Brake Repairs in Dawlish

Dawlish is a seaside town known for the railway running along the sea wall, with steep hills inland and busy visitor traffic on the A379. Getting about means a lot of up-and-down, slow queues and sudden stops.

We are Automaster at Longcombe Cross near Totnes, and we welcome Dawlish drivers alongside people from Teignmouth, Newton Abbot, Stoke-in-Teignhead and Heathfield. Brakes, suspension and steering are among the most common jobs we are asked about.

What brake problems come with Dawlish roads?

Steep hills climbing from the seafront make downhill braking heavy, and the A379 can slow to a crawl when visitors arrive. Both wear pads and discs, and sustained heavy braking can heat the system.

A pedal that feels softer after a long descent, a burning smell or noises from the wheels are reasons to book an inspection.

Many drivers here only realise how far the brakes have slipped when they have to stop firmly at the bottom of a hill or behind a sudden queue. If you spot the early signs, such as a slightly longer pedal or a faint rubbing, it is much easier to deal with them before they become something that affects how the car stops.

How is a brake inspection carried out?

We examine pad thickness, disc condition, calipers, brake hoses and the fluid. We also listen for noises and feel for vibration, and where the ABS light is on we connect diagnostic equipment.

Then we explain the findings. What a repair involves, and what it costs, depends on the vehicle and the parts, so please ask for a quote.

• Pads and discs
• Calipers and hoses
• ABS diagnostics

Why is my car clunking, bouncing or wandering?

Worn shock absorbers, springs and suspension joints allow the body to move more than it should. You may notice a clunk over bumps, a bouncy ride or the car dipping under braking.

Wandering or vague steering can come from worn track rod ends, ball joints or the steering rack. We check each and replace what has worn.

Roads in and out of Dawlish are rarely flat, so a worn bush or loose joint tends to announce itself on the way up or down a slope. Mention whether the noise comes on acceleration, braking or turning, as each points to a different part.

Wheel bearings, power steering and tyre wear

A hum or growl from a wheel that rises with speed often means a bearing. We replace bearings when inspection confirms it, and note that the process varies by vehicle.

Power steering that feels heavy or noisy, or tyres that wear unevenly, deserve investigation. These faults can start small but grow if left alone.

Do you cover Dawlish, and where do I take the car?

Yes. Dawlish drivers bring cars to us at Longcombe Cross near Totnes, as do people from Teignmouth, Newton Abbot and Heathfield.

Ask for a quote and describe what the car is doing. If you are unsure whether it is safe to drive, tell us and we will advise.