Never ones to rest on our laurels, we’ve had a busy few months developing our new range. It’s time to introduce StopThatScratch, the simple way to protect bicycles from scratches and scuffs. Cycling is increasingly popular, both as a leisure activity and a way to get fit. More people are also using bicycles as an everyday mode of transport as they try to reduce their carbon footprint and use cars less frequently. It’s estimated there are already more than two billion bikes in use around the world, and that figure is expected to rise to five billion by 2050. Whatever your cycling habits, being out on the roads exposes your bike to wear and tear. Loose stone chips, high curbs and...

However committed we are to caring for the environment, it’s an undeniable truth that the car is an essential part of life for most of us. Some industry analysts estimate there are more than 1.4 billion vehicles on the world’s roads, a number that is only expected to increase. The effects of so many vehicles on the planet are well-documented, and car manufacturers have begun to focus on electric and hybrid models as a result. Governments too are bringing in laws to make motoring more eco-friendly; in the UK, for example, no new cars powered solely by petrol or diesel will be sold from 2030. While choosing to buy an electric or hybrid car is the obvious way to become...

Knowing how to check and top up engine oil is an essential car maintenance task for every motorist. It’s also simple to do – you can take care of it yourself at home in a matter of minutes. If you’ve recently bought a second-hand car privately, you might not know when the oil was last changed. In that case, we’d suggest you err on the side of caution and ask your regular garage to do an oil and filter change. This is also something that should be carried out as part of your vehicle’s annual service. Otherwise, it’s a good idea to check your oil every few weeks – set a reminder on your phone or write it on your...

While we all know we should look after our cars, it’s easy to let things slide. If we’re busy, tired and focused on other priorities, then as long as it starts ok we don’t worry too much. That’s why Car Care Month is important – it’s a good reminder to look after our vehicles. Car Care Month takes place every April. It was introduced by the US Car Care Council as a way of encouraging motorists to take better care of their cars but has since spread further afield. The organisation’s executive director, Rich White, says that keeping on top of routine maintenance not only ensures your car is reliable and safe to drive, it also helps avoid more costly...

Whether it’s fresh out of the showroom or pre-owned, buying a new car is undeniably exciting. Comparing features and choosing which make and model you’ll get is half the fun. But it can be confusing, too, with a bewildering array of accessories and add-ons to consider. The more features you choose, the higher the cost of your vehicle, so while it’s tempting to go for them all it makes sense to work out what’s really necessary. While your specific needs will determine your final choice, we’ve rounded up some of the features you should consider when looking for your next new car. Essential safety features Keeping yourself safe while driving should be your primary concern when choosing a new car....

As signs of spring begin to appear, it’s time to wash away the last of the rock salt and prepare your car for brighter days. The winter weather can take its toll on your vehicle’s condition and appearance, so it’s time to dispense some TLC. As well as giving it a thorough clean inside and out, waxing your car in spring is a wise move. There are still seasonal factors to consider that can adversely affect your vehicle, and waxing will help combat them. Why wax your car? A coat of wax adds a protective layer, shielding your paintwork against extreme weather conditions. While many of us look forward to warmer temperatures, it still rains a lot in the spring....

Are you a fan of long-distance road trips, or do you use your car mainly for commuting and domestic chores? No matter what kind of motorist you are, there’ll be a gadget that will make the journey easier, more fun or will prove its worth in an emergency. We’re all in favor of improving the driving experience, and there’s no shortage of practical accessories, luxury add-ons or must-have tech. We’ve rounded up six of our favorites here. A night-vision system Even the best drivers can struggle to see at night. Bad weather conditions may make it more difficult, or perhaps fatigue has set in. So it’s good to have a little help sometimes to make driving at night that bit...

  If you found your car had a flat tire – either before you set off or due to a puncture during the journey – would you know what to do? Changing a tire is one of those basic mechanical tasks every motorist should know but many of us neglect to learn. After all, it never looks that complicated – surely we’d be able to work it out? In reality, especially if you’re stuck at the roadside in the dark or bad weather, that’s unlikely to be the case. Getting familiar with the process before you need it is a good idea, so we’ve broken it down into 7 simple steps. First things first Make sure you know where your...

Let’s face it, while there’s never a good time for our cars to break down or need repairs, it always seems worse when it happens in winter. Cold, wet weather makes being stuck by the roadside or having to rely on public transport that much worse. To minimize the chances of it happening, there are a few simple tasks you can do. As well as preventing some problems before they happen, they’ll help you spot other potential issues so you can get them resolved quickly. Keep an eye on your windscreen Inspect your windscreen, other windows and lights regularly to make sure there are no cracks. If you spot any, get the glass fixed or replaced as soon as possible....

A new year means a fresh start – most of us see it as a chance to shake things up in our lives. The promises we make to ourselves each January range from big to small, whether it’s wanting to get fit and lose a few kilos to pursuing a whole new career. Whatever your goals are, we wish you success – but spare a thought for your four-wheeled friend, too. It’s easy to take your car for granted when you use it every day, whether it’s on the school run, getting to work or going to the gym. To make sure it keeps you safely on the road, though, it needs some attention. With that in mind, while you’re...