Martin Saarinen

How to appeal parking fine

I RECENTLY parked my Volkswagen Polo in a residential zone in Wandsworth, London. When I returned I’d got a parking fine, with the claim that I’d exceeded the bay’s limits. I don’t agree with this, and took pictures as evidence. What can I do to appeal? Tony Carver, E-mail YOU can appeal penalty charge notices (PCNS) by contacting the council and filing a challenge. But it’s likely the traffic warden took their own evidence, so be sure you’re in the right before challenging the ticket. Can I drive MOT failure? MY car has just failed its MOT. I need to wait at least a week before I can have the brake repairs done, but need my car for work. Is there any way I can keep using it until the fix? James Frater, E-mail UNFORTUNATELY not. The only time you can legally drive a car without a valid MOT certificate is if you’re on your way to have the faults fixed or to have a new MOT test carried out. Organise alternative means of transport for the week, or book the car in to have the repairs done sooner. SEAT’S thirst for coolant MY 2007 SEAT Leon is using nearly a litre of coolant every three weeks. I know the weather is getting warmer, but can you tell me whether this is normal or perhaps a sign of a more serious problem? Justin Thomas, E-mail A LITRE every three weeks sounds excessive and could be a sign of a leak. First, check underneath the car. If no leaks are present, the problem could be internal. Have the system pressure tested by a local garage.