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Why Remanufactured Parts are Far from Being “Second Best”

When it comes to vehicle repairs, the term “second-hand” might evoke images of worn-out components salvaged from scrapyards. However, in the world of automotive remanufacturing, these “second-hand” parts are anything but inferior. Let’s debunk the myths and explore why remanufactured parts deserve a place of honour in your vehicle.

Quality Assurance: The Remanufacturing Process

Remanufactured parts undergo a rigorous transformation. Here’s how it works:

  1. Core Collection: Cores (used parts) are collected from various sources such as old vehicles, dealerships, and recycling centres; these cores serve as the foundation for remanufacturing.
     
  2. Disassembly: Skilled technicians disassemble the cores, inspecting each component meticulously; any parts that are too damaged or worn are discarded.
     
  3. Cleaning and Refurbishment: The remaining components are thoroughly cleaned; surface imperfections are addressed, and worn surfaces are restored.
     
  4. Replacement of Critical Components: Key elements, such as bearings, seals, and gaskets, are replaced with brand-new parts; this ensures optimal performance and longevity.
     
  5. Precision Machining: Critical surfaces, such as cylinder heads, crankshafts, and camshafts, are machined to OE specifications; precision matters.
     
  6. Assembly: The remanufactured components are meticulously reassembled; tolerances are tight, and quality control is stringent.
     
  7. Testing: This is where remanufactured parts prove their worth. They undergo rigorous testing; often more stringent than new parts. From leak tests to performance evaluations, nothing is left to chance.

Environmental Impact: A Greener Choice

  1. Reduced Waste: Remanufacturing contributes to the circular economy; by reusing existing components, we reduce the need for raw materials.
     
  2. Energy Savings: Producing new parts consumes significant energy. Remanufacturing, however, requires less energy because the base material already exists. It’s like giving a tired component a second chance at life.
     
  3. Lower Carbon Footprint: Remanufactured parts result in fewer greenhouse gas emissions. By extending the life of existing components, we reduce the need for resource-intensive manufacturing processes.

Cost-Effectiveness: Saving you money

  1. Affordable Pricing: Remanufactured parts cost significantly less than new ones. Whether you’re a budget-conscious motorist or a fleet manager, the savings can be substantial.
     
  2. Warranty Coverage: Many remanufacturers offer warranties comparable to those for new parts; you get peace of mind without breaking the bank.
     
  3. Availability: Certain rare or discontinued parts can be hard to find as new; remanufacturing bridges this gap, ensuring that even vintage vehicles can stay on the road.

Conclusion: Choose Wisely, Drive Responsibly

The next time you hear “second-hand,” think beyond scrapyards. Remanufactured parts are the unsung heroes of sustainable driving. They are not “second best”; they are the smart choice for your vehicle, your wallet, and our planet. So, when your mechanic recommends a remanufactured part, embrace it. You are not settling for less; you are making a positive difference.

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The Best 10 Places in Europe for Scenic Road Trips

If you love driving and exploring new places, Europe is a great destination for road trips. With its diverse landscapes, cultures, and attractions, you can find something for everyone on the continent. Whether you want to admire the stunning scenery, visit historic sites, or enjoy the local cuisine, there is a road trip for you. In this blog post, we will share the best 10 places in Europe for scenic road trips, according to travellers and road trippers. These routes will take you to some of Europe's most beautiful and interesting places and give you an unforgettable experience behind the wheel.

1. The North Coast 500, Scotland

The North Coast 500 is a 500-mile (800km) loop around the most northern parts of mainland Scotland, starting and ending in Inverness. It is one of the most iconic and unmissable road trips in the UK and the world. Along the way, you will see fishing villages, charming towns, massive mountains, some of the best beaches you have ever seen, and lots of the planet’s best landscapes. Some stretches are unbelievably otherworldly and totally unlike any other part of the UK. If you like hiking, you will love this ride - it takes you to some of the best, most rugged and most underrated walking spots in the UK, such as Stac Pollaidh, Torridon, and the Bealach na Bà.

2. The Northumberland Coastal Route, England

The Northumberland Coastal Route is the best road trip in England, especially if you love remote beaches, isolated shorelines, friendly fishing villages, massive castles, or gigantic portions of heavily salted fish and chips. The route is about 64 miles (103km) long and runs from Berwick-upon-Tweed to Tynemouth along the stunning coast of Northumberland. You will pass by some of England's most impressive and historic sites, such as Bamburgh Castle, Lindisfarne Castle, Alnwick Castle, and Hadrian’s Wall. You will also enjoy the views of the North Sea, the Farne Islands, and the Cheviot Hills.

3. The Peloponnese, Greece

The Peloponnese is a mountainous peninsula in southern Greece where history and legend collide. It is a place where you can find classical temples, Mycenaean palaces, Byzantine cities and Venetian fortresses, as well as dramatic peaks and deep gorges that give way to turquoise seas and deserted beaches. The route is about 395 miles (635km) long and starts from Ancient Corinth, a primarily Roman city, home to Jason of the Argonauts, stealer of the Golden Fleece. From here, you can take a route that combines historic, fortified towns with beaches and some of Greece’s most interesting wineries. You can visit the sanctuary of Zeus at Nemea, the hilltop Mycenae, the coastal Epidavros, the mountaintop Byzantine city of Mystras, ancient Olympia, home to the original games, and the Lousios Gorge, where you can find the cliffside Prodromou Monastery.

4. The Costa Brava, Spain

The Costa Brava is a wild and rugged coast in northeastern Spain that mixes Greek and Roman ruins with medieval towns, the eccentricities of Salvador Dalí and a bohemian vibe. The route is about 118 miles (190km) long and starts from Girona, a city with a hilly medieval core and a web of alleys and churches. From here, you can head to Besalú, a well-preserved medieval town with a handsome 11th-century bridge, and Figueres, where you can visit the Teatre-Museu Dalí, a trippy tribute to the local hero and Surrealist artist. You can also explore Cadaqués, a whitewashed village with a pretty harbour, where Dalí spent his later life, and Empúries, where you can see the extensive ruins of the Greek and Roman cities.

5. The Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland

The Wild Atlantic Way is a 1,553-mile (2,500km) route that follows the entire west coast of Ireland, from Malin Head in the north to Kinsale in the south. It is the longest coastal route in the world and one of the most scenic and diverse. Along the way, you will encounter cliffs, islands, beaches, bays, mountains, lakes, forests, castles, monasteries, pubs, and villages. You will also experience the Irish culture, music, and hospitality, as well as the legends and stories that make this place so magical. Some of the route's highlights include the Giant’s Causeway, the Slieve League Cliffs, the Aran Islands, the Cliffs of Moher, the Ring of Kerry, and the Dingle Peninsula.

6. The Golden Circle, Iceland

The Golden Circle is a 186-mile (300km) loop covering some of Iceland's most iconic and spectacular sights, within a short distance from the capital, Reykjavik. It is a perfect introduction to the natural wonders of this volcanic island, where you can see geysers, waterfalls, glaciers, lava fields, and hot springs. The route consists of three main attractions: Thingvellir National Park, where you can see the rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates; Geysir, where you can witness the powerful eruptions of the Strokkur geyser; and Gullfoss, where you can admire the majestic waterfall that plunges into a canyon. You can also add some optional stops, such as the Kerid Crater Lake, the Secret Lagoon, and the Langjokull Glacier.

7. The Transfagarasan Highway, Romania

The Transfagarasan Highway is a 56-mile (90km) road that crosses the Fagaras Mountains, the highest range in Romania. It is considered one of the world's most spectacular and challenging roads, with sharp curves, steep gradients, and breathtaking views. The road was built in the 1970s by the communist dictator Nicolae Ceausescu as a strategic military route, but today it is a popular tourist attraction. The road connects the historic regions of Transylvania and Wallachia and passes by some of the most impressive landmarks in Romania, such as the Poenari Castle, the former residence of Vlad the Impaler, the Balea Lake, a glacial lake surrounded by peaks, and the Vidraru Dam, one of the largest in Europe.

8. The Amalfi Coast, Italy

The Amalfi Coast is a 43-mile (69km) stretch of coastline in southern Italy that is renowned for its beauty, glamour, and romance. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular destinations in Italy. The road hugs the cliffs and curves along the sea, offering stunning views of the Mediterranean, the mountains, and the colourful villages. The route starts from Sorrento, a charming town with a lively atmosphere and a lemon grove, and ends in Salerno, a historic city with a medieval cathedral and a castle. Along the way, you can stop at some of the world's most picturesque and famous towns, such as Positano, Amalfi, Ravello, and Praiano.

9. The Atlantic Road, Norway

The Atlantic Road is a 5-mile (8km) section of the Norwegian County Road 64 that links the islands of Averøy and Eide in the western part of Norway. It is one of the most scenic and dramatic roads in the world, as it bridges the gap between the land and the sea, with eight bridges, several viaducts, and four rest areas. The road is a masterpiece of engineering and design and offers spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean, the mountains, and the wildlife. The road is especially impressive during storms when the waves crash against the bridges, or during sunsets when the sky turns into a painting.

10. The Route des Grandes Alpes, France

The Route des Grandes Alpes is a 425-mile (684km) route that traverses the French Alps from Lake Geneva to the Mediterranean Sea. It is one of the most challenging and rewarding road trips in Europe, as it climbs over 16 mountain passes, some of the highest and most famous in the world, such as the Col de l’Iseran, the Col du Galibier, and the Col de la Bonette. The road offers incredible views of the alpine scenery, with glaciers, lakes, forests, and valleys. The route also passes by some of France's most charming and authentic villages, where you can enjoy the local cuisine, culture, and hospitality.

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The History of Automotive Production in the UK

The UK automotive industry has a rich history that dates back to the late 19th century. From the early days of motorcars to the present day, the industry has undergone significant changes and has played a vital role in the country’s economy.

The inception of the British motor industry can be traced back to the late 1880s when Frederick Simms, a London-based consulting engineer, became friends with Gottlieb Daimler, who had patented a successful design for a high-speed petrol engine in 1885. The first motorcars came into use on British roads during the early 1890s but initially relied entirely on imported vehicles. By the 1950s, the UK was the second-largest manufacturer of cars in the world (after the United States), and the largest exporter. However, in subsequent decades, the industry experienced considerably lower growth than competitor nations such as France, Germany, and Japan, and by 2008 the UK was the 12th-largest producer of cars measured by volume. Despite these challenges, the UK automotive industry has continued to innovate and evolve. Today, the industry is best known for premium and sports car marques, such as Aston Martin, Bentley, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lotus, McLaren and Rolls-Royce. Volume car manufacturers with a major presence in the UK include Nissan, Toyota BMW and Vauxhall Motors.

As a company that buys used vehicle parts to sell to remanufacturers, we are part of a growing movement that is committed to reducing waste and promoting sustainability; we are proud to be a vital component of the circular economy. The circular economy is an economic system that aims to eliminate waste and promote the continual use of resources. By repurposing and recycling used car parts, Premier Components is helping to reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfills. This not only helps to protect the environment but also helps to conserve natural resources. Additionally, by providing affordable replacement parts, we help extend the life of existing vehicles, reducing the need for new cars to be manufactured.

The UK automotive industry has a bright future ahead, and Premier Components is well-positioned to play a vital role in this future. As the industry continues to evolve and adapt to changing consumer demands and environmental concerns, our commitment to sustainability and innovation will be more important than ever.
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Is it worth investing in a warranty when purchasing a used car?

Car warranties are a popular option for many car owners in the United Kingdom. They offer peace of mind and protection against unexpected repair costs. However, the question remains: when buying a used car, are they worth the investment?

According to a report by Which?, used car warranties can be expensive and often have many restrictions. The cost of a warranty depends on the insurer, the age of the car, the make and model, and the car's value. In addition, many warranties have limiting restrictions and terms and conditions that can be confusing. For example, some warranties may not cover repairs that are not due to wear and tear or damage caused by accidents or collisions; others may not cover repairs if a warning light prompts a trip to the garage or if you did not service your vehicle on time. As a result, it is important to read the fine print carefully before signing up for a warranty.

Another factor to consider is the state of the vehicle market in the United Kingdom. New car registrations in the U.K. fell last year to their lowest level in three decades. Despite a recovery in the second half of 2022, a continuing new parts shortage hit production lines. The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) forecasts sales of roughly 1.8 million in 2023.

Given the current state of the vehicle market, it may be more cost-effective to set money aside for future repairs and find a good, local mechanic that offers value for money. This approach can be more flexible and tailored to your specific needs. However, if you want the peace of mind that a warranty might offer, make sure you read the small print carefully before signing on the dotted line.

