Expert Advice

Car ownership advice

Servicing, road tax, warranties, consumer rights advice and more. The Car Expert is your one-stop-shop for car ownership tips and advice.

Owning a car can be expensive and, at times, confusing for many people. Fortunately, The Car Expert has a wide range of articles covering every aspect of owning and running a car. With our award-winning advice to guide you, you’ll end up with a much better chance of working through your ownership issues and enjoying an easier life!

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Our top car ownership articles

Rejecting a car – your consumer rights

Have you bought a new or used car that is faulty or not fit for purpose? Read The Car Expert's comprehensive guide to your consumer rights when rejecting a car.

Used car warranty – the law and your rights

If you are buying a second-hand car, there can be considerable confusion as to what to expect in terms of a used car warranty and what your rights are when something goes wrong.

New car warranty – Do I have to have my car serviced by a dealership?

We clear up the confusion about whether car owners must have their cars serviced by a franchised dealership to protect their new car warranty.

Average car running costs rise to almost £250 a month

The latest data estimates that average monthly motoring costs have risen to £246, and soaring insurance premiums are to blame.

More car ownership advice

What is Intelligent Speed Assist and can you turn it off?

3 July 2026

Intelligent Speed Assist is now fitted to almost every new car sold in the UK. We explain how ISA works, why it can be wrong and whether you can turn it off.

Why air conditioning recirculation is important

1 July 2026

Paired with a running AC, the air recirculation feature is really helpful on hot days, but it's best not to leave it on all the time.

Driving in a heatwave: What UK drivers need to know

26 June 2026

Most cars can cope with hot weather, but heatwaves can make existing problems worse. Here’s what to check before driving in very hot conditions.

The data all cars collect while you drive

12 June 2026

Your car records more than just fuel use and mileage. We explain what information is being collected and what it can be used for.

Can I call my breakdown provider if I run out of fuel?

9 June 2026

Running dry is very common, especially as petrol and diesel prices soar. Does your roadside assistance cover you if you run out of fuel?

What is destination charging?

6 June 2026

Destination charging is one of the most useful developments for EV owners, allowing you to add charge while you're already shopping, working or staying overnight.

How much personal data is in my car and what can I do about it?

5 June 2026

Your car's infotainment system collects several different types of data on you, like a laptop on wheels. Here's what you can do about it.

Can I call my breakdown provider if I run out of charge?

26 May 2026

Electric cars with dead batteries are an increasingly common callout issue for breakdown providers these days - we discuss whether your policy covers this.

Best websites for buying an EV home charger

29 March 2026

If you’re buying an electric car and you have a driveway or garage, your next search should probably be for a home charger. But which one?

How to claim for pothole damage

3 March 2026

Damaged your car by driving into a pothole? You might be able to claim compensation from your local authority. Here’s how.

How does the UK number plate system work?

27 February 2026

Many people find the UK number plate system bewildering. The Car Expert explains how it all works and what all the letters and numbers really mean.

Can I modify my car on a PCP?

21 February 2026

Most PCP agreements restrict car modifications because the finance company owns the vehicle. Here’s what’s allowed, what isn’t and the financial risks if you ignore the rules.

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