Vehicle Service and Repair Blog with Tips
We will constantly update this page, but if you still can’t find what you’re looking for or need some advice, please feel to get in touch our friendly mechanics are more than happy to help.
We don't like being beaten on price but we do like giving a professional service.
Tel: 0207 231 8861
Mobile: 07720606274
Our Vehicle Repair Blog
With Tips
Still Got Questions? Just Ask GJ Motors!
We hope our expert tips and maintenance guides help you stay road-ready, but we are always here if you need more hands-on advice.
Established in 1992, GJ Motors is a family-run garage with over 30 years of experience specializing in vehicle servicing, repairs, and Class 4 MOTs.
Whether you’re unsure how to check your oil or need help choosing the right service for your car, our friendly team is ready to help. We have built a long-standing reputation for trust across Surrey Quays, Rotherhithe, Canada Water, Bermondsey, and the wider South East London area. If you can't find what you're looking for on our blog, don't stay puzzled—reach out for the professional peace of mind you deserve.
We’re always happy to have a friendly chat about your car, whether you’re learning how to check your oil or need some friendly advice. If you can’t find the answer in our blogs, just give us a ring or drop by. We’re here to help and love to chat about vehicle care.
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Faulty lambda (O2) sensor
Customer states engine management light (MIL) is illuminated.
Diagnostic stage process:
- Confirm MIL light is illuminated, this is the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL), also known as the check engine light.
- Plug diagnostic machine and read diagnostic fault code.
- Investigate by inspecting the component.
- Fault found, lambda (O2) sensor wiring corroded.
- New lambda (O2) sensor required and erase diagnostic fault code.
- Problem fixed.
Faulty Windscreen Washer Pump
Customer states screen wash jets are not squirting water.
Diagnostic stage process:
- Confirm screen wash jets are not squirting water.
- Check that the screen wash jet fuse is ok.
- Plug diagnostic machine in and confirm no diagnostic fault codes stored.
- Check via diagnostic machine wiper stalk is working correctly.
- Remove various components to be able to check wiring for power and grounds.
- Fault found as fault screen wash motor pump.
- Replace screen wash motor pump.
- Windscreen washer now working fine.
Engine Management Light
Vehicle entered the workshop with the customer reporting that the engine management light was on.
The vehicle was connected to the diagnostic machine to identify any stored fault codes.
Fault code retrieved: P0105 – Manifold Absolute Pressure/Barometric Pressure Circuit Malfunction.
As part of our standard procedure, we carried out full testing and investigation.
We found that a previous service had been carried out and the air filter housing had been cable-tied to the inlet manifold due to a broken bolt. This resulted in an excessive air leak at the inlet manifold.
We re-threaded the mounting point and fitted a proper bolt, allowing the air filter housing to sit correctly and seal properly onto the throttle body.
Honda Civic with a Jump Start Nightmare
A customer had their vehicle towed to our workshop after several other garages were unable to resolve the issue. The problem began when the customer attempted to jump-start the car but accidentally connected the jump leads the wrong way around on the battery terminals. This caused electrical damage and resulted in the car losing all power.
Other garages inspected the vehicle and concluded that it required a new ECU (Engine Control Module) due to the complete lack of power. However, at GJ Motors we always carry out our own investigation and diagnosis rather than relying on previous assessments.
We began with the most basic step: checking the fuses. During our inspection, we discovered that a 100-amp Battery Power Distribution fuse had blown. After replacing the fuse, the vehicle started immediately—no ECU replacement needed. We also installed a new battery, as the original one had failed.
Tyre Pressure
Date: 4/4/2025
Tyre pressure is one of the simplest but most important factors in keeping your vehicle safe, efficient, and comfortable to drive.
Here’s why it matters:
- Safety Braking performance – Underinflated tyres increase stopping distance, especially in wet conditions. Grip & handling – Incorrect pressure affects how the tyre’s tread meets the road, reducing cornering stability. Blowout risk – Overinflated or severely underinflated tyres are more prone to sudden failure at high speeds.
- Tyre lifespan Uneven wear – Low pressure wears out the outer edges faster, while high pressure wears the center more quickly. Premature replacement – Constantly driving on incorrect pressures can reduce tyre life by thousands of kilometers.
- Fuel efficiency Underinflated tyres create more rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder. Even a small pressure drop (e.g., 0.3 bar / 4 psi) can increase fuel consumption by 2–4%.
- Ride comfort Overinflated tyres make the ride harsher and more bumpy. Proper inflation ensures the tyre absorbs road shocks as designed.
Environmental impact More fuel burned = more CO₂ emissions.
Tyres that wear out faster add to landfill waste and manufacturing demand.
Good habit: Check tyre pressure at least once a month and before long trips, using the manufacturer’s recommended PSI/bar (found in the driver’s door frame, fuel cap, or manual).
Faulty Windscreen Washer Pump
Customer states screen wash jets are not squirting water.
Diagnostic stage process:
- Confirm screen wash jets are not squirting water.
- Check that the screen wash jet fuse is ok.
- Plug diagnostic machine in and confirm no diagnostic fault codes stored.
- Check via diagnostic machine wiper stalk is working correctly.
- Remove various components to be able to check wiring for power and grounds.
- Fault found as fault screen wash motor pump.
- Replace screen wash motor pump.
- Windscreen washer now working fine.
GJ Motors
Telephone:: 0207 231 8861
Mobile: 07720606274
WhatsApp
Email: Gjmotors
Address:
17 Plough Way,
Surrey Quays
London,
SE16 2LS
Quality servicing at affordable prices
- Friendly service.
- Affordable prices.
- over 34 years experience.
- All work guaranteed for parts and labour.
GJ Motors is a local garage that has built a reputation for trust with its local customers who are returning to us time and time again for all their Vehicle servicing needs.