Car Repairs in Caton

Caton is a small rural hamlet on the Dartmoor edge, close to the A38. A car here may spend part of its life on quiet lanes and part on a fast dual carriageway, and engines cope with that contrast better when the cooling system, oil supply and timing gear are in good order.

Automaster, at Longcombe Cross near Totnes, repairs petrol and diesel engines. Below are the faults we are most often asked about and what to expect from the work.

Why will my car not pull properly on the A38?

Lack of power at speed can come from a clogged filter, a failing fuel pump, a worn injector, an air leak or a turbo that is not making boost. A computer fault code can narrow it down, but the parts still need testing. We carry out engine diagnostics and then repair what is wrong.

Engine servicing with correct oil and filters is the sensible baseline, and it reduces the chance of fuel-system and turbo problems.

• Flat feeling when overtaking
• Whistling from the turbo
• Surging or hesitation
• Reduced economy

When is a timing belt or chain replacement needed?

Belts follow the maker's interval for mileage and age. Chains usually last longer but can wear, and a rattle at start-up is a warning. If a belt breaks on many engines, the valves can hit the pistons, causing damage that costs far more than the original job.

We normally suggest replacing the water pump during a belt change, as the labour overlaps and the pump often drives from the belt. Ask for a quote with your engine details and we will confirm what is included.

What does an overheating engine mean?

It means the cooling system is not removing heat as it should. Do not carry on driving. Pull over, switch off, wait for it to cool and never open the cap while hot. Further driving risks a warped head or a blown head gasket.

Causes range from a leaking radiator or hose to a stuck thermostat, a worn water pump or a failed fan. We test the system and carry out the radiator and cooling repairs it needs.

Can I bring my car to Automaster from Caton?

Yes. We are at Longcombe Cross, Longcombe, Totnes TQ9 6PL.

Our advice before you set off is simple: if the car is hot, smoking or has lost most of its oil, call first rather than driving it in.

How are oil leaks and injector faults repaired?

For an oil leak we clean the area, run the engine and trace the source, which might be a gasket, seal or the oil cooler. The fix is usually replacement of the leaking part. For injectors and fuel-system faults we test delivery and condition, then clean, repair or replace parts as the testing shows.