To conclude, car warranties can be a worthwhile investment for some used car owners. However, they can also be expensive and come with many restrictions. It is important to weigh the costs and benefits of a warranty and read the fine print carefully before signing up. Given the current state of the vehicle market, it may be more cost-effective to set money aside for future repairs and find a good, local mechanic that offers value for money. Ultimately, the decision to purchase a warranty should be based on your individual needs and circumstances.

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10 Common Vehicle Issues Faced by Motorists

Cars are an essential part of our daily lives, and we rely on them to get us from one place to another. However, like any other machine, cars can develop problems over time. Here is a list of 10 of the most common car problems motorists can face, along with some tips on how to spot the warning signs and address the issues before they become more serious or costly to resolve:

  1. Squeaking brakes: Squeaking brakes are a common problem. If you hear a squeak when braking, it could be due to issues with brake pads and rotors, or callipers and frames. Faulty brakes are a serious car issue, so have your brakes checked by a professional as soon as possible if you notice anything unusual.
  2. Suspension issues: Another common car issue can be linked to the vehicle’s suspension. If you’ve noticed your car ride is bumpier than usual, it might be an issue with your shock absorbers or springs. Your shocks are responsible for ensuring smooth rides, reliable vehicle handling, and longer tyre life. If they wear out, you might notice a loss of vehicle control and general drivability issues. If it takes longer to stop, or you notice uneven tyre wear, get it checked. Fixing your suspension earlier could save you from a serious car issue like the suspension system collapsing.
  3. Ignition system problems: The ignition system includes the car’s battery, starter, and ignition button or key assembly on the steering column or dashboard. If any of those components aren’t in ship shape, the engine won’t turn over, or you’ll be at risk of engine failure while you’re driving, which you can problem guess isn’t a cheap car problem to fix.
  4. Flat or damaged tyres: Most motorists know that you need well-inflated tyres with good treads that are suited to the season and weather. Without those basics, you can degrade steering control and sacrifice fuel efficiency. That’s why it’s essential to get your tyres looked at whenever you run over a sharp object like a chunk of broken glass. Tyres can last for five or more years if they are well looked after, so if you spot any issues, then you’re better off heading straight to the garage. If you notice a leak or the tyres look worn out, don’t wait; get them patched or replaced as soon as possible.
  5. Alternator failure: The alternator is responsible for charging the battery and powering the electrical system when the engine is running. If the alternator fails, the battery will eventually die, and the car will stop running. If you notice any issues with your car’s electrical system, such as dimming headlights or a weak battery, have your alternator looked at by a professional.
  6. Low oil levels: Cars need oil to lubricate the engine and keep it running smoothly. If your car is low on oil, it can cause serious damage to the engine. If you notice any issues with your car’s oil levels, such as the oil light coming on or strange noises coming from the engine, get your oil levels checked.
  7. Steering wheel issues: If you notice any issues with your car’s steering, such as difficulty turning the wheel or a shaking steering wheel, take it to a professional to be checked. Steering issues can be caused by various problems, including worn-out steering components, damaged tyres, or alignment issues.
  8. Leaking radiator: The radiator is responsible for keeping the engine cool. If the radiator leaks, the engine can overheat, which can cause serious damage. If you notice any issues with your car’s cooling system, such as the temperature gauge rising or steam coming from under the hood, have your radiator looked at by a professional.
  9. Faulty fuel injectors: Fuel injectors are responsible for delivering fuel to the engine. If they become clogged or damaged, they can cause a range of issues, including poor fuel economy, rough idling, and engine misfires. If you notice any issues with your car’s fuel system, have your fuel injectors checked professionally.
  10. Dead battery: A dead battery is a common car problem in the UK. If your car won’t start, it could be due to a dead battery. Batteries can die for various reasons, including age, extreme temperatures, and leaving the lights on. If you notice any issues with your car’s battery, such as dimming headlights or a slow engine crank, take your vehicle to a mechanic to see if it needs replacing.

As you have probably gathered, the general rule of thumb for avoiding issues progressing into safety concerns or requiring costly repairs is, if you notice anything out of the ordinary with your car, have it checked by a professional as soon as possible to avoid more serious problems down the road.

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Who are we, and why do we do what we do?

We are a leading core broker for buying and selling all types of passenger car, light and heavy commercial core products. The company has operated as Premier Components UK Ltd. since 1992 and is headquartered in Stratford-upon-Avon, England. Since 2013, Premier Components has also had a secondary branch in Opole, Poland, which is responsible for most of the company’s operations in Europe. We stock over one million used core parts and purchase from and supply parts to countries worldwide, buying and selling in bulk quantities. We are a major full-line stockist, dealing in parts such as turbochargers, rotating electrics, brake callipers, steering products, transmissions, engines, diesel fuel injection equipment, air conditioning compressors, EGR valves, and various commercial vehicle parts.

The company’s primary objective is to support the remanufacturing process with used automotive vehicle parts. The circular economy is a major lever for achieving environmental and recycling objectives. We believe that remanufacturing, the process of rebuilding used automotive vehicle parts to reflect their original condition, is a key element of the circular economy. This remanufacturing process helps to reduce waste, lower the CO2 footprint and extend the service life of core vehicle parts. This plays an important role in Autocirc’s circular business model by creating opportunities for the reuse of previously unsaleable parts. By creating opportunities to collect and sell parts for remanufacturing, Premier Components helps to support the reuse of vehicle parts that previously were sent for scrappage. This means that we create the possibility to work at the higher levels of the EU’s waste hierarchy.  As global core traders, we are proud to contribute to a circular economy and a sustainable society.

We are proud to belong to the Autocirc group, an aftermarket automotive industry company that focuses wholeheartedly on reuse and recycling. The idea of Autocirc is to create a circle of specialist companies working together in all different parts of the automotive aftermarket cycle. We do this to increase the reuse of vehicle parts, regardless of whether it is direct reuse or reuse after renovation. This means greater opportunities for reusing refurbished parts and better conditions for material recycling and reintroducing clean, secondary raw materials. The future goal is to minimise material waste together and create a stable flow of sustainable and durable spare parts.

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Some Surprising Vehicle Parts that can be Recycled

Recycling vehicle parts is an important process that helps reduce waste and protect the environment. It’s a sustainable way to extend the life of car parts and reduce the need for manufacturing new parts. This blog post will explore the importance of recycling vehicle parts and how it can help create a more sustainable future.

Recycling vehicle components can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions by reducing the need to extract new resources from the earth. Extracting new resources requires a lot of energy and often involves the use of fossil fuels. By recycling vehicle parts, we can reduce the amount of energy needed to manufacture new parts and reduce our reliance on fossil fuels. This can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and slow the effects of climate change. By creating a more sustainable future through recycling vehicle parts, we can help protect our planet for generations to come.

When it comes to recycling car parts, we generally emphasise the need to recycle engine/motor components, as this is our specialty. However, many other vehicle components can also be recycled. Here are some examples:

  • Engine oil: Motor oil never runs out; it just gets dirty and unusable. With special treatment, it can be filtered, cleaned and reused.
  • Oil filters: Oil filters can be recycled by crushing them and separating the metal from the filter material. The metal can then be melted down and used to make new products. The filter material can be burned for fuel or used as an additive in asphalt or concrete.
  • Auto glass: Auto glass can be recycled into new glass products or used as an aggregate in concrete.
  • Batteries: Batteries can be recycled into new batteries or other products.
  • Tyres: Tyres can be shredded and used as fuel or ground into rubber powder for use in new products.
  • Scrap metal: Scrap metal can be melted down and used to make new products.
  • Plastics: Like metals, you’ll find various plastics in a vehicle, from the dashboard to the bumpers. Many of these can be recycled after they are properly separated.

Now that we have explored the importance of recycling vehicle parts and how it can help create a more sustainable future, we hope that you will consider sending your end-of-life vehicles to have their parts repurposed or recycled.

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How to Reduce the Environmental Impact of Vehicle Scrappage

It is no secret that scrap cars are a significant source of environmental pollution. The production and disposal of cars have a significant impact on the environment, from the extraction of raw materials to the disposal of waste products. Fortunately, there are ways to reduce the environmental impact of scrap cars. In this blog post, we will explore the environmental impact of vehicle scrappage and how to reduce it.

The production of cars leaves a significant environmental footprint because materials like steel, rubber, glass, plastics, paints and more must be created before a new ride is ready to roll. Similarly, the end of a car’s life doesn’t mark the end of its environmental impact. Fortunately, scrapyard pileups are becoming much smaller than they were in the past. About three-quarters of today’s average car, including the bulk of a steel frame, can be recycled. To reduce the environmental impact of vehicle scrappage, it is important to recycle vehicles instead of sending them to landfill. Recycling scrap cars reduces their environmental impact and helps conserve resources. Landfill sites have many disadvantages, and many believe they pose a big threat to the wellness of the planet. Scrap cars too can become an environmental threat and we believe that the solution lies in finding ways to reuse as many of these materials as possible.

Thankfully, the automobile is already one of the most effectively recovered and recycled consumer products, with its parts being used again in vehicles or for other purposes. The metals used in its manufacture are routinely recovered, reused and recycled to high levels. In the UK alone, as many as one million end-of-life vehicles (ELVs) will be sent to recycling plants every year. This number equates to approximately 25 million tonnes of raw materials that can be extracted from the vehicle, then given a new purpose. Premier Components supports and contributes to this recycling process by purchasing used car parts such as engines, gearboxes and diesel injection equipment on a global scale to reduce the number of parts being sent for scrappage. These parts are then directed to automotive remanufacturers for repurposing. By choosing to purchase remanufactured vehicle parts instead of buying new ones, you can also help to reduce waste and conserve resources. This can have a positive impact on the environment and will likely save you some money in the process.

In conclusion, scrap cars have a significant impact on the environment. However, there are ways to reduce their environmental impact by recycling them instead of sending them to landfills. Automotive part recycling is arguably one of the most important industries when it comes to reducing environmental pollution and conserving resources relating to vehicle scrappage. By supporting the automotive remanufacturing process, we believe that we play a vital role in helping to keep our planet clean.

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Choosing the Right Car Insurance Policy for You

If you are a motorist, it is likely that at some point you have experienced an increase in your car insurance premium, even if you haven’t made a claim. This can lead us to want to switch to a new provider to get a better deal, but it can be difficult to know what to look for in a replacement policy. Choosing the right car insurance policy can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. With a little bit of research and some careful consideration, you can find a policy that meets your needs and your budget. Here are a few things to consider when choosing your insurance provider.

The first thing you need to do is determine what type of coverage you need. There are three main types of car insurance policies in the United Kingdom: third-party only, third-party fire and theft, and comprehensive.

  1. Third-party only is the most basic type of coverage and only covers damage to other people’s property.
  2. Third-party fire and theft covers damage to other people’s property as well as your own vehicle if it is stolen or damaged by fire.
  3. Comprehensive coverage is the most extensive type of coverage and covers damage to other people’s property as well as your own vehicle in the event of an accident.

When choosing between these types of policies, it’s important to consider your individual needs. If you have an older car that isn’t worth much, third-party only coverage may be sufficient. However, if you have a newer car that is worth a lot of money, comprehensive coverage may be a better option.

Once you have determined what type of coverage you need, you should start shopping around for quotes. Be sure to compare quotes from multiple providers to ensure you get the best deal possible. When comparing quotes, be sure to look at the level of coverage provided as well as the cost. Another way to save money on your car insurance policy is to consider increasing your excess which is sometimes referred to as a deductible. The excess is the amount you will have to pay out of pocket before your insurance kicks in when you make a claim. By increasing your policy excess, you can often lower your monthly premium.

Finally, be sure to ask about any discounts that may be available. Many car insurance providers offer discounts for things such as a no-claims history, multiple cars on one policy, and anti-theft devices. If you are looking to switch your policy due to a rise in your monthly premium, it may be worth letting your current provider know if you have received a lower quote from another provider for the same level of coverage. Sometimes your current provider will agree to match the price, which saves you the hassle of switching.

In conclusion, choosing the right car insurance policy requires careful consideration and research. By taking the time to determine what type of coverage you need and shopping around for quotes, you can find a policy that meets your needs and your budget while still providing a good level of insurance cover.

