Everything You Need to Know About Vanarama Leasing and Managing Your Lease with Caura

Everything You Need to Know About LeaseCar and Managing Your Lease with Caura

Understanding Lex Autolease Tyre and Maintenance Policies

What you need to know about tyres, maintenance and fair wear and tear for your Lex Autolease vehicle.

How Does Lex Autolease Car Leasing Work?

A guide which explains how leasing with Lex Autolease works and how you can manage your lease in Caura

What is Fair Wear and Tear? A Guide for Lex Autolease Customers

A guide to fair wear and tear and how to prepare your Lex Autolease vehicle for the end of your lease

Types of Car Finance: Which Option is Right for You?

Not sure how to finance your car? We've created an overview of all your options so you can make the right choice.

CLEAN AIR ZONES

Pay the Birmingham CAZ charge in seconds on Caura

Caura makes the new Birmingham Clean Air Zone simple with payments in less than 5 seconds...

SERVICING

Understanding the difference between a car service and car maintenance

Terms like “car service” and “car maintenance” are sometimes used interchangeably, but they signify two very different aspects of vehicle care. Knowing the difference between these two terms is crucial to ensure your car runs smoothly and has a longer lifespan.

SERVICING

What does my car service include

Regular car servicing can help a vehicle run safely and efficiently. But many are confused about what kind of service their car needs, how much it will cost and what to expect. In this blog, we’ll dive deeper into what the different types of service are, how to know which one is for you and when it’s time to get a car service.

MOT

The evolution of the MOT test

The MOT test was first introduced in 1960 as part of the Road Traffic Act and has remained an instrumental tool for road safety, and ensuring that all vehicles meet the necessary environmental standards. However, this pivotal test has undergone a series of changes over the decades, becoming more sophisticated, accurate, and comprehensive.

MOT

When to check your vehicle’s engine oil levels

Engine oil is essentially a lubricant that ensures all the engine’s moving parts are working together smoothly and keeping your car’s engine oil at the appropriate level is key to maintaining optimal engine performance.

MOT

How to get a replacement MOT certificate

If you’ve lost or damaged your MOT certificate, don’t panic. In this blog, we'll walk you through what an MOT certificate is, why it's crucial to have one, how to get a replacement MOT certificate, and how to book an MOT in Caura.

MOT

What the power steering warning light means for your vehicle

Driving a car with manual steering can be physically demanding. That's why, for several decades, car manufacturers have been utilising power steering systems to ease the driving experience. A car’s power steering warning light will turn on when there is a problem with this steering system. In this blog, we’ll dive deeper into what power steering is, what can cause the power steering warning light to turn on and what you should do if this light illuminates on your car’s dashboard.

MOT

Understanding UK number plates

This blog will delve into the structure, history, and regulations surrounding UK number plates. Also find out what number plate faults will result in an MOT failure.

MOT

Why should you check your MOT certificate for mistakes

Every UK vehicle owner should know what an MOT certificate is. Yet, what many overlook is the importance of checking their MOT certificate for mistakes.

MOT

What the Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) warning light means for your vehicle

ESP stands for Electronic Stability Programme and is one of the most important safety features of a vehicle. In this blog, we will explore what ESP is, what can cause it to malfunction, and what steps you should take when your ESP warning light turns on.

MOT

Tyre pressure guide: Importance, checks, and maintenance

One critical, often overlooked, part of your car that requires regular attention is tyre pressure. With the right tyre pressure, you can ensure a safe and smooth ride, better fuel efficiency, and an extended lifespan for your tyres.

MOT

How to change a tyre

If the mere thought of dealing with a flat tyre leaves you sweating, don't worry! We’re here to help you understand how to change a tyre in just 11 steps.

MOT

Driving with the DPF light on: How long is safe?

This blog will discuss all things Diesel Particulate Filters (DPF) including what can cause the DPF light to turn on, how long you can continue driving in this state, and what steps you should take if the DPF light comes on.

MOT

The importance of a mileage check

Your car’s mileage, as the name suggests, is the number of miles your car has travelled since its registration. In this blog, we’ll talk about all the reasons a mileage check is important, when to check a car’s mileage and why is mileage recorded during your annual MOT test. We’ll also let you know the easiest way for you to check your car’s mileage yourself.

MOT

Can you tax a car without MOT

A question that often arises in driver’s minds is: “Can I tax my car without an MOT?”. The simple answer is no. If your vehicle does not have a valid MOT, you won't be able to renew your road tax.

MOT

The importance of an engine coolant to keep your car running

Your car’s engine is responsible for converting fuel into power, which ultimately gets your car running. There are several factors that allow the engine to work properly, one of which is engine coolant.

MOT

Why MOT tests include an exhaust emission test

In the UK, any vehicle older than three years will need an MOT test conducted yearly. The test ensures that a vehicle meets road safety and environmental standards.

