol stations often offer free air to blow up your tyres. Correct tyre pressure should be listed in your manual. Bear in mind that front and back tyres require different pressures.

- Approach speed bumps very slowly (5mph-10mph max) and avoid potholes wherever possible.

- Use the correct oil in your car. When you take your car for the MOT then you should ask the mechanic for some advice on which oil to buy.

- Don't take your car to the dealer's garage unless it is under warranty and you HAVE to take it there. The unscrupulous will charge over the odds for 'authentic' car parts etc. £200 for an oil and filter is ridiculous so make sure for that money they have replaced all necessary fluids e.g. brake fluid and checked the spark plugs, brakes, lights and battery and tracking.

This is not a comprehensive list but if you follow these basics then your vehicle should be well prepared for its first MOT.

Megavaux is a leading authority in the East Midlands on genuine Vauxhall car parts. If you wish to maintain the value of your vehicle, then careful maintenance is the key.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Paul_Lanham

http://EzineArticles.com/?Why-Your-Car-Isnt-Rubbish&id=3642511

January News

2010-01-22T05:07:00.000-08:00

January has been a nightmare for drivers thanks to the devastating snow and ice, grinding the UK to a halt. With stories emerging that temperatures hit -16 in parts of Scotland, we have certainly learned the weather is a harsh mistress and that in the UK, we are poorly prepared!

Drivers were stuck in their cars for hours at a time and we happily echo advice issued by the emergency services – only make essential journeys in your car in such extreme weather conditions. We would also say that if such weather is predicted, carry a ‘survival pack’ in the boot of your car consisting of the following items if at all possible:

A large bottle of water
A flask containing a hot beverage
A reflective jacket or reflective strips that can be placed on your person should you be required to leave your car
Blankets
Snacks to keep you going just in case you are stuck for hours
Fully charged mobile phone so you can inform loved ones that you are safe

This isn’t an exhaustive list but it should be a good starting point for those anticipating being caught in extreme weather conditions. Before making the essential journeys, check the met office website and the highways agency.Also, see our Ezine article about how to start your car on a cold morning.

Moving on to this month’s driving news, the snow affected the millions of UK drivers although many hit the news as gritting vehicles were slow to respond to key areas. However, one story that made headlines that will cause many to scratch their heads in confusion is the two men who drove their Peugeot down a frozen canal – before plunging through the ice.

Cheating death after the Peugeot car broke through the ice, the two men who were inside the car when it plunged into the freezing water were branded by the police as ‘stupid’, although we suspect stronger words were used down at the station.

The thoughtless duo drove half a mile down the frozen canal before the inevitable happened. Police tracked them down and charged them with reckless conduct. With the emergency services struggling to attend genuine accidents and emergencies at this difficult time, this was clearly a poorly thought out plan and the thrill seekers aged 22 and 24 will find out their fate when they attend Livingston Sherriff Court next month for sentencing.

Also in the news...
Children’s cartoon Peppa Pig was embroiled in a safety row – because parents raised concerns over the fact that when the cartoon pig was in a car she did not wear a seatbelt.

One parents complained that her daughter had refused to wear a seatbelt because Peppa didn’t. We think that this is ridiculous and blame this on bad parenting rather than Peppa Pig. If I had said this to my mother when I was a child, I would have been punished for being so silly! Cartoon characters are not role models and any parents should be stronger when dealing with a petulant child.

However, to be seen as taking these complaints seriously, the creators of the Bafta Award winning cartoon aimed at children aged two and above admitted that they were “naive” when they began making Peppa Pig. Future episodes of the cartoon will feature Peppa wearing a seatbelt. Another win for the overbearing parents involved it seems.

This is brought to you by Megavaux, supplier of Vauxhall Van Parts

December Driving News

2009-12-18T04:13:00.000-08:00

Just like the film Speed, but no terrorists or buses – the story of a man stuck in Cruise Control!

