MOT Testing in Buckfastleigh

Life on the edge of Dartmoor means hills, moorland roads and a steady flow of visitors for the steam railway and the abbey nearby. Brakes work hard on the descents, and tyres and suspension take the bumps. That is the background to every MOT we see from Buckfastleigh.

Automaster is an independent garage at Longcombe Cross near Totnes. We test cars and vans, and if the result needs follow-up work we can carry it out for you.

What are the main MOT checks for a hilly Dartmoor-edge car?

The test is the same everywhere, but some parts matter more here. The tester examines the brakes for balance and condition, the tyres for tread and damage, and the steering and suspension for wear or looseness. Lights, indicators, mirrors, windscreen, seatbelts, number plates and the exhaust are covered too, along with any warning lights and signs of corrosion that make the structure unsafe.

After a long descent with a loaded car, brakes that pull to one side or feel soft are a sign to book a check now instead of waiting for the date to arrive.

• Brakes, discs and pads
• Tyre tread and sidewalls
• Suspension and steering joints
• Lights, wipers and windscreen

Do you cover Buckfastleigh and the A38 side?

We do. People from Buckfastleigh, Buckfast, Holne and South Brent come to our garage near Totnes for MOT testing and repairs. If you drive a car or a Class 7 van for work, mention it when you contact us and we will confirm what is needed.

Booking is available online or by phone, so you can pick whichever suits your day.

What happens if my car fails the MOT?

Defects are classed as dangerous, major or minor. A dangerous defect means the vehicle should not be driven at all, while a major defect is a fail. Minor items are recorded and the car still passes.

Once a fail is on the sheet, you can have us repair it and then retest. How a retest works depends on the fault and timing, so ask us. Do not carry on driving a vehicle with failed brakes or steering.

Should I get an MOT inspection ahead of the test?

Hill driving and tourist-season traffic make worn parts show up quickly, so an inspection first is a sensible idea. Spotting a tired brake pad or cracked tyre early means you can fix it on your own schedule rather than after a fail.

MOT preparation also covers the small things, such as a bulb or washer fluid, that cause avoidable fails.

When is the MOT due and can I test early?

A first MOT is due at three years old, then yearly. Testing up to a month minus a day before the certificate ends keeps the renewal date the same, so an early test costs you nothing in lost time.

For vans, the Class 7 test applies. Tell us the vehicle type and we will confirm which class it is.