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How to Safely Change a Car Tyre

Most motorists will have encountered a puncture or a blowout at some point, but many will not be equipped with the skills to change the damaged tyre themselves. This can result in a frustrating and lengthy wait at the side of the road whilst you wait for the roadside assistance team to arrive. Did you know that to change a tyre, you generally only need four things: a spare tyre, a lug wrench, a jack and some wheel chocks? To ensure that you have the right equipment required for your vehicle, please check the vehicle owner’s manual.

Now that you know what tools you need to keep handy, we will guide you through the process of changing a tyre yourself in 10 simple steps:

  1. Assess if it is safe for you to perform the tyre change. Are you parked in a safe place away from passing traffic? Is the ground you are parked on firm enough to support the jack? – If the answer to either of these questions is no, and it is not possible to move your vehicle to a more appropriate place, please move away from your vehicle to a safe space, contact your roadside assistance team and follow their instructions.
  2. Get prepared for the tyre change by putting your car into first gear and applying the handbrake (if it has a manual transmission) or putting it into ‘park’ mode (if it has an automatic transmission). Ensure that all passengers have safely left the vehicle and get the tyre-change equipment ready.
  3. Put the wheel chocks in place on all wheels except for the one you will be changing.
  4. Loosen (but do not completely remove) the wheel nuts using the lug wrench. It is safest to do this before jacking up the vehicle.
  5. Jack up the vehicle using the car’s dedicated jacking points and raise the car between 10 and 15cm from the ground – if you are unsure where these points are located, please consult the vehicle’s handbook for guidance.
  6. Finish removing the wheel nuts and proceed to remove the tyre by gently pulling it toward you. Once removed, place the tyre flat on the ground in a safe place.
  7. Place the replacement wheel onto the hub bolts or in line with the wheel nut slots. Once the wheel is in place, replace the wheel nuts and tighten them using the lug wrench.
  8. Lower the car, remove the jack and recheck the tightness of the wheel nuts using the lug wrench.
  9. If you have a tyre pressure gauge to hand, check the pressure of the new tyre to ensure that it is fully inflated – if you don’t, please drive carefully to a nearby petrol station to check them there. Inflate the tyre further if necessary.
  10. Take your damaged tyre in for professional inspection to determine whether it can be repaired or if it needs replacing – this needs to be done at your earliest convenience, particularly if you are now driving on a space-saver spare wheel (this will be smaller than your other wheels).
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Everything You Need to Know about MOTs

In the United Kingdom, an MOT generally must be performed annually on all vehicles aged as a legal requirement once that vehicle reaches three years of age. But what exactly is an MOT and why do you need it?

MOT is an acronym for the ‘Ministry of Transport’ test as this was the government department responsible for vehicle roadworthiness standards in 1960 when the inspection mandate was first introduced. You need to ensure that your vehicle is up to date with its MOT and holds a valid MOT pass certificate to comply with UK law. An MOT is a test to inspect the vehicle to ensure it complies with UK road safety and environmental standards. As part of the routine inspection, a range of your vehicle’s parts will be checked and tested including the lights, steering, suspension, brakes, wipers, horn, fuel system, doors, mirrors, external bodywork, seat belts, wheels and tyres. It will also check the presence and clarity of your vehicle’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and its exhaust emission levels. Vehicle parts that the MOT does not inspect the condition of include the clutch, engine and gearbox (transmission).

But are there any exceptions to the 3-year rule? In short, yes. In the United Kingdom, most cars generally need their first MOT when they reach three years of age, but in Northern Ireland, it isn’t required until a vehicle is four years old. There are also certain vehicles that need to have their first MOT when they are just one year old; a list of these vehicles can be found here. Some vehicles, such as tractors and electric goods vehicles that were registered before 1st March 2015, are exempt from the MOT requirement. Once your car, van, or motorcycle reaches 40 years of age, they too will be exempt from the MOT requirement, on the condition that they have not been substantially modified in the last 30 years. If your vehicle qualifies for one of these exemptions, you must declare this when applying for your vehicle tax. It is important to remember that regular checks and services should be undertaken on your vehicle to ensure that it remains roadworthy, as a valid MOT certificate or an MOT exemption doesn’t automatically ensure that your vehicle is safe to drive. Driving without a valid MOT test certificate, where required, may result in you being fined, receiving penalty points on your driving licence and/or a driving ban.

At this point, you may be wondering where to take your vehicle to get an MOT test done. The good news is that MOT-authorised test centres are situated all around the country, and test centres will display official blue signage featuring three white triangles to make it clear that MOT tests are conducted there. The MOT test is usually inexpensive and usually costs between £29.65 and £54.65 depending on the type of vehicle (prices correct as of May 2023), so long as the vehicle passes and no additional work needs doing.

Here are six common, and very avoidable, reasons vehicles fail their first MOT test:

  1. The number plate is not DVLA compliant.
  2. The tyre tread depth is below the minimum legal requirement.
  3. There is not enough screen wash in the tank.
  4. The vehicle has an overly dirty exterior or cluttered interior.
  5. There are illuminated warning lights present on the vehicle’s dashboard.
  6. There are stickers on the windscreen in the ‘line of sight’ i.e. inside the windscreen wipers sweep area.

If the vehicle fails the test the first time, it is important to note that you will usually have to pay an additional fee to repeat the test once the issues have been resolved, so it is wise to check and resolve any common and avoidable issues before taking your vehicle for its initial test.

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Are Your Vehicle’s Tyres in Good Health?

Your vehicle’s tyres are the only contact point your car has with the road below, and being able to identify early warning signs with your tyres will help to keep you, your passengers, and other road users safe. Keeping your tyres well-maintained will also ensure the ongoing performance and efficiency of your vehicle. Here is a list of the most common tyre issues and how to identify them:

  1. Low tread depth – no matter the quality of your tyres, it is inevitable that they will begin to wear down over time. In the United Kingdom, the legal requirement for tread depth is 1.6mm and having a lower depth can result in receiving 3 penalty points on your licence and a fine of up to £2,500 per illegal tyre. The best way to keep on top of this is to check your tyre tread regularly on all tyres. An easy way to do this is by conducting the ‘20p test’ which involves pushing a 20p coin into the lowest tread depth of your tyre. If the outer edge of the coin remains visible, the tyre needs replacing. Another common indicator that your tread depth is getting low is that the steering feels lighter than usual and that you aren’t achieving as many miles per gallon (MPG) as usual.
  2. Punctures – punctures usually occur when a foreign object on the road penetrates the tyre deep enough to puncture the internal air chamber. These punctions can sometimes result in a flat tyre quite quickly, but often it can create what is known as a ‘slow’ puncture. In modern cars, a low tyre pressure warning may come on to alert you to a potential slow puncture, but cars without this feature will need to be checked manually. It is a good idea to incorporate tyre pressure checks into your regular car maintenance routine. Another common sign that you have a slow puncture is your car ‘pulling’ to one side while driving.
  3. Cracked rubber – intense heat, prolonged driving in wet conditions, having old tyres, and impact damage (from hitting curbs or potholes) are all factors that can contribute to the breakdown of your tyre’s polymers which can result in cracks in the tyre rubber. Check your tyres regularly for signs of cracked rubber and replace them if there is any visible damage.
  4. Bulging – bulging in the sidewall of your tyres can often result from impact with a curb, pothole, or speed bump and is something which should be checked for regularly. If you find a bulge in your tyre, it is recommended that you get it replaced.
  5. Incorrect inflation – overinflating and underinflating your tyres can affect their performance safety and reduce your tyre life by up to 25%. Incorrect inflation can also lead to uneven wear and a higher likelihood of developing cracks and bulges. To find information about the optimal tyre pressure for your vehicle, you can check the vehicle’s logbook or ask a professional for advice. Some vehicles will also have this information provided on the inside of the fuel compartment flap.
  6. Uneven wear – unevenly worn tyres, or camber wear, can be caused by incorrect inflation, but even wear can also be present on vehicles which have optimal tyre pressure levels. Usually when this happens, it is due to wheel misalignment, but it can also be caused by suspension issues. The good news is that if the wear is minimal, tyre alignment issues can usually be fixed quite easily by visiting a local tyre fitter who will realign and balance them for you. If the level of wear is more severe, the tyres may need replacing completely so checking them regularly could potentially save your wallet!
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How to Reduce Vehicle Depreciation

Unless the vehicle you own is a classic or a collector’s item, it will be subject to inevitable depreciation. Depreciation is the rate at which your car or truck loses value over time. Did you know that some vehicles can lose 50% of their original value after around five years of ownership? However, some makes and models retain their value better than others. 10 factors that can affect a vehicle’s depreciation rate include:

  1. Vehicle condition – this relates to both the internal and external condition. Most people know that dents and scratches will devalue a vehicle, but did you also know that something as simple as smoking inside your vehicle has been known to devalue a vehicle by up to £2,000 due to the lingering smell and physical damage it can leave behind? Extra modifications such as tinted windows and upgraded sound systems can also potentially increase a vehicle’s resell value.
  2. Miles driven – in the United Kingdom, the average car drives around 8,000 miles per year. Driving upwards of this figure can increase the vehicle’s depreciation rate.
  3. Number of previous vehicle owners – the general rule of thumb is, the fewer the number of previous vehicle owners, the better resale price you are likely to get for your vehicle.
  4. Service history – skipping your annual service may feel like it’s saving you money in the short term but in the long term, it will increase your vehicle’s depreciation rate. Skipping your annual service can also lead to small problems becoming big problems (and therefore much more expensive problems to fix) if mechanical issues aren’t noticed early and resolved.
  5. Vehicle reputation – some vehicle brands have a better reputation than others, and those with better reputations tend to hold their value better than the brands that are known for developing mechanical issues further down the line.
  6. Most recent model – if the manufacturer releases a new version of your current vehicle model before you get around to selling it, this can decrease its value as the new model tends to be more desirable than any previous models.
  7. Fuel economy – the more fuel efficient your vehicle is, the better it is likely to retain its value. This is one of the reasons diesel models often retain their value better than their petrol counterparts.
  8. Road tax – the rate of road tax payable on the vehicle can also make your vehicle more or less desirable to potential buyers.
  9. Transmission type – whether your car has a manual or an automatic gearbox can also affect its resale value. Vehicles with automatic transmissions tend to retain their value better than their manual counterparts.
  10. Vehicle warranty – if your vehicle is still covered by its manufacturer’s warranty, this can also make it more desirable to potential buyers and increase your vehicle’s resale value.

In short, the simplest way to preserve the value of your vehicle and minimise its depreciation rate is to ensure that it is well taken care of and maintained, in terms of its interior, its exterior, and what is under its hood, along with making a smart vehicle purchase choice in the first place.

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How to Keep Yourself Safe on the Roads During Winter

British Winters often bring adverse road weather conditions such as sleet, snow, heavy rain and ice, and driving in these conditions can be dangerous, so here are our top tips for keeping yourself safe whilst travelling on the roads this Winter:

  1. Avoid making unnecessary trips.

Ultimately, the best way to keep yourself safe during dangerous road conditions is to keep off the road. If the journey isn’t urgent or necessary, delay your travel plans until a time the roads are safer.

  1. Allow for extra time and drive slower.

Whilst driving slowly and sensibly may seem like obvious advice, if you are in a rush to get somewhere it can be more difficult to adhere to, so always ensure you leave early to allow plenty of time for your journey and take it steady. If ever you do find yourself running late during adverse weather conditions, always remember that it’s always better to arrive late than never at all.

  1. Leave plenty of time to de-ice your car.

Allowing enough time to get your car de-iced before travelling is essential for your safety and the safety of other road users and pedestrians. Not having enough time to defrost your windows thoroughly will leave behind ice which will impair your vision and as a result, will increase your chances of a collision.

  1. Check your tyres regularly.

Under-inflated tyres increase your risk of losing traction on the roads, something which can be extremely dangerous, particularly in slippery conditions. Always ensure that all your tyres are inflated to the recommended PSI and check these levels regularly.

  1. Remove any unnecessary distractions.

This is important advice no matter what the road conditions, but in a situation where extra attention to the road conditions are required, it really is essential. Remove anything that could distract you unnecessarily, such as an air freshener hanging from your windscreen mirror, and don’t attempt to eat, drink, smoke or use electronic devices whilst driving.

  1. Allow enough time to brake safely.

Along with driving slowly, allowing plenty of room to come to a stop is also very important to help reduce your chances of losing control of your vehicle. Sudden sharp braking could cause your car or van to lose traction and slide, which can end up causing a collision.

  1. Avoid using cruise control.

In slippery conditions, it’s always best to avoid using cruise control, as you always need to be completely alert and in full control of your vehicle’s acceleration and speed when enduring wet, snowy or icy road conditions.

