Motoring Advice Archives

How to Protect Your Car from Keyless Car Theft

Thief looking in a car at night with a flashlight

Keyless car theft is on the up. According to insurance company Aviva, between August 2020 and August 2022, customers with keyless cars were significantly more likely to make a car theft claim than those with standard vehicular locks.

As technology becomes more sophisticated, so do thieves. However, there are ways of safeguarding your vehicle against the risk of keyless car theft – and these are the best ways to do so.

What is keyless technology?

If you’re still using bog-standard car keys, you may not even be familiar with keyless technology. Designed to take the faff out of the search for car keys, keyless technology works through the transmission of short-range radio waves.

Drivers of keyless cars will have a fob that communicates with the vehicle via a series of codes. These codes indicate to the car that the driver is within range, and they can then start the ignition without having to put the key in.

What is keyless car theft?

Keyless technology is designed to make life more convenient for drivers, but unfortunately, criminals have wised up to the game.

Thieves will deploy technology in a ‘relay attack’, which mimics the signals and communication between the keyless fob and keyless car. Footage from front-door or doorbell security cameras has revealed how thieves will approach houses and lurk outside the front door. As keyless fobs are often kept within short range of the front door, this allows the criminals to capture the signals from the fob and direct them to the car. The car is then unlocked, allowing thieves to get in and drive away – all in as little as 60 seconds.

If your car still relies on traditional car keys, then you are not at risk of keyless car theft.

Protecting your car from keyless car theft – 5 tips

1. Choose cars with more sophisticated security

Data from Thatcham Research indicates that certain vehicles are less vulnerable to keyless car theft as a result of improved security features. Land Rover, in particular, was noted as a highly secure brand as a result of their ultra-wide-band radio technology, which prevents thieves from tracing the codes they need to commit the crime.

They highlighted four particular models as examples of vehicles that ranked ‘poor’ for security and are therefore at higher risk of keyless car theft, including cars made by Mazda and Vauxhall.

2. Choose key fobs with motion sensor

Car manufacturers like Ford have begun to fit keyless fobs with motion sensors. These sense when the fob has been stationary in place for a time, which deactivates the signal needed to start the car, meaning it won’t respond to relay attack. Once the car owner picks up the fob, full functionality is restored.

If you own a keyless vehicle and your fob doesn’t have motion sensor installed, you should investigate whether it’s possible to do so, to add an extra layer of protection against theft.

3. Deploy traditional security measures

Wheel clamps and locks for your steering wheel, gearstick and handbrake all great visual deterrents against keyless car theft. It’s probably also sensible to invest in a tracker system, which will help to track your car should it be stolen.

On a more basic level, always take care to lock your car – no matter how quick you think you’ll be.

4. Take care with your key fob

Get into the habit of turning your key fob off completely overnight. You can check manufacturer guidance for how to do so. When the fob is off, it won’t respond to any signals sent by thieves.

Be careful where you store your fob in the house. Keep it away from doors and windows, and, if possible, at some distance away from the front and back doors in particular. If the fob is beyond reach of the relay attacks of thieves, it can’t pick up their signal.

You can also store your fob in a faraday pouch. The metal lining of these pouches blocks any signal from reaching the fob, thereby deterring thieves from keyless car theft.

5. Remove valuables from the vehicle and be sensible about parked location

Practising basic security measures, like removing all valuables overnight and parking in well-lit areas, will ensure that thieves don’t have extra incentive.

Upgrade to a more secure vehicle with My Car Credit

If you’re looking to upgrade your current car make and model and have questions about your car finance eligibility, find out how My Car Credit can help by emailing us at enquiries@mycarcredit.co.uk.

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Loan amount

£

Repayment term

My credit rating

X monthly repayments of
^£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£X

*for illustration purposes only

No impact on your credit score*

Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 10.9%, annual interest rate (fixed) 10.87%, 47 monthly payments of £191.50 followed by 1 payment of £201.50 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,702, total amount payable £9,202.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

Require more help?

Got a question you can’t find the answer to, or need some advice and guidance around taking out car finance? Our Car Credit Specialists are friendly, experienced, and here to help so get in touch today!

or call 01246 458 810

Driving Lessons Prices – What are the Total Costs?

You may think that the main cost to consider when booking driving lessons are the lessons themselves. Whilst they constitute the main bulk of the expense of learning to drive, there are other outgoings that you also need to consider when budgeting to learn to drive.

How much are driving lessons?

There’s no one figure when it comes to driving lessons costs, because it depends on a range of factors including your age, where you live, and the quality of the driving school, as well as whether you’re willing to book an intensive driving course, which can work out cheaper overall.

If you live in London, you can expect the prices of driving lessons to be higher compared to more rural areas. Expect to pay an average of around £30 a lesson, but different driving schools will quote their own rates. Remember that buying lessons in bulk may make them cheaper individually.

