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Car Service Red Flags – Rapid PCO Top 10

May 23, 2023 | News, PCO Cars

If you drive a high mileage each year, then our Car Service Red Flags – Rapid PCO Top 10 is for you! Did you know approximately 1 million cars are scrapped every year in the UK, generating millions of tons of waste? Replacing your vehicle can be both costly and inconvenient, especially when your PCO car hire is essential to your livelihood.

As a PCO driver, it is crucial to keep your vehicle correctly maintained so that it can perform at maximum efficiency. That is why Rapid PCO provides you with the most common red flags to help you determine whether it’s time to upgrade to a cost-effective monthly PCO rental.

10 car service red flags to look out for

As a PCO driver, you spend countless hours behind the wheel and develop a deep understanding of your vehicle. If you notice any unusual sounds or handling issues, it is crucial to have your vehicle inspected by a professional mechanic immediately. You want to avoid costly repairs and prevent your vehicle from being off the road while working as a private hire driver in London. To help you, we have compiled a list of car service red flags to look out for while driving:

1. Your car will not start

If your PCO car doesn’t start when you begin your shift, it could be an indication of a problem. It might be, for example, time to replace the battery. If the issue persists even after replacing the battery, consider having your mechanic check the ignition system as it could be a result of loose wiring.

2. Dashboard warnings

When your car’s dashboard warning lights turn on, it could suggest potential engine problems. Ignoring these warning signs can lead to severe issues like engine seizure or damage. If you notice a flashing light, it is best to pull over and have a mechanic perform a thorough car service. Typical warning lights include:

  • Oil pressure
  • Engine temperature
  • Battery
  • Brakes
  • Anti-lock brakes

If you see any of these lights, it is crucial to have your car checked as soon as possible. Ignoring these warning lights can cause significant engine damage or even a breakdown.

3. Smoke and bad smells

If you notice that your PCO car is producing exhaust smoke, it could be a sign of a serious engine issue. Here are some of the different types of exhaust smoke and their potential causes:

  • Black smoke may result from a clogged air filter, dirty fuel injectors, or a problem with the fuel system.
  • Grey, blue, or white smoke could be caused by a coolant leak. Coolant is a mixture of water and antifreeze that keeps the engine cool, and if it leaks into the engine, it can cause serious problems.
  • A strong petrol/diesel odour typically arises from a fuel leak, which can be hazardous if it reaches the engine compartment.

Also, remember that driving with a severe engine issue can pose a danger to you and your passengers. Therefore, if you observe any of these types of problems, it is critical to have your PCO car towed to a mechanic for a full car service without delay.

4. Strange sounds while driving

Brake problems can be dangerous and expensive. If you notice any of the following signs, have your brakes checked by a mechanic immediately:

  • Squeaking or grinding noises
  • Soft or spongy brake pedal
  • Vibrations when braking
  • Leaking brake fluid
  • Droning or dragging sounds

Ignoring brake problems can lead to accidents, costly repairs, and even engine damage. It is important to have your brakes serviced regularly according to your car’s maintenance schedule.

5. Knocking noises

A knocking sound from your car’s engine is a serious problem. It could be a sign of several issues, including:

  • Low oil pressure
  • Worn bearings
  • Timing belt problems
  • Detonation

In addition to the potential for costly repairs, driving with a knocking engine can also be dangerous. The knocking sound could be a sign of overheating, which can lead to a loss of power and control of the vehicle. If you hear a knocking sound coming from your car’s engine, get it checked out by a professional as soon as possible.

6. Steering or handling issues

If you notice that your car is driving rougher and bumpier than usual, it is important to have it looked over by a mechanic. A rough ride can be caused by several things, including:

  • Tire problems
  • Suspension problems
  • Alignment problems

In this scenario, it is best to have your PCO car checked out by a mechanic as soon as possible. They can diagnose the problem and make the necessary repairs to get your car back to driving smoothly.

