independent volvo specialists
VEHICLE BATTERIES
What are they? How do they work? Are there different types?
Car batteries use a chemical reaction to generate the electricity needed to start the engine. When turning your key there are different stages before the engine is running. When the key is half-turned in the ignition, the chemical reaction takes place, with electricity released to the car's systems to the battery.
There are many different types of batteries these can include Lead Acid - AGM - Enhanced Flooded.
Servicing
What is the difference between full and interim servicing? Why do I need to service my car? Does the oil I use make a difference?
W
We offer Full/Interim servicing but what are the differences? A full service includes all filter changes and a thorough inspection of the vehicle such as suspension, brake fluid, brakes and tyres. Also included is a Diagnostic of the vehicle. An interim service has all the same checks diagnostic however not all filters are changed. For some people servicing their car every year seems an expense not needed however the up keep of vehicle is extremely important. To avoid servicing will only cause oil build up engine issues a higher percentage chance of driving a dangerous vehicle. Oil is designed for each engine for a reason using the incorrect oil could cause serious damage.
Diagnostics
What is the difference between our diagnostic software? Why do we need diagnostics? How to read a diagnostic machine?
W
We offer multiple different diagnostic software. Vida is volvo diagnostic software specifically designed for volvos. Our Solus diagnostic can be used over a range of different makes and models. Our Topdon diagnostic can also read a range of vehicles but does have more specialist features. Our Autel diagnostic is a special design for tyre pressure monitoring systems for example recoding tyre pressure sensors. As the years have progressed so has technology therefore a lot of features on cars are now coded or electronical this is where diagnostic equipment comes in handy. How to read a diagnostic machine is an interesting topic as most people are under the impression that the machine tells you everything and fixes the cars. Unfortunately this isn't the case we will be given "fault codes" which give a vague description of either the issue or part however some issues will cause the vehicle to store fault codes that are incorrect or name incorrect parts therefore experience with the vehicle is imperative.
Air Con
What does air con do? Why do I need to regas my aircon? Are there different types of air con gas?
W
What does air con do?
Air conditioning in your car works by using a refrigerant inside the heating and ventilation system to cool the air in the car. It’s powered by your car’s engine, which is why it uses more fuel when you have the AC on. Most people use Air Con to keep cool during the summer or demisting their windows in the winter.
Why do I need to regas my aircon?
Air con degas regas is needed as eventually the gas in the vehicle can leak out meaning your air con will not work correctly. When we regas your vehicle we remove the old refrigerant and refill it with new gas. This will prolong the life of your air con parts as well as keep your air con working efficient.
Are there different types of air con gas?
The short answer is yes. The most common air con gas is R134 which we provide in our air con degas regas. The newer vehicles on the road have been changed to R1234YF - at the moment we do not offer degas regas for this however we have a new machine coming soon to help with this matter.
Cambelts
What are cambelts? Does every vehicle have a cambelt? Why do we need to change them?
W
What is a cambelt?
The main role of a cambelt or timing belt is to control the timing of your vehicle's internal combustion engines. This will control the timing and sequence of when the valves to the cylinders open and close. To do this it makes sure that the crankshaft and the camshaft rotate in sync.
Does every vehicle have a cambelt?
The short answer is no. Some vehicles are chain driven and newer vehicles now have "wet belts" this means the cambelts are run inside of the engine within the oil.
Why do we need to change them?
Cambelts need changing as they have a lifespan these are known as change intervals dependent on different manufacturers. An example would be every 10 years or 100k miles whichever comes sooner. If they are not changed the cambelt can snap and lead to serious internal engine damage.
​
​
​
Clutches
What is a clutch? What does a clutch do? Are all clutches the same?
W
What is a clutch?
A clutch acts as a mechanical linkage between the engine and the transmission.
What does a clutch do?
This is used to disengage the wheels without stalling the engine allowing you to change gears. When engaging the clutch it release the pressure on the clutch plate breaking the connection between the engine and the moving wheels.
This allows you to change gears without grinding or damaging your transmission.
Are all clutches the same?
Some vehicles do not have your typical clutch such as automatics this do not have a clutch pedal however does have a clutch system which just operates differently to a manual car. Some vehicles also have flywheels which attaches to the clutch.
​