Car Servicing in Hexworth

Hexworth is a small rural hamlet in Dartmoor-edge country, reached by narrow lanes. When the nearest shops and work are a drive away, a dependable car matters more than most people admit, and regular servicing is a sensible way to avoid being caught out by a breakdown.

Automaster is at Longcombe Cross near Totnes. Drivers from the surrounding countryside and from Heathfield, Liverton, Bickington and Caton bring their petrol and diesel cars to us for servicing, general maintenance and fault finding.

Where do I take my car for a service if I live in Hexworth?

Bring it to us at Longcombe Cross near Totnes. We take cars from hamlets and farms across the Dartmoor edge as well as from the nearby towns, and we can service and MOT test cars and vans. When you ask for a quote, tell us about the car and anything you have noticed, and we will advise on the right work.

Interim, full and major services: what is the difference?

An interim service is the lighter visit, commonly an oil and filter change plus a set of checks, chosen by those who drive a lot between full services. A full service is wider, adding further replacements and a more detailed look over the car. A major service is the most extensive, covering longer-interval items the manufacturer specifies.

Because each model differs, we do not work to a one-size checklist. We look at the manufacturer information for your car and explain what is being done and why.

Why follow the service schedule in the handbook?

The handbook is where the manufacturer sets out what your engine needs and when, whether by time or by mileage. Lane driving with cold starts and short hops can reach the time limit before the mileage one, so a car that seems barely used can still be due.

A complete service record also supports the value of the car when it comes to selling.

• Follow time and mileage limits
• Keep the service book stamped
• Tell us the last service date

How often should engine oil and the filter be changed?

Follow your handbook, because intervals differ by engine. Oil that has done its time stops protecting as well, and a blocked filter lets dirt through. If you do lots of cold starts on short lane journeys, oil tends to age faster.

An oil and filter change can be booked by itself between services. If an oil warning light comes on, stop as soon as it is safe, because driving on can seriously damage the engine.

What do a health check and a pre-purchase inspection cover?

A vehicle health check reports on the condition of tyres, brakes, steering, suspension, lights, belts and fluids. It is a calm way to find out what a rural car needs before winter, a holiday or the MOT.

A pre-purchase inspection is for a second-hand car you are considering. We check the mechanical condition, look for leaks and worn parts and give you a report, so you can decide with more confidence. We can only report on the day, and cannot promise the future.