  1. Always be prepared for a collision or break down scenario.

Hopefully you won’t be involved in any collisions or have your vehicle breakdown this Winter but being prepared for these unfortunate eventualities is essential for your wellbeing. Always make sure that you and your passengers are wearing your seatbelts correctly, that you have adequate breakdown and recovery protection in place and that you have everything you need to keep yourself warm and something to draw attention to your vehicle if required.

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Are Automatic Vehicles Better than Manual Vehicles?

Modern vehicles come with one of two types of transmission: automatic or manual. There is often an assumption that automatic vehicles are superior to manual ones, but is this really the case? Below we have listed some of the pros and cons of each type of transmission, or gearbox, to help you make up your mind:

Manual transmissions:

Manual cars have manual, or traditional, transmissions. This means that the vehicle has a stick shift and three pedals (the brake, clutch, and accelerator) which are used to manually shift between gears whilst driving.

Pros:

  • Cheaper to maintain and run – Generally, manual vehicles cost less to maintain and run than automatic ones in the long term. This is because the components in an automatic vehicle are often more complex than those in a manual one, making any issues or faults easier and cheaper to diagnose and repair.
  • More fuel efficient – As manual transmissions are simpler than their automatic counterparts, they are more fuel efficient, making manual vehicles the more economical option in terms of fuel consumption.
  • Greater level of control – As the gears are shifted manually, you have complete control over when you want to shift up or down a gear to suit the road conditions. Many drivers like this feeling of being in control.
  • Cheaper to purchase – Manual vehicles are usually cheaper to purchase than their automatic counterparts.
  • Statistically less likely to be stolen – According to statistics, manual vehicles are less likely to be subject to theft than automatic vehicles.
  • Ability to drive using any type of transmission – If you pass your driving test in a vehicle with a manual transmission, you will have the freedom to drive both a manual and an automatic car without the need to take any additional tests.

Cons:

  • May not be as safe to drive – Some people argue that manual vehicles are not as safe to drive as automatic vehicles. This is due to having to take one hand off the wheel and shift your attention whilst changing gears.
  • Aching clutch leg – You may find that you develop an ache in your leg muscles from excessive clutch use, this can be particularly evident when driving through congested areas, requiring the clutch to be pushed in regularly during stop-and-go traffic.
  • Requires more practice to learn – It generally takes people longer to learn how to drive a manual vehicle due to the need to coordinate the clutch, accelerator and shifting effectively to avoid stalling.
  • Less availability – Manual vehicles are often considered less desirable than automatic vehicles, which has reduced the number of them being produced.
  • Lower resale value – Due to often being considered less desirable in today’s market, manual vehicles generally depreciate faster than automatic vehicles and end up with a lower resale value.

Automatic transmissions:

While the drivers of manual vehicles play an active role in operating them, vehicles with automatic transmissions do a lot of the work for you. Automatic vehicles only have two pedals, the brake and the accelerator, and they also have a much simpler version of a shift stick than manual vehicles. In an automatic vehicle, you simply put the shift stick into drive mode and push the accelerator and the car will automatically shift the gears accordingly.

Pros:

  • Easier to drive – Automatic vehicles are considered easier to drive than their manual counterparts as there is no need to coordinate gear changes and exhibit clutch control. This also eliminates the chance of stalling the vehicle and reduces the risk of developing aching leg muscles, particularly in stop-and-go traffic.
  • Offers a smoother drive – As the gears are shifted automatically, the drive is often a lot smoother in an automatic vehicle than in a manual vehicle.
  • More widely available – Vehicles with automatic transmissions are often considered more desirable due to being easier to drive than manual vehicles. Due to this, automatic vehicles are now widely available with most new vehicles being manufactured with automatic gearboxes.
  • Higher resale values – As automatic vehicles are often considered more desirable, they tend to hold their value better than their manual counterparts, resulting in higher resale values.

Cons:

  • More expensive to purchase – Vehicles with automatic transmissions are generally more expensive than those with manual transmissions due to being more popular to purchase.
  • More expensive to repair – Due to the complexity of automatic gearboxes, it can be more expensive to diagnose and repair issues or replace parts.
  • Less fuel efficient – Automatic vehicles are often less fuel efficient than their manual counterparts, making them more expensive to run.
  • May not be as fun to drive – Some drivers claim that having an automatic transmission takes the fun out of driving and that driving an automatic vehicle is often boring in comparison. If a driver is used to using a manual vehicle, it can also be difficult for them to adjust to driving an automatic vehicle initially.
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It’s Tyre Safety Month – Make Sure You Check Your’s!
21.10.2022

October is Tyre Safety Month, which is part of UK road safety charity TyreSafe’s annual campaign to help increase awareness of the risks caused by driving around with unsafe tyres, in a bid to encourage British motorists to check their tyres more regularly for signs of wear and damage.

Driving around on poorly maintained or damaged tyres can cause numerous issues from simply increasing your vehicle’s fuel consumption, to causing a potentially fatal traffic collision, if your defective tyre ends up “blowing out” whilst driving.

TyreSafe recommends that all motorists should be thoroughly checking their vehicle’s tyres at least once a month, and after any tyre “knocks”, such as when you hit a pothole  or curb whilst driving.

Here are our top 3 simple tyre checks you can do yourself:

  1. Tread depth – it is easy to look at your tyre tread and observe whether there is a safe amount of tread left on your tyres. The British legal tread depth limit 1.6mm, but especially in adverse weather conditions, such as rain, ice or snow, it is advisable to have a sufficiently larger tread depth to help keep your tyres in contact with the road surface and reduce the risk of losing traction or aquaplaning.
  2. Tyre Condition – tyre surfaces should be checked all-round for any signs of unexpected wear or damage. Things to look out for include splits, lumps and bulges, along with objects such as nails and stones which may be stuck in the rubber. If you notice any of these issues, or anything else which doesn’t quite look right, it’s always best to get your tyres inspected by a professional.
  3. Air Pressure – your vehicle manufacturer should provide you with an ideal range for your car’s tyre pressure in your vehicle handbook or manual. You can check that your air pressure is within the recommended range by using an accurate tyre pressure gauge which can be found at most good petrol stations, where you can also easily top up your tyres with some additional air if required.
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What are Green Car Parts?
06.09.2022

You may have heard the term “Green Car Parts” being used to describe the environmentally friendly source of used parts from original manufacturers (OEMs), but what exactly are green car parts?

Firstly, there not actually green in colour! The term refers to the recycling process and environmental benefits associated with the use of these parts. Green car parts are undamaged or reusable automotive parts that are taken from written-off or end-of-life vehicles and recycled/reused.

Because green parts were originally fitted in the factory or production line during the car’s creation, they are classified as “Original Equipment” (OE).  In most cases however the car manufacturer does not design the parts themselves, but instead these parts are provided by dedicated parts manufacturers such as Bosch, Hella or Valeo, often called Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM).

Due to being designed and manufactured to a vehicle’s exact specifications, OE parts are often considered to be the best available in terms of quality and reliability.

What are the benefits of using green car parts?

  1. Low cost

The most obvious benefit of buying green car parts is reduced cost.  Prices can be up to 90% cheaper than buying brand new parts direct from the manufacturer(!) but with rigorous testing and warranties available, there’s no need to worry about quality or reliability.

  1. Availability

Despite being much cheaper than new parts, there are still huge numbers of green parts available for practically every car brand in the UK. This is because cars are typically manufactured in bulk meaning huge amounts of parts are floating about at any one time, and with nearly 2.5million new cars purchased per year in the United Kingdom alone, older vehicles are being quickly replaced. 

In many cases, buying a second-hand part is often easier than sourcing new parts, as spare parts are not as frequently manufactured as whole vehicles are.

  1. Environmental

Using recycled car parts is immensely better for the environment, hence the “green” term.  Buying a green part prevents the need for a new part to be manufactured, making huge energy and resource savings worldwide.  It is estimated that recycled parts save 80 billion barrels of oil each year in manufacturing and transport processes, while also increasing the lifespan of countless existing vehicles.

Premier Components UK Ltd stocks and supplies hundreds of thousands of genuine used car parts reclaimed during the recycling process. We collect and sell these parts to specialist remanufacturers who repair and test these units ready for resale. As one of the largest core brokers in Europe, we can use our large network of breakers yards, dismantlers & vehicle manufacturers to collect a vast array of parts in bulk ready to supply the ever-growing demand for used automotive core.

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Strengthening our European Presence
11.08.2022

Premier Components has long been known as a used core market leader, not only within the UK but throughout Europe and Internationally as well. Our strong reputation across Europe has been developed and achieved due to our unrivalled levels of stock and continuous activity and investment throughout many EU countries. For many years we have had buyers on the road over in Europe, visiting customers and personally sorting through core vehicle parts to ensure only the best quality stock ends up in our warehouses. Many of these buyers are multilingual and some travel from the UK whilst others are based out across Europe, meaning that someone is always on hand to arrange a visit to your site.

More recently, we have also grown our multilingual team back at our main headquarters in England, meaning that we now have staff members fluent in English, French, Spanish, Portuguese, Polish, German and Romanian (to name a few). This allows us to overcome any language barriers we face, meaning that communication with us is always clear and any queries can be answered at the required level of detail. These members of staff also regularly visit European automotive trade shows, not only to exhibit but also to network and connect face-to-face with both new and existing Premier customers and suppliers. Back in 2013 we also invested in another core branch in Poland which now has many members of full-time staff, allowing us to trade at a higher level throughout Europe than ever before.

This combined effort of increased Premier staff presence throughout Europe and our excellent multilingual team members have meant that Premier has been able to grow and become a trusted stockist of core parts throughout Europe and beyond! If you have surplus used car parts to sell or are involved in the remanufacturing industry and are looking for a reputable new supplier, then please get in touch with us today via our website contact form . We look forward to hearing from you and offering you the best solutions for your needs.

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The impact of Covid-19 on the aftermarket vehicle parts market
04.07.2022

In early 2020, life in the United Kingdom changed for us all with the introduction of the first lockdown of the Covid-19 pandemic, affecting the usual operations of many businesses and causing the operations of others to come to an abrupt halt. Amongst these businesses were many of those both directly and indirectly linked to the automotive industry which included car dealerships, car manufacturers, and vehicle parts manufacturers amongst many others.

The sudden closure of car dealerships across the UK and Europe had a knock-on effect with the car manufacturing industry, as the number of new car sales plummeted, the demand to produce new vehicles inevitably also dropped off significantly. In addition to this, many new vehicle manufacturers rely on car parts which are often supplied from countries overseas such as China or the Far East. With the sudden introduction of new travel, import and export restrictions across the globe, new OEM vehicle parts became much harder to source and obtain which also affected vehicle manufacturer’s abilities to produce new vehicles. Whilst this kink in the supply chain may have negatively affected new vehicle production, it revealed a new heightened demand for remanufactured parts, which were not only a cheaper and much more environmentally friendly option, but now they were now a much simpler option to source and obtain as well.

As we begin to get back to life as normal (or as close to it as we are likely to get), we are confident that the increased demand for recycled green aftermarket parts will remain high, especially now that many companies and direct consumers have been exposed to the many benefits of purchasing and utilising remanufactured vehicle parts, and here at Premier Components we look forward to continuing to be a global leader and preferred supplier for this exciting and ever-expanding industry.

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Why you Should Remanufacture your Fleet Vehicles
06.06.2022

There comes a time when your trusty fleet vehicle reaches the end of its economic life: the mileage is high, and the expense of the ongoing repairs is beginning to cost your business more than what the van or truck is worth. Once a vehicle reaches this point, often it is sent for scrappage or sold on for a next to nothing price, and you are then faced with the cost of buying a replacement. What if we told you there was a way to avoid this costly scenario? Well, there is! Rather than scrapping your old commercial vehicles, why not consider remanufacturing them instead?

The Benefits of Remanufacturing a Fleet Vehicle:
When you decide to remanufacture a company vehicle, the salvage value and ongoing repair costs are no longer part of the financial equation. By remanufacturing, you can retain the value of the vehicle and extend its time with your business, even if the engine is failing or has multiple major issues.

Instead of paying for repairs as they arise, choosing to remanufacture the vehicle completely will make everything virtually new again under the hood! This option is often 30-50% less expensive than the alternative of having to replace the vehicle entirely (particularly if you opt for all remanufactured parts over new ones) and it will save the vehicle from a premature visit to the scrap pile!

