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Three months today The British Motor Show returns to Farnborough with a new headline sponsor and a raft of new features to entertain the ever-growing crowd.
The British Motor Show is set to make an even bigger splash in 2023 when it returns from the 15th-18th August in partnership with new Headline Sponsors MOTORS. Following the phenomenal success of the 2023 event, which saw nearly 60,000 visitors flock to Farnborough International, the team have been working hard to improve the show even further for 2024. Never ones to rest on their laurels, the British Motor Show team have been working hard to ensure that the show in 2024 delivers something for everyone.
You'll get to enjoy returning favourites such as the Premier Gt Supercar Paddock, Sporting Bears Dream Rides, eBay Stage and the Bridgestone Motorsport Arena and Hall returning, however 2024 sees new content, experiences and shows throughout the event. As well as all the latest new cars and a new selection of classic, sports and modified clubs displaying, new entertainment for visitors includes:
The Motors Family Zone and Kids Stage – featuring sessions dedicated to our younger visitors including car maintenance for kids, kids in Motorsport sessions and a special session each day hosted by Grace Webb from TV’s Graces Amazing Machines.
The All-new Team Maximum Lock Live Arena Stunt Show – The Live Arena will see a variety of new shows and sessions in 2024, including an amazing stunt driving show from Maltas got talent quarter finalist Team Maximum Lock.
All Star gymkhana challenge – We’ll be pitting our guests up against each other, including celebrity hosts and motorsport stars, to see who can put in the fastest time in our Bridgestone Arena gymkhana, not only that, some lucky members from the crowd will get to try and beat them too.
Driven Women – Our Campaign to promote and support women in automotive will include sessions on stage, a dedicated display of cherished cars owned and maintained by women and an area staffed by female experts from throughout the industry offering visitors help and advice on all things car related.
Motors Used Car Marketplace – New for 2024, headline sponsors MOTORS have invited 5 of the best used cars dealers in the country to showcase used cars for those visitors who aren’t looking to buy new.
End of Day Supercar parade – Our visitors love the supercars and the Supercar Showdown in the arena each day is a huge favourite. In 2024 we’ll be creating an amazing spectacle of sight, sound and smell, when at 5pm all our cars on display will form a parade through the show, a fitting crescendo for the day.
Stunt bike display and dedicated BMX display area – A motorbike stunt team return to the Bridgestone Arena for the first time since 2022 delivering a high octane display of jumps and excitement. We also have a BMX half pipe display at the show for the first time with Danny Butler, 5 x British Men's Elite BMX Champion.
A new Guinness World Record show and record attempt. We’ll be setting up an all-new Guinness World Records attempt with our favourite Stunt Driver Paul Swift. As well as attempting a World Record each day, we’ll also be feature some of the more unusual record holders as part of the Guinness World Records session.
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Despite even more to do and see, advanced purchase prices remain the same as 2023 at just £47 for a family of 4 or £23.50 for an adult one-day ticket. However visitors are encouraged to snap up their tickets soon as both weekend days in 2023 were close to a sell-out.
The British Motor Show CEO Andy Entwistle said:
“We’re bringing back everything that visitors loved from 2023 including the legendary Parachute display team, a new twist on the Drift ride experience and the great displays, however we’re also bringing along plenty of new content to keep the event fresh”
The 2023 show featured an amazing mix of new, used, classic, supercars, driving displays, stunt show and marketplace sellers, with the halls and outdoor areas of the show packed throughout. But unlike traditional motor shows, the live arenas, stages and interactive elements really set it apart.
Celebrity hosts Fuzz Townshend and Tim Shaw from Car SOS will return in 2024 as part of the team, alongside plenty of familiar faces from the automotive world.
More than just a motor show, The British Motor Show is family fun redefined
Published:
May 15, 2024
Not only are MOTORS bringing you the all new MOTORS Used Car Marketplace, we've also teamed up with them to bring you our best ever Family Zone
Located in Hall 2, the MOTORS Family Zone will be the most fun-packed zone of the show, dedicated to our littler visitors and their families. The team at MOTORS know that even the most active of families need a little bit of down time for the grown-ups, so have set about creating a family zone like the show has never seen before, with plenty of new features to keep the kids busy including:
Free Face Painting
Digital Graffiti Wall
Giant Building Block for Under 5's
Plus loads more new, hands on activities.
You'll also find show favourites like giant Scalextric, RC Vision car racing, colouring competitions and car wrapping, so no matter their ages, there's plenty to keep everyone busy.
And if that's not enough for you, MOTORS are also launching the new MOTORS Family Stage at the heart of the family zone, bringing you live sessions designed for families, as well as some very exciting new guests soon to be announced - keep an eye on the website for more details.
Published:
May 15, 2024
New British Motor Show headline sponsor MOTORS will be launching a new feature at the 2024. New cars have always been part of the show, but in an exciting new partnership with MOTORS we are going to be shining a spotlight on used cars for the first time.
MOTORS is one of the biggest car search sites in the UK and over 15 years’ worth of experience helping car buyers, there is no-one better to help us to help you find the perfect next car for you and your family. MOTORS are bringing together all of their expertise to create the brand new MOTORS Used Car Market Place, giving you the chance to view and buy cars from some of the best dealers in the country.
You'll find the MOTORS Used Car Marketplace at the heart of the show between Hall 2 and the Live Arena, giving you the chance to meet with not only the used car experts from MOTORS themselves, but also the team from their selected dealer partners, all of whom will be on hand to show you a range of quality used cars and guide you through all you need to know about buying your next car.
This year the MOTORS Used Car Marketplace dealers will include;
With hundreds of thousands of used cars listed by dealers nationwide, MOTORS is one of the biggest car search sites in the UK, so we are really excited to be able to bring this to life at the show, making sure that visitors have the widest possible choice of cars to check out and buy at the show, with the team on hand to give you all the advice you need without the need to go to the dealer, all whilst having an epic family day out!
Published:
May 13, 2024
Drift Limits Motorsport Academy will be joining us at this years British Motor Show, giving visitors the chance to take the ride of a lifetime in a drift taxi, piloted by one of their expert race drivers.
