Harbour Bonfield Garage

Cost of Motoring soared in 2011

john — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 15:19:54 +0000

It now costs Brits over £6,600 per year to keep a car on the road

Over the past 12 months the average annual cost of owning and running a car has soared by 14.0% (£819) to £6,689 per annum, according to RAC’s annual Cost of Motoring Index¹. This increase is almost 3 times the current inflation rate of 5.0%² and represents yet another blow to Britain’s cash strapped motorists.

The latest annual figures mean drivers now have to pay on average £128.64 per week, or 55.74 pence per mile to own and run their vehicles. What’s more, it now costs an average of £1,556 per year more to own and run a car than it did in 2007, before the financial crisis and subsequent recession.

The Cost of Motoring Index, which is based on a pool of 17 new cars weighted by their ownership, is calculated by taking into consideration all the various financial outgoings associated with owning a new car. These include: depreciation, finance, service, maintenance, repair, fuel, insurance, road tax and breakdown cover .

When depreciation and finance are excluded, day to day running costs are also up a staggering 11% per year to £2,741.

The cost of motoring and percentage variances compared to 2010:

Consideration	New Cars 2011 – £	New Cars 2010 – £	Percentage Change
Fuel	1458	1298	12.40%
Insurance	551	483	14.38%
Maintenance	472	434	8.8%
Vehicle Excise Duty	111	111	-0.00%
RAC Membership	149	143	4.21%
Depreciation	3582	3068	16.67%
Car Finance	366	333	9.85%
Total Cost (Per Year)	£6,689	£5,870	13.96%
Total Cost (Per Week)	£128.64	£112.88	13.96%

Fuel and insurance causing pain for motorists

Yet again, the largest single increase in running costs is fuel which has increased by £160(£3.07/week) since 2010 – this represents a 12.4% increase in just one year. This has hit average drivers, such as the ‘Focus Family’, hard.

There has been a significant increase in fuel prices with petrol up from 118.4p/l to 134.78p/l, an increase of 13.8% and diesel up from 122p/l to 140.49p/l, an increase of 15.16%. One small consolation for motorists is that these increases have been slightly offset by an improvement in fuel consumption of 1.8%.

Insurance costs have also risen sharply, rising 14.4% to an average of £551. This increase has been driven by rising costs for insurers from personal injury claims and associated legal costs, insurance fraud and uninsured drivers involved in accidents. The cost of insurance is now 35% higher on average than in 2009.

Adrian Tink, RAC motoring strategist, comments: “This year’s Cost of Motoring Index highlights the tough conditions being faced by Britain’s motorists. With the annual cost of motoring approaching seven thousand pounds the price burden of car ownership is hitting drivers hard. The increase of almost three times the rate of inflation is crippling drivers’ wallets and something needs to be done to stem the tide.

“With fuel prices continuing to be the biggest single running cost, UK drivers want action from the Government. Last week’s Commons debate, prompted by the Fair Fuel UK campaign, showed the real depth of feeling across the country on this issue. At the very least, we are calling for the scrapping of next year’s planned fuel duty increases.

“However it’s not just down to the Government. Oil companies need to be more transparent over pricing so that drivers know exactly where their hard-earned money is going. The Cost of Motoring Index makes it quite clear that motorists are already paying way over the odds. Further increases to fuel prices are simply a step too far.”

Gap in costs between used cars and new cars widens slightly

Despite an increase of 13.2% in used car costs³ it is still considerably cheaper (£1,965 or 29.4%) to own and run a used car compared to a new one. This gap has widened slightly from 2010, when used cars were 28.8% cheaper to own and run. The main reason for this cheaper cost is the considerably smaller depreciation suffered by used cars (£1,286) compared to new (£3,582).

However, despite the cheaper cost of used cars overall, when depreciation and the cost of finance are stripped out, used vehicles are actually £361 more expensive to run than new cars. The main reason for this is the higher cost of maintenance for used cars, which typically require more work for wear and tear after several years on the road. It costs an average of £713 for service and maintenance for used cars in 2011, which is £241 or 50.9% more expensive than for new cars.

Types of car

As in previous years, there are still large variations in the cost of running different sizes of car:

	Overall Cost – p/mile	Overall Cost
Small car	39.85	£4,782
*(e.g. Vauxhall Corsa)*
Family hatchback	54.24	£6,509
*(e.g. Ford Focus)*
Large family car	66.13	£7,936
(e.g. Ford Mondeo)
People Carrier	66.45	£7,974
*(e.g. Ford Galaxy)*

The cost of fuel and depreciation are the most significant contributors to the higher cost of owning and running a larger car. Drivers of these vehicles, such as a Ford Mondeo, pay an average of £659 or 49.3% more in fuel costs each year than drivers of small cars.

For owners of large family cars, the cost of service, maintenance and repair is also higher. It costs an average of £499 for maintenance of these vehicles in 2011, compared to just £367 for small cars, £433 for family hatchbacks and £445 for people carriers.