Remanufacturing will give your old fleet vehicle a new lease of life, and even give it the potential to double its mileage! Since the financial depreciation is very minimal in the later years of a vehicle’s life, you’ll always retain the end salvage value too.

When is the Right Time to Remanufacture a Fleet Vehicle?
There are multiple scenarios where remanufacturing your fleet vehicle may be the best option, these include:

  • When the vehicle has reached the end of its economic life and anticipated ongoing repair costs are proving too expensive for the van or truck’s worth.
  • When the vehicle has reached the end of its service life, generally when the vehicle has very high mileage, or has been haggard from ongoing use in harsh conditions.
  • When you have major or multiple system or subsystem failures, such as complete engine failure.
  • When the vehicle has been involved in a collision, even if it has been written off, as even with the added cost of repairing body damage, you will still likely be saving money when compared with the cost of replacing the vehicle entirely.
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The Best Road Trips in the United Kingdom
03.05.2022

When it comes to scenic road trips the United Kingdom is often forgotten, but did you know that it has some hidden gems you may not know about? If you enjoy driving and scenery, read on to avoid missing out as we’ve put together a great list of our Top 5 best road trips in the UK:

  1. Cheddar Gorge – Somerset, England.

According to The Times Magazine, Cheddar Gorge is Britain’s “loveliest scenic route” and with its twisting roads and a stunning background of limestone cliffs its easy to see why! This route is located right in the heart of the West Country and only takes around 30 minutes to drive, making it one unmissable drive!

  1. Coastal Route – Northern Ireland.

If you are looking for a longer route with a real wow factor and have 3 to 5 days spare to drive it, then look no further than the Coastal Route which stretches for around 195km from Belfast to Londonderry. Along the way you’ll get to see a host of incredible sights including the iconic Giants Causeway and Gobbins Cliff Path. This road trip will have particular appeal to Game of Thrones fans, as you’ll be travelling past two of the filming locations along the way: Dark Hedges and Ballintoy Harbour.

  1. Snake Pass – Peak District, England.

If you are brave enough to drive the 42-mile tangled route of Snake Pass, crossing the Pennines between Glossop and Ladybower Reservoir, you’ll be rewarded with some truly stunning scenery, including an incredible view of National Trust’s High Peak Estate.

  1. Scotland’s North Coast 500 – Scotland.

Scotland’s North Coast 500 is a 4 to 7 day long circular road trip which boasts quiet winding roads and beautiful scenery. This is the ideal trip for anyone searching for a few days of peace, seclusion and natural beauty.

  1. Abergwesyn Pass – Powys, Wales.

This short 11 mile route is not for the faint of heart, and will require a confident driver, but if you take the plunge Abergwesyn Pass will reward you with breath-taking views of stunning mountains, forests and picturesque Welsh villages – along with putting your driving skills to the test!

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How we Price your Used Vehicle Parts
06.04.2022

How we price each individual unit that we purchase is a frequent question that we are asked here at Premier Components UK Ltd. We understand that customers are always looking to get the very best prices for their surplus material, and this is something that is always at the forefront of our mind when purchasing aftermarket vehicle parts. To continually obtain good quality material, we need to make sure that everyone feels that they are getting a fair deal with the prices that we are offering, and in taking this approach we have remained the main purchaser for automotive core parts for many years across a vast selection of diverse companies.   

How we grade our core isn’t a massive industry secret, prices are generally set by the market with units that are the hardest to get hold of (or are least commonly found) often fetching more than common units that are easier to obtain. On top of this, like anything the better condition a unit is (and therefore the easier to remanufacture), the more money it will be worth.  As a full line automotive supplier, we work closely with a variety of remanufactures meaning that there is always demand for a vast array of different material. Working so closely in this space allows us to be confident with purchases knowing that we will be able to find a suitable buyer, which means instant decisions and payment for customers looking to sell any used material.

With Premier Components’ size and industry recognition, we can sell your core material relatively quickly after purchase. However, one thing that we do not do is make you wait for your payment until the goods have sold; we offer immediate payment terms so even if your surplus stock isn’t immediately in demand, you will still receive full immediate payment and can sit back and relax - or start building up your next batch for our buyers! Premier Components currently has over 60 members of staff with a select knowledgeable team dedicated just to being out on the road buying! In having such a large team of skilled buyers, we can work around your busy schedules to arranging a visit to go through your surplus material and discuss prices.

So, now that you know that our prices are fair, our payment terms are immediate, and our buyers can visit at any time to fit in around your schedule, what are you waiting for? Get in touch with us today to find out why we are Europe’s leading automotive broker!
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5 Important Things to Consider when Selling a Car Privately
09.03.2022

Eventually, the time will come that you make the decision to sell your trusty steed, but sadly, selling a vehicle privately often isn’t the hassle-free process you’d hoped it would be! Here are five important things to consider when selling a car to help you keep the process as smooth as possible:

  1. Fixing any mechanical issues – most prospective buyers will want to test drive a vehicle before making a purchase, and they will make a mental note of any flagged issues which they can use to haggle down your asking price, or it may even put them off the purchase altogether! To ensure that this doesn’t happen, ensure that your service history is up to date and get a professional to give your car the once-over before putting it up for sale, that way any mechanical issues can be put right ahead of time.
  2. Cleaning up your bodywork – when it comes to selling cars, appearance is everything! Ensure that any visible damage, such as scratches or minor dents, have been attended to prior to the sale, and that the car is visibly clean. Like mechanical issues, bodywork damage can be a great excuse for an interested party to haggle down your price, and a dirty car can give the impression that the vehicle hasn’t been looked after, again putting off potential buyers.
  3. Freshening up the interior – like the outside of the car, ensure that the inside is cleaned up too as a dirty interior can also be off-putting. Remove any debris and rubbish, polish any hard surfaces and use a vacuum cleaner and a fabric spray to clean the seats – this will ensure that your car is looking, and smelling, its best!
  4. Gathering all necessary vehicle documents – once the vehicle sale is confirmed, its important to transfer vehicle ownership over as soon as possible, so ensure that all required vehicle documents in place. Along with your V5C, you will also need copies of any other relevant vehicle documents, such as paperwork to show the car’s service history, the latest MOT test certificate and any applicable warranty documents.
  5. Allowing enough time – the average amount of time it takes to sell a car privately is 34.5 days, so ensure that you list your car in plenty of time and don’t leave it until the last minute!

By taking these considerations into account, you will help to ensure a smooth vehicle sale transaction and that all parties involved will be satisfied with the end deal.

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Dismantlers Wanted! How much are your Vehicle Parts Worth?
27.02.2022

If you are a dismantler or own/work at a breakers yard, you will likely know to what extent a vehicle can be recycled. On average it is estimated anywhere from 75–85%, however one thing you might not know is just how much these spare car and van parts could be worth when split up properly and sold to the right people (us!).

Over the years, we have visited tens of thousands of dismantlers, breakers and scrap yards, and one of our least favourite things to hear is: “sorry, we don’t actually strip the parts off the vehicles here”. This is something we always hope to hear less of, because each aftermarket part that has been removed from each vehicle (and therefore easily accessible) means more money in your pocket and more stock for our shelves!

With Premier Components being one of the largest global full line core brokers, we are able to purchase a vast selection of aftermarket passenger car and commercial parts from a large variety of different makes and models of vehicle, and are able to purchase almost all of the following core parts:

  • Turbochargers
  • Engines
  • Gearboxes/Transmissions
  • Brake Callipers
  • Diesel Injectors
  • Diesel Pumps
  • Airconditioning Compressors
  • EGR Valves
  • Steering Racks
  • Steering Pumps
  • Starters and Alternators
  • Various Commercial parts


Due to our continuous demand for new stock, worrying about it being worth your time to strip parts should not be a major concern for you.

Further good news is that it shouldn’t matter too much whether you have many of the same vehicles, or numerous different types, as we are able to purchase in bulk, and often require hundreds of the same make/model parts for our customers. We pride ourselves on professionalism, quality service, quick turnarounds and competitive price points, meaning we are very different to deal with from your typical walk-in customer who will only want to purchase one or two units for a rock bottom (scrap) price.

But let’s get down to the real point of interest here, just how much could this be worth to your business? The answer to this question depends on a number of factors, such as the amount of core material that you have readily available, the year/make/model of the vehicle(s) that the parts come from, and the quality and range of the material available. The quickest and easiest way to find out is to strip it all down, put it carefully to one side and give us a call so that we can arrange for a member of our dedicated purchase team to visit your premises and tell you exactly how much it is all worth!

If you would like to know more about selling your surplus parts to us, please get in touch with one of our friendly team members today via +44 (0) 1789 720061 or sales@premiercore.com

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What is Most Cost Effective: A Petrol, Diesel or Hybrid Car?
29.01.2022

When it comes to buying a new car, cost is often a significant deciding factor. However, in terms of both upfront and long-term costs, which type of car gives you the most for your money, one with a petrol, diesel or hybrid engine?

Since they came into prominence in the early 2000s, we’ve seen many popular makes of hybrid cars becoming more and more affordable. Despite this however, they are still significantly more expensive than their petrol or diesel equivalents due to the extra electrical components required within the vehicle to enable it to run on both electric energy and petrol/diesel. On the other hand, petrol cars have always been known to be the cheapest to buy upfront, but over recent years diesel cars have also become much more affordable making them much more of a contender when a purchaser is looking for less of an upfront spend. However, if your main priority is to keep your upfront spend to a minimum, a petrol-powered car is still the way to go.

When it comes to long-term fuel efficiency and economy, a hybrid car is generally the first to spring to mind – which at low-speeds and in stop-start traffic it is more efficient, as it’s electric engine does most of the work, but when it comes to faster roads and higher speeds, it becomes predominantly petrol-powered, making it no less economical than a petrol car. This is something to consider when factoring in long-term costs of fuel, if you are predominantly a village or city driver, you probably will save money on fuel with a hybrid – however if you tend to use faster roads, you may not end up saving yourself as much as you’d hoped! Diesels, however, require fewer revs to maintain a constant speed, which makes them particularly economical when it comes to motorway driving – so it may be worth considering a diesel car for fuel-efficiency is your driving is predominantly motorway-based. Once you’ve decided on a model, it’s always best to enquire about the different engine variations available, as many popular models now have more economical versions which could help reduce your spending on both fuel and road tax in the long run!

Hybrid cars can also cost a lot to maintain, with lots of electrical components, there are a lot of things which can prove expensive to fix if anything goes wrong. From an on-going maintenance point of view, like the up-front costs, petrol cars tend to be the cheapest to maintain, followed by diesel cars, then hybrids. In conclusion, whilst hybrid cars tend to be the most economical option, based on both upfront cost and ongoing spend, we believe a petrol-powered car still offers you the best value for money.

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Why you Should take Extra Care to Avoid Potholes
19.12.2021

Potholes are formed when water seeps through small cracks in the tarmac, and due to the water freezing and expanding (in cold Winter weather) or due to soil erosion (in warmer Summer conditions), unsupported pockets are created below the road’s surface, and eventually, the continued pressure from passing vehicles causes these weak patches to collapse – thus forming a pothole!

When driving, it’s common knowledge that we should avoid hitting potholes wherever possible, however every now and then it’s inevitable that we’re going to clip one. When this does happen, your car will need to be checked for signs of pothole damage! After hitting a pothole, as soon as it is safe to do so, pull over and check the following parts of your car…

Tyres:
When you hit a pothole, the tyres are the most common place damage occurs – this could range from a small chip in the outer rubber, to a complete blowout. For the latter, you’ll most likely be aware of this immediately, as blowouts tend to be accompanied by a loud bang and cause significant driving difficulties. However, even if you don’t experience a blowout, this doesn’t mean that you’re in the clear! Ideally, the best way to check your tyres thoroughly will involve lifting each wheel up from the ground with a jack, so that you can check all sides of each tyre. You should be checking carefully for any signs of bulging, tread separation, tears and flats – and if you notice anything out of the ordinary, keep your car off the road until the tyre has been professionally patched or replaced.

Wheels:
Another common damage point is with the wheel itself, whether you have alloys or not, the wheels need checking visually. Look out for any cracks or signs that the wheel has been bent or dented, particularly in the areas where the rim meets the tyre. Wheel damage can cause a break in the airtight seal, which can lead to complete tyre failure or a blowout. If any damage is present, your wheel may need repairing or replacing completely, so keep your vehicle off the road until you’ve had it cleared as safe by a professional.