The DVLA reports that there is no minimum number of lessons or hours necessary in order to learn to drive, although the DVSA suggests an average of 45-47 driving lessons are typical, with extra private practice on top.

Younger learners may need fewer sessions than older learners, resulting in less overall expenditure on the lessons themselves. Ensuring that you’re learning with a reputable driving school means that you know you’re in professional hands, and are more likely to be a safer driver overall.

What are the other costs on top of driving lessons?

Provisional driving licence

You cannot drive on UK roads without a provisional licence, which costs £34 online or £43 via post.

Theory test

You have to pass this before taking your practical test. It costs £23 to book online, and you may want to make use of resources like the DVSA’s Official Theory Test and Hazard Perception Kit app to hone your skills for the test, which costs £15 for a 30-day subscription.

Learner insurance

If you’re learning to drive in another’s car, you should take out learner insurance so that you’re protected in case an accident occurs.

Insurers will price learner insurance differently, and you may benefit from daily, weekly, or monthly packages.

Practical test

On a weekday, a practical driving test will cost you £62, rising to £75 on weekends and bank holidays.

Remember that you may have to retake the test more than once – the pass rate in the UK is only 50%. You may also have to pay for the use of your instructor’s car on the day of the test itself.

Finance your first car

Once you’ve passed your driving test, you’ll need to account for costs like insurance and road tax, as well as financing your first car. Find out your car finance eligibility and see how My Car Credit can help you to safely take to the road in your new wheels by contacting us on enquiries@mycarcredit.co.uk.

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What is CS Car Finance?

Loan amount

£

Repayment term

My credit rating

X monthly repayments of
^£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£X

*for illustration purposes only

No impact on your credit score*

Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 10.9%, annual interest rate (fixed) 10.87%, 47 monthly payments of £191.50 followed by 1 payment of £201.50 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,702, total amount payable £9,202.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

Require more help?

Got a question you can’t find the answer to, or need some advice and guidance around taking out car finance? Our Car Credit Specialists are friendly, experienced, and here to help so get in touch today!

or call 01246 458 810

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What is Android Auto – and What Does It Do in Your Car?

If you’re an iPhone owner and enjoy making the most of your device’s many apps, you’ll likely already know about Apple CarPlay.

But what if you’re an Android owner? What is Android Auto in a car, and how can it benefit drivers? Read on to find out…

What is Android Auto?

Being able to safely use your phone’s various features, from maps to music, whilst driving is no longer just a future tech goal.

Android Auto software allows you to mirror your Android phone screen onto your car’s infotainment system via a Bluetooth connection or USB cable. You can therefore use your phone’s various apps without illegally picking up the device itself.

With Android Auto, you can manipulate your car’s control dial, steering wheel buttons, or touch screen (depending on your model of car) in order to access the features you know and love on your Android phone.

How to work Android Auto in a car

You’ll need both an Android Auto-compatible car and a smartphone with at least version 6.0 Android software to work Android Auto. Any compatible phone with an operating system of Android 11.0 and above should connect wirelessly to your car, otherwise you’ll need a USB cable.

Android Auto is easy to set up in a compatible car – just plug your phone in and follow the onscreen instructions. Be aware that, whilst most cars are compatible with the system, some older models may not be, so it’s worth checking the specifications of your vehicle if Android Auto is a make-or-break feature for you.

Looking to upgrade your car?

If you want to upgrade your car to a new model with features like Android Auto, it’s important to also take a look at a car finance checker. Discover how My Car Credit can help you to finance your new wheels by emailing us at enquiries@mycarcredit.co.uk.

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Will I Get Accepted for Car Finance?

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How Do Balloon Payments Work?

Loan amount

£

Repayment term

My credit rating

X monthly repayments of
^£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£X

*for illustration purposes only

No impact on your credit score*

Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 10.9%, annual interest rate (fixed) 10.87%, 47 monthly payments of £191.50 followed by 1 payment of £201.50 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,702, total amount payable £9,202.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

Require more help?

Got a question you can’t find the answer to, or need some advice and guidance around taking out car finance? Our Car Credit Specialists are friendly, experienced, and here to help so get in touch today!

or call 01246 458 810

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Top 5 Safety Tips for Driving in the Dark

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) report that 40% of collisions occur at night.

Whether you’re a newly-passed driver or have many years behind the wheel, driving in the dark can pose risks to your safety. These are the top five tips for ensuring that you’re as secure as possible when you get behind the wheel at night.

Driving in the dark: 5 tips

Know how to use your lights

You should be turning on your dipped headlights an hour before sunset and an hour after sunrise to allow other road users and pedestrians to see your vehicle. Use your full beam when appropriate, but always flick it off whenever another vehicle is approaching to avoid blinding them. Ensure that the interior of your car remains dark to reduce the interference of internal light.