Not only will you be able to take a solo drift ride in a high powered BMW or Nissan 350Z, for the first time ever at the British Motor Show, you'll be able to take a drift ride with you friends or family. That's right, we've partnered with Drift Limits to bring all new passenger drifting experiences to the show, so you can enjoy all the thrills and adrenaline pumping action, with whoever you are at the show with!
Drift Limits are an independent Motorsport Academy with 3 purpose built circuits at Bovingdon Airfield complex, making them the closest motorsport venue to the City of London, offering a diverse section of motorsport experiences to drivers of all ages and skills.
The 3 circuits are specially designed to challenge every driver from total novices to seasoned professionals with an unrivalled collection of high-performance supercars, drift cars, open-top single seaters to fully fledged GT3 race cars and a Jordan Formula One car.
The Drift Limits team will be offering solo and multi-passenger experiences every day at the show, so if you've alway wanted to get thrown around a drift track sideways whilst sat next to you mum or dad, this is the experience for you!
And not only will the team be bringing their coolest, loudest drift cars, they also have a section of cars from the academy on display as well. You'll be able to take a look round a selection of their best cars including a Jordan F1 car and a Lamborghini Huracan Super Trofeo!
Speaking about Drift Limits partnering with us for the first time, British Motor Show CEO Andy Entwistle said;
It's so exciting for us to be able to keep pushing the boundaries of the traditional motor show and having Drift Limits join us and really elevate the passenger ride experiences we offer at the show is exactly what we are all about - taking it to the next level and redefining the family day out.
We have always set out to lead the way with motor shows, and Drift Limits are the perfect partners to help us do just that - what other motor show in the world can you go to, see everything form the latest new cars to F1 cars and classics, and take a drift ride with mum, dad and nan!!
Published:
May 6, 2024
The perception of EVs is no longer that of a musty eco car, capable of being solid, but dull to the core. Now EVs are staking their claim to being some of the most exciting, drivable, and fast cars on the roads. The likes of the McMurty Spierling (pictured above at the 2023 British Motor Show) and Formula-E are showing just how fast and EV can truly be.
But these are 7-figure cars, not affordable for most of us, so we used used car experts MOTORS to put together their top pick for the fastest affordable EVs on the market today. Read the full article to see their top picks.
Published:
May 5, 2024
Camping is a quintessentially British pastime - we are a nation that loves to embrace the great outdoors come rain or shine, and having the right car to take you on your next camping break is essential. With all the equipment and extra packing you need for a camping break, all sorts of extra pressures are put on your car.
As we head towards the summer season and the holidays become the subject of many families planning time, we asked MOTORS to recommend the 10 best used car to make you happy campers - check out their top picks here.
Published:
May 5, 2024
Having a 7-seater can be very appealing to families - having those extra seats can make all the difference when you have a growing family, giving you extra space for little ones and their friends, or all their stuff. The 7-seater market has been dominated by a series of practical models from the likes of Vauxhall, Ford and VW with traditional petrol and diesel models, but now there is a growing number of EVs in this marketplace bringing a touch of style to the big family car market.
The used car experts at MOTORS have been hard at work looking at the best 7-seat used electric cars on the market, check out this latest article to find out their recommendations are.
Published:
May 5, 2024
With the driving landscape changing and EVs becoming more accessible, they are now a a great choice for first time drivers they're easy to drive, there's much less to go wrong and with the prices at the pump remaining high, they are cheaper to run as well.
But if you're a new driving, getting your head round buying any car is a big job, let alone when there are so many variations, so we asked MOTORS to put together their top tips for new drivers considering an EV. Read the full article here.
Published:
April 30, 2024
Once you've passed you driving test and you're ready to hit the road, finding your perfect first car is the next step on your journey to driving independence. In their last article, the British Motor Show headline sponsors, and all round used car experts MOTORS, picked some of their best cars for first time drivers, and now we've asked them to dig a little deeper and share their advice on the biggest cost factor to most new drivers - insurance.
You'll be able to find out their best advice on what the Top 10 cheapest cars are to insure for young drivers, how to reduce your insurance premiums and much more. Check out the full article here.
Published:
April 30, 2024
Buying your first car is a cause for celebration and excitement - you're finally getting the keys to freedom. Your new car is not just metal and rubber, it's your pass to the open road, going where you like, when you like.
BUT... choosing the best first car is not an easy task! There are a lot of things to take into account - insurance, running costs and reliability to name just a few. We asked the used car experts at MOTORS to make things a little easier for you and put to together their best cars for first time drivers. To find out what they recommend, read the full article here.
Published:
April 30, 2024
The British Motor Show has launched a new year-round campaign aimed at encouraging more women to engage with cars and the automotive industry.
The Driven Women (#drivenwomen) campaign is aimed at addressing the perception of the automotive industry and cherished car ownership as a purely male domain. As part of the campaign, the team has created a community group on Facebook, which has been actively engaged with by hundreds of female enthusiasts, who either own cherished cars or work in the industry.
Our Mission at The British Motor Show is to engage with new audiences and promote the automotive industry and cherished car ownership to new audiences. Working with an amazing group of Driven Women we hope to use the show to recognise that cherished car ownership isn’t just for men! Over 50% of our visitors are families and we already see a much higher number of women at the show than traditional car events, so we want to use this as an opportunity to celebrate the women that make the industry great and get more involved.”
A dedicated area, staffed by women from all corners of the automotive industry, will welcome and offer free advice at the show. Aimed at women and designed to offer help and insight on a wide variety of automotive subjects, from buying advice, simple EV technical advice and maintenance questions, to getting into motorsport, modifying or buying a classic car.
The Driven Women initiative will also deliver a display in the owners club zone which will exclusively feature cherished vehicles owned, driven and modified by women. From Max Power-era cars, classic coupes and kit cars to the latest supercars, the display will highlight some of the most amazing cars in the country.
The initiative will also see a dedicated area in the Automotive Careers Expo at this year’s British Motor Show encouraging women and young girls to consider the industry as their next, or first, career move, as well as exclusive sessions on stage featuring experts from the worlds of EV, Motorsport and car modification.