An Australian driver is recovering from shock this week after a terrifying car ride across Melbourne. The driver, Chase Weir (22), was nearing his motorway exit when he realised that the cruise control in his Ford Explorer was not going to disengage, allowing him to slow down for his exit. Instead, Weir had to weave in and out of city traffic, honking his horn and flashing his lights just to get other vehicles out of his path as he helplessly careered down the road at 50mph. For thirty minutes, Weir was convinced he was going to die and covered a distance of 25 miles during his ordeal.

Weir did everything he could to disengage the cruise control, he frantically thumped on the footbrake, pulled on the handbrake and even tried to turn off the engine and remove the ignition key but to no avail.

Quickly running out of options, Weir made a desperate call to the police. With the help of the police, he was able to miss most of the traffic he encountered, narrowly avoiding creating a trail of destruction behind him. The car only came to a stop when he saw he was going to hit a queue of traffic, so the terrified driver put all his weight on the footbrake and pulled on the handbrake, swerving into the other side of the road.
Chase Weir commented,

“I could hear the tyres skidding on the road for what seemed like forever.

“I was convinced that I was going to die.”

Ford issued a statement saying that frozen cruise control was not an issue the company had encountered before, however, if you search Google for cruise control problems, over half a million results pop up. It seems as though Ford may be denying a long established problem. Back in 2005, Ford recalled a number of vehicles due to cruise control related problems.

Some commentators have been dismissive of Weir’s story but we would love to know what you think about cruise control faults you may have encountered.

Funny story of the month:

Two fraudsters who were involved in a ridiculous scam to take driving tests on behalf of dozens of cheats were jailed after admitting conspiracy to defraud.

Ali Abdallah, 28 and Muktar Nuren, 22 are both from Manchester and targeted test centres in Greater Manchester, Lancashire, Merseyside, Yorkshire and East London.

Their own lawyers described their client’s plan as ‘abysmal’ and ‘spectacularly unsophisticated’ as staff at testing centres recognised the two men who were regular visitors and looked nothing like the photographs on the licences they presented.

Police used CCTV footage to link them to the scam.

Some serial impersonators often use false beards, wigs and make up to disguise themselves and repeatedly use the same test centres. 616 cases of impersonation have been reported in the last year.

Failing 33 of the 43 tests they completed, their ‘no pass, no fee’ promise would surely soon leave the hapless duo out of pocket. Those observing the case may be inclined to wonder if the pair should be banned from driving too if they can fail so many driving tests.

When sentencing, Judge Andrew Blake addressed the defendants, telling them, “Luckily, the safeguards that are in place did find you out, but the fraud nevertheless ran for 18 months.”
An investigation has now been launched to locate the drivers who obtained their licences fraudulently through Abdallah and Nuren.

This news has been brought to you by Megavaux. We specialise in Vauxhall van parts and car parts.

How to choose the right van for your needs

2009-12-16T08:32:00.000-08:00

The car market may be slow to get back on its feet, but the job market seems to be seeing ‘green shoots of recovery.’ This should mean that soon the car market should be thriving again and the man with a van will become a more common sight.
Regarding choosing the right van if you’re a decision-maker, here is a comprehensive guide to help you choose the best vehicle for your purposes.

What will you use it for?

City driving
Long haul (mostly motorways)
Large loads
Off-road
Transporting colleagues

For each of these uses, you would require a different type of van depending on the nature of your business.

City Driving
The Corsavan is perfect for city driving. It’s as small as a normal corsa therefore easy to park in towns where space is somewhat limited. Interestingly enough, it is rather spacious inside so it will comfortably fit two fully grown men in the seats. Exceptionally taller drivers (6ft 4” tall +) may disagree with this statement.

Fuel efficiency is often a problem for city vehicles as constant gear changes and stopping and starting is not great for fuel consumption. If this is an issue, it is helpful to know that car-derived vans such as the Corsavan are well suited to such driving. The clutch and gearbox are likely to wear quickly from lots of gear changes thanks to city driving. It is advisable that drivers be alert to changes in these parts that may signal that they may soon require replacing. Corsavans are not suitable for delivering bulky or heavy vehicles but they’re perfect for moving small loads or for tradesmen working on smaller jobs and typically attracts favourable reviews.