Don’t stare directly at oncoming vehicles, as this will dazzle you and your eyes may struggle to readjust. Direct your gaze down and to the left of the road, keeping your car aligned with the white line marking the road’s edge.

Vehicle maintenance

You can only use your headlights correctly if they are working. Before you depart for a night journey, ensure that your headlights and brake lights are working effectively, and stay on top of maintaining your car throughout the year. Remember that you can be pulled aside by police if your bulbs aren’t working.

You also need to ensure that your windscreens are clear – the dirtier the window, the more disruptive the glare from other vehicles will be, and the more likely your window is to steam up.

Stay alert

Do not get behind the wheel if you’re tired. You’ll be a danger to yourself and other road users. Take more rest breaks if you need them, particularly if you’re covering long distances.

Stay alert for pedestrians, cyclists and animals. Be aware that cyclists and children may not be wearing reflective clothing and may be less visible in darker areas. If you’re in residential areas, take particular care and always keep your speed down.

Test your eyes regularly

No matter your age, you must get your eyes tested frequently. You need to ensure that you’re wearing glasses if you need them, and that you’re updating your prescription accordingly.

Carry safety essentials

If you’re driving in the dark, it’s likely that you’re driving through the winter months. So, it’s worthwhile having a winter safety kit in your boot. Keep warm items on hand, as well as a torch, ice scraper and de-icer. Having a spare mobile charger is a good idea, too.

Step up your night-time driving safety

Looking for a car loan quote to finance the perfect car for night driving? Or maybe you’re curious about your eligibility for car finance? Whatever your query, contact My Car Credit on enquiries@mycarcredit.co.uk to find out how we can help.

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Car Finance for First Time Drivers: A Beginner’s Guide

How Does Car Finance Work in the UK?

Loan amount

£

Repayment term

My credit rating

X monthly repayments of
^£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£X

*for illustration purposes only

No impact on your credit score*

Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 10.9%, annual interest rate (fixed) 10.87%, 47 monthly payments of £191.50 followed by 1 payment of £201.50 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,702, total amount payable £9,202.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

Require more help?

Got a question you can’t find the answer to, or need some advice and guidance around taking out car finance? Our Car Credit Specialists are friendly, experienced, and here to help so get in touch today!

or call 01246 458 810

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How Many Errors are Allowed on a Driving Test?

The government regularly publishes statistics on the pass/fail rate of driving tests – between January and March 2022, the pass rate was 47.1%. That means less than half of drivers are passing their test, either because of minor or major faults. Given the expense of learning to drive, it’s worth trying to nail it first time – but doing so means knowing how many errors are allowed on a driving test.

How many errors are allowed on a driving test?

If you get fifteen or more minor faults, you’ll be failed by your invigilator. That said, if you repeat the same minor fault, you’ll also be failed, even if you haven’t hit the full fifteen minors. This is because you’re indicating to your invigilator that you haven’t mastered the requisite skill and aren’t recognising your error.

What are the serious faults?

If you make a serious or dangerous fault, regardless of whether you’ve made any minors, you’ll fail your driving test.

A serious or dangerous fault constitutes any error that endangers yourself and other road users. In other words, this means a mistake that might have resulted in a significant accident. You won’t know whether or not you performed a serious fault until the test is over.

What are the most common errors on a driving test?

Not checking mirrors

Checking your mirrors is wise before performing most actions in a vehicle. If you change lanes without checking your mirrors, that would likely constitute a serious fault. But moving off without doing so, or not judging a junction accordingly, is also a minor, unless it’s a more serious incident.

Make it obvious to the examiner that you’re using your mirrors by turning your head slightly when you do so.

Hesitation and lack of decision at junctions

Negotiating junctions can be stressful for learner drivers. You need to ensure that you’re driving safely and aren’t being reckless with your decisions. Any dangerous move at a junction will constitute a major fault and immediate fail.

However, you also need to avoid hesitating excessively. If you miss an opportunity to safely pull out once, you won’t be penalised for this. However, if you miss multiple chances to safely pull out and are subsequently holding up the traffic behind you, then you’ll get a minor.

Mounting the kerb and ignoring traffic lights

If you touch the kerb when performing a manoeuvre, this is only a minor fault. But mounting the kerb, or crashing into it, will be a major fault and result in immediate failure.

You need to avoid driving through a red light at all costs, as this is illegal. Always heed the lights but also ensure you move away safely – and remember to never stop in any designated cycle box, even if there’s no cyclist there.

Nail your driving test – and your car finance

If you’re a new driver wondering about your car finance eligibility, My Car Credit can help. To find out how we can support your car finance needs, send us an email at enquiries@mycarcredit.co.uk.