7. Persistent or intermittent transmission problems

If you experience sluggish acceleration or surges when your car reaches certain speeds, it might be a sign of transmission trouble. The transmission is a complex system that helps your car shift gears efficiently.

Any issue with your transmission can cause problems such as difficulty changing gears, jerking, leaks, and damage to other car parts. If you notice any of these signs, it is crucial a mechanic diagnoses and fixes the problem.

8. Abnormal tremors and vibrations

Vibrations or shaking in a car can be a serious car service red flag. There are several reasons why a car might behave this way. The most common causes include:

  • Unbalanced wheels
  • Worn-out ball joints
  • Loose hoses
  • Clogged gearbox

If you notice your car vibrating or shaking arrange to have the necessary repairs made as soon as possible.

9. Leaking fluids under your car

If there is a fluid puddle under your car, it is crucial to examine its colour. Clear fluids are generally harmless and can be caused by condensation. However, other fluids like brake fluid, transmission fluid, wiper fluid, power steering fluid, refrigerant fluid, and coolant may indicate a severe issue.

  • Brake fluid is typically dark brown or black. If there is a leakage, it may result in your brakes losing their effectiveness, leading to a possible accident.
  • Transmission fluid is usually pinkish-red or orange. If it leaks, it can cause your transmission to overheat and ultimately fail.
  • Wiper fluid is typically blue. If there is a leakage, it means you will be unable to clean your windshield, ultimately obstructing your vision.
  • Power steering fluid is typically pink. A leak can cause your power steering to become less effective, making it difficult to turn the steering wheel.
  • Refrigerant fluid is often green. A leak can impact the efficiency of your air conditioning system and potentially harm the environment.
  • Coolant is generally orange or yellow. If it leaks, it can cause your engine to overheat and affect the environment negatively.

If you notice a puddle, take your car to a mechanic for a car service, as even tiny leaks can cause major damage.

10. Smoke rising from the engine

If you notice smoke coming from under the bonnet, it is a serious warning that your engine is overheating. Overheating can cause damage to your engine and even lead to a fire. Therefore, it is critical to act right away.

Firstly, pull over and park in a safe location on the side of the road. Turn off the engine and give it time to cool down. It is essential not to touch or open the engine until it has cooled down completely.

Secondly, once the engine has cooled down inspect for possible damage. If any leaks are visible, you must get them repaired at once. You may also need to replace or flush the radiator too.

Finally, remember that overheating is a dangerous issue that must be dealt with quickly. Ignoring the problem can result in expensive repairs or even total engine failure.

 

Car service costs too high? Switch to a Rapid PCO car hire!

At Rapid PCO, we are committed to providing our drivers with the right vehicle and support services they need to keep on the move. We offer a PCO rental package that is cost-effective whilst offering additional benefits that include:

  • Roadside assistance
  • Servicing and maintenance
  • Tyres and brakes replacement

Rapid PCO car hire allows you greater peace of mind in the unlikely event that something goes wrong with the vehicle. Our specialist team is on hand to support you through your PCO rental today.

Rapid PCO car hire at your fingertips!

Looking for a reliable, easy-to-use service for your PCO car hire? Look no further than Rapid PCO! Our new app makes the PCO car hire process quick and simple, with same-day pickup, fully comprehensive insurance, and roadside assistance available.

So why wait? Download the Rapid PCO app today and take control of your PCO car hire needs in just a few easy clicks. With Simplicity, Speed, and Service that can’t be beaten, Rapid PCO is the smart choice for all your London private hire needs!

Our onboarding process is straightforward. All you need to do is:

  • Obtain a weekly price
  • Reserve your car
  • Collect your car yourself within 7 days

Call 01732 280781 or click to request a no-obligation, hassle-free quotation. Do not let costly car services hold you back. Speak to our Rapid PCO team and find out how you can hire a reliable, top-of-the-range PCO rental today.

