Speed camera detectors – buyer’s guide

What is a speed camera detector and how does it work?

A speed camera detector is a device that alerts you when you’re approaching a speed camera. The idea is that it gives you enough time to ensure you are not travelling over the speed limit, saving you the hassle of incurring fines and points on your licence

Speed camera detectors alert you when you are approaching fixed speed cameras and/or mobile units. They also provide warnings about accident blackspots and congestion zones and display/announce the legal speed limit. They offer LED displays, so as to be easily visible at night, and can be updated online.

How do GPS and radar detectors differ, aren’t they illegal?

There are several differences between radar/laser and GPS detectors. GPS speed camera detectors use a database of fixed camera locations. They also alert you to known accident blackspots and school locations. They work based on comparing your current location to the location of speed cameras on the database, to establish when you are nearing one.

Radar and laser detectors pick up on the frequency of transmissions from police radar and laser speed detection equipment. They then alert you to the presence of this equipment. This means they can pick up the location of mobile detectors, which GPS detectors can’t.

There was a lot of talk a few years ago about speed camera detectors being made illegal. However, a ban never took place. This means it is perfectly legal to use all types of speed camera detector in England.

This isn’t the same in every country. In some countries (Northern Ireland, for instance) it is illegal to use a speed camera detector. If you plan to drive to another country, therefore, be sure to check up on the laws of that country before you travel.

 

GPS speed camera detectors

This type of detector uses GPS technology to pinpoint the location of speed cameras and lets you know when you approaching one. Newer models use a GPS database in conjunction with this, as some speed cameras are now manufactured to be undetectable to satellite technology.

We recommend …

Cheetah C550

The Cheetah C550 is a high quality GPS speed camera detector. It’s easy to set up and understand and will give you clear voice alerts when you are approaching a speed camera. It also features a bright LED screen, which is visible even in direct sunlight. It comes with free lifetime database updates, meaning the device will always be up to date with the latest sat nav updates.

Rating – 4/5

To find out more click here

 

Radar and laser speed camera detectors

An alternative to buying a GPS detector is a buying a radar and laser speed camera detector. However, unlike a GPS detector it won’t pick up some newer models of speed camera. Cameras by Truvelo, for example, are undetectable.

It also won’t give you any kind of alert for average speed zones. These feature two overhead cameras, installed 200 metres apart. The cameras measure your speed from the first camera to the second.

This is not the case for all radar and laser detectors – some have now combined both GPS with radar and laser detection, so it’s important to choose carefully.

As a rule, radar and laser speed camera detectors are better at detecting mobile speed cameras. Some models can warn you up to three miles before the camera.

We recommend …

Aguri Skyway GPS/radar/laser detector

This device combines GPS, radar and laser detection. This makes it one of the most comprehensive speed camera detectors available.

With the radar and laser detection giving you great coverage for mobile speed cameras, and the GPS giving you alerts for fixed cameras, you’re effectively covered for all situations.

The Aguri Skyway is quick to set up and works straight out of the box. It also comes with free lifetime updates.

Rating – 5/5

To find out more click here

 

Sat navs with speed camera locations

Sat nav speed camera detection is just as effective as the bulk of dedicated products available. It can also be more cost effective, as the sat nav you already have may be capable of detecting speed cameras. The flaw, though, is the accuracy of the database. When you buy a dedicated GPS detector, the database will be updated frequently (usually every three weeks). However, a sat nav programme will be lucky to get an update once a year! This could result in it failing to inform you about speed cameras. You will also be left in the dark as to the whereabouts of any mobile speed cameras. To rectify this, consider using an additional radar or laser detector in conjunction with your sat nav.

We recommend …

TomTom Go 5200

If you want to upgrade your sat nav to one with speed camera detection, we recommend the TomTom Go 5200. It’s the most advanced on the market from a camera detection point of view. It has features like real-time information updates from other drivers and warns you about fixed, mobile and average speed cameras.

Rating – 3/5

To find out more click here

 

Dashcams with inbuilt speed camera detection

A dashcam is a device that mounts onto the windscreen of your car and records footage of the road. In the event of an accident, it provides first-hand evidence for you to call upon. Using a dashcam can bring down your insurance premium and protect you in the event of traffic scams.

Dashcams also have a secondary use, with many models now featuring inbuilt GPS functionality. This means they can give you speed camera warnings, just like a GPS detector would.

