Author Archives: Justin Smith

About Justin Smith

As the man at the helm of BreakerLink, it is no surprise that its Director, Justin Smith, has always had a keen interest in cars, bikes and most things wheeled. Having spent over two decades in the car parts industry, Justin combines his passion that since 2002, has successfully united those looking for new and used car parts with the breaker that supplies them. Follow Justin on LinkedIn.

BMW X3 Common Problems

BMW X3

SUVs and larger 4×4 cars have become incredibly popular over the last two decades and front and centre of this list is the BMW X3. A strong and stable vehicle that oozes power and German efficiency, if you want to make a statement on the road then this is a car that definitely demands a slice of attention.

You can pick up an X3 in good working order from a second hand BMW specialist or a used car trader, but you are unlikely to find one going cheap. With this vehicle demanding high prices, it’s always important to check for commonly occurring problems – so use our list to make sure you don’t get caught out.

Continue reading →

Volkswagen Bora – Common Problems

Side view of VW boraThinking of purchasing a VW Bora as a second hand car? These compact city cars are available as 4 door saloons and hatchbacks and are great for both fuel economy and space. Replacing the popular Vento in 1998, the vehicle has now been superseded by the Jetta in 2005.

As with many models of VW, this car was certainly built to last and is a good investment for anyone looking to maximise their investment in a second hand purchase. However, there are a number of common faults, which you should be aware of before handing over your money.

Continue reading →

How to Prepare Your Car for its MOT

MOT Logo

In 2015 nearly 40% of all cars failed their MOT, according to the DVSA. Many cars fail for simple reasons, which could have been checked and fixed by the owner before they dropped of their vehicle at the test centre.

Avoid wasting time and save yourself money with our simple guide that helps you prepare your car for its MOT. All you have to do is follow each section and we will give you some guidelines and tell you what to do if your vehicle isn’t up to the required standard.

Continue reading →

Test Driving a Used Car

Car and key in a dealership

You’ve saved up the money. You know what you want. You might have even done a little research into the makes and models that most appeal to your needs and inner motorist. Let’s face it – buying a used car is a little bit exciting. But it can be stressful too.

Last thing you want to do is waste any hard-earned cash on a good-looking jalopy that turns out to be a right old pile of rust and bolts beneath the bonnet. So, you’ve scoured the papers and have visited a couple of dealer’s yards. Now for that moment of truth. It’s the test drive – and what should you be looking out for?

Continue reading →

How to Extend the Lifespan of Your Key Car Parts

Car parts

Naturally you understand the importance of regular oil changes. You probably even know about keeping the coolant and water topped up in your reservoirs. All of these simple tasks help keep your car working properly. And of course, if you look after your car then you’ll not only reduce service and maintenance costs, but you’ll also extend the lifespan of the vehicle.

Continue reading →

Preparing your car for the summer

Car driving in the summer

We have talked previously about how to prepare your car for the winter months, but what about sorting it out for the hotter months, and getting it ready for the summer?

Heat, dust and the stop and start driving associated with heavily congested summer holiday roads can all take a toll on your vehicle and impact its ability to perform. Apart from the regular checks, what season specific things can you do to ensure your car is ready and prepped for the sunshine streets?

Continue reading →

Common Problems with the BMW 5 Series

BMW 5 Series

There’s always been something cool about a BMW. These cars, famous for their quality engineering and top class ride stats, are epitomised by the 5 series. Instantly recognisable as the mid-range luxury model that nicely bridges the gap between sexy motoring and family car, it’s no wonder this machine has been gracing the roads of Europe since 1972.

A second hand BMW 5 series is widely recognised as a good investment. These cars are known to last for many years, keeping their looks and style long into their lifespan. However, you need to be aware of a number of common problems with the BMW 5 series, so be vigilant and guard against these faults when considering any used vehicle from this range.

Continue reading →

Audi TT Common Problems

Audi TT

The Audi TT is an iconic vehicle, with some saying it takes more than a slice of inspiration from the VW Beetle. Audi are staying quite tight lipped about the car’s origins, although we can be sure that it is named after the famous Isle of Man TT race.

Originally manufactured as a 2 door coupe, this car is a fast roadster available as a nippy 1.8L all the way up to a top of the range 3.2L, which will chew up the motorways. And of course, as Audi is brand you can trust, the TT is a very good second hand investment. Servicing and replacement Audi parts are easy to come by, helping to keep running costs reasonable. Thinking of purchasing one? Check out this article to make sure you avoid some of the most common problems known to beset this model of car.

Continue reading →

BMW X5 Common Problems

BMW X5

Want a decent 4×4? Why not take a look at what BMW have to offer in the form of the X5, a competent mid-range SUV. Available in both automatic and manual variations, this sporty yet practical car has been a favourite for both country dwellers who need a bit of power on the dirt roads and urbanites looking to make that strong impression.

If you are considering purchasing a second hand X5, be aware of these warning signs. Whilst the car is generally considered a safe investment, there are a number of widely reported problems that you need to guard against.

Continue reading →

Audi A3 Common Problems

Audi A3

The Audi A3 is a quality small car that gives you the best of Audi’s engineering in a city run around that’s both agile and quick to accelerate. Perfect for a second car or for a younger driver who’s after their first vehicle, the Audi A3 is resilient and operates well in tough conditions.

If you are considering purchasing an Audi A3, then what are some of the most common problems you need to be aware of before parting with your money?

Continue reading →