Throughout the show, Driven Women will be on hand, and easily distinguished by their green attire, to help answer questions and encourage the female visitors to get more involved in automotive
Ahead of the show, we will also be hosting the UK’s first Driven Women Breakfast Meet dedicated to displaying cars owned and driven by women. Hosted at Haynes Motor Museum on Sunday 26th May, the paddock will feature up to 50 classic, cherished, modified and Supercars, with the owners around to network and chat about their passion and their cars. Register for the paddock here.
Display space is limited, with only a few display spaces remaining. Anyone who would like to display a car can register for free HERE.
The British Motor Show takes place from the 15th – 18th of August at Farnborough International and we’re keen to hear from more women who work in the industry or own amazing cars and would like to get involved by emailing us at customerservice@thebritishmotorshow.live
Published:
March 8, 2024
Bridgestone, partnering with Kwik Fit, have been confirmed as the Official Tyre Partner of The British Motor Show and will continue to be the exclusive partner sponsor of the Motorsport and Modified Arena and Hall at the event.
Not only this, but the brand partners have has committed to the British Motor Show for a further 2 years, extending the successful partnership through to 2025.
The Bridgestone Hall and Bridgestone Arena will once again play host to an eclectic mix of live action over the 4 days of the event; from grassroots British motorsport and stars of the future to tyre-smoking modified car action, including all new action-packed shows planned for 2024. Bridgestone and Kwik Fit will once again have a significant presence in the Bridgestone Motorsport Hall in partnership with Kwik Fit, one of the most popular parts of the show in 2023.
Bridgestone will also be on hand to provide their expertise and advice on all aspects of tyre and road safety to an expected 70,000 visitors including highlighting the NEW Turanza All Season 6 tyre, Bridgestone’s new premium touring all-season tyre.
Speaking about extending the partnership for a further 2 years, British Motor Show CEO Andy Entwistle said;
‘We are delighted to have Bridgestone and Kwik Fit confirmed at The British Motor Show through to 2025. With their support and input, we’re able to keep driving the show to new heights and delivering an even bigger and better event each year.
We already have some amazing plans, including growing the motorbike elements of the show and having Bridgestone in partnership with Kwik Fit as one of our key partners allows us to elevate the show to new heights’
Published:
March 7, 2024
For most families, a good used car has a lot of boxes to tick. It must be practical and robust enough to cope with daily family life while delivering some creature comforts that can make those longer journeys a little easier. The family car segment has alway had plenty of variety with car makers looking for different ways to combine spaciousness and practicality with some added excitement and great features, and that’s reflected in the variety of cars that you’ll find on the market today.
Used car experts MOTORS have put together their top 10 list of used family cars, from traditional MPV’s to EVs, they have looked at all the options to find the best choices for you and your family. Check out the full article to find out what their recommendations are. Read the full article here.
Published:
February 8, 2024
With the cost of just about everything seemingly forever going up, everyone is feeling the pinch more than ever. Having a fuel-efficient car is becoming a must-have for motorists, with getting the most miles out of every litre of fuel a great way to cut trips to the pumps and save you money.
There are plenty of good, fuel efficient cars available on the used car market, offering something for all types of buyers, from compact sports cars to ultra-efficient executive saloons. The car experts at MOTORS have compiled a list of their top 10 most fuel efficient cars – check out the full article to find out which cars made the list. Read the full article here.
Published:
February 8, 2024
Having a reliable car is an essential part of our everyday motoring lives. Knowing that each time you turn the key, you’ll be met with a smooth-running and consistent car, takes the stress out of day-to-day car ownership. The experts at MOTORS have been checking out some of the most reliable cars available today to help you pick a model that won’t leave you scrambling for the jump leads or calling the breakdown services.
Reliability is a factor that everyone thinks about when deciding which car to buy, but how do you know which cars are the best to consider? Check out the full article to find out which cars made the MOTORS top picks for reliability. Read the full article here.
Published:
February 7, 2024
Unfortunately, car scams and motor fraud are real problems that car buyers and sellers face. Whilst they are relatively rare, overall car buyers still lose roughly £3million a year to vehicle scams.
Whether you are considering buying or selling your vehicle, it’s essential that you are aware of the practices that fraudsters could use to scam you. The experts at MOTORS are back with more essential advice on how to spot, and avoid these scams.
The MOTORS guide gives you all you need to know on the most common car scams you might encounter whether you’re buying or selling a car, and top tips on how to avoid them. Car scams are often simple, but can be hard to spot. Read the full article to make sure you know what you should be watching out for. Read the full article here.
Published:
February 4, 2024
Buying a used car can be a scary thought, with so many options and 100’s of dealer to choose from, it can sometimes feel a little overwhelming. We’ve teamed up with MOTORS to bring you their experts ultimate guide to buying a used car, with advice on everything you should consider before you commit to buying a used car.
MOTORS experts keep it simple and explain what you should do before, during and after buying a used car. From where you can buy a used car, what payment options you may have and the questions you should ask sellers, read the full article to make sure you’re ready to start your car buying journey. Read the full article here.
Published:
February 4, 2024
With improvements in technology as car dealerships across the country embrace online car sales, and a shift in buyers preferences, it has never been easier to buy a car online than it is now.
With many car buyers considering moving away from traditional showroom visits to buying their next car from the comfort of their own home, British Motor Show headline partners MOTORS have put together their top tips on buying a car safely online.
Buying a car online is the most convenient way to purchase your next car, but with it being new to most, it can also be a daunting process. The experts at MOTORS have used their experience to make sure you have all the advice you need, from understanding the benefits of buying your next car online and the checks you should do before you hit the buy button, to how to stay safe from online scams. Read the full article here.
Published:
February 2, 2024
We’ve all woken up on a frosty morning to find our cars windscreen covered in frost and ice, and are all too often unprepared to clear it properly and get started with our journey.
The team at MOTORS are once again on hand with more expert advice, this time with their guide to defrosting your car windscreen. Defrosting a car windscreen is a key part of everyday winter driving, and with the right techniques and equipment, you can ensure clear visibility and reduce the risk of accidents.