Alternatives include the Daihatsu Hijet or the Piaggo Porter although they are poor alternatives as they are more like small trucks rather than vehicles designed for running around town. Radio stations have chosen Corsavans for their out and about vehicles as they are small, nippy and surprisingly spacious. If you need more space, the Astravan is a larger alternative but not an equivalent due to the vehicle not being small enough to be described as a city car.

Long Haul
In fact, the Astravan is more suitable for long haul journeys than it is going around the city due to the length of the vehicle making it harder to park in crowded city centres but owners of these vans will happily admit that they would choose an Astravan again and again. Not only is it complimented for having a comfortable cab that is on par with the typical domestic vehicle, it handles well and is cost-efficient. The 2009 Astra which the Astravan is based on has fantastic NCAP safety results for an adult which is a big bonus although the pre-2009 models received very respectable ratings. Still, if you are transporting smaller goods across the country, the Astravan is the sensible choice for fuel economy but realistically, a bigger van may be needed for the job. In which case, the next step up is the Vauxhall Vivaro.

Unfortunately, the Vivaro has attracted less glowing reviews compared to the smaller Astravan. Main faults appear to be a weak gearbox and various other complaints relating to bearings on older models. Yet, the Vivaro has won the top award for ‘Best Medium Van’ seven times since 2001 in the Van Fleet World Awards which is an impressive feat which could indicate that only a vocal minority have experienced real problems. Often hailed as roomy and comfortable, the Vivaro does appear to be a great contender for long drives when you require space. Reviewers report that the engine can be rather noisy but quietens down once fifth gear is selected which suggests that the vehicle is intended for motorway use. However, if you are planning on hiring a vehicle like the Vauxhall Vivaro, please check your driving licence. Drivers who passed their test before January 1997 are entitled to drive this vehicle but drivers who have passed their test since January 1997 need to pass an extra test to add the C1 classification to their licence. The Vivaro and its bigger brother, the Movano both are capable of carrying large loads but very large loads should be left to specialist fleets e.g. HGVs.

Off Road
If you are intending to do a lot of agricultural work or mostly operate in the country, the Vauxhall Frontera is a sensible choice. For those who do not have deep enough pockets to cover the purchase of a Jeep or Land Rover, the Vauxhall Frontera is a sensible and logical choice. Vauxhall have not made the Frontera since 2004, but second hand models are available for good 4X4 entry level vehicle. The cab is set lower than traditional 4X4s which gives it reasonable side protection. Unfortunately, the 2002 model that was tested by Euro NCAP described pedestrian safety as “dire” and that child occupant safety was questionable. Adults fared better but driver safety was impaired with front passenger results being marginally better. 2003 models are often recommended. Similar vehicles for similar money would be up to five years older for the same money but alternatives include the Mitsubishi Shogun and the Ford Maverick.

Transporting Colleagues
If you work with one other colleague, any of the aforementioned vans are suitable for two people, possibly with the exception of the Corsavan for two exceptionally taller occupants. The Vauxhall Movano seats 3 passengers and similar vehicles include the Ford Transit and the Mercedes Sprinter.
Other questions you need to consider

How much can you afford? Businesses have been known to collapse due to unwise vehicle choices which also include road tax, servicing and insurance.
How long do you expect to keep it? If you only need a van for a short term, it may be best to consider rental as you will not have to cover the cost of depreciation or servicing etc.
Will the van be used for towing? In which case the Frontera or the Vivaro/Movano are the better choices but may require extra classifications being added to your driving licence.
How much time will be spent in the vehicle? If you are intending to drive the vehicle for many hours then comfort should be a big consideration.
If something goes wrong, do you know where you can take your vehicle for genuine Vauxhall van parts?