We recommend…

Aguri Fusion GTX100

This device is great for anyone who wants a high dashcam that also works as a GPS speed camera detector. As mentioned above, a GPS system means you’re covered for Truvelo speed cameras as well as average speed zones. Aguri provides free lifetime updates when you purchase this device, so you will always have accurate alerts.

Rating – 4/5

To find out more click here

How could Brexit impact fuel prices?

We’re living in uncertain times. The Brexit process is likely to bring with it a range of surprises and impact on many areas of daily life. One of those areas is the cost of fuel. As such, we’ve taken a look at recent historical events to assess their impact on fuel prices, in order to try and predict what Brexit, the forthcoming general elections in the UK and Europe, and Britain’s final exit from the EU could have on fuel prices over the next two years.

Recent historical factors

The first major recent historical factor to affect fuel prices was OPEC’s decision to increase fuel production in November 2014. The decision to oversupply was to try to prevent competition outside of OPEC from getting the funding and traction needed to extract fuels from shale oil and fracking projects. By January 2016, fuel had dropped to 98p a litre. The last time it was at that level was in May 2009, during the financial crisis.

Between January 2016 and the June referendum on whether the UK should remain in the EU or leave, fuel prices rose by 10p a litre. When British voters chose to initiate the process to leave the EU on 23 June 2016, it led to an immediate fall of 20% in the value of the pound against the dollar. Some experts went as far as hailing “the end of cheap fuel in Britain.”

However, fuel prices went up by less than a 0.3p per litre in July, then went down by 1.4p per litre in August. Fuel prices did start to rise in September, but driven by the increase in the cost of crude oil per barrel, not Brexit.

Another major recent historical factor was Donald Trump winning the US Presidency. Trump is known for his support of shale oil extraction and hydraulic fracturing (fracking). Although we saw no change in prices for his inauguration in January 2017, by February OPEC had decided to reduce oil production in anticipation of a likely increase in US oil output. This saw average prices rise by 5p a litre.

Thus, while recent fuel prices haven’t changed as a direct result of political events, those events have impacted on currency value. That has been paired with the decisions taken by the major oil producing countries, impacting supply and the price of crude oil per barrel.

General election

The direct impact of the snap 2017 general election announcement has been increased confidence in the financial markets that Brexit will be delivered. This has led to a stronger pound (up by 2.5%) and a resultant decrease of 2p a litre on fuel.

However, before the election on home soil, there is also the French election. This has the potential to cause a major upset in the financial markets if the far-right leader Marine Le Pen wins. It could mean fuel prices fall by as much as 5p a litre, as the value of the euro could drop and thus benefit the pound.

If, as expected, the Conservatives win the UK general election by a large majority (of 100 seats or more), the value of sterling would likely rise again. This could perhaps reduce fuel prices by a further 2p a litre. In the unlikely event of a small majority or hung parliament, negotiations with the EU could become very tricky, while shaky confidence in Brexit being delivered could lead to a further devaluation of the pound. This has the potential to take fuel prices back above 120p a litre.

Agreeing the exit and ‘divorce settlement’ terms

If the UK fails to agree on the terms of its exit and divorce settlement from the EU, it will face the possibility of a ‘hard’ Brexit. That means going outside of the EU and trading using World Trade Organization tariffs. The likely result would be an immediate slump in the value of the pound, with fuel prices increasing by as much as 20%. Such events have the potential to trigger another recession, as the shock on the heavily indebted UK economy would prompt many businesses to shed workers and move investment away from the UK.

If the UK does reach agreement with the EU on the terms of its exit, then a ‘soft’ Brexit will be the likely possibility. This would potentially involve maintaining existing trade relationships within the European single market, but accepting certain conditions. This possibility could lead to fuel prices remaining the same as they are at present, or even decreasing slightly as confidence about stability of the EU holds fast.

Exiting and negotiating new trade deals

In June 2019, when Britain eventually leaves the EU, it is predicted by many that a period of uncertainty will follow. New trade deals and transition agreements will come into play as the UK is effectively left to fend for itself.

The uncertainty that surrounds the outcome of Brexit after June 2019 will likely manifest itself in fuel price fluctuations. We would expect to see sharp increases in prices coinciding with the temporarily weakened pound. Conversely, any good news about trade deals with new partners outside the EU could have a hugely positive impact on the pound’s value and thus on fuel prices.

