Faulty alternator symptoms: signs, causes, and how to spot them early
Worried your alternator might be failing? Learn the most common faulty alternator symptoms, signs to look for, and what causes an alternator to go bad.
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How does an alternator work: understanding its function in your car
Discover what a car alternator is, how it functions, where it’s located, and which parts make it work. Find out how long alternators typically last, how they keep your battery charged, and how to choose the right alternator for your vehicle.
How to check the alternator: diagnosis with and without a multimeter
Wondering how to check your car’s alternator? Learn how to test an alternator with or without a multimeter, recognize signs of failure, check charging output, and safely diagnose problems.
ABS light is on: meaning, causes, what you should do, cost of repairs
The ABS light staying on in your vehicle means that there is a potential issue with the Anti-lock Braking System. This light is a warning that something may be wrong with the system, which is critical for maintaining control during sudden braking. It is essential to understand what causes this and how to fix it, so you can stay safe on the road and avoid expensive repairs. To find out more about this important system, take a look at What is an ABS.
Best plug-in hybrid UK 2025
Looking for the perfect plug-in hybrid this year? Combining the green potential of electric power with the long-range convenience of petrol engines, these cars are ideal for reducing emissions without sacrificing practicality. Explore our top picks for 2025, offering cutting-edge tech, exceptional performance, and decent fuel savings.
What is a mild hybrid car? Definition, how it works, how it differs from full hybrids, and pros and cons
Have you ever wondered about car manufacturers' steps to make driving more efficient and eco-friendly? Mild hybrid cars might be the perfect solution for those looking to reduce fuel consumption without committing to a full hybrid. Let’s explore how these vehicles work, their benefits, and potential trade-offs.
How to install a reverse camera in a car
A car reversing camera, often referred to as a backup or rearview camera, is a safety feature that gets installed on vehicles to provide drivers with a clear view of the area behind their vehicle. In this article, we will provide a guide on how to install a reverse camera.
Car rear window heater: how a defroster works and what to do if it is not working
If you live in a climate where it gets cold in winter, you know how important it is to have a rear defroster in your car. It is a necessary feature that helps you see more clearly by removing frost, ice, and condensation from your rear window. This feature is essential to improving your safety and driving comfort by ensuring you have a clear view behind you, reducing the risk of accidents and improving your overall driving experience. In this article, we will discuss how this important feature works and the potential problems you may encounter.
Best electric cars in the UK 2025
Many car owners are choosing to switch from petrol to hybrid or electric cars. With so many on the market, it's hard to decide. If you're making the switch, or perhaps looking for your very first car, we take a look at some of the best electric cars in the UK to help you choose the one that's right for you in 2025.
Car key battery replacement in a key fob
Is there anything more frustrating than being stranded outside your car because the battery on your key fob has died? It's a common inconvenience that can be easily remedied with a quick battery change. In this guide, we'll walk you through the process of changing your car key fob battery so you can be back on the road in no time.
Cigarette lighter in car not working: how to fix it
Most cars come equipped with a cigarette lighter, which can also be used to power other devices such as sat navs and phones. However, it can be frustrating to find out that your cigarette lighter isn't working when you need to charge your phone or power another device. In this situation, it's important to know what steps you can take to get your devices charged again.
Keyless entry system in cars: how it works and what it does
Car manufacturers started experimenting with remote keyless entry systems as a more convenient alternative to traditional keys. Over time, keyless entry systems have evolved to include features such as push-button ignition, hands-free access, and smartphone integration.
Fuel temperature sensor: function and failure symptoms
A fuel temperature sensor is a critical vehicle's fuel system component part that measures the temperature of the fuel and sends this data to the electronic control module (ECM). The sensor is typically located in the fuel rail or fuel line and consists of a resistance temperature detector (RTD) that changes its resistance based on the fuel's temperature. The ECM uses this information to adjust the fuel-to-air ratio, timing, and other engine parameters to optimize performance and fuel efficiency.
Steering Angle Sensor: What It Is, Signs of Failure & How to Test It
Modern vehicles rely on a network of sensors to operate safely and efficiently. One key device is the steering angle sensor (SAS) which helps keep your car stable on the road, especially during sharp turns or emergency manoeuvres, without you realising.