Carburettors and Home-Made Fuel

2009-11-18T03:46:00.000-08:00

As the country has moved deeper and deeper into the recession, car owners have continued to feel the pinch with rising car tax, maintenance costs that cannot be ignored e.g. new tyres, and fuel costs have rocketed up to 110 pence per litre of unleaded in some areas.

Desperate to hold onto their cars, drivers have tried to keep their costs down in a variety of ways, some legal, some illegal. In desperate times when people are fighting to keep their jobs and tightening their belts meaning that some ‘forget’ to renew their insurance policy, others try to drive less or more efficiently. Some drivers take more drastic action and try to make their own fuel, however this is dangerous.

Why is it dangerous to make your own fuel?
The carburettor mixes air and fuel and then injects it into the engine. If, for example, you put petrol into a diesel car, do not start the engine. Petrol burns at a higher temperature to diesel so when the fuel is sprayed into the engine, the petrol could melt some of the engine components. You will know this has happened because once you have turned the engine over, there will be a huge amount of smoke coming from the car. The principle with home-made fuels also applies. By using such fuels, you are contaminating your engine – you might as well put sugar in the tank.

If your car is not modified to run on alternative substances, then putting home-made fuel into your car is a huge mistake and could be fatal for your car. Fuels can vary from brand to brand as different companies add different additives that make the fuel burn more efficiently. This is why you may notice a difference in fuel consumption when you use different brands of fuel. As an unofficial rule, brands refine their fuels for quality whereas supermarkets refine their fuel for price. Home-made fuels have fundamental differences to refined oil that is made into petrol which is what was originally intended for your car to use.

Can you modify your car to run on these cheaper fuels?
Yes, but your car must be modified by a garage as it is a complicated job. If you have an old car then you may find that the initial expense cannot be justified. After all, you will have to cover a huge distance before the car starts paying for itself. Don’t forget, cars that use LPG fuel are not currently allowed to use the Channel Tunnel so if you drive from the UK to mainland Europe and you have converted your car to use LPG fuel, you will have to book a ferry instead.

So what about my carburettor?
Newer cars don’t always have a carburettor inm a traditional sense as they use a fuel injection system instead. However, there are still a number of cars that use a carburettor in an evolved form. Even with a fuel injection system, you should never add a substance to your fuel tank that wasn’t intended to be put into your vehicle by the manufacturer.

A new carburettor could cost anything from £100 to £600 which might or might not include the fitting by a garage. They can be bought second hand. It is an expensive car part to replace and a frustrating one if you were romanced by the promises of cheaper fuel.

How can I fix my car if I have put the wrong fuel in?
If you haven’t already turned your engine on, DON’T! Get your car to a garage and have the fuel tank and pipes drained by a professional. If you have started the car, be aware that you car may have to be written off as it could work out too expensive to repair.

If you have seen videos posted online and various articles telling you how you can get cheaper fuel, consult with a professional before trying it out on your car.

Why you need a chassis number?

2009-10-29T07:46:00.000-07:00

Think of a car’s chassis as being just like your skeleton, it is the frame which a car is built up from... but is also the essence of its identity. Allow me to explain: every car when it is made is assigned a unique serial number which is either known as a chassis number or a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This number allows mechanics to identify the vehicle which is listed on a database so that they can a.) Check the car’s history and b.)Use the chassis number as a means to source the correct spares for your vehicle when parts inevitably wear out.

The used car market is full of secrets, without the existence of a chassis number, you could easily become the victim of a “cut and shut”, when you buy a car that is literally two cars welded together. This is extremely dangerous and could endanger your safety and that of other people. On the database, information about serious accidents the car has been involved in is kept for future reference. When you buy a used car, this is certainly something about the car’s history that you would want to know about. The chassis number enables you to track a car’s history.

When buying Vauxhall parts, you need to know your chassis number; it is usually on a plate near the engine. For example, if you are looking for Vauxhall Corsa parts, the chassis number is probably under the bonnet close to the car’s battery.