One would anticipate that the government will prepare a series of quick trade deal announcements, to boost the economic outlook soon after fully leaving the EU. We expect deals with Commonwealth countries, such as New Zealand and India. A trade deal with an oil-producing country such as Saudi Arabia would also be a smart way to boost both the economic outlook and fuel prices at the same time.

It is almost certain that there will be many notable highs and lows in the cost of fuel during the Brexit process and beyond. We have done our best here to give you an idea of what you can expect fuel prices to do. However, the only certainty is that prices will be volatile during the Brexit process, so make sure you shop around and use our service to make sure you always get the best value.

What do you think the Brexit process will mean for fuel prices? Do you think a hard Brexit would be a good thing? Let us know in the comments below.

Spring is here! Five ways to spruce up your vehicle

The winter season can put a lot of strain on both the interior and the exterior of your vehicle – think muddy puddles and dirty feet!

After months of enduring the cold, being rained on, and navigating the dark mornings and evenings, we can finally see spring approaching. Therefore, it’s the perfect time to spruce up your car and get it in shape for the warmer months ahead.

With this in mind, at PetrolPrices.com we’ve pulled together a top five essentials list for spring cleaning the inside and outside of your car. These items will help you get it back into factory fresh condition, kickstarting your spring so you can hit the road in style.

1. One for those on the go

Bluetooth FM Transmitter

A Bluetooth transmitter is a modern day essential and if your car isn’t already equipped with one, it could be time to look at picking one up. It’s powered by your car’s cigarette lighter socket, and cleverly includes a USB port in the connector to provide charging power to your phone.

This particular variation comes with a plethora of features including hands-free calling mode.

In addition to this, one of the device’s main features is its ability to connect to your phone’s Bluetooth in order to play music from apps such as Spotify and Apple Music. This is particularly useful if you have an older car without such functionality built into the stereo system.

Positives:

  • Great sound quality
  • Good value for money
  • Plenty of features
  • Expandable storage

Negatives:

  • May cause a distraction for some

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 2. One to get your wheels shining

Wonder Wheels Super Alloy Wheel Cleaner 

Driving around in the great British weather will quickly leave your wheels caked in mud from the countryside, and grime from the cities. If you find your alloys are frequently dirty, then a professional grade wheel cleaner could be the way for you to blast away all the dirt and grime on your wheels.

This product from Wonder Wheels boasts great customer reviews. It’s excellent value for money, with many other comparable products costing more for less of cleaning product. The five litres of cleaner will be sure to last you through the whole spring season and beyond.

It is worth noting that this is a strong formula so it’s advisable to wear gloves during the application of the product.

 Positives:

  • Auto Express award winner
  • Well reviewed on Amazon
  • Includes cleaning brush

Negatives:

  • Gloves required!

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 3. One to keep your car looking fresh

Showroom Shine Waterless Wash & Wax Car Cleaner

 

You never know what life will throw at you as a modern day driver. When you’ve invested in a shiny new car you want to keep it looking in top condition at all times – and this waterless cleaning solution is the perfect product.

What really stand out about this is the ease of use. You simply spray the solution on a micro fibre cloth and you’re good to go. You don’t even need water. This means that you have a lot of flexibility in where and when you can clean your car

Using products like this helps maintain the resale value of your car too, as we mention in our Car Care Tips feature.

Positives:

  • Easy to use
  • Suitable for all types of body paintwork
  • Great value for money

Negatives:

  • Nothing of note

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4. One to switch out your interior

Eco-Leather Car Seat Cover 

If you’re unsatisfied with your car’s tired fabric car seats, then here’s a way to enjoy the benefits of leather – such as easy cleaning – for an affordable price. This set includes everything you need for a five-seat car with two front seat covers, one back seat bench cover, and five covers for headrests. Additionally, the seat covers are compatible with side airbags so safety isn’t compromised.

These are available in a conservative black colour, or in more sporty colour combinations to suit your individual tastes.

 

 

 Positives:

  • Great quality
  • Range of colours

Negatives:

  • Not truly universal – check for compatibility with your car (our link is for Ford vehicles)
  • Not suitable for cars equipped with sports seats

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5. One to protect your carpets

JVL Luxury Universal Car Mat

Getting mud on your shoes is next to unavoidable (especially for those of us with young children), but that doesn’t have to be an issue if you have good car mats to protect your carpets. These will keep your car looking and good and protect it from damage at the same time.

What’s really great about these particular mats is that they are easy to clean so when the inevitable does happen you can simply give them a wipe off and you’ll be good to go again.

This product from JVL also adjusts to fit any car size.