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How Does Car Finance Work in the UK?

How Much Car Finance Do I Qualify For?

What is a Balloon Payment on a Car Loan?

Loan amount

£

Repayment term

My credit rating

X monthly repayments of
^£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£X

*for illustration purposes only

No impact on your credit score*

Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 10.9%, annual interest rate (fixed) 10.87%, 47 monthly payments of £191.50 followed by 1 payment of £201.50 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,702, total amount payable £9,202.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

Require more help?

Got a question you can’t find the answer to, or need some advice and guidance around taking out car finance? Our Car Credit Specialists are friendly, experienced, and here to help so get in touch today!

or call 01246 458 810

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Why Do I Need a Speed Limiter for My Car?

If you’re on the hunt for a new car for the first time in a while, you’ll have come across a few key changes to the market. From the 2030 petrol ban shaking up the sales of petrol and diesel vehicles, through to the inclusion of speed limiters in cars, there are a number of new factors that you’ll need to consider when looking for a new set of wheels.

This article will examine speed limiters, including what are they, why you need them and how they might impact your driving experience.

What is a speed limiter for your car?

A speed limiter for a car is exactly what it sounds like – it’s a safety device designed to prevent drivers from exceeding the speed limits of roads. From 6 July 2022, all newly launched vehicles in the UK legally have to be fitted with one. However, many car manufacturers – including Volvo, Ford, Mercedes-Benz, and Renault – adopted speed limiters in their new vehicles before this date.

Whilst all new cars in the UK now have to have a speed limiter installed, the speed limiter can be deactivated, but this won’t permanently disable it. Next time you switch the engine on, the speed limiter will also activate.

It’s critical to note that whilst a speed limiter is designed to prompt speeding drivers to stay within the limit, the driver is ultimately still responsible for doing so. As such, if any motorist is caught speeding, they are still responsible for any potential fine.

How do speed limiters work?

There are a number of different ways in which Intelligent Speed Assistance (ISA) systems can notify a driver if they’re in excess of the speed limit. ISA systems will use either GPS data or traffic-sign recognition in order to gauge the speed limit in any area. Although they have a high degree of accuracy, critics have pointed out that such systems may be vulnerable to inaccurate GPS mapping or temporary speed limits.

Speed limiters currently can work in any of the following ways. If the system detects that a vehicle is over the speed limit, it will alert the driver and automatically limit the engine’s power in order to reduce the vehicle’s speed in the instance of driver non-response. Alternatively, the ISA system can also provide a visual symbol and pedal vibrations, flashing visual signs and audio announcements, and can push back against any foot pressed down on the accelerator pedal.

Research is currently establishing which of these cues is the most effective at inciting response. In December 2025, the findings will be analysed and future ISA systems will implement the most effective one.

It’s important to distinguish a speed limiter from cruise control, which is designed to move the car at one set speed, without the driver’s foot on the pedal. With a speed limiter, the driver remains is in full control of the car, unlike with cruise control. Speed limiters can also be overridden if drivers need to pull away by pushing down sharply on the accelerator pedal.

Speed limiters can typically be found either on the steering wheel or indicator – but take care not to confuse them with the sign for cruise control, as the symbols can be similar.

Why have speed limiters been introduced?

Speed limiters have been introduced in the UK in recognition of the 2019/2044 regulation of The European Commission. Despite having left the EU, The Vehicle Certification Agency in the UK still follows EU regulations, which is why this policy has been implemented in UK automobile markets.

There are a number of reasons why speed limiters are deemed necessary. Primarily, they are designed to improve road safety, making driving safer for motorists, pedestrians and cyclists. Manufacturers like Ford have suggested that speed limiters might also reduce the likelihood of speeding tickets (but remember that the driver is ultimately responsible for any fines accrued).

Otherwise, potential benefits to speed limiters include lower car insurance premiums as a result of lower risk of accident, as well as reduced CO2 emissions and greater fuel economy. Although, speed limiters do not yet have to be retroactively installed in older cars – they are only legally required in brand-new models at the moment.

Find car finance for your new vehicle today

Take the stress out of your search and get a car finance quote from My Car Credit today. Any rate you see is the rate you get, and we can even work with candidates with poor credit scores.

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Loan amount

£

Repayment term

My credit rating

X monthly repayments of
^£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£X

*for illustration purposes only

No impact on your credit score*

Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 10.9%, annual interest rate (fixed) 10.87%, 47 monthly payments of £191.50 followed by 1 payment of £201.50 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,702, total amount payable £9,202.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

Require more help?

Got a question you can’t find the answer to, or need some advice and guidance around taking out car finance? Our Car Credit Specialists are friendly, experienced, and here to help so get in touch today!

or call 01246 458 810

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What are the Most Popular First Cars for UK Drivers?