Exhaust:
Hitting a pothole can also cause damage to your exhaust, especially if you are driving a lowered vehicle – if you suspect any faults, stay safe and have it inspected. If a hole forms in your exhaust it can not only cause a loss of power, but can also make your car emit more harmful gasses than usual, which is unsafe for you and passing pedestrians to breathe in.

Suspension and Steering:
If you notice your vehicle handling differently whilst driving, such as loose steering or pulling to either the left or right, some of your suspension or steering components may have been bent or damaged by the pothole, or the alignment of one or more components may have been compromised. Leaving a suspension or steering issue unresolved can lead to uneven and increased tyre wear in the future, and a potentially dangerous weakness in your suspension or steering components. If these parts are damaged and need replacing, it is always worth considering the benefits of using a re-manufactured part.

If in any doubt about the toll a pothole has taken on your car, take it to a professional to be checked over thoroughly – missing damage could lead to a future serious road traffic collision with a potentially fatal outcome.

When it comes to hitting potholes, it may sound like a bit of a cliché, but prevention is always better than cure, so always take extra care to check the road ahead of you and avoid driving into potholes whenever it is safe to do so. It is also worth considering an alternate route if any roads you need to travel along are particularly prone to surface damage.

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The Benefits of Buying Re-Manufactured Vehicle Parts
11.11.2021

As a vehicle owner, it is inevitable that at some point, one of your vehicle parts will malfunction or fail. When this occurs it’s often a first thought to buy a brand-new part to replace it, but this can prove to be a very costly option, particularly if the new part is purchased directly through your dealership. This is the reason many people now turn to re-manufactured parts when something goes wrong, as not only are these a cheaper option, they are also a reliable option, with parts often carrying the same warranties that you would receive with the brand-new alternative.

One thing that gets many car owners confused, is the difference between second-hand and re-manufactured car parts. A second-hand car part is a previously used part, which has been stripped from a car no longer needing it, often due to accident write offs or older cars which have been sent off to be scrapped. These types of parts are usually the cheapest to purchase, however they often won’t have been properly tested, don’t come with any warranties and often there is no way of telling how old the part is, how many miles the part has covered or how well the previous owner maintained it – this means that buying a cheap second-hand part comes with some risks.

A re-manufactured part, on the other hand, is an original manufacturer official used part, which has been carefully cleaned, stripped down, and had any worn components replaced. Most people can’t tell the difference between a brand-new and a re-manufactured part, and they are finished to such a high-quality standard that they are just as reliable too. Like brand new parts, these parts usually come with a warranty and are expected to have the same lifespan, but with a cheaper price tag! Re-manufactured parts are also seen to be a more environmentally friendly option by keeping parts out of the re-smelting process for longer and by massively reducing the amount of raw materials and energy required to produce them, in comparison to the amounts required when building brand new parts. This makes re-manufactured parts a very appealing option to anyone looking for a reliable part at a good price, or anyone who is looking to reduce their carbon footprint.

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How to Stay Safe when Driving in the Rain
17.10.2021

October is here and so is the iconic Autumn British rainfall! Before getting into your vehicle, ensuring that the rubber on your wipers is in good condition and that you have plenty of tread left on your tyres are essential basic safety checks to make in any kind of wet weather, but here is some further advice relating to some of the more dangerous rainy conditions you may encounter on the road:

Heavy Rain:
Even if your windscreen wipers are set to maximum speed, severe rain is going to affect your visibility, so the most important thing you need to do is to slow down. Reducing your speed in heavy rain will give you more time to assess and react to any situations unfolding ahead of you, and don’t forget, Rule 126 of the Highway Code states that you need to leave at least a four second gap for breaking distance between yourself and the vehicle in front of you in wet road conditions. Another thing to remember is to manually turn on your headlights if the weather conditions are causing poor or low-light visibility.

Flooded Roads:
The first rule of a flooded road is: if there is another route you can take to avoid the flood – take it. Driving through flood water runs a real risk of your engine taking on water, and if this should happen, it will hydro lock and your engine will stop working immediately! As a rule of thumb, if the standing water is 6 inches deep or deeper, do not attempt to drive through it (please note: certain vehicles won’t be able to drive through less water than this. Assess the situation, the height of your vehicle and make a sensible choice when deciding whether to drive through). To help you make a judgement call, you can see if other vehicles similar to yours are passing through the flood water without issue, and if you do decide to follow, make sure to travel through the water slowly whilst keeping your engine revs higher than usual – this will help to prevent water from entering your exhaust. Once you have passed the flood water, always check that your brakes are dry and working properly before continuing your journey. If you are in any doubt about whether you can safely cross the flood, turn around and try to find an alternate route.

Vehicle Aquaplaning:
Aquaplaning can be a very scary experience and usually occurs when it is raining heavily and/or there is light flooding or puddled water on the roads. Making sure you have deep tread on your tyres and lowering your speed can help to reduce the chances of this happening, however it’s important to remember that if your vehicle does begin to aquaplane, try not to panic and do not slam on the brakes – instead, ease off the accelerator slowly, don’t make any sudden steering actions and keep a firm grip of your steering wheel. Following these steps will help your car to regain its grip on the road surface and stop aquaplaning.

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How to Get the Best Price when Scrapping your Car
19.09.2021

The sad reality of car ownership is, that one day it will no longer be cost-effective to keep replacing parts and repairing it, and whilst it can be difficult to come to terms with having to say goodbye to your beloved automobile, your wallet will assure you it is the right decision to make. This decision begs the question, how do you make sure you are getting a good deal when it comes to recycling your vehicle?

Here are four ways you can ensure you always get the best scrappage price:

  1. Use the internet to track scrap value.

So long as you aren’t in a rush to get rid of your car, using the web to keep an eye on the scrap market can be a great way to time when is best to deliver your vehicle to the junkyard heap. Scrapping your vehicle when the scrap value is higher, will mean you get more cash for your car! A quick Google search will bring up several sites that will allow you to easily compare, track and find the best scrap prices.

  1. Get multiple scrap quotes.

Unless there is a real urgency to get rid of your car, don’t just go rushing off to the first scrapyard you find. We would recommend getting at least three different quotes from separate scrap dealers, and don’t be afraid to haggle for a better pay-out! Getting multiple quotes will give you a good idea of what a fair scrap value is for your vehicle and will alert you to any dealers who are trying to get their hands on your car for less than it’s worth!

  1. Consider breaking your vehicle for parts.

Did you know that you can dismantle your car and strip it of its valuable parts before sending it off to become scrap metal? If you know what you’re doing and have enough free time, you can make additional money by selling off a car’s components as spares. Sometimes you can find just one or two good parts can end up being worth more than the original scrap value of your vehicle – so if you have the capabilities, it’s an avenue worth exploring!

  1. Make your car look more presentable.

This one may seem a little odd, considering your car is destined for the crusher, but the look and presentation of your car could end up fetching you a better price from a scrap dealer. Don’t waste time and money on fixing any major bodywork issues, but if you can buff out a few of the more minor blemishes (such as scratches, minor dents and rust spots) you may just get rewarded!

Ultimately, if you do your research, understand the current market value and are prepared to haggle on price – making yourself a few extra scrappage bucks can be a fairly simple achievement.

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The Future of the Automotive Aftermarket Industry
21.08.2021

Over the past couple of years, we’ve become no strangers to anxious comments circulating within automotive aftermarket industry such as “I love this industry, but I’m not so sure how much longer there will be such a need for aftermarket core”. It is true that times are changing, and ultimately technology is always going to keep advancing, but our view on the future of the automotive aftermarket is still as positive as ever!

At Premier Components, we believe that the key to success in an ever-changing industry is with innovation and adaptation, and this is a belief that’s strongly cemented into all our core business strategies. Fear about change is often a natural human reaction, we are biologically programmed to react in this way, but we believe that being proactive with new solutions and approaches is the healthiest way to tackle any uncertainties, whether in business or in everyday life.

As the future slowly begins to unfold and automotive technology advances we are likely to start seeing a new generation of features within our vehicles, these will most likely include more economical engines reliant on electrical power, safety enhancements and more convenient driving systems with a focus on entertainment and making driving more effortless. Whilst this may be bad news if you are a car enthusiast who is eager to continue driving cars in the more traditional manner, we believe that this is actually great news for the automotive aftermarket industry – as an easier, more enjoyable driving experience will ultimately lead to more availability of vehicle usage to those who may have not been able to drive traditional cars, and more miles being driven, and anyone in the re-manufacturing sector will be able to tell you, that more miles being driven is always good for business!

The bottom line is, any changes in the automotive aftermarket industry aren’t going to appear overnight, the change will be slow and there will be plenty of time for the industry to adjust and adapt, and we have absolutely no doubt that in the future, that both Premier Components and the automotive aftermarket sector as a whole will continue to thrive!

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How Drivers Can Help to Protect our Environment
17.06.2021

Did you know that, according to The Energy Saving Trust, “by driving smarter” the average UK driver could save between £300 and £350 each year? To drive smarter essentially means to drive more economically, which not only helps save you money, but it helps to protect our environment too by reducing your vehicle emissions. An obvious way to keep your emissions low would be to purchase an economically friendly car, which not only reduces the impact on the environment but also comes with the added benefits of low or zero road tax. However, we realise that it isn’t always realistic to simply “go and buy a new car” as not everyone is in the position to do so, so here are six ways you can be more environmentally responsible, in any vehicle you drive:

  1. Be conscious of your acceleration and braking.

By building up your speed gradually, shifting gears smoothly and braking steadily when required, you can make a real difference to your rate of fuel consumption, reducing the frequency of filling up your tank and the ultimately, your carbon footprint, by reducing the amount of burnt fuel fumes entering the atmosphere.

  1. Reduce your speed.

The slower you drive, the less fuel your vehicle burns, so try not to exceed the speed limits – a car speeding at 80mph on a motorway or dual carriageway has been shown to use approximately 10% more fuel than one driving at the 70mph speed limit.

  1. Remove excess weight from your vehicle.

An unnecessary load means that your vehicle will be using extra fuel, so make sure to remove any items you can from your boot if they aren’t required for your journey, particularly if they are heavy!

  1. Turn off unnecessary in-car electrics.

Air conditioning, car lights, radios, windscreen heaters and plugged-in satnavs that are turned on all contribute to extra fuel consumption, so make sure that these are turned off and unplugged when they are no longer required to ensure you are always driving as “green” as possible.

  1. Reduce your vehicle’s wind resistance.

Roof boxes, roof racks, flags and chunky body kits all contribute to an increase in drag, making your car less aerodynamic and therefore less environmentally-friendly, so remove these if they are no longer required. Keeping car windows and sunroofs closed, particularly at higher speeds, will also help to reduce vehicle wind resistance and therefore fuel consumption.

  1. Check and service your vehicle regularly.

By checking and servicing your car or van regularly, you can help to ensure that your engine is running efficiently and that your tyres are always properly inflated, as driving with under-inflated tyres is not only dangerous but has also been shown to increase vehicle fuel consumption by up to 15% as well.

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What part do we play in the Automotive Aftermarket industry?
17.05.2021

The automotive aftermarket is the secondary market of the automotive industry which encompasses several important roles, including the supply of aftermarket vehicle parts to the remanufacturing industry. When a car or truck is sent to the scrapyard, or when a damaged element is removed, many people do not realise that the leftover parts can essentially be recycled through remanufacturing. Not only does the automotive remanufacturing industry help to lessen the impact that vehicles have on the environment, but it also provides motorists with a cost-efficient alternative to buying brand new vehicle parts when replacing defective ones.

But how do the parts at the scrapyards get to the remanufacturing plants? That is where Premier Components comes in! We have an elite team of knowledgeable core purchasers who travel worldwide to find the right yards with the right core, which then gets shipped to either our base in the United Kingdom or our base in Poland, where each unit is thoroughly checked and graded for quality several times before being carefully stored ready for sale. This is where our expert sales team comes in, liaising with some of the largest automotive remanufacturing plants in the industry, to ensure that the right parts find the right remanufacturing partner.

We have over 25 years of experience in sourcing and supplying aftermarket parts and our global reach continues to expand year after year. Our friendly team undergo regular rigorous training sessions to ensure that their knowledge of parts is always up to date to improve the quality of our purchases and the efficacy of our service. For these reasons, plus many more, Premier Components should be your preferred partner for the supply and purchase of quality aftermarket core. To find out more about our range of stock and our pricing structures, please reach out to us today via +44 (0) 1789 720061 or sales@premiercore.com.