 

 Positives:

  • Slip resistant rear
  • Long lasting
  • Universal size

Negatives:

  • None to note

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5 Ways to Earn a Driving Penalty without Knowing

It can prove surprisingly easy for drivers to land themselves with a penalty sanction without realising their mistake, whilst driving (or indeed parking) on British roads. Last year The Daily Mail revealed that nearly 10 million driving fines were issued in the decade to 2012.

While many of these fines will have been for perfectly legitimate reasons, plenty of them will have caused drivers to feel unfairly treated, especially if they received a fine for an “offence” that road conditions made impossible to prevent.

Here are five examples of incidents that can land individuals with a Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN). Some of them are far from being common knowledge:

1. Idling whilst stationary: Not everyone knows that leaving a car idling can land the driver with a fixed penalty notice for up to £40. Local authorities tend to take individual approaches to enforcement of this rule, and are encouraged not to be overzealous – but taken to extremes this can even mean a fine for leaving a car stationary to warm up on a cold day. This rule does NOT apply when sitting still in traffic.

2. Driving around obstructions: Sometimes obstructions in the road may cause a driver to have to mount a kerb or go into a bus or cycle lane – triggering a fixed penalty that couldn’t have feasibly been avoided but still requires an appeal.

3. Failing to give pedestrians right of way: Pedestrians having right of way on all British roads is a hotly-debated theory – something clear from the hundreds of lively (and heated) forum threads on the subject.

In actual fact, The Highway Code makes a point to all road users that “the rules in The Highway Code do not give you the right of way in any circumstance,” and instead refers to who has priority in certain circumstances.

However, rule 170 of The Highway code does state the following:

“Watch out for pedestrians crossing a road into which you are turning. If they have started to cross they have priority.”

While, strictly speaking, the Highway Code is an advisory rather than a legal document, this explains why drivers can sometimes find themselves with a Fixed Penalty Notice if they fail to stop and let a pedestrian finish crossing a road.

4. Not obeying traffic signals and signs: Obviously drivers should always try to follow the rules of the road, but as with the case of driving around obstructions, circumstances can sometimes make this impossible. Often drivers are left with impossible dilemmas – such as moving away beyond a now-red light or continuing to obstruct a crossing.

5. Single yellow lines: Sometimes the rules around parking on single yellow lines almost seem designed to catch people out and generate revenue. The thing that trips many drivers up is assuming that parking on these lines is OK at the weekend or on bank holidays. In fact, these Controlled Parking Zones (CPZs) are subject to local rules that will determine the exact restrictions, and it’s down to drivers to carefully check the information signs to make sure they don’t end up with a fixed penalty.

Appealing FPNs

Anyone who disagrees with a Fixed Penalty Notice has the right to appeal. Such notices are issued and dealt with by local councils, who also handle appeals individually. As such, people wishing to appeal will need to follow the guidelines set by the council where the alleged offence took place.

Penalty Points

Penalty points (or endorsements) are the government’s way of penalising people who drive carelessly or fail to follow the rules of the road. Points also cost drivers money, as insurance companies always load the price of premiums for drivers with points, as they’re perceived to be more of a risk.

Points can also lead to disqualification, with the ban threshold being 12 points for experienced drivers, and just six for new drivers within two years of passing their test. In the latter case, novice drivers also have to retake their driving tests if they are banned for accumulating these points.

So, it clearly makes sense for all drivers to avoid accumulating points. However, it turns out that it’s actually surprisingly easy to do so for some rather low-level offences that seem like little more than misdemeanors.

A full government breakdown of endorsement codes and point values is available here – but it’s in the unwritten detail that it really gets interesting.

Offences that can earn three points

With the exception of “play street offences,” which earn two points, the minimum number of points handed out for driving offences is three. (A play street offence is when a vehicle is driven on a road designated and signposted for play, outside of the published times).

With new drivers facing a ban after just six points, these three point offences can soon add up. So, on that basis, what offences can earn a driver three points? Here are a few examples:

  • Contravention of pedestrian crossing regulations with stationary vehicle (PC30): This sounds awfully serious but can actually just mean being a tiny way over a white line at a traffic light.
  • Causing or likely to cause danger by reason of use of unsuitable vehicle (CU20): This could come down to something as minor as improperly maintained windscreen wipers or a broken mirror, but it’s still three points. Generally speaking, police officers can issue a “Vehicle Defect Rectification Notice” in these cases, but it’s at their discretion.
  • Furious driving (DD90): This earns a minimum of three points and potentially up to nine. Anyone who shows their displeasure with other drivers by making a point (think breaking or tailgating), runs the risk of points for this offence.