Defrosting your windscreen should be a simple task, but without proper care you risk doing more harm than good. The experts at MOTORS have put together their best advice on everything from defrosting your windscreen to how to stop it freezing in the first place. Read the full article here.
Published:
February 2, 2024
We all know that driving in extreme weather conditions makes driving much more challenging, with snow and ice greatly reduce the grip our tyres have on the road making braking, steering and acceleration much harder.
To help you stay safe on the roads, British Motor Show headline partners MOTORS have compiled their top tips and expert advice to how to drive on snow and ice. Read the full article on the MOTORS website.
If you are driving in these difficult conditions, the experts at MOTORS have advice for you on everything from preparing to make your journey and what should be on your winter driving checklist, to tips on driving in difficult conditions and what to do if you skid on ice and snow.
You can also head to the MOTORS YouTube channel and check out their winter driving checklist video as well as loads of other helpful videos and expert advice on everything from buying your next car to basic maintenance tips and advice
Published:
February 2, 2024
When you’re driving on snow or ice, having a car that can handle the difficult conditions is essential. The experts at British Motor Show headline partner MOTORS have compiled a list of their top 10 best cars for driving in snow and ice, as well as some handy tips for staying safe when driving in treacherous conditions.
- When compiling their list, the experts at MOTOR looked for cars with a range of features, including;
- Four-wheel drive: Choosing a 4×4 car may mean you’re less likely to get stuck on icy or slushy surfaces and will give you power to drive off
- High ground clearance: The best vehicles for deep snow are higher off the ground. This means they are less likely to get stuck
- Snow tires or chains: Good cars for snow and ice will come with snow tires or chains as standard, which improves traction
- Comfort inside: When it’s cold out, the best cars for snow provide a warm cocoon and come with features like heated seats and a steering wheel
- Anti-lock brakes: In some cars, when you brake hard, the wheels can lock, and you can’t change direction. That means you could skid into obstacles when it’s icy. An ABS (anti-locking brake system) lets you apply the brakes while also allowing you to steer to safety
- ESC (Electronic stability control): In cars with ESC, a computer can tell if an individual wheel is skidding. It can then apply the brakes to the wheel separately to help keep the car moving in the direction you want to go
Based on the features we’ve listed above, MOTORS experts have selected 10 of the best cars for snow and ice driving from leading manufacturers. Head over to MOTORS to read the full article and find out which cars made their top 10 list.
Published:
February 2, 2024
The team at our headline partners MOTORS have continued their deep dive into winter MOTs, and having shared their insight into the top reasons your car might fail its MOT in winter, MOTORS can reveal the 20 places where cars are most, and least, likely to fail their winter MOT
Overall, Scotland and the Southwest topped the locations across the UK where you are most likely to fail your MOT in the winter. The postcode KY, which covers the Kirkcaldy area on the east coast of Scotland, was ranked first as the location where you are most likely to fail your MOT. MOT tests taken within the KY postcode had a 27.75% failure rate with 32,853 failures over winter 2020 and 2021.
The postcode DD, which covers Dundee and is also on the east coast of Scotland, follows in second place with an MOT failure rate of 26.85%. Out of 86,606 tests, there were 23,254 failures. The third area where you are most likely to fail your MOT is within the TR postcode, which covers Truro in Cornwall. Here there’s a failure rate of 25.96% from 133,345 tests.
The postcode EN, which covers Enfield, has the lowest failure rate of all locations across the UK at 12.87%. Out of 115,317 tests in winter 2020 and winter 2021, there were a lowly 14,847 failures. MOT tests taken in the postcode E, which covers East London, have the second lowest failure rate of 13.32%, a total of 21,706 failures out of 162,969 tests. It’s also good news for residents who live in the postcode area RM which covers Romford as MOT failure rates are just 14.29%.
The winter can create issues and make existing issues worse with your car, escalating problems from relatively easy-to-solve minor inconveniences to expensive repairs and a failed MOT. To help you keep your car on the road throughout the winter, we have compiled a winter car maintenance checklist to ensure your vehicle stays in top condition.
As the winter nights roll in it’s vital that you are regularly checking your exterior lights. Number plate lights and headlights need to be working properly, not only for the safety of you and other drivers but also for you to pass your MOT and comply with legal requirements.
To avoid getting into difficulties make sure you check and clean your lights regularly – dirty and salted roads can cause build-up that reduces the brightness of your lights. It is also worth carrying spare bulbs with you. With darker mornings and evenings your lights will be getting more usage which may cause them to blow quicker.
The freezing temperatures of winter can cause the metal in your exhaust system to contract creating cracks, holes, and other damage exacerbated by salted roads that can cause corrosion.
Avoid damage by checking your exhaust regularly to spot and address any wear and tear early on. If possible, park your vehicle indoors overnight to protect it against nighttime temperature drops. We’d also recommend washing your exhaust system regularly, particularly after driving through gritted and snowy roads, to remove any lingering debris.
Cleaning your exhaust is a simple yet often overlooked task. To begin, use soap (with a mild polish abrasive), water, and a cloth to clean the exhaust tip. Then, taking a hard bristle brush, scrub the inside of the tailpipe as far down as you can.
Antifreeze is essential to maintaining the good health of your engine and, despite its name, should be used all year round to prevent water in the engine cooling system from getting too hot or cold.
In the winter, it is vital that you check your antifreeze and keep it topped up to protect your engine from freezing over and to protect it from corrosion and scale build-up.
Cold weather can put added pressure on your car’s components, with excessive acceleration affecting your gasket which can result in engine oil leaks.
If you notice a brown or black puddle under your car it could be a sign of a leak coming from the engine. More often than not it’s likely to be a small leak – such as one from a valve cover gasket that has come loose and simply needs tightening. If it’s a larger leak, regardless of where you think it’s coming from, it is time to call the garage and get it checked out. An engine leak can cause your engine to fail in as little as half an hour with a replacement costing over £1,500 in most instances.