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What to do if your car breaks down
16.04.2021

Most of the time, you would not anticipate that your car could break down, but an estimated 7,000 breakdowns occur in the UK every single day! If you found yourself at the mercy of an unforeseen breakdown, would you know what to do? Here are our top tips for what you should do in the event of your vehicle coming to an unexpected halt:

BREAKING DOWN ON A MOTORWAY OR DUAL CARRIAGEWAY:

  1. Use the hard shoulder and use your lights.

If you can access the hard shoulder, pull over as soon as you can and turn on your hazard lights and side lights. It is also wise to turn your wheels to point away from the road.

  1. Wear a reflective high visibility vest.

Reflective high visibility vests are generally inexpensive to buy and do not take up much room in your vehicle, but they will help to alert other drivers to your presence, especially when it is dark.

  1. Exit from the furthest door from the road and go to a safe distance.

Do not exit the car from the roadside door unless it is unavoidable. Once you are out, move to a safe distance away from your vehicle as soon as possible. If there is an embankment, take yourself up it and if there is a barrier, get behind it if possible. Only place a red warning triangle if it is safe to do so, on a fast busy road, it is not worth risking your life to place it.

  1. Do not try to repair the car yourself.

Do not put yourself in danger trying to fix the car yourself, instead call a breakdown service provider to come to your assistance.

  1. Inform the local authorities of the hazard.

Use a roadside SOS phone, or your mobile if there is not one close by, to inform the local authorities about your broken-down vehicle, as it could be hazardous to other road users.

BREAKING DOWN ON A SINGLE CARRIAGEWAY ROAD:

  1. Pull over to a safe place and turn on your hazard lights.

If you can, find a safe place to pull over your vehicle keeping it as far away from the road traffic as possible. Once you have stopped, turn on your hazard lights, and your side lights too if visibility could be impaired.

  1. Exit your car and move to safe distance to assess the situation.

Exit your car so long as it is safe to do so and get to a safe distance away from the vehicle to assess the situation. If you cannot safely exit your vehicle, remain seated and alert with your seat belt securely fastened.

  1. Put on your high visibility vest and place your red warning triangle.

Make use of your reflective high visibility vest and, if it is safe to do so, place a reflective warning triangle around 50 meters behind your vehicle to alert other drivers of the hazard ahead.

  1. Get back into your vehicle and secure your seatbelt.

Unlike the advice for motorways and dual carriageways, on a single carriageway road the RSA advise that the safest place for you to wait for assistance is inside your vehicle, just makes sure you have your seatbelt securely fastened and remain alert.

  1. Call the local authorities and your breakdown service provider.

Once you are safely strapped into your vehicle, call the local authorities to inform them of the hazard and then call your breakdown service provider so that they can assist you.

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5 Simple Ways to Reduce your Carbon Footprint
22.02.2021

Your carbon footprint is based on the amount of greenhouse gas emissions released into the atmosphere, which are directly attributed to the actions you take in your everyday life. These emissions have a negative impact on the environment and contribute to global warming. As the core foundation of our business is built on recycling, we would like to share with you five simple ways how you can reduce your carbon footprint and lessen your impact on our planet.

  1. Using less energy around the home.

Recent research has found that approximately 26% of our carbon emissions comes from our home energy. There are many things you can do to reduce the amount of energy wasted around your home such as ensuring your home is well insulated, servicing your boiler regularly, installing a smart meter and keeping lights and appliances switched off around the home when they are not needed. You can also go one step further by switching to a green energy supplier to ensure that clean renewable energy is being used to power your home!

  1. Recycling wherever possible.

This one is something we should all be aware of; many types of packaging are now recyclable, and you can check which ones are by looking at the recycling information found on the packet. It is also important to remember to rinse out and dry any products which are dirty before putting them in your recycling bin, as items that still have food on them can contaminate recyclable material, rendering them useless. Soiled items are regularly taken out of the recycling chain and sent to landfill.

  1. Adjusting your diet.

You can help to protect our environment by supporting sustainable farming practices and making small everyday changes to your diet. These changes could include, shopping organic, cutting down on meat consumption and by shopping local, as the shorter the distance your food must travel, the less greenhouse gas emissions! Planning your meals in advance can also help to reduce your carbon footprint as you will know exactly what food you need to buy and less will go to waste!

  1. Considering switching brands and buying recycled car parts.

Today there is an abundance of different brands at our fingertips, quite literally, as most shopping is now done online with a few taps of your finger. Use this as a force for good and opt for brands that support sustainable eco-friendly manufacturing processes and that use packaging which can be recycled.

One thing that you may not have considered when it comes to purchasing recycled goods, is the replacement parts you use in your vehicle when something goes wrong. Did you know that by using a remanufactured car part, you are purchasing a recycled unit which has been saved from the resmelting process? Plus, most remanufactured parts will be cheaper than a new alternative and come with the same length of warranty!

  1. Volunteering to clean up your local area.

If ever you find yourself with some time to spare, you can also consider volunteering in your local community to help clean up your green spaces. Litter is a huge problem worldwide, and by giving up an hour or so of your free time, you can help to undo some of the damage done to our planet, and it will benefit your local community, keeping it clean and tidy for everyone to enjoy!

We hope that you have found these tips useful; if we all work together and make more environmentally friendly choices, we can help to protect our incredible planet.

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How the Brexit Trade Deal will Affect Us
23.01.2021

Everyone is aware that the UK exited the EU on the 1st January and thankfully at the very last moment a trade deal was agreed and it is now in operation and Premier Components, like many importers and exporters, have experienced some delays due to the new rules, regulations and documents that now apply.

Premier Components have been working extremely diligently with their customers, suppliers and third parties such as logistics and IT suppliers to ensure that we are fully compliant and that any delays are minimised. We would like to thank everyone for their patience and understanding as we all adapt to this new way of working.

By way of a small update we have laid out the main areas that have changed and where new documentation and procedures are applicable:

 

Customs Declarations

Customs declarations will now be required at both export and import, both here in the UK and in the EU. In addition to this, import Vat will apply and will be payable based on the rules of the member state in the EU. The agreement does not affect arrangements on trade between Great Britain and Northern Ireland, which are covered under a separate protocol.

Tariffs and Quotas

There will be no tariffs on goods exported or imported between the UK and EU 27. Supplier declaration will be required from the exporter’s suppliers confirming origin of goods. If the import goods do not originate in the UK/EU add no value (or undertake minimal processes and then export to the EU) then these products will be subject to the MFN standard tariffs and duties may apply. The same goes for goods coming from the EU to the UK.

Conformity

Agreement avoids unnecessary technical barriers to trade with the EU on low-risk products, more specifically information is provided on automotive products, wine, organics, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals.

In summary:

  • The UK/EU FTA eliminated duties and some invisible tariffs on goods which qualify subject to rules of origin.
  • Duties will still apply (subject to the Tariff) on non-originating goods as we have left the Customs Union.
  • Check conformity issues for specific goods.
  • Import VAT will need to be accounted for/payable in the EU.

Whilst some of this information may seem a little overwhelming, we can assure you that we have all aspects of import and export compliance under control here at Premier Components, and we are more than happy to offer any assistance, advice, or reassurance to any of our current (or prospective) trade partners.

We are so pleased that our transition out of the EU has been successful, and that we have an exciting prosperous future ahead with the European automotive aftermarket and remanufacturing industry!

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10 Common Mistakes that Could Void your Car Insurance
12/18/2020

Car insurance is a legal requirement for all motorists in the United Kingdom, and in most other countries Worldwide, but did you know that in the UK alone, around 43,000 claims are denied by motor insurers each year? Here we have listed 10 of the most common mistakes made when taking out an insurance policy to help you avoid invalidating your insurance:

  1. Listing an incorrect main address

The postcode of your main address can impact your motor insurance quote, but as tempting as it may be to use a relative’s postcode to bring down your premium, please avoid doing so as it may render your insurance invalid, particularly if your car gets broken into at your actual address and you try to make a claim! It is also important to remember to report any main address changes to your insurer as soon as possible for the same reason.

Motor insurance companies have their own investigative departments dedicated to making sure the information provided by policy holders is correct, so the likelihood is that an incorrect address will be flagged if you try to make a claim further down the line.

  1. Not disclosing car modifications

Car modifications can affect the cost of your car insurance for two main reasons: if they are deemed to increase the likelihood of a motor collision, or if they will make your car more desirable to car thieves. Not disclosing even minor modifications can leave you at risk of losing out if you end up needing to make a claim.

  1. Declaring a false annual mileage

Your annual mileage is an important factor insurance companies use to quote your premium and as expected, the higher your annual mileage, the higher the cost of the premium. Whilst it can be tempting to disclose a slightly lower mileage to keep the price down, it could end up costing you a lot more in the long run as a claim can be rejected if your vehicle has exceeded the mileage stated on your policy.

  1. Selecting the wrong car usage category

Motor insurance covers three types of car usage, these are social only, business only, and social and commuting. If you select the wrong category, you risk not being covered in the event of an accident. For example, if your policy states that your vehicle is only insured for social purposes, and you then try to make a claim resulting from a collision you were involved in whilst commuting for work, there is a good chance that your insurance company may reject your claim!

  1. “Fronting” the policy with another main driver

If you are deemed a “higher risk” policy holder, for example if you are a newly passed driver or have made claims in the past, it can often be tempting to put a “low risk” driver (such as a parent or partner) as the main driver on your policy, and to list yourself as an additional driver instead. Declaring the main driver as a named driver on your policy is a form of insurance fraud and is often referred to as “fronting”. If your insurance company discovers this, your policy will be cancelled immediately with any claims denied. It can also result in the insurer taking legal action against you and, if found guilty, you could face fines of up to £5,000 and six points on your driving licence.

  1. Driving with unsecured pets

With more than 40% of UK households reporting to own at least one pet, it isn’t unusual to be transporting them in your cars – but did you know that if you have a collision and it is reported you had an unsecured pet in the vehicle your insurance company could refuse to pay out? Having your pets properly secured in your vehicle is now a legal requirement as unsecured pets can cause you to be more at risk of having an accident, as they can distract the driver or physically get in the way preventing you from being able to drive safely.

  1. Selecting an incorrect occupation

The occupation you select when searching for a car insurance quote is another essential element motor insurance companies will consider when determining your risk profile. If you try to make a claim, and your current occupation does not match what is stated on your insurance paperwork, you may find your claim is denied. Therefore, it is also equally as important to inform your insurance company of any new job changes to ensure that you are always fully protected.

  1. Letting someone else drive your vehicle

Whilst most fully comprehensive policies will cover drivers using other people’s vehicles, most of these will only cover them on a third-party basis. This means that if someone else is involved in an accident whilst driving your car or if your vehicle is damaged or stolen whilst in their care, your insurer may not pay out for the damages!

  1. Not informing your insurer of minor accidents

Often if people have a small bump or scrape while driving, only cosmetic damage occurs and when this happens it is common for motorists to fail to report this damage to their insurance providers, as they aren’t planning to make a claim. However, by not informing them of this damage you are likely in breach of your policy, and if you try to claim for any other damages further down the line, if additional damage is found which is inconsistent with the nature of your claim, your entire claim may be refused.

  1. Charging people when car-sharing

Did you know that by charging friends or colleagues for lifts your car insurance company could technically classify you as a “taxi hire service” which could render your insurance invalid? In fact, some policies will specifically exclude cover for car sharing altogether, whether you are profiting from it or not, so it is always worth reading through the small print of your insurance policy paperwork to check beforehand!

In fact, it is important to read the terms and conditions of your policy thoroughly regardless, to ensure that you are always going to be covered in your current circumstances and that you are not going to make any mistakes which could accidentally result in voiding your policy. If you are unsure about any of the terms stated within your agreement, give your insurer’s helpline a call to gain clarification and always make sure to report any changes which could affect your policy, no matter how small or insignificant they may seem.

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Our Logistics Brexit Preparations
21.11.2020

Back in March 2017 the UK government officially gave notice for leaving the European Union by filing a notification under Article 50 of the EU Treaty, but what exactly does that mean for freight transport operations when the Brexit transition period ends on 1st January 2021?

Currently, with just over a month to go, this is still not clear as trade deal negotiations between the UK and the EU remain ongoing, with a no-deal Brexit now looking increasingly possible. Despite the uncertainty around exactly what terms the United Kingdom and the EU will be trading on in the new year, Premier Components are working proactively in the background to ensure that we prepared and ready to continue trading with our EU suppliers and customers once this transition period comes to an end.