Since 1981, chassis numbers have consisted of strictly 17 characters which don’t include the letters i, o or q to avoid confusion with number 0 and 1 although bear in mind that there are four separate standards used to calculate VIN numbers across the world.

Vauxhall Corsa faults

2009-10-02T06:32:00.000-07:00

Vauxhall Corsa’s are among the most popular cars in the Vauxhall range but have not been without their problems. The car series has had a number of different releases each with different bodies and engines. So we need to take a look at the different models within the Corsa series to see what problems have occurred at the various stages and the problems likely to emerge in the future.

The first models released between 1993-2000 are now starting to see quite a few issues relating to the bodywork, engine and other general problems. The older Corsa’s tend to have issues with defective door hinges and be susceptible to rust due to poor paintwork on the body.

The engines can suffer from a few starting problems. The 1.4 16v model had some problems with cutting out. If the Corsa's have a particularly high mileage you can see some clutch wear or slip.

The Vauxhall Corse 93-03 seems to use front tyres more and wear them down and also the brakes the suspension is easily tired on these older models. The Corse can experience minor electrical problems and the interior trim looks tatty after a while.

The Vauxhall Corse 00-03 model has a new range of issues this model is particularly popular with people who like to add body kits. These don’t really add value and can be covering crash damage so may be worth investigating.

The oil level on this model can drop easily so it’s worth checking and asking for proof of the last oil change. A common accompaniment to the body kit is the sports exhaust and stereo, if this isn’t a feature you want don’t pay for a car with these extras.

The Vauxhall Corsa from 2003-2006 is mechanically fine but are popular with modders so watch out for body kits and noisy exhausts. The most modern Corsa’s are relatively free from problems with the body and engine. There have been several recalls regarding the steering control.

So if you have any of these issues and are in need of Vauxhall Corsa parts, take a look at Megavaux.

Vauxhall Omega Common Issues

2009-10-01T03:39:00.000-07:00

The Vauxhall omega is getting to be a bit of an old car now, its time wan between 1994 and 2003 so you can now only buy this model second hand. The Vaukhall omega had two types of cars, the saloon and the estate car. As the cars are now aging there are certain issues that many drivers are finding. We are highlighting the main issues so you know what Vauxhall Omega parts you may need.

The body of the Vauxhall Omega seems to suffer from poor paintwork, on some of the older cars particularly older white models there are problems with rust blisters. The door sills tend to scuff door sills and the suspension is easily worn

The engine tends to suffer from some cold start and ignition problems, it can have faulty fuel delivery system. Some of the cars can have jerky shifts in the gears. The cam rattles and the drive belt can get worn.

The Vauxhall omega seems to suffer from overuse as frequently they have damage to interior and the load space can get damaged, it can also suffer from brake wear and a loose trim.
So if you have a Vauxhall omega saloon or estate, keep an eye open for these common problems and if you need any Vauxhall Omega spares

Vauxhall Sintra Common Faults

2009-09-23T05:03:00.001-07:00

The Vauxhall Sintra has a variety of issues depending on its year of release. It's worth knowing the faults associated with your car as if the problem emerges you will be aware of it and will know the Vauxhall Sintra parts and spares that you need to repair your Vauxhall Sintra.

The Vauxhall Sintra was actually only available in the uk between 1996 and 1999, as a large mpv the model was soon replaced by the zafira and meriva and so was no longer needed. It was part of a new generation of cars that offered a second generation u body mpv. The new design made it an interesting prospect in America with its sliding doors providing a car shaped alternative to the minivan. However, Europe found there were other manufacturers that could provide a more interesting alternative.

The car has a number of known issues. The body is susceptible to rusting panels, stonechips and peeling paint. Often the panels on the car are poorly fitted and the car can have problems with misted headlamps. The engine can have issues with the cambelt and it has been known to misfire. The Sintra has known issues with the ABS, all electrics and bumpers coming loose from the body.