Ultimately, regular maintenance of your vehicle and following the owner’s manual is the best way to ensure it runs at full capacity. If you have any concerns about the running of your car you should take it to a specialist and most importantly, don’t just wait for the MOT.
For more tips on everything from buying your next car, to driving tips and info on the latest car tech and EV’s make sure you head over MOTORS Advice Hub for more expert advice and insights.
Published:
January 28, 2024
While some cars will pass without any issues, for others it’s a different story with MOT fails often resulting in drivers forking out hundreds of pounds in repair costs. To help you look after your vehicles during the worst of the weather conditions, MOTORS have taken a deep dive into Department for Transport data to unearth the most common reasons cars fail winter MOTs.
MOTORS in-depth analysis of more than 20.2 million car MOT tests across winter 2020 and winter 2021, reveals that:
- On average there are 2 million failed MOT tests each winter
- 1 in 5 (20%) vehicles fail their MOT during the winter months
- Tyre tread depth is the most common reason cars fail their MOT
MOTORS research reveals that while it’s important to remember a vehicle can fail an MOT for multiple reasons, it’s clear that your tyres, brakes and suspension should be carefully looked after if you want to avoid issues in your next test.
Having crunched the numbers MOTORS found there were a total of 20.2 million winter MOT tests across 2020 and 2021, with 1 in 5 (20%) vehicles failing their annual car safety test.
With an average of 2 million failed MOTs each winter, and the most recent research putting the average cost of a failed test at £326.85, Brits will fork out a staggering £653.7 million for failed tests this winter.
To help shine a light on the areas of a car that drivers should prioritise looking after, and help you try and avoid an unwelcome winter bill, we’ve teamed up with MOTORS to share some top tips on how to avoid just a few of the most common MOT failures.
The most common reason cars fail an MOT is because of a lack of tread depth – accounting for 36.47% of failures. Good tyre depth is essential for maintaining grip on the road and allowing your car to brake successfully. A lack of tyre tread depth increases your chances of having an accident, especially in the wintertime when icy or wet roads already make braking more difficult.
The minimum legal requirement for tread depth in the UK is 1.6 millimetres, although we advise you to replace your tyres well before, at 3 millimetres; any less and your stopping distance when braking will start to increase. Testing your car’s tread depth is imperative not least if you’ve bought a used car. To do this, take a 20p coin and run it along the tread groove. If the outer band of the coin disappears you’re good to go, but if you can still see the outer band, it’s time to replace your tyres.
On top of keeping an eye on tread depth, you must also ensure your tyres are correctly inflated and that you limit heavy braking, acceleration and sharp steering.
Several different issues fell under tyre faults, the second highest reason for MOT failures. Among them were seriously damaged tyres, visible or damaged tyre cords, a tyre not being fitted correctly and a tyre fouling another part of the vehicle.
Taking care of your tyres is pretty straightforward though. It is recommended that you change them every 20,000 miles or every 10 years (whichever comes first), and you should regularly check them for visible damage. Look out for cracks or cords which are a telltale sign you need to replace your tyre.
The third and fourth most common reasons were brake discs and pads. These essential components are vital to your car’s braking system and having issues with either or both could significantly affect your ability to stop.
In the winter, colder temperatures and excessive braking can overwhelm your braking system. To help reduce the risk of issues with your discs and pads we suggest keeping your car in a sheltered area, such as a garage if you have one. Try not to ‘ride on the brakes’ i.e. keeping your foot on the brake for long periods of time. Instead, select a higher gear to control speed and utilise your hand brake and engine braking when coming to a stop.
As part of your vehicle’s suspension, coil springs absorb the impact from potholes, bumps and rough terrain. The cold weather in winter can affect the steel in the springs making them brittle and more likely to break when impacted by harder, tougher and gritted roads. It’s therefore unsurprising to see them contribute to more than 1 in 7 (16.4%) cars failing their MOT across the winter months.
To help minimise damage to your coil springs, try to avoid potholes where possible and ensure you wash under your car to remove salt from gritted roads which can erode the springs.
For more tips on everything from buying your next car, to driving tips and info on the latest car tech and EV’s make sure you head over MOTORS Advice Hub for more expert advice and insights.
Published:
February 2, 2024
As the light dims and the roads get dark, night-time driving can pose additional hazards compared to daytime driving. You might have trouble seeing information such as road signs and hazards, putting additional strain on your eyes. For that reason, it’s important that you remain extra vigilant and take extra precautions when driving your car at night.
We’ve teamed up with British Motor Show headline partners MOTORS to bring you some top tips and advice for staying safe when you’re driving at night.
Before driving your car at night, here are some things you can do to prepare your vehicle and ensure both you and your car are safe for the journey.
It can be easy to forget to check your headlights and brake lights and it can be hard to notice if they are not working when you’re behind the wheel.
If you are caught driving without a headlight you are not only endangering yourself and other road users. You could also face a Fixed Penalty Notice fine of £100 and three points on your licence.
Upgrading your bulbs to a brighter set can be a good way to improve visibility when driving at night.
Whilst a legal brightness is not specified, The Road Vehicles Lighting Regulations 1989 states that car lights should be either white or yellow and allow you to see up to 100 metres ahead, without dazzling other drivers. Car bulbs should also have an approval mark, also known as an E mark or British Standard mark.
Replacing your bulbs in pairs ensures consistent light quality between your headlights. Replacing the bulbs at the same time can also save you time. As bulbs tend to degrade at similar rates, you might find if one is broken, it’s likely the other will soon fail.
If you find that your dipped headlights are not providing enough light, then you may need to switch on your full-beam headlights. However, these should only be used on unlit stretches of road at night when other drivers are not present. If used incorrectly, they can dazzle other road users and pedestrians.
Fog lights should be used when your visibility is less than 100 metres or roughly the length of a football pitch.
If visibility improves, you must turn them off to avoid endangering other drivers. It is also a legal offence to drive using your fog lights incorrectly.
Dirt and condensation will impair your ability to see clearly through your windows and windscreen. Ensure you clean these before starting your journey.
Before any car journey, it is always worth packing some essentials for you to use in the event of a breakdown or emergency.