The New Focus ST

john — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 09:08:21 +0000

The new Ford Focus ST likes to catch the odd ‘collar’.

The new Ford Focus ST likes to catch the odd ‘collar’. It likes to prowl the streets looking for trouble, then arrest and interrogate the perpetrators. As such, this pumped-up family workhorse is staring in The Sweeny – the movie version of the classic television series. This predator – which is finished in jet-black for its acting début – has a 2.0-litre 250PS engine. It, therefore, rockets to 62mph in about six seconds and is capable of a tarmac melting 155mph. Flying Sqaud Detectives Jack Regan and George Carter must be thrilled.Director and co-writer Nick Love, whose previous efforts include The Football Factory and The Firm, said: “It was important for me to collaborate with Ford on The Sweeney as their legacy with the original TV show is so strong – they’re the perfect partner.

I like the Ford Focus ST so much, I want one!”Ford’s link with the 1970s Sweeney TV series saw Regan, Carter, and their Flying Squad colleagues using a string of Ford Granadas, Consuls and Cortinas. These were required to help officers ‘race’ between locations to complete their paperwork. Government targets, health and safety forms, and insurance documents were the priorities. The new Ford Focus ST must now take-on this mighty challenge. I hope it has somewhere to keep a pen.
By Stephen Turvil, motoring.co.uk

DVLA Regional offices to close

john — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 09:02:24 +0000

The government is proposing the closure of all 39 DVLA regional offices by the end of 2013

The government is proposing the closure of all 39 DVLA regional offices by the end of 2013.

Roads Minister, Mike Penning said “centralising the DVLA’s services is the first crucial step towards making more of its transactions available online, allowing people to deal with the DVLA at their chosen time and place. This will mean quicker turnarounds and meet our customers’ growing needs.” He said the centralising of services will provide “much more choice and flexibility around how and when motorists deal with the DVLA,” including electronically and in partnership with others.

DVLA chief executive Simon Tse said the proposals were a response to the fact that “times change and customers’ needs change”. “It’s essential that we move with the times and make the best use of our services and experience to make sure we give the motor industry and the general public a service that is fit for the 21st Century.”

As part of the proposed changes, a wider range of services will be introduced in Northern Ireland. Motorists there do not currently have access to all vehicle services available elsewhere, such as being able to tax a vehicle online.
By Geraldine Ashton Green, motoring.co.uk

New Ford Focus Honoured by Euro NCAP

john — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 08:48:24 +0000

The new Ford Focus has received four Euro NCAP Advanced Safety Rewards for its Driver Alert and Forward Alert technologies.

The new Ford Focus has received four Euro NCAP Advanced Safety Rewards for its Driver Alert and Forward Alert technologies. These plaudits were introduced in 2010 to recognise the manufacturers that make new safety systems available. Ford is one of only two manufacturers to hold four of these rewards – and the only one to achieve this with a single vehicle. This family workhorse is clearly a reassuringly safe and capable machine.Michiel van Ratingen, Euro NCAP General Secretary said: “As part of Euro NCAP’s mission to promote important innovations in safety, we are rewarding Ford for its Driver Alert and Forward Alert systems on the Focus, making the car the first that offers four rewarded technologies. Seeing a C-segment volume seller like Focus rewarded for various technologies clearly shows where Ford and the automobile industry is moving in Europe.”

The Ford Driver Alert system monitors the car’s position relative to lane markings via a forward-facing camera. Excessive wandering suggests fatigue.

It also communicates with the ‘yaw’ sensor to monitor erratic movements such as swerving – a further indication of sleepiness. If necessary, the Ford Focus advises the driver to rest. This complements the Forward Alert Accident Warning System. This monitors the road ahead, via radar, to detect slowing or stationary traffic. If the driver fails to react, the new Focus alerts him via beeps and a flashing symbol. If required, this family car automatically brakes to avoid the impact.
By Stephen Turvil, motoring.co.uk

Motorway Lessons for Learner Drivers

john — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 08:41:48 +0000

Road safety minister Mr Mike Penning has announced that learners will be able to take to the motorways but only in driving lessons with a qualified instructor.

Mr Penning questioned whether the current test prepared drivers for motorway driving and also said the scheme that allows trainee instructors to give lessons is set to change. He added that there are concerns about the use of trainee licences and the training process for instructors and as part of the work to modernise the driver-training industry this is under review.

The IAM has welcomed the move for lessons on the motorway, chief executive Simon Best said ‘this change will mean that properly supervised young drivers can learn how to drive on a motorway with somebody beside them.’

Brakes campaign director Julie Townsend said “it’s positive the government is looking at measures to reduce risk and develop skills among newly licensed drivers. Young drivers are involved in a huge proportion of crashes that kill and seriously injure because of their inexperience coupled with the tendency of many to take risks.”
By Geraldine Ashton Green, motoring.co.uk

Winter Driving Tips

john — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 11:48:29 +0000

Winter is now here and Christmas is just around the corner, an unbelievable 77% of motorists do not check their car for repairs and maintenance for the winter months

Winter is now here and Christmas is just around the corner, an unbelievable 77% of motorists do not check their car for repairs and maintenance for the winter months and long journeys. Overlooking necessary car maintenance before travelling could result in dangerous driving and even breaking the law.