Aside from common faults the car has a number of safety issues, in the EuroNCAP frontal impact test in 1998, the car was found to have significant issues. The cabin structure proved unstable and the steering wheel and airbag broke off which could cause a fatal neck injury to the driver. The car was not to Uk tastes and a car satisfaction survey in 1998 ranked the car 182/182 for customer satisfaction.

As a large mpv the Sintra has not had great reviews but if you are looking to repair it you can find parts at Megavaux.

Vauxhall Tigra’s Common problems

2009-09-22T04:03:00.000-07:00

If you are looking to repair your Vauxhall Tigra and you are in need of Vauxhall Tigra parts, it may be worth taking note of the common problems you get with the car. In this way you can be prepared for future costs and any future Vauxhall Tigra parts you may need.

According to Parkers there are no major common problems reported with the 01 to 09 versions of the car, although there has been some recalls related to the engine and gearbox where moisture has penetrated the unit. Also there was a 2005 recall for the passenger airbag coming loose and a 2007 recall for the sterling control getting lost.

The older Vauxhall Tigra’s launched between 1994 and 2001 were developed fairly quickly and this shows in its reliability, many owners have reported a variety of different issues. The body is susceptible to suspension wear, accident damage and appears to be a victim of botched repairs. Neglecting the engine and gearbox can cause major issues and the cylinder head can become a problem. The car is susceptible to clutch wear, worn front tyres and general abuse. It seems that as the car is a coupe it tends to be driven as a sports car but doesn’t have the goods to keep the engine running.

So if you have a Vauxhall Tigra, be aware of its faults and if you need parts take a look at Megavaux.

Scrap your Car in Nottingham

2009-08-27T05:38:00.000-07:00

With the Scrappage scheme now in place, many people are no looking for safe and easy ways to scrap their cars. There are now rules in place that dictate that when you scrap your car you must follow.

Cars must be taken to an authorised treatment facility where they are drained of any recyclable materials and liquids, reusable parts are stripped and used in scrap yards and then the car is crushed and the metal can them be reused.

When a vehicle reaches the end of it’s life it is called an ELV and the European directive means the vehicle must be scrapped appropriately. Cars become ELVs for two reasons, firstly general wear and tear and secondly premature arising from accidental damage, flood, fire, theft and vandalism.

In order to scrap your car you need to have the log book to show ownership details and the key to the car, if you want to scrap your car in Nottingham at Megavaux then you need to bring a utility bill as well as the logbook.

So if you want to scrap your car in Nottingham visit Megavaux.

Vauxhall Parts Request

2009-08-26T02:27:00.000-07:00

If you are looking to repair your car and need a really specific part from a specific make and model. Then you can use Megavaux’s part request service.

The vauxhall part request service is really straightforward, to request a specific part. You simply select the model of car, then the type, the body style and engine. Then you need to select the engine part and transmission and any other features that distinguish the vehicle from other vehicles. If you know the part numbers we can identify which part you need exactly. Then simply fill out the contact details then we will get in touch with you regarding the part in the method that you select.

It can be particularly difficult to find a really specific Vauxhall part on the internet. So why not use this really simple form and get your Vauxhall parts quickly and easily from Megavaux

Vauxhall Astravan

2009-08-25T08:41:00.000-07:00

The Astravan has many advantages, it is a great drivers fan as it is comfortable and offers good performance and handling, if you are picky about which cars you drive then this is the van for you. The van is also a solid, dependable and big on value and available in a range of 8 colours.
The Astravan drives in a similar way to the Astra it derives its name from and both the ride and handling are quite similar. The Astravan also takes its build quality from the Astra meaning you have a comfortable cabin that allows you comfy journey and is not what you expect of most vans that seem to strip out comforts associated with car interiors.

The van is secure and safe, it comes with numerous locking options including central deadlocking for doors tailgate and fuel cap and a warning alarm or keys left in the ignition and the van conforms to high safety standards with abs brakes and airbag as well as extra safety features.