The full list of offences that attract points makes interesting reading. Another point that many people are unaware of is that it’s not only drivers who can earn penalty points. Passengers can be punished with endorsements on their own licences for offences that are construed to be inticing or aiding and abetting others.

How to reduce the risk of points

Obviously the key way people can avoid points is to drive safely and legally at all times. Keeping vehicles well maintained is important too.

However, people who do inadvertently trip themselves up and land up eligible for points can help themselves by being as co-operative as possible. If a police officer has the choice of issuing points, or a handing out a “ticking off” in the form of a “Vehicle Defect Rectification Notice,” they’re unlikely to choose the latter if they’re faced with petulance or rudeness.

Similarly, those caught speeding often have the choice of endorsements or a paid speed awareness course. The cost of the course may well prove lower than the insurance increase for the points. Furthermore, many people reluctantly admit that they do really learn something from such courses.

Have you had any experience with penalty points or Fixed Penalty Notices? Any incidents you feel were unfair? Share them in the comments below. 

What’s in Store for Diesel Drivers in 2017?

Last year, we discussed potential trouble ahead for diesel drivers. It was a highly emotive subject – something proven by the 26 pages of comments we received about the article.

Now, 2017 seems set to be the year that diesel drivers are hit with a perfect storm of issues and difficulties, with chatter already building about the potential for tax hikes and even diesel vehicle bans in cities.

Many diesel drivers have a solid reason to feel aggrieved by the government’s rapidly evolving stance on diesel vehicles and the emissions they produce. Under the last Labour government, people were positively encouraged to switch to diesel and Gordon Brown even gave tax breaks to individuals purchasing them.

Of course, that’s all changed since evidence emerged that diesel vehicles are far more damaging to the environment. Now the present government finds itself in the awkward position of having to disincentivise the use of vehicles that people were once proactively encouraged to buy – in a country with over 10 Million diesel cars on the road.

Pollution

Last year, the High Court ruled that the government must urgently act to address air pollution. As we moved into 2017 this was brought into sharp focus with the news that it only took five days for London to breach its air pollution targets. Almost 10,000 annual deaths in London are being blamed on air pollution, with many experts considering diesels to be the main issue.

Last year, a campaigning group called Doctors Against Diesel called on the mayor to put in place a ban on diesel vehicles in London. While this may sound extreme, such bans are actually planned in Athens, Madrid and Paris within the next decade.

However, there are some major practicalities to consider – not least the fact that a government cannot simply ban vehicles that people have previously been encouraged to buy! This is why there are calls for scrappage schemes and incentives to persuade people to move to “cleaner” cars. However, these ideas would be costly and need to be incredibly broad in scope to placate everyone. As yet, the government hasn’t indicated any such schemes are under serious consideration.

Taxation

One thing we may realistically see later this year is tax increases for diesel vehicles. The government has frozen fuel duty for six years in a row, and one has to ponder whether this may come to an end in 2017.

Last year, Patrick McLoughlin, the Transport secretary at the time, indicated that taxes may have to rise to address diesel emissions. A fuel duty increase for diesel seems most likely here, which will be especially galling for long-term diesel drivers who will have seen Gordon Brown do exactly the opposite to incentivise diesel use back in 2001.

Diesel Recalls

In addition to all the uncertainty above, if you own a diesel car you may well find yourself needing to visit your dealership for a recall or a software tweak at some point in 2017.

Obviously, the Volkswagen group scandal springs immediately to mind, and owners of diesel VWs, Audis, Skodas, Seats and Porsches should already have been notified if they need to take their car in for recall work. Meanwhile, a class-action lawsuit involving 10,000 owners is in the works. If the action is successful and sets a legal precedent, this could see over a million owners of such cars being awarded £3000 in compensation – something that would cost the VW group £3.6 Billion.

Aside from this however, it’s important to note that the diesel emissions scandal that broke in 2015 has now engulfed numerous other car manufacturers too.

While no other manufacturer has been implicated in the same way, “irregularities” have been found in diesel vehicles from Renault, Fiat and Jaguar, amongst many others, with plenty of companies including Mercedes-Benz and Opel set to conduct voluntary recalls on their vehicles too. It’s an almighty muddle – and that’s without beginning to consider that such recall work could have an impact on performance and fuel economy.