Ignition module: failure symptoms, problems, and testing
It’s safe to say that your car’s engine wouldn’t get you very far if it weren’t able to ignite fuel. The ignition system has the critical job of producing a spark that is strong enough to ignite the air-fuel mixture inside the combustion chambers and thereby generate the energy needed to power your car. With the development of the electronic ignition system came greater reliability, improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions.
Tyre pressure sensors: Your complete guide to TPMS systems
Your car's tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) is one of the most important safety features you might take for granted. These clever devices help prevent accidents, improve fuel efficiency, and extend tyre life by keeping you informed about your tyre pressure. Let's explore everything you need to know about how they work and what to do when something goes wrong.
How a car horn works and replacement cost
You may be familiar with this: the driver in front of you doesn't notice that the traffic lights have long since turned green; the student driver stalls the vehicle for the umpteenth time; someone else leaves the roundabout without signalling. All these situations have one thing in common – they make you feel the urge for a reprimanding "honk"– also known as a klaxon sound. But are you allowed to do this? Here we’ll explain how a car horn works and when you are allowed to use it and when you are not.
Ambient air temperature sensor: location, function, and failure symptoms
The function of an ambient air temperature sensor is to provide important data to various systems in the car to enable optimum operation, comfort, and safety. By monitoring the outside air temperature, the car's systems can adapt their operation and response to the prevailing conditions.
Complete guide to car interior lights: types, installation, and troubleshooting
Your car's interior lighting system does more than just help you find your keys in the dark. These lights play an important role in your and your passengers’ comfort, and even your vehicle's security. Whether you're chasing down the cause of flickering cabin lights or thinking about switching to LEDs for a brighter, more modern look, getting to know your car's interior lighting is the first step to making smart upgrades and keeping everything shining just right.
How to choose the best reversing camera for your car
This guide will help you understand how reversing cameras work, what features to look for, and which type is best suited to your vehicle and driving habits.
How does a windscreen wiper motor work
Have the windscreen wipers on your car stopped working? Then you need to find and fix the problem quickly. In bad weather, there is a risk of poor visibility and an increased risk of accidents. Here we’ll go into more detail about your windscreen wiper motor, whether you need rear wipers and more.
What is an ECU and what does it do? Your complete guide to electronic control units
Ever wondered what keeps your car running smoothly behind the scenes? The answer lies in a network of small but mighty devices called ECUs. Let's explore what these electronic control units do and why they're essential for modern driving.
Faulty Alternator Pulley: Symptoms, Causes, and Replacement
You may have heard of this component, but what is it exactly? Here we will go into more detail about what an alternator pulled is, what it does, and some of the most common causes of malfunction and how to diagnose them.
Alternator replacement: how much it costs and how long it takes
If your car won't start or the battery warning light/charging indicator light comes on, this indicates a broken alternator. The alternator converts the energy of the engine and charges the battery of the car.
Why your car alarm keeps going off and how to stop it
A properly functioning car alarm is essential for protecting your vehicle from theft and ensuring your peace of mind. Learn more about the potential causes of car alarm malfunctions and how to solve them below.
MAF sensor: what it is, symptoms of malfunction, and how to check it
The Mass Air Flow sensor is a relatively small component, but it is very important in engine management. Almost all modern petrol and diesel engines use the MAF sensor to calculate the optimum amount of fuel to inject. Let's take a closer look at how it works and how to spot the symptoms of a malfunction.
Bad throttle position sensor: five warning signs and replacement guide
If the throttle position sensor is faulty, the engine control unit won’t be able to regulate the position of the throttle properly due to a lack of or incorrect input.
Knock Sensor: How It Works, Common Issues, and How to Fix Them
If you are looking for your knock sensor, you will find it on the engine block. This device has been designed to detect sounds. These are often referred to as “pinging”. When it detects this specific sound, it slows the spark timing and the knock disappears. This pinging happens when the fuel air mixture start to suddenly burn due to too much heat. This is something that has to be taken care of and why contemporary engines have these sensors.
Crankshaft sensor: A guide to symptoms, testing and replacement
Although your crankshaft sensor, also known as a crankshaft speed sensor, is small, it plays a vital role in your engine’s timing system. It continuously monitors the engine’s rotational speed and position, providing the Engine Control Unit (ECU) with essential data to fine-tune ignition timing, fuel injection and engine performance as a whole.
Car dashboard: symbols indicating faulty systems and mechanisms
New infographics explaining car dashboard lights. Learn more about the symbols that indicate malfunctions.