Car Servicing in Ermington

Ermington is a South Hams village in the River Erme valley, reached by narrow country roads and used by commuters heading for Ivybridge and Plymouth. Country roads and commuting together make for a varied life for a car.

We are Automaster, at Longcombe Cross near Totnes. We service petrol and diesel cars for drivers from Ermington and neighbouring places such as Ivybridge, Modbury, South Brent and Kingston.

What does a valley village mean for servicing?

Narrow roads with tight bends, hedges and the occasional rough surface wear tyres and suspension, and the rise out of a valley works the brakes on the way down. Commuting adds steady mileage on top.

A service lets us check these parts methodically instead of waiting for a noise or a pull to warn you.

After wet weather, lanes can carry mud and debris that hide potholes, and sudden stops for oncoming traffic are common. These conditions are hard on tyres and suspension components and we check them carefully.

• Tyres and alignment signs
• Brake wear
• Suspension and steering joints
• Fluids and filters

Which service: interim, full or major?

The interim service is the lighter visit, centred on fresh oil and a new filter with basic checks. The full service digs deeper, adding further filters and a more thorough inspection when due. The major service includes the longer-term items in the maker's schedule, such as spark plugs on petrol engines or a fuel filter on a diesel.

Your handbook is the guide, and we can interpret it if it is not clear.

Whichever level you choose, you should leave knowing what was done, what was checked and what, if anything, to plan for next.

Why is following the manufacturer schedule worthwhile?

Because the maker knows when parts typically need attention. A car serviced to schedule is more likely to run reliably, and a stamped or documented history helps when you sell. We always work to the intervals for your particular vehicle.

Keep your service book or invoices together. If you ever sell, a tidy history is one of the more persuasive things you can show a buyer.

Do you serve Ermington, and how do I arrange a service?

Yes. Ermington drivers bring their cars to Longcombe Cross near Totnes, and we also see drivers from Ivybridge, Modbury and Kingston. Start by asking for a quote, with your make, model, year, engine and mileage.

Tell us whether you would like an oil and filter change, an interim, full or major service, or a health check, and we will advise.

What about oil, filters and buying second-hand?

Oil and filter changes protect the engine and are the core of any service. If you are thinking of buying a second-hand car, a pre-purchase inspection looks for wear, leaks and neglected upkeep so you can decide with better information, although it cannot predict every future fault.

When you ask for a quote, tell us whether the car has a full history, because it helps us decide what is due next.