Pre-packaged car safety kits are ideal as they contain things like a tyre inflator, warning triangle, tow rope, hi-vis vest, torch, glass hammer, and booster cables. Many of these things are a legal requirement if you are planning on driving in Europe so it is worthwhile doing your research.
It is also wise to keep a blanket or additional clothing in your car which can be useful if you do breakdown at night.
The tread and pressure of your tyre are designed to provide a grip between your car and the road which is essential for safe acceleration and braking.
As a general rule of thumb, the typical lifespan of a tyre will be between three and five years and you should check your tread depth and pressure at least once every two weeks.
The minimum legal tread depth for tyres is 1.6mm, although it is recommended that you should replace your tyres when they reach a tread depth of 3mm.
Research suggests that driving when tired can be as dangerous as drink-driving.
It has been estimated that between 10–20% of crashes worldwide are due to driver fatigue. Ensure you have had plenty of rest before starting your journey and if you do begin to feel tired when driving, take regular breaks.
With so much technology in the palm of your hand, there are lots of distractions in your car which can take your focus away from the road.
Before beginning your journey, ensure your mobile phone is stored away and any sat navs you intend to use are set up correctly. If you’re using your phone for navigation, ensure it is set to driving mode. Many modern cars have smartphone capability that allows you to control the phone’s functions using the car’s infotainment system which is a safer solution to using your mobile.
It’s also wise to dim any dashboard lights and turn off interior lights so you focus on the road ahead.
Driving under the influence severely impacts your ability to judge speed and distance as well as slowing down your reaction time and reducing your ability to concentrate.
If you are going out and think you might be tempted to have a drink, you should always make alternative travel arrangements.
With decreased light, it can be harder to spot potential hazards on the road giving you less time to react.
At night time, animals tend to be more active. If you are driving on rural roads you should be extra vigilant for any animals that might dart across the road.
When driving at night you should avoid staring at the headlights of oncoming vehicles. The glare can impair your vision, making it harder to focus on the road ahead, and impairing your ability to spot potential hazards.
Instead, you should position your vision slightly to the left and focus on the white line marking if there is one.
Many drivers notice that their eyesight As light reduces at night, many drivers notice that their eyes struggle to adapt to the reduced light levels. If you notice that your vision hinders your ability to see the road ahead clearly, you should book an eye test appointment to determine if you need glasses.
If you find you do need glasses, you can opt for a specialised anti-reflection coating on your glasses that will help to reduce the glare from lights as you drive at night. It is also recommended that you continue to have your eyes tested every two years to identify any further deterioration in your vision.
The tips we have provided in this article are designed to give you a general overview of driving at night. You should always drive according to the conditions of the road and remain extra vigilant during periods of extreme weather, particularly if ice and snow are present.
The best piece of advice when driving at night is to take your time. Many more accidents occur when drivers fail to react in time to hazards that are easy to avoid if driving correctly and safely.
Take the extra time to make sure your vehicle is road-safe and give yourself the extra time to react to potential hazards and other users on the road who will be experiencing the same conditions as you. This can be achieved by driving to the speed limits and slowing down where necessary.
For more tips on everything from buying your next car, to driving tips and info on the latest car tech and EV’s make sure you head over MOTORS Advice Hub for more expert advice and insights.
Published:
March 3, 2024
The Draper Tools Kit Car Zone will return, showcasing some of the best and most exciting kit car builds in the country, and the companies that build them. If you’ve ever contemplated building your own car, or have one in the garage and just need some help and advice, the Draper team and Kit Car experts will be on hand to offer support and advice.
However, The British Motor Show is also partnering with Draper Tools to bring you the ALL NEW Draper Tools Restoration Hub. Located in the heart of Hall one, this brand new zone is the go-to place for anyone with an passion for car restoration. You’ll find practical tips and advice on all aspects of restoring and repairing everything from vintage cars to modern classics. It’s not just for those who have a passion for classics though, the Draper Tools Restoration Hub is also where anyone can get hints and tips for doing those little jobs to their own everyday cars, all delivered through live interactive sessions.
Draper Tools have been supplying a huge range of high quality automotive tools to both professional and amateur mechanics for over 100 years, with an incredible lifetime warranty on all hand tools in the Draper range, making them the perfect partners for not one, but 2 fantastic features of the Show.
Speaking about Draper Tools returning for 2024, British Motor Show CEO Andy Entwistle said;
Published:
January 10, 2024
Since 2021, we’ve featured some of the best modified cars in the country, including CAR SOS star Tim Shaws amazing modified Mustang.
We want to keep this area fresh, bringing new cars and new trends to our visitors each year and we’ve already secured some amazing cars for 2024, which we’ll be revealing in the coming weeks.
However, we’re still looking for the best modified cars to put in front of our visitors in 2024. So, if you have a modified car that you want to put forward for inclusion at the show, complete the form below.
Cars for the zone will be chosen on rarity and uniqueness, but all cars submitted will be offered the opportunity to display in the Owners Enclosure if they are not chosen for The Modified Zone.
Published:
January 2, 2024
As Education Partner, Haynes Motor Museum will be working closely with The British Motor Show to deliver a number of all new sessions, ensuring that every visitor leaves the event entertained, and also having learned something new that can be applied to their everyday motoring lives.
A standout feature of the partnership will be the return of the immensely popular “Car Maintenance For Kids” sessions, a highlight of the 2023 show for many. These sessions promise to engage and educate the younger generation of automotive enthusiasts and future drivers, leaving them with practical advice and tips they can use in their everyday motoring lives.
The partnership creates a dynamic combination of automotive education and engaging, interactive sessions and displays, all aiming to deliver an informative and fun experience, making the show a must-attend event for car enthusiasts and families looking for a fun and educational day out.
Speaking about the newly extended partnership, British Motor Show CEO Andy Entwistle said;
Chris Scudds, Haynes Motor Museum added;
Published:
December 20, 2023
Now in its first full year under the stewardship of the team at Automotion Events, the team also behind the British Motor Show, The Ellis Journey is back with some exciting new additions to create an even better experience for participants.