Space has clearly been a key feature in the van design with great capacity in the back and a high opening tailgate. The van is one of the best looking vans out there and its impressive design should help it keep its price, it’s a great addition to any business fleet.

If you are looking to repair your Astravan, then Megavaux have a range of Vauxhall Astravan parts

The Vauxhall Frontera

2009-08-19T05:14:00.000-07:00

The Vauxhall Frontera offers a range of opportunity with 8 different engine choices including petrol and diesel. The Vauxhall Frontera offers the chance to own a 4 wheel drive at a reasonable cost.

The Frontera does have some downsides, some of the earlier models have been criticised for having uncomfortable seats. The interior styling could do with some more actual styling as the plastic can look a bit basic. The car does fall into quite a high tax band and uses quite a bit of fuel but that is the price you pay for having a four wheel drive that is essentially designed as a city car.

The Frontera does have its advantages, it’s affordable, and it has quite a macho look. The rear seats offer plenty of room and there is plenty of luggage space in the boot. The high driver’s seat position offers good visibility on the road.

The Frontera seems to be a fairly reliable, affordable car. If you need to do some repairs to your Vauxhall Frontera, there are a great range of Vauxhall frontera parts at Megavaux

Vauxhall Agila

2009-08-03T07:31:00.000-07:00

If you are looking for a car that is cheap to run you are not going to get much cheaper than a Vauxhall Agila. Its cheap running costs are based on its low insurance, servicing, fuel and tax, the only big cost is when you buy it and even then this car isn’t that pricy. You can expect to pay about for a new Vauxhall Agila and about for a second hand older model.

For a super mini car it is impressive how well it handles people. The car is one of the few superminis that can carry people in the back reasonably well without them feeling too squashed.

Its not an overly powerful car and is available in a 1.0 and 1.2 litre petrol and 1.3 diesal. The 1.2 is probably the best in the range and you can get automatic transmission. Like most small cars its most at home on small trips and city driving where it can be quite fun and zippy.

The car is quite comfortable for a basic model, it offers a tall seating position and a good view over the road for nervous drivers. In shape some claim it is a little boxy but this claim can’t be made of the newest models that have a more rounded design.

So if you are looking for a new city car try a Vauxhall agila, if you need to do some repairs you can find Vauxhall Agila Parts at Megavaux.

Vauxhall Zafira parts

2009-07-31T08:44:00.000-07:00

When it comes to a car review, you may not like him but most people want to hear Jeremy Clarkson’s two cents. So today we look back to when Mr Clarkson reviewed the Zafira to see whether or not it’s a good car in his opinion.

The Vauxhall Zafira is the only option for a mini mpv when you look at similar cars in the range like the Citroen Picasso and Renault Scenic they don’t have much more capacity than a saloon.

The 7 seat Vauxhall Zafira is only an inch longer than the Astra estate so you are not contending with a van, when the seats aren’t needed they fold back into the boot. Some people find that finding a comfy seat position is difficult. The car was designed by the same designer that wnet on to design the Porche Carrera GT so it keeps an essence of style.

However according to Clarkson you can not escape the fact that it is still a people carrier and however turbo charged you make it, it kind of makes it like you are driving a fast bus. It’s practical and well styled but it’s still a people carrier.

When it comes to finding spare parts for Vauxhalls, particularly Vauxhall Zafira Parts, it’s worth taking a look at Megavaux to see they have a part in stock.

The Vauxhall Meriva

2009-07-30T08:25:00.000-07:00

When you look at the Vauxhall Meriva there are a few points you have to consider. It has some special features that can make it stand out in the mini mpv market but it also lets itself down a bit on some of the basic features on the basic models.

So the advantages of buying a Vauxhall Meriva, well it offers great interior space, the capacity is good but it’s also a car that gives an illusion of space as well which means you won’t feel cramped on long journeys.

This feature is also helped by the clever seating arrangements; the seats in the back can be altered so they turn at an angle. This feature also gives more room if you are carrying adults in the back of the car. The middle seat folds away and the two outer seats can be turned in. This ingenious solution is called flex space.