Getting behind the wheel for the first time is an exciting milestone. No doubt about it, a driver’s license comes with a newfound sense of freedom and independence. Of course, buying a car is the final hurdle. So, what are the most popular first car choices for new drivers?

Read on as we take a look at the best-selling models winning over new drivers. From the zippy Volkswagen up! to the tough-as-nails Suzuki Ignis, we have options for every new driver.

Volkswagen up!

It’s hard not to love the high-spirited Volkswagen up! Compact and fuel efficient, this model boasts a low price point and fantastic safety features. Not to mention a playful name! Perfect for city driving, the Volkswagen up! is easy to manoeuvre and park in tight spots. This is a huge plus for new drivers and makes the Volkswagen up! a solid addition to our roundup of the most popular first car models.

Most models fall into insurance group 10 or lower, which means you won’t have to fork out a fortune when it comes to paperwork. This is largely thanks to the standard 1.0-litre three-cylinder engine. It’s not a supercar but it will get you from A to B in style. You’ll also enjoy savings at the forecourt, with the Volkswagen up! offering around 50 mpg.

Looking for the most popular first cars with zero-emissions? Consider upgrading to the all-electric VW e-up! You’ll get almost 160 miles of range, plus a clean conscience when it comes to emissions and air pollution.

Honda Jazz

You’ll see everyone from brand new drivers to weekend football mums driving the dependable Honda Jazz. We love the sleek silhouette, sporty aesthetic and compact size. It’s not only cheap but also amazingly reliable. If you’re thinking of buying second-hand, it’s one of the most popular first cars for people on a budget. Buy new and you can get behind the wheel of the all-new hybrid model powered by a combustion engine and electric motor.

Hyundai i10

Safety is front and centre in the latest Hyundai i10 model. This makes it a top pick for parents looking for peace of mind. Beyond a full suite of safety features, extras like a rear-view camera, cutting-edge connectivity and intelligent climate control make the Hyundai i10 one of the most popular first car options. The basic model is great for new drivers, or you can upgrade to a higher trim level.

Depending on what trim level you choose, expect the i10 to fall into insurance groups 3 to 10. SE is the cheapest while the top-of-the-range N Line will set you back a little more. The i20 is a great upgrade if you’re looking for something a little sleeker.

Volkswagen Polo

The much-loved ‘supermini’ has undergone a glow up in the Volkswagen Polo. It’s a little more spacious than the VW up! which makes it great for road trips. Whether you’re heading to Wales for a camping weekend of hitting up festivals like Glastonbury and Latitude, the Polo will get you there without a fuss.

There are plenty of upgrades available but to be honest, the standard Life trim has everything a new driver needs. This includes electronic stability control, automatic headlights and more. No wonder it’s one of the most popular first car models in the UK.

Suzuki Ignis

Most new drivers don’t have the cash to drop on a luxury Land Rover. Cue the Suzuki Ignis, a micro SUV with all the grunt of a big offroad vehicle. It’s small enough to use as a city car but four-wheel drive functionality makes it more than capable of ploughing down mud-splattered trails. When it comes to versatility, the Ignis has earned its place in our most popular first car roundup.

Even better, it doesn’t cost a fortune to run. Under the hood is a small 1.2-litre engine that offers plenty of power and around 50mpg. Insurance is a little higher than usual, with the Suzuki Ignis falling into group 15 or higher despite its compact dimensions and small engine. Models start at around £16,000, though if you browse the second-hand market there are some great deals to be found.

Tips for buying your first car

New drivers are generally young, often studying or just starting out in the world of work, so it makes sense to keep costs as low as possible. Below, we cover some tips on how to stretch your pound further when shopping for your first car.

Reliable

The last thing you want as a new driver it to be continually hit with repairs and maintenance bills. The most popular first cars are reliable and shouldn’t drain your bank account. Don’t be fooled. Reliability doesn’t necessarily mean buying new! Second-hand cars with a good servicing history can still be unswerving. According to the lads at Top Gear, the Honda Jazz is one of the most reliable used cars on British roads.

Economical

Fuel efficiency is a big concern for all motorists, not just new drivers. Of course, most new drivers aren’t as financially secure as their more experienced counterparts. This means it’s worth considering fuel efficiency when shopping for your first car.

Cheap to insure

In the UK, cars are categorised into one of 50 insurance groups. A national panel decides what group your car falls into based on a series of factors. These include performance, safety, security and the cost of repairs. Choosing cars in lower groups is a clever way to save on insurance. For example, cars like the Hyundai i10 and Fiat Panda fall into group 1 while luxury cars like the Audi E‑Tron fall into group 50.

Consider car finance

Want to get behind the wheel of your first car faster? Instead of settling for a subpar model, use car finance to stretch your pound further and secure the keys to one of the most popular first cars. Visit the My Car Credit website to get a car loan quote online and hit the road.