This year’s event will not only recreate the famous historical journey for Veteran Car Drivers, it will also feature celebrity hosts, a full evening of live entertainment, keynote speakers and great food.
The event, one of the most important historical car journeys in the UK, is a re-enactment of the very first documented car journey made in the UK, in 1895.
On the 5th July 1895 The Hon. Evelyn Ellis set off on a 4 hp Panhard et Levassor from Micheldever Railway Station, accompanied by another motoring pioneer, Frederick Simms heading for Datchet. They left the station at precisely 9.26am with Simms recording every detail of the journey as the took the old London coaching road, travelling via Basingstoke through Bagshot, finally arriving at Ellis’s riverside home in Datchet at 5.40pm.
The Ellis Journey was deliberately made in contravention of the legal speed limit at the time – they averaged almost 10mph without the required attendant walking in front of the car with a red flag, when they should not have exceeded 4 mph on any part of the journey. Ellis had hoped to be arrested to create a test case and challenge the law, however the police did not attend.
The annual re-enactment follows as near as possible the original route and is an open to Cars, Motor Cycles, Commercial Vehicles and Bicycles manufactured before 1905
This year the entry to The Ellis Journey has be made even simpler with 2 choices – Entry only, or a new all-inclusive package. Based on the feedback from participants and partners, we have been working to make the whole Ellis Journey weekend an even more memorable one.
This year’s all-inclusive package not only includes entry to The Ellis Journey, it also includes accommodation, a 3 course meal on Saturday evening and Sunday morning breakfast at the the fabulous Norton Park Hotel, as well as trailer parking and transfers.
Not only that, participants will have the chance to join us on a tour of a local brewery or vineyard, with return coach travel from Norton Park on Saturday 6th, as well as an extended programme of entertainment in the evening. This years guest speaker will be Chris Haynes, Chairman of Haynes Motor Museum and son of John Haynes, founder of the Haynes automotive publishing empire, with after dinner entertainment being hosted by star of TV’s Car SOS, Tim Shaw. The BBQ will be replaced with a drinks reception and 3 course meal.
There will also be an opportunity for owners of classic cars through the ages to display at Datchet Green on Sunday 6th July 2024 and join us to welcome the participants as they cross the finish line.
Published:
December 12, 2023
The eBay Live Stage is set to offer even more entertainment in 2024 with new guests, sessions and interviews, as well as the return of hosts Tim & Fuzz from Car SOS who will be bringing the fun with their usual mix of games, competitions and giveaways.
The eBay Live Stage was a crowd favourite and the focal point of Hall 1 at the 2023 show, with the packed audience treated to celebrity interviews, Games and quizzes, panel sessions, giveaways motorsport stars and more….
Guests included TV celebrities Mike Brewer & Paul Cowland, YouTube stars Mark McCann & Auto Alex as well as motorsport stars John McGuinness, Max Chiltern and Mike Wilds, plus plenty of up and coming motorsport stars and Guinness World Record holders.
As the UK’s largest automotive online marketplace, eBay is the go-to choice for petrolheads and car owners thanks to its depth of choice and inventory, ease of ordering and speedy delivery, while eBay’s intuitive MyGarage function makes it really simple to find the right part for your car. eBay have also launched “eBay Assured Fit”, helping vehicle owners to find the right part for their car by entering their reg – and providing a money back promise, with a simple free returns process if a part arrives and doesn’t fit as expected.
Published:
December 4, 2023
We’ve teamed up with eBay to bring our top reasons why you should consider winter tyres. With over 3,000 tyre fitting centres across the UK, shopping and fitting for winter tyres on eBay couldn’t be simpler, just enter your registration number onto the easy to use My Garage feature.
Winter tyres are specifically designed to perform better in cold weather conditions, including snow, ice, and slush. These tyres have a unique tread pattern and specialised rubber compound that offer superior traction in low-temperature environments. The tread patterns typically have more sipes (tiny slits) and deeper grooves enabling improved grip on the road. This enhanced traction allows for more effective starting, stopping, and manoeuvring.
In terms of safety, the ability to brake and control your vehicle is crucial. Winter tyres notably decrease stopping distances on snow and ice compared to all-season or summer tyres. The increased traction helps in retaining control of your vehicle, averting skidding, and potential accidents. This measure is not only for your safety but also for the well-being of other road users.
Winter tyres remain pliable in the cold. The rubber compounds used in these tyres are engineered to maintain their flexibility, allowing them to grip the road even when the thermometer dips below freezing. On the other hand, all-season and summer tyres tend to harden in cold temperatures, leading to reduced traction and handling.
The initial investment in winter tyres and the associated cost of seasonal swapping becomes more affordable in the long term than you might expect. Utilizing winter tyres during colder months extends the lifespan of your all-season or summer tyres, ultimately reducing your overall expenses. Additionally, the decreased risk of accidents and lower insurance premiums make winter tyres a smart investment.
Published:
December 1, 2023
The British Motor Show, which attracted nearly 60,000 visitors this summer, returns to Farnborough International Exhibition Centre on 15-18 August 2024 with new headline sponsor, MOTORS.
With hundreds of thousands of used cars listed by dealers nationwide, MOTORS is one of the biggest car search sites in the UK. With over 15 years’ worth of experience helping car buyers, they’ve got plenty of guides, advice, tips, tools, and reviews too – all of which can be found on their website.
Once again, The British Motor Show is set to deliver a dynamic mix of live entertainment, interactive displays, the latest tech and driving experiences – as well as the chance to see the latest cars and supercars, alongside stunning classics, modified cars, kit cars and motorsport.
As part of the exciting partnership, MOTORS will be launching a new feature for the 2024 show – the MOTORS Dealer Showcase. Alongside all the new cars at the show, this new attraction will put the spotlight on the used car market too, giving visitors the opportunity to view and buy cars from some of the best dealers in the country.
With the new partnership, the 2024 British Motor Show sponsored by Motors is set to be the biggest and best show yet, with more cars, new live action shows, stunts and driving experiences. Yet again, it promises to be the ultimate day out for car fans and families alike. With a family ticket (4 Adults & 2 Children) only £47 when purchased in advance, and under 5’s going free, it’s the best value, most action packed day out you’ll have all summer.
