Car Diagnostics in Dartmouth

Dartmouth is a historic port on the River Dart with steep, narrow streets, ferries and heavy visitor traffic, and the Britannia Royal Naval College looks down over the town. Driving here is mostly slow, short and stop-start, which tests a car's battery and charging system.

Automaster provides diagnostics and auto electrics from Longcombe Cross near Totnes, and drivers from Dartmouth are welcome to ask for a quote.

Why do stop-start town journeys cause electrical trouble?

Short, slow trips give the alternator little chance to recharge the battery after each start. Add lights, wipers, heater and a sat-nav, and a tired battery loses out.

We test the battery, alternator and starter, and check for any parasitic drain, so we can tell you whether a replacement is needed.

What does a warning light diagnostic involve?

We read the stored codes from the engine and other control units, then test the sensors, wiring and connectors the codes point to. The code is a pointer to a system, not a list of parts to fit.

Once the cause is confirmed we explain the repair and give a quote.

• Engine management light
• ABS and stability warnings
• Airbag and battery lights

What if the immobiliser or alarm stops the car starting?

A flashing key or security light and a car that turns over but will not fire can mean an immobiliser fault. Alarms can also drain a battery or lock out the starter circuit.

Tell us what lights show and what happens when you try to start. It helps us decide where to look first.

Stay calm and keep the car out of the way of other traffic. Note whether it cranks slowly, clicks, or does nothing at all, and whether the dashboard lights dim. Those details help us tell a flat battery from a starter or immobiliser fault. Try not to keep turning the key repeatedly, as that can drain the battery further. When you ask for a quote, give us as much of that detail as you can, and say where the car is so we can talk through sensible next steps.

Can you repair sensors, wiring, cameras and parking aids?

Yes. We cover sensor faults and replacement, wiring repairs, reversing cameras and parking sensors. Narrow streets and ferry queues leave little room to manoeuvre, so these aids matter.

Intermittent faults often take longer, since we have to find them when they occur.

Do you cover Dartmouth, and where is Automaster?

Yes. We see drivers from Dartmouth, Churston, Brixham, Kingsbridge and Totnes. The garage is at Longcombe Cross near Totnes.

Ask for a quote, describe the problem and say if the car is safe to drive.