Rates from 9.9% APR. Representative APR 10.9%

Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

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Loan amount

£

Repayment term

My credit rating

X monthly repayments of
^£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£X

*for illustration purposes only

No impact on your credit score*

Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 10.9%, annual interest rate (fixed) 10.87%, 47 monthly payments of £191.50 followed by 1 payment of £201.50 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,702, total amount payable £9,202.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

Require more help?

Got a question you can’t find the answer to, or need some advice and guidance around taking out car finance? Our Car Credit Specialists are friendly, experienced, and here to help so get in touch today!

or call 01246 458 810

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Are Winter Tyres Worth It?

If you’re winter-proofing your vehicle to better handle colder temperatures and subsequent driving risks, you’re undoubtedly weighing up the benefits of winter tyres. Let’s take a look at whether or not they’re worth it for you.

What are winter tyres?

If you live in an area where roads become wet, icy and covered in leaf mulch during winter, having tyres designed for these conditions provides greater safety. In European countries like Germany, it’s a legal requirement to change your summer tyres over to winter ones from approximately October to Easter.

Winter tyres are designed to offer the greatest possible traction and grip in colder conditions. They do so by way of deeper grooves and narrow cuts built into their tread.

You can easily distinguish a winter tyre as it will have a ‘3 PMSF’ (a 3-Peak Mountain Snow Flake symbol) on their sidewall. Tyres with ‘M+S’ are also classified as tyres suitable for ‘mud and snow’, but are not subject to the same rigorous testing as the 3PMSF winter tyres.

Are winter tyres worth it?

Remember that if you’re driving your car through Europe in the winter months, you may be legally required to have winter tyres, so always check in advance before planning any road trip. The UK does not have legal requirements for winter tyre use.

When temperatures consistently drop below 7 degrees Celsius, summer tyres are less effective. They have less traction, and your vehicle’s overall stopping distance is therefore longer.

Winter tyres are designed to prevent the build-up of snow and ice on the tyre thanks to their narrow, deep grooves, which also help to reduce the vehicle’s stopping distance. As such, they provide greater grip in colder conditions – whether the weather is wet or dry.

For greater driving safety, security and confidence, if you live in an isolated and remote area, or if the UK is expecting a bout of cold weather, it’s wise to change your tyres over to winter ones. You’ll have greater control and stability, your tyres will respond quicker to braking, and you’re less likely to experience aquaplaning. Overall, then, you’re less likely to have an accident if you’re using winter tyres in cold conditions.

Are there drawbacks to winter tyres?

Winter tyres can be expensive, but it depends on your wheel size, car make and model, and tyre brand. Changing them over can also feel like a faff – particularly if you’re also swapping over to ‘winter wheels’. Plus, you’ll need to pay to store your winter tyres whilst they’re not in use if you don’t have a garage or secure shed.

However, using winter tyres can protect more expensive summer tyres, which may benefit you financially in the long term. Purchasing in the spring when demand drops can be a clever way of grabbing winter tyres at bargain prices, too.

Find winter car finance

If you’re thinking of upgrading your car for the colder months and have questions about your car finance eligibility, contact our friendly team on enquiries@mycarcredit.co.uk.

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Loan amount

£

Repayment term

My credit rating

X monthly repayments of
^£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£X

*for illustration purposes only

No impact on your credit score*

Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 10.9%, annual interest rate (fixed) 10.87%, 47 monthly payments of £191.50 followed by 1 payment of £201.50 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,702, total amount payable £9,202.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

Require more help?

Got a question you can’t find the answer to, or need some advice and guidance around taking out car finance? Our Car Credit Specialists are friendly, experienced, and here to help so get in touch today!

or call 01246 458 810

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How to De-Ice a Windshield Fast

You may have come across top hacks on how to de-ice a windshield fast, but some of these can damage your car in the process. With that in mind, it’s best to stick to tried-and-tested methods, even if you’re in a hurry. Read on to learn more.

How to de-ice a windshield fast in 4 steps

Ensure your wipers aren’t on

If your wipers have frozen in place and you start the car whilst they’re on, you risk damaging the wiper motor. The rubber could also tear, causing damage to your windscreen.

Turn your engine on

Get your engine going and direct the warm air blower onto your front and rear windscreens. You should also turn the air con on to clear any condensation build-up.

It’s illegal to drive with impaired vision, so no matter how tempting it is, remember not to use your hands to wipe the inside of your windows. You’ll likely leave smears which will impact driving visibility.

Similarly, always stay with your car when you have the engine running. It’s illegal to leave a car unattended on the street. Not to mention an open invitation for thieves -even in your front driveway.

