Essentially Local May-June 2019

Motoring
Looking After your Car
You don’t always need to use
main dealers for car servicing,
using your local, independent
garage offers convenience,
cost savings and a potentially
mechanic to trust.
Manufacturer’s Warranty - To
maintain the manufacturer’s
warranty, cars do not have to be
serviced at a franchised main
dealer. The requirement is that
it should be serviced according
to the manufacturer’s service
schedule, using manufacturer
approved parts or ones of
the same quality, rather than
manufacturer supplied.
Before - Always ask for a written
quote outlining the likely cost
for the correct service level
or repair and make sure parts
(of the correct quality), labour
and VAT are included. Find out
why there are differences in
the hourly rates and estimated
timescales to complete repairs.
Independent garages are usually
cheaper, main dealers may have
special deals.
The work - Ask the mechanic
to show you the completed
work carried out, take a friend
for added confidence. If they
refuse or you have concerns,
ask another garage to check the
work.
On collection - Ask for a receipt
which details the completed
work, the parts supplied and
get the service book stamped.
Concerns raised at a later date
may refer to this. Request a list of
issues for the future.
Reviews
Going Electric Or Not
Although more expensive from new, battery technology, charging
times and choice of greener electric vehicles have all improved.
Second-hand electric vehicles are cheaper because they tend to
depreciate more quickly.
Running costs are less and
maintenance is easier with
no oil, filters or cooling
system to worry about.
Batteries can last up to
10 years before a costly
replacement, but consider
leasing.
Refuel is necessary after
50-60 miles, though newer
vehicles claim up to 300
miles.
Car of the
Edition
2015 65 Lexus CT 1.8 200H
Advance 5d Auto 134 BHP
This is a stylish electric hybrid
hatchback which offers a smooth and
quiet drive in EV mode and when the
petrol kicks in. Hybrids are cheaper to
own and run and with the combined
average fuel economy is 68.9 mpg
you can see why. It’s cleaner with an
emission of 94g/km. The built in sat
nav, Smart entry and Smart start, hill
hold control, heated seats make it a
perfect choice for families or business
people. It also offers some additional
safety features including a front
whiplash protection system and great
airbag distribution. With one private
owner from new and with both keys
why wouldn’t you?
For more details speak to:
Saxon Bridge Automotive Ltd,
Auckland Park, Mount Farm,
Milton Keynes MK1 1BU
01908 311886
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