The seats are positioned quite high this mean there is good visibility out of the car from most seats in it this can prevent car sickness in the back and helps the driver see where he or she is manoeuvring the car.

This car is pretty much designed for those long journeys and its final great feature is its sound insulation that means when you are driving on a motorway it stays fairly quiet.

Unfortunately the Zafira is let down by some other issues, it looks fairly bland, it is not an interesting drive unless you get the turbo version and then it feels a little to powerful for a car for transporting kids but if you are looking for a more powerful car then the turbo version could be for you. The base model isn’t to good on extras, they are available but you need to spend a bit more. The high side of the car can make windy conditions a little harder to drive in.

Overall this a practical car if you have kids and is great for longs on the motorway. If you already have one and are looking for Vauxhall Meriva parts, look no further than Megavaux.

Scrappage scheme brings boost for car buyers.

2009-07-28T04:53:00.000-07:00

Towards the end of last year and over the winter, the uk car industry saw a sharp drop in sales. The sales slump was so severe, many manufacturing plants and production lines had to hours, wages and in some cases staff. The car scrappage scheme originally conceived in Germany was suggested as a solution to the problem.

The idea was if your car was older than 10 years you can scrap it and receive money of a new greener car. It seems many have seen this as an incentive as although car sales are still falling the rate at which they are falling is at its slowest rate for many months.

Generally these new scrappage customers are buying small cars and for many this is first new car. Whether this is a sign that the economy is picking up, probably won’t be known for a while but for now the car industry is certainly doing better.

So what is involved in scrapping a car?

Cars are generally taken to an authorised treatment facility and drained of harmful fluids then any recyclable materials are removed for recycling and the car is taken to be crushed for scrap metal. The owner is then given an end of life certificate or ELV. If you are interested or need to scrap your car then contact Megavaux for more information.

Vauxhall Tigra Thoughts

2009-07-16T07:45:00.000-07:00

Finally a car designed to be a great value convertible and that’s its main attraction. Other cars that are convertibles often try to hard to be great sports cars with huge engines and uncomfy seats. The Vauxhall tigra is the car to bring the convertible to the masses. It provides a removable roof and a car for it to sit on. The car may not be the fastest in the world in fact its speed could be described as restrained but still its a convertible and does what its meant to do.

It has a clever opening and closing mechanism and a fairly sizable boot with the roof down. You also have plenty of room in the car as they haven’t tried to squeeze four seats into the car and so there are two sizable front seats.

So with comfort and a removable roof and a manageable speed the car seems the perfect companion, some reviewers may call it girly and I’m not sure that’s a bad thing. There’s nothing wrong with making a car that looks good.

For people who are looking for hard top convertibles on a budget under £15,000 ,you can’t go far wrong with a Vauxhall Tigra, for those with existing Tigras that need some repair why not look for some Vauxhall Tigra parts.

Vauxhall Combo 1700

2009-06-22T05:21:00.000-07:00

Vauxhall have a variety of vans on offer and one of those that provides the most versatility is the combo 1700. The van is a perfect solution for light commercial use. The combo is the step up from the astra van and handles more like a van than its smaller cousin. It has a lot of commercial space and the van has different door options. The 1700 stands for the 1.7 engine size, the van is available in both petrol and diesel.

The van comes with a driver and passenger side airbags, power steering and ABS brakes, most drivers of this commercial vehicle find it fairly reliable and makes a great tradesman van as its not to bulky to take up too much space and is good for local journeys but can still manage a great deal of equipment.
The interior can be a little basic but with a few extras you could think you are in a car rather than a van. The seat can be fixed fairly high to avoid back pain if using it for deliveries. Depending on the options you pick the load volume is between 2.8 and 3.2 metres.

This could be the van for you if you want something handy and reliable if you already have a Vauxhall Combo and are looking for vauxhall combo 1700 parts look no further than Megavaux