If you’ve got a new car model, your vehicle may have remote heating technology that you can use to defrost from afar. If not and you’re after a car with high-tech solutions for all weathers, you can always secure a car loan quote from My Car Credit.

Clear snow

If there’s any snow on your windscreens, use a soft brush or cloth to clear it. You can also use the same to clear the car’s front grille. And before setting off, ensure that your electricals – most importantly your lights – are working.

Use a scraper and de-icer

Use a proper scraper to remove any ice from your windscreen. Don’t use anything that comes to hand, as they might scratch and damage the windscreen, and your hands may leave smears.

You can also use a de-icing spray or your own mixture (combine one-third water with two-thirds rubbing alcohol) to mist the screen.

What not to do when de-icing a windscreen

Never use hot water

Don’t believe the stories – you shouldn’t use either hot or lukewarm water to de-ice a windshield fast. The water might re-freeze as it makes contact with cold air, causing the windscreen glass to crack or chip. Plus, this newly frozen water will then become another layer of ice, and you’ll be back to where you started.

Avoid other gimmicks or hacks

If you’re in a rush and your windscreen is iced up, it’s frustrating. But you shouldn’t ever try any gimmicks or hacks, as these are more likely than not to cause damage to your windscreen.

Small cracks can become larger ones and result in an expensive replacement. And remember, driving with impaired vision – including smears and streaks – is illegal.

Car finance for your cold weather car

The most up-to-date vehicles have remote heating technology. If that sounds good to you, secure car finance for your dream car today with My Car Credit – contact us on enquiries@mycarcredit.co.uk.

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Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

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Loan amount

£

Repayment term

My credit rating

X monthly repayments of
^£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£X

*for illustration purposes only

No impact on your credit score*

Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 10.9%, annual interest rate (fixed) 10.87%, 47 monthly payments of £191.50 followed by 1 payment of £201.50 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,702, total amount payable £9,202.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

Require more help?

Got a question you can’t find the answer to, or need some advice and guidance around taking out car finance? Our Car Credit Specialists are friendly, experienced, and here to help so get in touch today!

or call 01246 458 810

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What are the Changes to the Highway Code in 2022?

The Highway Code is designed to keep all road users safe, including motorists, cyclists, pedestrians and even horseback riders. The government is continually updating the rules to improve road safety across the board. It’s important to stay up to date with changes to the Highway Code but we’re the first to admit it’s not always easy.

While updates are welcomed by groups like the RAC and Cycling UK, there are concerns that changes to the Highway Code aren’t publicised enough! RAC spokesman Simon Williams warns just one third of British motorists find the latest changes straightforward and easy to understand.

Cycling UK campaign manager Duncan Dollimor agrees. “The Highway Code changes are positive for all road users, but particularly for vulnerable road users including cyclists,” he says. “Sadly, these changes will be of limited benefit if the public aren’t aware of them.”

That’s why we’ve put together this handy guide to help you understand the new rules. Ready to get stuck in? Read on for our complete guide to changes to the Highway Code in 2022 and what they mean for you.

Establishing a “hierarchy of road users”

One of the key changes to the code is establishing a hierarchy designed to protect the most vulnerable road users. In the past, all road users were responsible for their own safety, as well as the safety of others. New changes to the Highway Code give priority to pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists and other at-risk road users. The goal is to drill in the idea that those who pose the greatest risk to others (such as car and truck drivers) have a bigger responsibility to protect vulnerable road users (such as cyclists and pedestrians). For clarity, the hierarchy is as follows:

Pedestrians
Cyclists
Horse riders
Motorcyclists
Cars and taxis
Vans and minibuses
HGVs

“Those in charge of vehicles that can cause the greatest harm in the event of a collision bear the greatest responsibility to take care and reduce the danger they pose to others,” read the new changes to the Highway Code. “This principle applies most strongly to drivers of large goods and passenger vehicles, vans/minibuses, cars/taxis and motorcycles.”

Give way to pedestrians at junctions

New changes to the Highway Code give pedestrians priority at junctions. Previously, motorists were required to give way to pedestrians already crossing roads. Under the new rules, motorists must give way to pedestrians waiting to cross junctions.

The new changes to the Highway Code state, “At a junction you should give way to pedestrians crossing or waiting to cross a road into which or from which you are turning.”

Motorists must also give way at Parallel Zebra Crossings, a new type of crossing designed for pedestrians and cyclists.

Max visibility for cyclists

To improve visibility, cyclists should ride in the middle of their lane, not to the side as many road users believe is best practice. This rule applies in slow-moving traffic, as well as on quiet roads and when approaching junctions. In fast-moving traffic cyclists should maintain a distance of at least 0.5 metres from the shoulder. Once again, this is designed to improve visibility and keep cyclists safe.