This article includes links to third-party websites and apps which we include solely for information purposes, there is no implied endorsement of using these resources. Clicking on links, visiting third-party websites, or downloading apps may allow third parties to collect or share data about you that is out of our control. When you leave our website, we encourage you to read the privacy notice of every website you visit. We are not responsible for the availability, content, accuracy, completeness, or security of such resources. We will not be liable for direct or indirect damages arising out of or in connection with the use of websites or apps.

PCO driving in London is becoming increasingly popular, with over 100,000 PCO drivers having been licensed as of 2025.

When looking to become a PCO driver in London, it can be hard to navigate the internet to find exactly what you need to know to get started.

To help you begin, Rapid PCO have created this guide on how you can start the journey to getting your London PCO Licence.

Who can apply for a PCO licence in London?

Before you start the process of obtaining your PCO Licence in London, there is a set of requirements that you will need to meet. Below is a list of examples of what may be required (this is not an exhaustive list).

Basic Requirements

  • You must hold a valid driving licence (Full UK driving licence or one from an EU or EEA state) that’s at least three years old.
  • You must be at least 21 years old
  • Have the right to work in the UK
  • Register with HMRC to pay tax
  • Be of good character To establish this You will be required to undertake an ‘enhanced’ criminal records check) more information on how to apply can be found here.
  • No history of serious driving offences. For example excessive speeding or dangerous driving.

What is a PCO Licence?

The official name for a PCO (public carriage office) licence is Private Hire Driver Licence.

PCO stems from the old body responsible for black taxis and stands for Public Carriage Office. This was renamed by Transport for London (TfL) as the Taxi and Private Hire Unit.

When looking for a PCO Licence in London, you will have to go through the TfL application process.

Once you obtain your PCO Licence it will be valid for 3 years, which only covers you as a person and not the vehicle you drive (Your vehicle must also be licenced by TfL).

How to apply for a PCO licence in London?

  1. Medical Check

TfL requires you to be medically fit if you are to obtain your PCO Licence. To be deemed medically fit you must meet the DVLA Group 2 medical standards.

You will need to undergo a medical examination with someone who has access to your full medical records; so, for example, your doctor or another medical health professional will be required to conduct this.

Your medical check should be updated every 12 months.

  1. Complete your enhanced DBS check

To hold a PCO Licence, TfL states that you need to be of good character. As a result, you will be required to undertake an ‘enhanced’ criminal records check from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).

Much like other jobs, this check is to see if you have a criminal record and, if so, if it poses a threat to the public’s safety.

DBS checks are only valid for three months: TfL offer the DBS update service to ensure that your DBS check is always up to date and allows employers to access this online.

The DBS update service costs £16 per year, and you can pay for it using a debit or credit card. By registering with this service, you will not have to pay the £52 online fee for or the £54 fee for a paper application, for every following background check you undergo.

  1. Get your right to work check

Applying for your PCO licence means you must confirm that you are allowed to work in the UK.

To prove this you will need to go through an online check completed by TfL on the Government website after you have submitted your PCO licence application.

In some cases, additional documentation may be required.

Introduced in July 2021, EU, EEA and Swiss nationals are now required to have a valid immigration status in the UK. EU, EEA and Swiss nationals are now not able to solely rely on a passport or ID card to prove their right to work.

You can find out more on the EU/EEA nationals guidance here.

  1. TfL speaking and listening test

For this part of your PCO Licence application, you will need to prove that you have a good standard of English, this is designed specifically to evaluate your ability to communicate effectively in a professional context.

The test will take around 15 minutes and is conducted inside the TfL premises, either at Baker Street or West Kensington via a video or telephone link with a company called PeopleCert.

Please see PeopleCerts’s website for more information about the test

  1. Safety, Equality and Regulatory Understanding (SERU)

This written test is to ensure that drivers are able to read and write English to the TfL’s required standard and can understand safety issues and passengers’ rights.