MOT

What does an MOT failure mean?

Ever failed an MOT and wondered why? A recent study by the RAC found that around 7.3 million vehicles fail their MOT test each year. We’re here to stop this happening to you!

MOT

What to do when the ABS warning light turns on

Car warning lights play a crucial role in letting drivers know if there are any faults with their vehicle. One of such warning lights is the Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) warning light.

MOT

What to do when the airbag warning light turns on

Airbags are a vital component of your car's safety system and the airbag warning light serves as a diagnostic tool for the airbag system. It's essential to understand what the airbag warning light means and how drivers should address it.

MOT

What to do when your battery warning light turns on

Has your car’s battery light turned on and you’re not sure what it means? A battery warning light is one of the most common car warning lights, and understanding what the light means and how to respond can save you from potentially dangerous situations.

MOT

Decoding car warning lights: what they're trying to tell you

Picture this: you're driving along enjoying your favourite tunes when suddenly a car warning light appears on your car's dashboard. It's important to understand what these lights are trying to tell you, as they can be crucial for your own safety and maintaining the performance of your vehicle.

MOT

Can you drive without an MOT

The Ministry of Transport (MOT) test is a term that's familiar to every UK driver. But one question often on drivers’ minds is: can I drive without an MOT in the UK?

MOT

Why you should book a car service before an MOT test

Do you want to keep your car in top-notch condition and ensure you always pass your MOT test? Regular car servicing is a great way to make sure your car is safe to drive and working efficiently.

MOT

Book an MOT test near you

Are you due for an MOT test and searching for the best MOT garage near you?Finding a good MOT garage can be stressful, but look no further than Caura, the app that makes booking an MOT an absolute breeze.

MOT

When it is time to change your windscreen wipers

Windscreen wiper blades are an essential component of any vehicle and are checked during an MOT test. Learn when and how to replace them.

MOT

Does an Engine Management Light (EML) fail an MOT

Has your car’s Engine Management Light (EML) turned on and left you wondering whether your car will pass the MOT test?

MOT

What your car brakes are trying to tell you

Your car's braking system is one of the most important safety features of your vehicle. If you pay close attention, you might notice that your car brakes are trying to tell you something important.

MOT

How much is an MOT test?

In the UK, most vehicles over three years old will need to go for an annual MOT test. You may have noticed that some garages charge different MOT prices –

MOT

How to SORN your car

All UK car owners who are not using their car or driving it on public roads are legally required to declare their vehicle as SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification).

MOT

How can I check my tyre tread depth?

The tyre tread depth test is a crucial yet straightforward assessment of tyre tread that every vehicle owner should be aware of to ensure optimal safety and performance on the road.

CLEAN AIR ZONE

Sheffield CAZ explained

In a bid to reduce harmful emissions caused by the most polluting vehicles, Sheffield is implementing a Clean Air Zone (CAZ) on the 27th of February. The zone will cover the Sheffield city centre and inner ring roads. You can view a map of the Sheffield Clean Air Zone here.

MOT

How to check your vehicle's MOT history in the UK

Use Caura to find out the MOT history of your vehicle and avoid any unpleasant surprises during its next MOT test!

RECAP

A look at everything we accomplished in 2022

It’s truly been a great year for Caura, and looking back at everything we’ve accomplished, a busy one too!

DRIVING LICENCE

One million UK drivers risk getting fined for not renewing their licence

Got your driving licence before 2014? You may be on route to a £1,000 fine if you don’t renew as soon as possible! Find out how to renew your driving licence and how much it will cost you here.

MERSEYFLOW

Forgot to pay the Mersey toll? Here’s what to do next

Merseyflow is the toll operator for the Mersey Gateway and Silver Jubilee free-flow toll bridges. The bridges are situated between Runcorn and Widnes in Cheshire, and span the river Mersey and the Manchester Ship Canal. All drivers are charged per crossing, however there are some exemptions in place. Find a full list of exemptions here.

LONDON ULEZ

A gear shift for London AutoPay charges

There’s a lot of talk in the news about the ULEZ expansion going live on August 29th 2023, which is predicted to increase TfL’s annual revenue from the zone to a whopping £300 million.

FUNDING

Lloyds Banking Group invests £4 million in Caura

Funding from Lloyds Banking Group plc (LBG), the UK’s largest retail and commercial financial services provider, will help accelerate plans to simplify MOT and Insurance processes, fast-track plans to embed financial services like motor loans in-app and build a SaaS product for fleet managers.

CLEAN AIR ZONES

How to prepare for the upcoming Newcastle CAZ

“More than 36,000 people die in the UK every year due to poor air quality. That includes hundreds on Tyneside. This is a move to address that” – Council leader Nick Kemp, of Labour.