The 1.5-metre overtaking rule

When overtaking cyclists, motorists should give at least 1.5 metres of distance. The minimum distance increases to two metres when overtaking horseback riders. Both scenarios require more distance if overtaking at speeds of more than 30mph.

Low-speed overtaking

Horses are easily spooked by vehicles. The latest changes to the Highway Code factor this in and require all motorists to overtake horses and horse-drawn vehicles at speeds of no faster than 10 mph.

Group cycling

Cyclists are allowed to ride two abreast, though they’re responsible for being aware of traffic and transitioning into single file if necessary.

Priority for cyclists on roundabouts

Roundabouts are designed to improve the flow of traffic, but they can be dangerous for cyclists. Under the new Highway Code rules, cyclists have right of way on roundabouts. Motorists and other high-risk road users should allow cyclists to safely move through the roundabout without being cut off.

Responsible passing for cyclists

Pedestrians are considered the most vulnerable road users and motorists aren’t the only risk. Cyclists injure hundreds of pedestrians every year. The new changes to the Highway Code ask cyclists to slow down in areas used by pedestrians, such as mixed use paths. Passing should be at low speeds, especially when approaching from behind. Of course, pedestrians also have a responsibility to be aware of cyclists and avoid obstructing their paths.

Stricter mobile phone rules

Rules about mobile phone use while driving are already strict. In 2022, they’re tighter than ever and it’s now an offence to select songs on a playlist or take a photo while behind the wheel, even if you’re at a red light. Fines can be as high as £200. You also risk losing up to six points from your license.

As a road user, it’s your responsibility to brush up on the latest changes to the Highway Code and keep everyone, including yourself, as safe as possible. Cars with built-in safety and driver assist features make it easier than ever to stay safe on the road. From lane assistance and blind spot warning technology to emergency brake assist (EBA) and reverse collision avoidance, modern cars are packed with state-of-the-art safety features.

If you’re thinking about upgrading but not sure if you can afford a new set of wheels outright, car finance could be the solution. How much does car finance cost? Our purpose-built calculator will help you determine how far your deposit will stretch and what to expect in terms of repayments. We match your application with a trusted panel of lenders, including creditors that don’t demand a top-tier credit score. Get in touch today to chat to a friendly advisor and find out more.

Rates from 9.9% APR. Representative APR 10.9%

Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

Bank Loan or PCP: Which is Right for You?

Car Finance: A Complete Guide

Check for car finance without affecting your credit score

Loan amount

£

Repayment term

My credit rating

X monthly repayments of
^£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£X

*for illustration purposes only

No impact on your credit score*

Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 10.9%, annual interest rate (fixed) 10.87%, 47 monthly payments of £191.50 followed by 1 payment of £201.50 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,702, total amount payable £9,202.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

Require more help?

Got a question you can’t find the answer to, or need some advice and guidance around taking out car finance? Our Car Credit Specialists are friendly, experienced, and here to help so get in touch today!

or call 01246 458 810

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Keyless car theft is on the up. According to insurance company Aviva, between August 2020 and August 2022, customers with keyless cars were significantly more likely to make a car theft claim than those with standard vehicular locks.

What is keyless technology?

What is keyless car theft?

Protecting your car from keyless car theft – 5 tips

1. Choose cars with more sophisticated security

2. Choose key fobs with motion sensor

3. Deploy traditional security measures

4. Take care with your key fob

5. Remove valuables from the vehicle and be sensible about parked location

Upgrade to a more secure vehicle with My Car Credit

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You may think that the main cost to consider when booking driving lessons are the lessons themselves. Whilst they constitute the main bulk of the expense of learning to drive, there are other outgoings that you also need to consider when budgeting to learn to drive.

How much are driving lessons?

What are the other costs on top of driving lessons?

Provisional driving licence

Theory test

Learner insurance

Practical test

Finance your first car

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If you’re an iPhone owner and enjoy making the most of your device’s many apps, you’ll likely already know about Apple CarPlay.

But what if you’re an Android owner? What is Android Auto in a car, and how can it benefit drivers? Read on to find out…

What is Android Auto?

How to work Android Auto in a car

Looking to upgrade your car?

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The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) report that 40% of collisions occur at night.

Whether you’re a newly-passed driver or have many years behind the wheel, driving in the dark can pose risks to your safety. These are the top five tips for ensuring that you’re as secure as possible when you get behind the wheel at night.

Driving in the dark: 5 tips

Know how to use your lights

Vehicle maintenance

Stay alert

Test your eyes regularly

Carry safety essentials

Step up your night-time driving safety

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How many errors are allowed on a driving test?

What are the serious faults?

What are the most common errors on a driving test?

Not checking mirrors

Hesitation and lack of decision at junctions

Mounting the kerb and ignoring traffic lights

Nail your driving test – and your car finance

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