Road safety, protection of children or vulnerable adults, and UK equality law is also covered within the SERU test.

You can find information regarding the SERU test here.

  1. Topographical skills test

This part of your PCO licence application tests your understanding of London geography and route planning will be put into practice.

You will be expected to understand the basic map symbols and be able to use a map index correctly.

The topographical skills test will be conducted at TFL-approved test centres, such as:

  • Pier Walk, North Greenwich
  • West Kensington

The test is computer-based and lasts about 1 hour. Please note, you must bring a valid ID. All materials (e.g. London A-Z map) are provided.

The topographical skills test features a mix of multiple-choice questions and route planning exercises, some of which may reflect real-world conditions such as traffic disruptions or road closures.

The cost of this assessment is £36 for the first time and £16 for a re-sit.

How much does a PCO Licence cost?

The cost of your PCO licence application will be around £450-£700, depending on where you get your medical and language tests done.

This price is an estimate, as the cost can change depending on if you pay for courses to prepare for your exams or if you are required to retake any exams that you may not pass first time round.

Please find a breakdown of the potential cost of your PCO licence application below:

  • PCO Licence application fee (non-refundable) – £124
  • Grant of licence fee – £186
  • Medical Exam – Set up by your GP (Around £80)
  • DBS check – £52 (online) / £54 (paper)
  • Topographical assessment – £36/£16 each retake
  • SERU assessment – £36
  • Speaking and listening assessment – £36

The SERU assessment is designed to test reading and writing abilities, with a focus on a driver’s knowledge of safety, equality, and relevant regulations. In contrast, the Speaking and Listening component measures how well a driver can communicate verbally.

Estimated total cost range:

£450 – £700, depending on where you get your medical and language tests done.

How long will your PCO licence be valid?

Your PCO licence will be valid for 3 years. 4 months before your PCO licence expires, you should receive a PCO licence renewal pack through the post. As the PCO licence renewal process can take around 8 weeks, it is still a good idea to set a reminder to contact TfL.

Helpful Tips for Passing your PCO Licence Test

If you’re preparing for the PCO licence assessment for the first time, or renewing your licence here are some practical strategies to boost your chances of success:

  1. Start Studying Early

Effective preparation takes time, so it’s important to build a consistent study routine well in advance. Choose a time of day when you’re most alert—whether that’s in the morning or evening—and stick to it.

  1. Familiarise Yourself with the Exam Format

Understanding how the test is structured and the types of questions you’ll face can help reduce anxiety and improve your confidence on the day of the exam.

  1. Use Practice Resources

Make use of mock tests and sample questions. These tools can help you get used to the timing and format of the real test, while also highlighting areas where you may need more revision.

  1. Organise Your Study Time

Break your revision into smaller, focused sessions. Prioritise the most important topics and spread your study time evenly to avoid last-minute cramming or burnout.

Ready to apply for your PCO licence?

You can register your TfL account here. Provide your personal details as shown above and present an approved photo.

How Rapid PCO Can Help Drive Your Career Further

At Rapid PCO, we’re more than just a car hire company — We are a reliable partner to thousands of private hire drivers who entrust us with their PCO car rental needs.

Whether you’re just starting out or you are an experienced PCO driver, we offer a wide range of PCO-licensed vehicles tailored to your needs, including electric, hybrid, and executive models.

With fully comprehensive insurance, 24/7 roadside assistance, servicing and maintenance included, no credit checks, and collection within 24 hours we make it easy to get behind the wheel*.

Rent to Buy Scheme

Our Rent to Buy scheme gives you the opportunity to own your vehicle within 5 years whilst earning money with ride sharing apps such as Uber and Bolt.

You can secure a brand-new vehicle with just a £499 deposit with Rapid PCO*.

Ready to upgrade your PCO ride?
Explore our PCO car hire options or learn more about Rent to Buy today.

*Terms & Conditions apply.

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