CLEAN AIR ZONES

Bristol Clean Air Zone: Residents' opinions revealed

Nitrogen dioxide levels in Bristol have risen above the legal health limit of 10 micrograms per cubic meter, with some towns reaching levels of 16.6 micrograms per cubic meter. To protect the health of its residents, the elderly and the most vulnerable, Bristol City Council announced the implementation of a Clean Air Zone bordered around its most polluting regions.

CLEAN AIR ZONES

A guide to navigating the Bristol CAZ

Driving into Bristol soon? Whether you live locally or are going to visit Bristol for the first time, you’re going to need to be aware of the new Bristol Clean Air Zone (CAZ).

BIRMINGHAM

Cheap parking in Birmingham city centre

Wondering where to find parking in Birmingham city centre? We’ve collated the best cost-friendly parking spaces, their charges and times of operation. Plus, find out the fastest way to pay the Birmingham Clean Air Zone charge.

CLEAN AIR ZONES

How have Clean Air Zones impacted drivers across the UK?

Clean Air Zones have taken their toll on drivers in Birmingham and London, and the stats are eye-watering. Birmingham and London are Class D zones, affecting all drivers of non-compliant vehicles, not just commercial ones.

VEHICLE TAX

Get your car tax refund in 2 easy steps!

If you’re looking to sell your car, you’re probably wondering what happens with car tax. Don’t worry! It’s quite easy to cancel car tax and get a refund for the months remaining.

HEATHROW DROP-OFF

Pay your Heathrow drop off PCN in 2 steps

Launched in November 2021, the Heathrow drop off charge is a £5 charge that applies to all drivers entering drop-off zones at all Heathrow terminals. There are some exemptions in place for some drivers, you can find a full list of exemptions here.

LONDON ULEZ

The fastest way to check if your car is ULEZ exempt

After the ULEZ expansion in 2021, thousands of drivers have faced Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) of up to £160 for missed payments of the ULEZ charge. Find out what it means for your car to be ULEZ compliant, how to check if you’re exempt from the charge, or how to pay it quickly using Caura.

CLEAN AIR ZONES

What's coming next?

New zones are launching in other UK cities, and we want to stop drivers getting fined unnecessarily.

DART CHARGE

Forgot to pay the Dart Charge? Here’s what to do next

The Dartford crossing is a free-flow toll bridge that takes you across the river Thames on the eastern section of the M25. All drivers will be charged per crossing, however there are some exemptions in place.

CREAMFIELDS

10 essential items you need to pack for Creamfields.

There’s just one more week to go until one of the world’s largest electronic music festivals returns to the UK! The line-up for Creamfields 2022 features some of the biggest names in the industry, and with almost 70,000 people attending the festival each day, it’s about to get wild!

CAURA

The New Way To Car

Caura’s on a mission to fix a broken system. Because the way we manage our cars in the UK is baffling. With fiddly forms, slow websites and hidden fees, it’s impossible to go anywhere without sorting something car. And it just keeps getting more complicated. Clean Air and Ultra Low Emission Zones are popping up everywhere (rightly so) and there’s more city charges, tolls and taxes than ever before.

CLEAN AIR ZONES

Motorists in Birmingham fined £7m in July...

otorists who drove into Birmingham’s Clean Air Zone (CAZ) were fined at least £7m in July alone. The charge to drive in the zone is £8 per day, and the penalty for not paying is a hefty £120 per offence (£60 if paid within 6 days). Nearly 113,000 drivers fell foul to this penalty in the first month of the zone rollout, leading some people to question the effectiveness and fairness of the CAZ.

FUNDING

Caura raises $4.2m seed round

Caura has raised $4.2 million to expand its products, including a new B2B offering for car manufacturers.

ULEZ

ULEZ expansion... are you ready?

On 25th October 2021, London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) expands to become 18x larger. The new 140sq mile zone grows outwards from central London, to cover everything within the North & South circular roads. According to TfL this will mean 565,000 cars in London will be liable for the daily £12.50 charge.

MOT

How to test your car battery for loose connections

Most car owners know the frustration of trying to start a vehicle only to be met with the disheartening sound of silence or the dreadful clicking noise that suggests a battery problem.

SERVICING

When is my MOT due and how do I check MOT history: most-asked MOT questions answered

An MOT is an annual check-up for all vehicles over three years old to ensure that they meet road safety and environmental standards. An MOT is particularly important for three reasons...

SERVICING

10 pre MOT checks you should be doing before booking your MOT

Make sure you pass your MOT with these essential checks. Any car over three years needs to pass an MOT test every year. The test will act as an annual check-up on your car to make sure that it’s still safe to drive on the road

SERVICING

Different ways to check the service history of a car

Regular car servicing can prolong the life of your vehicle and provide additional safety. Find out how to check the service history of your vehicle even if you don’t have access to the vehicle logbook.

SERVICING

The impact of extreme weather on car components

Extreme weather conditions can dramatically impact a car’s components. In this blog, we’ll explore how such weather conditions can adversely affect when you get a service.