Oct 26, 2022 | Engine oil, Maintenance and polishing |
An oil filter is an essential part of the internal combustion engine. On this page, more info on replacing the oil filter and fuel filter.
Oil filter
Every engine needs oil to lubricate things, whether it is a diesel or petrol engine does not matter. Some of the engine oil will burn because of the great heat in the combustion engine which requires the oil filter to work. The filter separates the burnt engine oil from the other lubricants and also removes dirt, soot and other particles. If that dirt gets into the engine, the unfiltered oil can damage the engine. Therefore, the oil filter plays a crucial role in ensuring the longevity of the vehicle's engine. Simply put, the oil filter is responsible for keeping the internal combustion engine clean.
Generally, the oil filter is changed between 10 and 25,000 km. But this depends a lot on how often you change the oil and how many miles you drive. You should also remember to change the oil filter together with the oil. To change it, you need a special spanner, consult your car's owner's manual. Long-term use reduces the filter's performance. So regular maintenance is essential for the preservation of your car.
Cause of faulty oil filter
The oil filter fails when its components become dirty or damaged over time. The causes of oil filter failure may be as follows:
- If the grease or spare parts used are of poor quality.
- If the spare parts used are not suitable.
- Improper use of the car engine, such as speeding while the engine is not yet warm.
- The oil filter also breaks down if the spring of the part is too tight.
Signs of faulty oil filters
Look for the following signs to recognise a faulty oil filter:
- If you notice grease dripping under the engine while parked.
- If the oil pressure light on the dashboard is on.
- If the oil filter housing becomes swollen.
Changing the oil filter
If you encounter any of the above signs, it is time to replace the oil filter. It is not possible to repair the oil filter. Remember that the filter should be replaced together with the engine oil. Preferably have this done by a specialist in the garage. If the replacement is not done at the right time, it can harm the engine.
Fuel filter
There are one or two fuel filters in every vehicle, which should filter the fuel before it enters the injection system. Regular loading and contamination can reduce the fuel filter's performance over time, making it less efficient. Therefore, the fuel filter should be changed frequently to ensure that the fuel is free from contamination.
There are essentially two types of fuel filters - the first is a strainer whose job is to refine the oil going from the fuel pump to the tank. And the second filters the oil back from the fuel tank to the engine.
Fuel filter fault signals
You should pay attention to the following fault signals to replace the fuel filter in time:
- Decreasing engine power
- Decreasing engine power under acceleration
- Difficult terrain conditions cause engine stalling
- Regular engine failures
- When the engine lights come on
The fuel filter is responsible for removing dirt from the fuel for efficient operation. Clogging in the filters is often noticed only through improper engine function and reduced power. If you encounter any of the above symptoms, it could mean it is time to replace the fuel filter.
Replace fuel filter
Although most fuel filters have a lifetime guarantee for fuel filter maintenance, a second fuel filter should be replaced regularly as it has a shorter service life than the primary fuel filter.
The primary filter lasts about 150,000 km, while the other fuel filter should be replaced every 60,000 km.
To replace the fuel filter, it is best to visit a mechanic at the nearby garage or follow the following steps:
- Disconnect the fuel line from the MPFI engine and reduce the inlet pressure of the electronic fuel pump.
- Make sure the engine is in neutral and the handbrake is on. Now start the engine and reduce the pressure in the fuel line.
- Now turn off the engine as soon as the pressure decreases. Refer to the user manual and follow the instructions. For safety reasons, remove the pump fuse from the fuse box. If this requires additional tools, it is best to go to specialist garage.
- Before attaching the fuel filter - check the slot mark on the new filter compared to the old one. And attach it accordingly.
- Secure the filter by tightening the screws, nuts and bolts. Replace the pump fuse in the fuse box.
And you are done replacing the fuel filter.
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Oct 21, 2022 | Financial |
When you lease rather than buy a car, the big advantage is that you don't spend a big chunk of money all at once. This is because you pay a fixed amount to the leasing company every month. Would you like to lease a car but is the lease amount for a new lease car on the high side? Then you should look into the possibilities of leasing an occasion car. If you haven't done this before, you might not know how to go about it. Therefore, in this article, we will help you on the right track!
Private lease occasion? Don't take any chances
Have you decided you want to lease a car? Is it your first car? Or is your current car due for replacement? Then you may want to nail it down. It's just not wise to take any chances overnight. As leasing has gained popularity in recent years, the range of options on offer has grown. So you have quite a lot to choose from.
Do you see a used lease car and instantly fall in love with it? Then you might want to take out a lease immediately. Yet you would do well to look a bit further. You might find a similar car elsewhere, but for much less money. Therefore, take your time and orient yourself well. Only then will you succeed in getting the best private lease occasion find.
