Brake Repairs in Ivybridge

Ivybridge lies on the southern edge of Dartmoor beside the A38, with strong commuter traffic towards Plymouth and steep roads up to the moor. Stop-start queues and hills together make for hard-working brakes, so wear is often faster than owners expect.

We are an independent garage at Longcombe Cross near Totnes, and we repair brakes, suspension and steering on petrol and diesel cars. Here is what to look and listen for.

Do commuter queues wear out pads and discs?

Yes. Repeated slowing and stopping in traffic wears pads steadily, and a pad worn to its limit scores the disc behind it. Heat builds on a long commute, particularly when a car sits in a queue and then sets off again.

Squealing that does not clear, or grinding, means it is time to book rather than wait for the next service.

Automaster looks at the front and rear brakes together, since a commuter car that has been braked hard from the same speed day after day can wear unevenly.

How do steep roads to the moor change things?

Downhill driving holds the brakes on for longer, which builds heat and can cause fade or a pulsing pedal. Suspension also works harder on climbs and dips, especially with a full car.

If the car dives under braking or keeps bouncing after bumps, the shock absorbers may be tired.

Some drivers also notice a vibration through the steering wheel that gets worse as the car slows from speed. That is worth mentioning, as it can point to distorted front discs or a worn suspension part.

• Fade on long descents
• Dive when braking
• Bouncing after bumps
• Pulsing pedal

What does a brake repair include?

We remove the wheels and inspect pads, discs, callipers, slides and hoses, then replace what is worn, normally across a full axle. We also look for leaks and check the condition of the brake fluid.

The cost depends on the car, the parts and what we find, so ask for a quote and tell us how the car behaves.

Brake work and suspension work can often be inspected together, which suits a car that has covered plenty of commuting miles. If the inspection shows other worn parts, such as a calliper that is sticking or a tired damper, they can be added to the quote.

Can you fix ABS lights and steering problems?

Yes. ABS faults are diagnosed by reading the system and testing sensors and wiring, because a warning light can have several causes. Steering faults such as a heavy or loose feel, including power steering problems, are checked and repaired.

Humming that rises with speed may suggest a wheel bearing, which we replace after confirming it is the cause.

Is Automaster set up for Ivybridge drivers?

Yes, we welcome drivers from Ivybridge, South Brent, Ermington, Modbury and Kingsbridge at Longcombe Cross near Totnes. Tell us the symptoms and ask for a quote.

If the brakes feel unsafe, avoid driving until they are checked, and describe exactly what happens when you press the pedal.

Whatever route you use, describe the problem when you get in touch so we can prepare.