Is buying diesel now a bad idea?

Choosing a new diesel vehicle is certainly a bolder move than it once was. While it seems incredibly unlikely that the government could introduce any measures that would suddenly drastically disadvantage diesel drivers, the negative press alone could serve to make diesel cars less desirable and hit their resale values. Furthermore, a duty increase on diesel could eat into potential fuel economy savings.

If you travel long distances and select a vehicle with low enough emissions to qualify for low road tax (excise duty), a diesel car could still save you money in the short / medium term – but it’s fair to say it’s now a decision that warrants far more consideration than it once did. On the other hand, your options could be a potentially more polluting petrol car or an electric vehicle – and many consider these to still be in their relative infancy – so not an easy decision to make!

What do you think’s in store for diesel drivers in 2017? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Five Perfect Christmas Gifts for Drivers

We all have certain friends and family members who are really difficult to choose presents for. Thankfully, if you have an enthusiastic driver to buy for, there are plenty of options available to you.

We’ve had a good search of the web to help you with some ideas. In this list we’ve provided a mixture of products that have proved popular in past features and some all-new items.

Whether you’re looking for something for a new driver (perhaps a child or grandchild) or a motoring obsessive, you should find something to fit the bill below – whether you’re looking for a “main present” or a stocking filler.

1. Something practical

Car Care Made Easy

A recent PetrolPrices.com survey revealed that around 20% of respondents wouldn’t know what to do if they got a puncture whilst out on the roads. This is actually a far lower proportion than has been revealed in other similar surveys – some of which name a figure closer to 50%

This suggests a worrying number of people don’t know the absolute basics of taking care of their vehicles. Therefore, this spiral-bound book is perfect for people who need to get to grips with the basics of tyre pressure checks, oil level checks and coolant top-ups!

 Positives:

  • An inexpensive gift.
  • Fits neatly in the glovebox.
  • Can improve a driver’s knowledge and increase the safety and longevity of their vehicle.

Negatives:

  • Perhaps a little too practical for a “fun” gift!

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2. A perfect stocking filler

Belkin Phone Holder

There’s a strong reason why this inexpensive stocking filler features on the list; One of the PetrolPrices.com team received one from a family member last year and it’s been in constant use ever since.

Looking back at how complex car kits for mobile phones once were, this seems (and is) super-simple – but the best ideas often are. The back clips onto a convenient vent, and your smartphone (of any type) goes into the spring-loaded front section. Add a 12V car charger and you’re all set.

Positives:

  • Allows you to mount the phone horizontally (ideal for navigation) or vertically.
  • Grips on to almost anything.

Negatives:

  • For some, having a phone so conveniently mounted can serve as a distraction.

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3. Something for novice drivers

RAC Premium New Drivers Pack

Seeing a relative “come of age” to drive a car can produce a mixture of excitement and trepidation. We all want to keep our children and grandchildren safe while they enjoy their new-found freedom.

There are various gift sets available for new drivers; This is the most comprehensive we’ve found, with safety items including a warning triangle, torch and first-aid kit along with the standard-issue Highway Code and L-Plates. A perfect gift for anyone approaching driving age.

Positives:

  • Perfect for young drivers.
  • A wide variety of good quality items.

Negatives:

  • Cheaper kits are available (but with fewer items).

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4. Something for those who love their car!

Auto Glym “The Collection”

If you have a friend or family member who’s obsessed with their vehicle and constantly buffing and polishing it, this is the perfect gift.

Auto Glym products are well-renowned and loved by many, and this collection includes nine of them, along with a bag and a range of cleaning cloths and sponges.

There’s everything here to give a vehicle a show-room quality valet, and the right recipient will enjoy every minute of doing so!

Positives:

  • Loads of items included.
  • Great reviews.

Negatives:

  • A more expensive gift than some!

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5. A useful and practical “main present”

Portable Car Jump Starter

f you’re looking for a well thought out gift that will please a regular motorist and help to keep them safe and moving, this is a really decent choice that proved popular when we included it in a previous round-up of winter car accessories.

Its primary function is to jump start a broken down car without the need for another vehicle, but really this is just one of the features. The device can also charge mobile phones and other USB devices, and includes hazard lights, a torch and a compass.

This is a perfect gift to provide practical peace of mind to both the recipient and the gift-giver!

Positives:

  • Positive online reports.
  • Plenty of features.
  • Fits in the glovebox.

Negatives:

  • Nothing!

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