Comparable used lease cars
Anyone looking for a 2nd-hand lease car is likely to start their search online. Chances are you will type something like 'lease used car' into a search engine. This search will give you numerous results. Most people click on one of the first results and see if a suitable used car is among them. If you can't find anything here, you will probably move on to the next site.
When you take this approach, it can take you quite some time to find a used lease car. Fortunately, there is an easier and faster way to compare leased cars. In fact, there are many comparison sites that have already done the work for you. Consider, for example, the company driectleaseprivate.co.uk. After you fill in your requirements, this site will immediately start working for you. You will get an overview in no time, allowing you to quickly see what the best lease car is.
Don't just look at the price
A common mistake when comparing leased cars is that often before the cheapest private lease car is chosen. A low monthly fee is nice, but it should not be at the expense of other things. After all, the terms and conditions are at least as important. If you do not take a look at these before signing the contract, you might end up with surprises. This is not desirable, as it could make your lease contract turn out (a lot) more expensive than you expected in advance. Reason enough to always look beyond the price.
We wish you good luck with the search!
Oct 20, 2022 | Maintenance and polishing |
The Nissan Qashqai is one of the most popular Nissan models worldwide. This 5-door crossover SUV can be found on Dutch roads since 2007. In 2008, the slightly larger version also appeared on the market under the name Qashqai+2 with 7 instead of 5 seats.
Nissan Qashqai a groundbreaker?
Since this car appeared on the market, it was an instant success and many competitors have therefore appeared on the market over the years that have copied the Qashqai's success. Think, for example, of the Peugeot 3008, Ford Kuga and Renault Kadjar. This handsome car can therefore rightly be called a founding father in the crossover segment.
Due to the great success of the Nissan Qashqai the selection on the 2nd-hand market is also large. There is a choice of petrol and diesel engines and drives.
On this page, read everything you need to know about the inspection of this mid-size SUV.
Maintenance Nissan Qashqai
Even though a regular inspection costs money, in the long run it is definitely the best choice to save high costs. By having the car inspected periodically, it always remains technically up-to-date, well-maintained and roadworthy.
Any breakdowns are also minimised by the inspection. A complete service booklet is also essential to maintain the manufacturer's warranty, and in case of any resale, a complete service history is also worth money.
This page applies to all three Qashqai models built to date. These are the J10 series (2006 to 2013), the J11 series (2013 to 2021) and the current J12 series (from 2021).
Intervals for maintenance
For the J10 series, the inspection intervals are 20,000 kilometres or 12 months (whichever comes first). Depending on the year of manufacture, for the 1.6-litre petrol and turbo diesel engines, 30,000 kilometres applies.
For the Qashqai series J11 and J12, the period between servicing according to the service plan is 12 months. All available engines may be driven a maximum of 30,000 kilometres during this period. Therefore, if you have reached this mileage before, you will have to go to the garage earlier for an inspection.
What work will be carried out?
- Oil change and oil filter replacement
- Visual inspection of the braking system
- Functional control of the brake
- Checking shock absorbers and springs as well as suspension and tyres
- Checking the condition of bodywork and paintwork
- Check exhaust and bottom plate
- Checking all headlights and lamps
- Check engine and transmission for leaks (oil leaks)
- Checking engine emissions
- Checking coolant and windscreen washer fluid levels
- Reading out stored errors and repairing them
- Checking the key battery
- Lubrication of locks and hinges
- Maintenance indicator is reset to zero
Additional work
- Brake fluid change every 2 years
- Cabin filter replaced every 2 years
- Exact chassis check with shock absorber test every 3 years
- Change air filter every 4 years
- Replace spark plugs every 2 or 3 years (after 60,000 km)
- Coolant change after 5 years (every 100,000 km)
- Performing a navigation update
- For diesel engines, replace the timing belt, tensioner and water pump at the latest after 150,000 km or at the latest after 6 years (additional costs!)
- On petrol engines, carry out a visual inspection of the timing chain every 90,000 km, replace chain after 300,000 km if necessary
- Replace worn parts if discovered during inspection (extra cost!)
Cost of servicing Qashqai
The average cost of the inspection according to the service plan is relatively the same for all models. Count around 250 - 550 euros for basic maintenance including engine oil changes and replacement of smaller parts (various filters, wipers, etc.).
If larger jobs need to be done, the costs can quickly add up. Of course, this is only an indication, please contact your garage for an exact quote!
Water pump and timing belt Nissan Qashqai
Apart from the diesel engines, almost all other engines in the Qashqai have a maintenance-free timing chain fitted, which can easily withstand more than 300,000 kilometres of mileage. However, be aware that a timing chain can also cause problems. So keep a close eye on this!