To help us prepare, we have established an in-house Brexit taskforce who meet together on a weekly basis, at a minimum, to focus on ensuring that the company will be ready to trade seamlessly with our EU counterparts once the transition is finalised. As part of this work, our IT department have developed an automated system which links to our accounting software to create commercial invoices for both sales and purchase transactions. By systemising customs declaration requirements, and other relevant administration processes, we will help to eliminate the possibility of delays relating to shipping documentation preparation.

In addition to streamlining our administration procedures to improve efficiency, we are also currently in the process of contacting our current customer base to discuss each individual’s desired trade needs going forward, to determine what plans and new measures need to be put in place within our logistics department in particular. Part of these talks include whether customers want to arrange their own goods collections or use Premier’s own transport solutions post-Brexit. Gathering this vital information, in addition to our own preparations, will enable us to source a frictionless customs solution to offer our customers, and to develop a staff training programme which will ensure our workforce are knowledgeable on all new processes and procedures relating to Brexit.

Once the Brexit negotiations are concluded, we will keep our customers and suppliers informed of any internal or external changes which may affect their future shipments, but you can be assured that Premier Components’ priority is to keep our logistics processes and supply chain both efficient and competitive, whatever deal is agreed.

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Our Post-COVID Working Environment
16.10.2020

Billions of people all over the World have had their lives and livelihoods affected by the novel coronavirus. As employers, it is our responsibility to put measures in place at our premises to help protect our staff and to play our part in the fight against the spread of COVID-19.

As a company, we have been fortunate in a sense, as our facilities already had many of the foundations in place making our transition into a post-coronavirus working environment relatively straight-forward. Most of our on-site workforce spend the majority of their time in one of our large open warehouses, which are so spacious and open that social distancing measures were easy to implement, as there is plenty of room to move around without having to come too close to other employees. Our main warehouse doors are also kept open during working hours, due to the volume of activity we have moving stock in and out of the buildings, which also ensures a fresh flow of air is always present. In addition to this, we have also always actively encouraged our warehouse team to wear face masks, to protect them from inhaling dust particles, something which has now become an important part of all our lives to help protect us from inhaling germs.

Around all our buildings we have introduced extra measures, which include social distancing and hygiene importance signage throughout, installing hand sanitising stations and allowing our staff to work from home if appropriate, and in their own private office spaces wherever this has been possible to do so. We have also arranged for all on-site staff to have staggered break and lunch times with a one-in one-out procedure in place in certain communal areas such as kitchen and toilet facilities.

As a business we have also limited the number of visitors we have on site and are opting to host meetings with clients over Skype or phone conferences instead wherever possible. We also regularly reiterate to our workforce that strict hygiene rules and government advised self-isolation rules and health advice must always be followed stringently.

We hope that this short update has allowed for some peace of mind about our pandemic compliancy, and we look forward to welcoming future business opportunities with safety at the forefront of our company values.

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Pointing you in the right direction
02.09.2020

In our July blog, we put a spotlight on ELVPP as the Premier Components smart tool to be use by our partners -  vehicle dismantlers. Of course, there is more positive of facets of having the ELVPP but the important one is that the system quickly identifies the vehicle and displays a list of parts with a value to sell to us


Our database cover over a million products and recently has been added transitions and engine section


The database is growing and also, Premier Components is keep on moving. We are happy to inform you that we are  moving turbo and commercial section from unit 22 to 21 as number of our stock is constantly increasing.


 This is a time to use Premier Components web purchasing tool ELVPP. When you are searching to sell your selected core units. This tool gives you the satisfaction of having both a guaranteed sale and revenue stream.


In the heartbeat you can become our partner. You just need to contact with our ELVPP team via the purchase link on the website or by phone 01789722908 and email at support”elvpp.com  you can of course visit website www.elvpp.com

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We want to say Thank You
30.07.2020

 During this time we want to take opportunity to update you on how we are approaching the new uncertainties associated with changes brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Firstly, we want to thank you, our valued customers and suppliers for being with us during these unusual times. We are truly inspired by your commitment to making a difference in these unprecedented and challenging times.

The Premier Components UK Ltd team have been working hard to come up with  practical tools and techniques to make things work better for our colleagues and most importantly for our customers and suppliers who use our services.

The determination and dedication that has always characterised the Premier Components UK Ltd spirt is fully displayd in a single action that has been taken across the UK and the Europe.

We are proud to announce that  we have successfully moved forward our ELVPP launch data from October 2020 to July 2020.

ELVPP is our web purchasing tool which is ready to be used by our Partner Vehicle Dismantlers from July 2020. This innovating and simple dismantling tool has a database of over 50 000 vehicles and a wide range covering a multitude of unique parts.The database covers over a milion products.

Do not wait to become our partner. You can apply by contacting our ELVPP team via the purchase link on the website  or by phone 01789722908 and email at support@elvpp.com you can of course visit our website www.elvpp.com

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COVID-19 : Announcement for our customers and business partners
04.05.2020

In those difficult times, Premier Components UK Ltd. is committed to health and safety of our families, colleagues, customers and, business partners who make up Premier Component’s alive and well kicking worldwide company. It is our highest priority to maintain business continuity needed to provide support and service to all our customers around the world.

As we all experience uncertainty of COVID-19, you can rely on Premier Components for continuity of the service. We are here to support your business and enable you to meet the needs of your company.

Over the last few weeks, we have taken all necessary precautions and steps to deal with COVID-19 outbreak, as well as the measures we have taken to prevent the spread of the virus and minimize the risk to our employees, customers and society in general.

Introduction of new tools of keeping teams connected enable our service to stay up and running at all the times.

If you have enquiries or needs, please do not hesitate to use links below to contact our Purchase team or Sale team, and we will respond as soon as possible.

Email: sales@premiercore.com
Email: purchase@premiercore.com

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Our Visit to ReMaTec Amsterdam 2019
27.02.2020

Since 2001 ReMaTec has been well-known throughout Europe for being one of the leading remanufacturing trade shows for industry professionals. The exhibition is hosted bi-yearly at RAI Amsterdam in the Netherlands and at each event attracts an impressive array of automotive aftermarket and remanufacturing leaders from across Europe, but is ReMaTec worth a visit? Last month, some of Premier Components’ team travelled to Amsterdam to exhibit at the show and have kindly provided their honest feedback on the event.

"As always, ReMaTec was very good for us this year as a company. The attendance levels were high on all three days and there was a great positive energy circulating throughout the show. We felt that by exhibiting at ReMaTec we were provided with a great opportunity to create new business deals for the company and to reconnect with some of our current customers and build on already positive intercompany relationships.” – Alex Holland.

“Premier Components are one of the leading aftermarket core brokers, not just in the United Kingdom, but throughout Europe as well, and the bi-yearly ReMaTec exhibitions are a fantastic base for us to meet with current customers to discuss ongoing business arrangements, and to meet new prospective customers to discuss how we can provide them with a mutually beneficial solution for their aftermarket requirements. From our perspective, the show was very enjoyable and overall a great success for the business. By exhibiting at ReMaTec 2019 we also found that we were offered a fresh insight into how the European market is developing and changing as a whole, and we are now able to utilise this information to ensure that Premier Components remains at the top as a preferred supplier across the European continent. Premier’s leading presence in the European marketplace is something that we are very proud of as a company and we are always excited to be able demonstrate our expertise at ReMaTec. We are already looking forward to attending again in 2021.” – Keiron Pope.

 

As you can see, the feedback we have regarding the ReMaTec event has been very positive overall; this show in particular is one that the Premier Components team never misses – so if your business operations fall within the European automotive aftermarket sector, we would confident to say that it is definitely worth a visit.

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Our Visit to Autopromotec Bologna 2019
27.02.2020

For those who may not know, Autopromotec is a highly anticipated European aftermarket exhibition with a 50-year history, which is held bi-annually in beautiful Bologna, Italy. With almost 3,600 exhibitors at the 2017 event, this show hosts an array of companies within the automotive service sector, including aftermarket part dealers, remanufacturers, workshop equipment and tyre specialists to name but a few. This year, the show was expected to be even bigger, but is Autopromotec worth a visit? Last month some of Premier Components’ team travelled to Bologna to attend the show and have kindly provided their honest feedback on the event…

“From my perspective, the show was very interesting, and we were extremely busy there covering more than 30 meetings each day with the objective of meeting and securing new potential customers and suppliers in the Italian market. We have lots of follow-ups to do now which will soon show the full value that attending Autopromotec has delivered for us. From a market perspective, I believe that this exhibition has offered us valuable insight into Italy’s aftermarket part market structure, conditions, trends and developments. All of this new information can now be used to help us increase our European presence and to offer a more tailored service to Italy’s rebuilding industry and our customers there.” – Tomasz Kowalski.

“The Italian automotive market is one that Premier Components are very much active in, and from our perspective, the show was a real success and offered an insight into how the Italian market is changing, and with this where we fit in as a preferred supplier in this region. As with all trade shows, the follow up is the most crucial element and since returning from the show I have tasked my team, who are experts in the field, with following up each customer relevant to their specialist product knowledge and this is something that they have been doing a tremendous job of so far. Our presence in the European marketplace will always be extremely important to us as a company, and though we continue to take a good market share over this part of the world, I am always excited to see both current customers who have grown over the years, and new companies that we do not currently have the pleasure of dealing with as this show how far we have come as a company, and also how far we can go with all of the opportunities around us.” – Keiron Pope.

Overall, the feedback from Autopromotec has been extremely positive for us as a company – so if your business is within the automotive aftermarket sector, we believe that it’s a show that is definitely worth attending.

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The Honest Truth about Electric Cars
27.02.2020

Environmental impact is becoming a growing concern for most people in Britain and across the globe, and we are always thinking of any small ways we can help to make a difference. One thing you may have considered is whether to switch to an electric vehicle. But how realistic is this option, and do electric cars really live up to their “green” expectations? Read on to find out about what Britons are concerned about and the truth behind their worries:

Can I afford to buy an electric car?

The truth is electric cars don’t come particularly cheap. In fact, the cheapest on the current UK market is a Renault Zoe, which can be picked up for around £22,000 when purchased using a Government Grant. You may be able to get an older model a bit cheaper but beware that previous versions will most likely feature older tech, which can mean decreased battery sizes, a shorter driving range and motors of a poorer quality. The good news here, is that as electric cars become more popular and widespread, new models will emerge and these will no doubt include vehicles that are more affordable to purchase.

Do they take a long time to charge?

The answer to this question really lies with which electric vehicle you are charging, what charging point you are using and what you consider to be a “long time”. Currently in the UK we are a bit behind when it comes to car charging speed, typically the average electric car has a 60kWh battery, which would take approximately 8 hours to charge from empty to full using a standard 7kW charging point. However, if you were to use a 50kW rapid charger, you would be able to top up 100 miles of electric driving power in around 30 minutes.

For those of you who need a faster charging speed, you may be in luck in the future, as a new generation of electric cars is rolling out across Europe which can be charged using a super-fast 350kW charging point, which could mean fully charging your electric vehicle in as little as 10 to 15 minutes! The bad news is, it may be a while before the UK catches up, as currently there is only one vehicle on the UK market which can accept even a 150kW charge (The Audi E-tron) so there are currently no charging stations here capable of charging anything even close to 350kW.

Are they really “greener” than regular cars?

Electric cars are certainly more environmentally friendly to drive than a petrol or diesel alternative, but are they really as green as they are marketed to be? The uncomfortable truth is this may not be the case! Whilst they are undoubtably better for the planet than non-electric cars, ultimately their carbon footprint is determined by the nature of the electricity generation that is feeding the battery pack. Currently only around 27.9% of electric energy produced in the UK is generated by renewable production, meaning that almost three quarters of all electricity produced here is from non-renewable sources, this means that charging your vehicle may be more environmentally damaging than you have been led to believe by marketing campaigns!

Are they actually cheaper to run?

Currently yes! Due to high costs of petrol, diesel and the higher rates of road tax for regular fuel powered vehicles, electric cars are currently much cheaper to run. However, this may not always be the case in the future! As the electric revolution unfolds, the government is inevitably going to lose billions currently raised from fuel taxation. This deficit will need replacing, and they will have to find another way to raise the funds, which in inevitably lead to having to tax electricity in the same way. So, you may find in the future that charging your electric car won’t come quite so cheaply after all!

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Premier Components UK Ltd.
Unit 701
Meon Vale Business Park
Campden Road
Stratford-upon-Avon
Warwickshire
CV37 8QR

Tel: +44(0) 1789 720 061
Email: sales@premiercore.com
Company Number: 03577119
© Copyright 2020 Premier Components UK Ltd
Company Number GB 696 0345 13
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