Riding a motorbike is cheaper than driving a car, but it still costs money to go through the licencing process and to get lessons from an instructor. This article outlines the costs. Getting your licence is a three-step process, but there’s…
If you’re considering your learner licence and need some wheels, you might be fortunate enough to have the use of a parent’s car, but eventually, you’ll need your own as you progress onto your restricted and full licences. The things…
Keyless entry and ignition systems in cars use wireless technology to allow drivers to unlock and start their vehicles without inserting a key into a traditional lock or ignition switch. Some systems even allow you to start the vehicle remotely,…
Winch wires and ropes are critical components for trucks, trailers and off-road vehicles fitted with winches, yet they are susceptible to damage if not properly handled and maintained. Understanding the common causes of damage and implementing comprehensive inspection routines can…
Clutch failure is a significant concern for drivers, whether they are operating a manual or automatic vehicle. Clutch failure in manual cars Many older vehicles have manual gearboxes, along with some specialist and sports cars, and some cheaper models of…
A U-turn is a manoeuvre where you turn the car 180 degrees so that you’re facing in the other direction. Rules The Road Code states that traffic doing a U-turn gives way to all other traffic. You must not do…
In the colder months, rats will look for a nice warm place to nest, and your engine bay is the perfect dark, enclosed shelter away from the wind and rain. Rats are also attracted to some of the materials in…
Permitting flying cars to New Zealand would generate some significant changes, both positive and negative. New Zealand is a relatively sparsely populated country that is mostly urbanised. It has some difficult terrain with a mountain range running from the bottom…
If your vehicle breaks down, the things to consider are: In all cases, if your vehicle is causing a danger to other road users, advise the police on *555. If you have a breakdown service, call them. If you are…
New Zealand has a large number of roads that pass under bridges for roads, rail and pedestrians. The legal maximum height for a vehicle before a permit is required is 4.3m, and the majority of bridges fall into that category,…
If you’re partial to a bit of tinkering with your vehicle, a garage or large shed is essential so that you can keep your tools safe, and so that you have a sheltered place where you can take things to…
Cyclists always come off worst in a vehicle vs bicycle accident, so to help cyclists think like a driver and vice versa, let’s have a look at some thought patterns that motorists have that influence how they drive, and thought…
V2X means ‘vehicle-to-everything’. Its a set of technologies that enables a vehicle to communicate with other connected technology, and transfer power. The concept behind it is to improve road safety, fuel economy, and traffic throughput, and to spread the load…
The nightmare scenario is you rushing to get to the airport for an important trip or a holiday, and your car breaks down, leaving you stranded on the side of the road. It’s even worse if you have kids with…
If you have been caught speeding and have received a ticket, you might need to do a speeding course, but where can you actually legally drive in excess of the speed limit? Racetracks New Zealand has some stunning racetracks that…
While electric vehicles are incentivised by governments as being ‘clean’, there’s still a carbon footprint associated with their production and operation. All vehicles create some kind of pollution or negative effect on the environment. Here’s how. Air pollution Even electric…
A water source is critical for your freedom to roam the countryside in a campervan. The more water you have, the longer you can be in the wilderness without having to find a source. You can purchase generic kits for…
Cars have had rear view mirrors made of glass since at least the 1920s, so after 100 years, it looks natural for a car to have these reflective appendages sticking out the side. However, given that camera and screen technology…
Electronic variable speed limit signs are legal and enforceable. They can be established to temporarily restrict the speed due to road works, weather, an accident, a hazard such as a slip, heavy traffic or a temporary event like a concert.…
Until the road can heal itself, pot holes are going to be ever present, with council contractors always one step behind when it comes to fixing them. They damage tyres and wheels, and are even more dangerous for cyclists and…