Tyres should be kept in good condition and properly inflated, it is extremely important when roads are slippery and visibility poor. Your car engine is under greater stress during the cold weather, to protect it keep your oil at the correct level. Check your windscreen wash, don’t run out and run the risk of dangerously poor vision on dark mornings and foggy days. Don’t use warm water to de-ice your windscreen use a proper scraper or de-icer. Hot water from the kettle could lead to a cracked windscreen, which could be costly. Remember anti-freeze it is essential protection for your radiator in cold weather.

Last year the snow caused tremendous problems with travelling, don’t be caught out this year, carry rescue equipment in the car throughout the winter this should include the following, high-energy food, plenty of water, a blanket and waterproof clothing, any medication you might need if you get stuck in your car for any length of time. A fully-charged mobile phone or money for a phone box, jump leads but follow instructions in your car manual for use, a tow rope, first aid kit and a bright torch with long life or spare batteries.
By Geraldine Ashton Green, motoring.co.uk

Smoking Ban in Cars?

john — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 14:37:42 +0000

UK Smoking Ban in Cars?

The British Medical Association has called for a ban on smoking in cars.

The British Medical Association has called for a ban on smoking in cars. This is considered, by some, to be important as cigarette toxins within confined spaces can be extremely potent. Furthermore – putting aside the well publicised health risks – British Car Auctions has concluded that smoking in your vehicle can significantly reduce its second-hand value. After all, unfortunate smells, cigarette burns, and stained fabric put-off buyers.Tim Naylor, PR Manager at British Car Auctions, commented:

This is an incredibly important health issue – and we don’t want to undermine that by any means – but if drivers aren’t motivated by the health of their passengers, perhaps they will be by the diminishing health of their finances. Lighting up inside a car seriously devalues the vehicle for resale.

Mr Naylor continued: “Our research shows that presentation is one of the top factors influencing the price of used cars. So if a car is more like an ashtray on wheels, chances are buyers will move on to find one that looks and smells fresh as a daisy. Professional valeting can alleviate most of the effects of smoking, but is expensive and time consuming and might mean replacing some interior trim, such as nicotine-stained head-linings.”
Any ban on smoking in cars would be controversial. The health benefits are obvious, but – assuming an adult is smoking alone in a privately owned vehicle – is it the government’s place to intervene? Should MPs have that right?

However, it might be reasonable to prevent smokers lighting-up in cars next to children and non-smoking adults. Everyone should have the right to smoke, but is it fair to expose others to the cancer causing toxins?

By Stephen Turvil, motoring.co.uk

A frozen windscreen could cost you point’s

john — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 15:03:53 +0000

Ford clears up the risks
from frozen car windscreens this winter

Ford is alerting motorists to the hazards which uncleared snow and ice can
cause on cars. Drivers risk their car, driving licence and safety by failing to
take simple steps to clear their vehicle windscreen in icy weather.

Ford is urging motorists to ‘warm up for winter’ and properly manage all
aspects of car maintenance and preparation for driving in cold and icy
conditions as the weather forecast predicts chillier days ahead.

Stuart Southgate, Ford’s automotive safety office director, said: “Being able
to clearly see where you are driving is perhaps the most obvious and basic
safety requirement for motorists. Failing to take proper care to clear
windscreens can have serious consequences not just for drivers, but for
pedestrians and other road users too.”

If motorists do not wait for the whole windscreen to clear and instead drive
with just a small ‘porthole’ of visibility ahead they can face a driving ban.

An Essex police spokesperson said: “Failing to clear your windscreen of ice or
frost constitutes careless driving, and would be punishable with points on your
licence and a fine. The exact penalty is dependent on the circumstances and
severity of the offence committed, and would be decided in a criminal court.”

Drivers who run the car engine to heat the windscreen but leave the vehicle
unattended – known as ‘frosting’ – are committing an offence if the vehicle is
left on a public highway. Although leaving a car running on a private driveway
isn’t breaking the law, it is a prime target for opportunistic thieves.

Technology offers a quicker and simpler solution. Ford developed the patented
Quickclear system 26 years ago, which uses a mesh of very thin heating wires
embedded between two layers of windscreen glass to provide rapid de-icing and
de-fogging.

The simple push-button system clears windscreens in seconds, instantly freeing
frozen wiper blades to reduce stress on the wiper motor.

Welcome to the brand new Harbour Bonfield Garage website

phil — Tue, 21 Dec 2010 11:55:42 +0000

Hello and welcome to our brand new website.

Our new website has been designed to let us keep you up to date with the latest new and used cars we have available. Each car listing is now more interactive with photos, videos and more in depth information to help you make an informed decision.

If you have any questions about our website or any of the cars we have for sale please call our sales team on 01308 421777