Published:
November 30, 2023
Here’s why eBay is your ultimate destination for hassle-free car part shopping:
eBay’s My Garage feature is a game-changer for anyone seeking the perfect part for their vehicle. By simply entering your car’s registration number, you are presented with a curated selection of parts that are covered by eBay’s Assured Fit protection. Whether you are working on your daily driver or a passion project, My Garage allows you to save up to 20 vehicles, making it easy to find parts for all your automotive endeavors. This feature saves you time, effort, and guesswork.
But eBay doesn’t stop there; you can also search by keyword or brand, providing you with the flexibility to find precisely what you need, regardless of whether you have your registration number on hand or not.
eBay Assured Fit takes the worry out of online shopping for car parts and accessories. When browsing for parts, simply look for the green checkmark next to an eligible part or accessory. This green checkmark signifies that the product is eBay Assured Fit, meaning it’s the right fit for your vehicle, based on the information you have entered.
eBay will ensure your protection through their Money Back Guarantee – if the part or accessory does not fit your vehicle, you can return it for free within 30 days of receiving it and receive a full refund.
This assurance means you can shop with confidence, knowing that you won’t be stuck with a part or accessory that doesn’t fit or meet your needs.
Published:
October 18, 2023
Cold weather can significantly strain your car’s battery, and there’s no worse time to experience a flat battery than on a cold winter’s day. Have a professional test your battery; if it’s showing signs of weakness due to age, consider replacing it with a new one to keep you on the road over winter.
Ensure that your vehicle’s fluids, including engine oil, transmission fluid, and brake fluid, are at the correct levels. With winter approaching, it’s crucial to check your antifreeze (coolant) levels and mix to guarantee they are for cold temperatures.
Having an ice-scraper and de-icer on hand prepares you for the best visibility, but ensuring visibility whilst on the road is crucial. Wet roads, along with grit and salt, make it essential to check the condition of your wiper blades and replace them if necessary. Additionally, top up your windshield washer fluid with a winter-grade solution that won’t freeze, ensuring clear visibility.
Prepare an emergency kit for your vehicle, in case you need to wait for assistance in the event of an emergency. The kit should include essentials such as a torch and spare batteries, blankets, non-perishable food, a first aid kit, a portable phone charger, and sand or cat litter for added traction if your vehicle gets stuck.
Check that all your exterior lights are working correctly, including headlights, brakelights, and turn signals. Reduced daylight hours and potentially poor weather conditions mean good lighting is critical.
Published:
October 11, 2023
Motorists can enter their vehicle information using eBay’s newly enhanced MyGarage function, which allows customers to find the right vehicle parts with confidence and ease. When shoppers purchase an eligible part or accessory, they can be sure it will fit their vehicle. If, for any reason, it isn’t the right part upon arrival, they can return it for free within 30 days for a full refund.
The confidence boosting initiative is intended to offer a more seamless and trusted purchase on one of the UK’s biggest online marketplaces for parts and accessories, for both buyers and sellers.
The new Assured Fit initiative supports eBay’s “Built Different” campaign, which calls for vehicle owners to repair, rather than replace. The one-stop-online-shop wants to inspire consumers to do more for themselves, offering all the parts needed to enable them to take the challenge. Find out more here.
Not only were eBay sponsors of this years Live Stage at the show, they also partnered with the British Motor Show to deliver our Sustainable V8 project, which saw us see how sustainably we could run our v8 Mustang, using carbon neutral fuel, and sourcing all service parts via eBay, using certified recycled parts where possible.
To find out more about how we got on, check out the results here, or catch up on the whole project via our YouTube series here.
Published:
September 27, 2023
6 months ago, we set out on a project to find out just how sustainably we could run our V8 Mustang, using carbon neutral fuel and certified recycled parts from eBay for all routine servicing and maintenance, to see if those who can’t yet make the switch to EV, or run classics cars can still do their bit to be a more sustainable motorist.
During the last 6 months we have covered thousands of miles, carried out scheduled servicing and any repairs that were needed. Throughout the project all parts needed were sourced via eBay using the My Garage feature, meaning that the car was never off the road. Using certified recycled and pre-owned (but not used) parts meant we were not only able to save money, but also use parts that would have potentially sat on shelves or been thrown away unwanted but also unused.
Announced on the eBay Live Stage, the results of the project are astonishing!
Over the 6 months our Mustang covered 9020 miles, at an average of 26.4mpg. Using standard fuel found at any petrol station forecourt, we would have produced approx 3.5 tonnes of CO2.
By running the car on Sustain by Coryton we calculate an 80% reduction on CO2 emission (It’s 100% reduction at the tailpipe, but adjusted to account for production) meaning we saved a massive 2.87 tonnes of CO2! To give that some context:
Of course, not many of us are going to be globetrotting to that level, so what does it mean to the everyday person?
The average UK citizen has a annual carbon footprint of 12.7 tonnes, so our 2.87 tonne saving is equivalent to reducing the UK average person’s carbon footprint by a massive 23%.
And if we consider what these savings look like over a full 12 months, using our 6 month project as the average:
Remember, any ICE car can run on carbon neutral Sustain fuel with absolutely no adjustment need, and no impact on performance, making it a clear complimentary partner to EV as we strive to create a greener driving future.
From the outset we have been clear – this was not about creating an alternative to EV. We believe electrification is the future of mass private transportation in order to create a better, greener driving future for us all. BUT, what we wanted to know was – what about those who can’t yet make the switch, how can they help be more sustainable?
Over the past 6 months we have proven, without a doubt, that any car, even a big V8 muscle car can be MORE sustainable with carbon neutral fuels and the use of certified recycled parts. Meaning that any driver, regardless of what they drive, can do their bit to reduce their carbon footprint, and they can do it now.
Published:
August 24, 2023
15 - 18 August 2024
Farnborough International Exhibition & Conference Centre.
Etps Road
Farnborough
GU14 6TQ
