Brake Repairs in Totnes

Totnes asks a lot of a car's brakes. Fore Street is steep, the town centre is busy with shoppers and the roads in from the A385 and the A381 mean plenty of stopping and starting, so pads and discs do real work here. In summer, visitors add to the queues around the castle and the railway station.

We are Automaster, an independent RAC Approved Garage at Longcombe Cross near Totnes. We repair brakes, suspension and steering on petrol and diesel cars, and this page explains the symptoms to watch for and what the work involves.

What are the signs my brakes need attention in Totnes?

A squeal or a harsh grinding when you press the pedal usually means the friction material is worn down, and grinding can mean metal is touching metal. Other warning signs are the car pulling to one side, a pedal that feels soft or sinks lower than it used to, and vibration through the pedal or steering wheel.

A lit ABS warning light also needs checking, because the anti-lock system may not be working when you need it.

• Squealing or grinding when braking
• Pulling to one side
• Soft or low pedal
• Vibration through pedal or wheel

How are brake pads and discs repaired?

The wheels come off so the pads, discs, callipers and brake lines can be inspected properly. Pads and discs are normally renewed in axle sets so the braking stays even from side to side, and a seized calliper or a worn flexible hose is dealt with at the same time if we find one.

What the job involves depends on the vehicle and on what the inspection shows, which is why we ask you to request a quote rather than guess.

Can you fix ABS lights, clunks and heavy steering?

Yes, we diagnose ABS faults by reading the system and testing the sensors and wiring, because a lit light has several possible causes. The same inspection approach applies to suspension: clunks over bumps, worn springs, tired shock absorbers and uneven tyre wear all point to parts that need looking at.

Humming from a wheel that changes with speed often suggests a wheel bearing, and a heavy or loose feel at the wheel can come from steering or power steering faults.

What affects the time and cost of a brake job?

The make and model matter, since parts and access differ widely. So does the condition of everything around the pads: a corroded calliper, a seized slider or a leaking line adds work. Doing the front and rear, or adding shock absorbers or a bearing, changes the scope too.

We would rather give you an accurate quote after looking at the car than a vague figure over the phone.

Automaster can also quote for related work found at the same time, such as a worn bearing or a tired shock absorber on the same axle.

Do you cover Totnes, and where do I bring the car?

Yes. We are at Longcombe Cross near Totnes, and drivers from the town, Dartington, Buckfastleigh, South Brent and Paignton all bring their cars to us. When you get in touch, give us the registration, the symptoms and when you notice them.

If the brakes feel wrong, please do not keep driving on them. Tell us what is happening and we will advise on the next step.