Oct 17, 2022 | EV |
If you have bought an electric car, then you obviously need to think about how you are going to charge it at your home. Many people doubt whether a charging station for home is convenient. For that reason, all the pros and cons of a charging station for home are listed below. Hopefully, based on those pros and cons, you can make an easier choice.
Charging in front of the door
If you are thinking about buying a home charging station, you may be expected to charge the car at other places at the moment. In many cases, of course, this is not a problem, but with a busy schedule, it can be difficult to make time to charge the car. A home charging station has the advantage of being able to charge the electric car at your doorstep.
This means that when you get home after a long day, you can easily plug in the car to recharge. You don't actually have to look after it anymore. This allows you to go about any other household task that was still on the schedule. Is the car charged? Then you can go to sleep with peace of mind.
Different charging stations
Another advantage of a home charging station is that you have a huge amount of choice. Electric driving is becoming increasingly popular, so different charging posts are made. For example, you can choose a charging station that is fixed in the ground with a fixed cable. Would you rather have the charging cable in your home? Then again, you can choose a charging station with a loose charging cable.
In addition, you can choose to mount the charging station on the wall. The alfen charging stations are great for this. As with a charge post in the ground, with a wall-mounted charge post you can choose between a fixed or loose cable. An advisor can give you more information on the different types of charging stations so you can make a good choice.
Installing a charging station
The only disadvantage of a home charging station is the installation. Installing a charging station does need to be done safely. For example, it is important that the charging station does not cause an overload that causes all the fuses to go out. It is therefore important that the electricity grid can handle enough power.
For this reason, it is often recommended to get a 3-phase connection. Most houses in the Netherlands operate on a single-phase connection and that is probably not sufficient for a charging post for home. Find out first whether it is safe to take a home charging station.
Oct 6, 2022 | Maintenance and polishing |
WD40 spray, who doesn't know it! You will recognise the blue and yellow sprays with the red cap out of thousands.
WD40 Spray
The spray characterises itself as the number one problem solver for any job and WD40 helps with, among other things.
- Protecting material from corrosion;
- Loosening stuck parts;
- Expelling moisture;
- Lubricating parts;
- Preventing dehydration;
- Removal of oil, dirt and grease.
WD-40 offers a wide range of special care products for lubricating, lubricating, degreasing and cleaning, helping people all over the world to get the job done! The formula - a well-kept secret - is exactly the same today as when it was first invented. Did you know that WD40 is also very useful for jobs in and around the car? We have listed 10 tips for you!
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Lubricate and protect hinge points
Make sure your vehicle's doors open and close smoothly with the WD-40. Use the bendable straw to regularly spray the door hinges to ensure everything opens and closes smoothly.
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Protect chrome and bring back shine
Rust can form on the metal on which chrome is plated, but corrosion is no match for WD-40. Coat the surface with the original WD-40 formula, let it soak in for 10 minutes, then gently wipe off. Rinse, re-spray and polish for a superior shine.
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Dissolve stubborn dirt and grease without scratching
WD-40 is safe to use on your vehicle's paintwork. For stubborn grease and grime, coat the area with WD-40, wipe it clean and rinse - it's that simple!
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Lubricate the locks/hinges of the bonnet
Banish creaks and crackles from the bonnet, use WD-40 to tackle stubborn and stuck latches and hinges.
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Make sure bolts and nuts can be easily loosened
Soak nuts and bolts in WD40 before use for easier disassembly or replacement at a later date.
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Stop squeaks in shock absorbers
Is there noise and squeaking coming from the shock absorbers and strut mounts? Then use the spray to dampen these noises.
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Remove stickers, emblems, insects and bird droppings
Use WD-40 to remove stickers, emblems or other material stuck on your car. Spray it on the surface, wait 30 seconds to a minute and then use a scratch-free scouring pad to wipe it clean. Remember to rinse with soap and water when you are done.
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Clean and shiny tyres
Use WD-40 to clean the side of your tyres. It will look completely different again!
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Remove oil from your hands or other surfaces
If you need to remove oil from your hands, old oil cans, exhaust pipes or even large oil stains on the driveway after doing odd jobs, WD-40 will wash it off. When you're done removing the oil with WD-40, simply rinse with soap and water.
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Cleaning contact points
If the spark plugs are dirty and/or there is rust try to clean this as best you can. It may be an idea to spray the spark plugs and other electrical contact points with a little WD-40. A can of WD-40 will not fix a car. But you will fix some problems with it. If your car won't start, is broken, you can use WD-40 to fix it often enough to at least get home. At least when it comes to contact points. There are many difference WD40 products you can buy at various (online) places. For example, take a look at the Oil supply shop who have a wide range of WD40!
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