Car Servicing in Pounds Gate

Pounds Gate is a small rural hamlet on narrow lanes near the Dartmoor edge. Weather, mud and tight bends all take their toll on a car, and when you live somewhere like this a servicing slot is easy to put off until something goes wrong.

At Automaster we would rather see a car before that happens. Our garage is at Longcombe Cross near Totnes, and drivers from the surrounding countryside and from Caton, Buckfastleigh, Bickington and South Brent bring us their petrol and diesel cars for servicing and maintenance.

Where can I get a car service if I live in Pounds Gate?

Come to us at Longcombe Cross near Totnes. We look after cars from hamlets and villages across the Dartmoor edge, and we also carry out MOT testing for cars and vans. Ask for a quote, tell us the make, model and mileage, and we will advise on the right work.

What are interim, full and major services in plain English?

Think of them as three depths of the same job. Interim means fresh oil, a new oil filter and a quick but useful round of checks. Full means all of that plus further replacement parts and a closer inspection. Major means the longest-interval items the manufacturer lists, which are only due now and then.

What goes into each depends on the car, so we explain the work proposed for yours rather than quoting a generic list.

If you are unsure what your car is due, tell us the last service date and mileage and we will point you to the right level.

Does it matter if I follow the manufacturer's handbook?

It does, because that is where the maker sets out when parts should be checked or replaced. The schedule is usually set by time and by mileage. Cars on short lane journeys can reach the time limit first, so a quiet year does not mean the service can wait.

Keep the book or invoices together. They show that the car has been looked after.

How do oil and filter changes protect an engine?

Oil cools and lubricates the engine, and the filter removes the dirt it carries. When both are overdue, wear speeds up. Cold starts and short trips are hard on oil, which is common for cars used mainly for local runs.

If the oil warning light comes on, stop in a safe place rather than carrying on, as running low on oil can seriously damage an engine.

• Oil and filter replaced together
• Right grade for your engine
• Level and leaks checked

Can you check a car before I buy it, or find a fault on mine?

Yes. A pre-purchase inspection looks at the mechanical condition of a second-hand car, including leaks and wear, and gives you a report to guide your decision. A vehicle health check does the same kind of job for your own car.

If something is wrong, such as a warning light or a noise, we do fault finding and explain the cause before further work. We never promise a repair is possible until we have inspected the car.

When you ask for a quote, mention anything you have noticed, such as a vibration, a pull under braking or a smell, as it helps us plan the inspection.