MOT Testing in Ellacombe

Ellacombe is a residential district of Torquay, with steep terraced streets close to the harbour and town centre. Cars that are parked on slopes and moved only a short distance each day can suffer from sticking brakes, flat batteries and uneven tyre wear.

At Automaster we test cars and vans for drivers in Ellacombe. Our garage is at Longcombe Cross near Totnes, and the same team can carry out any repairs the test shows up.

What does an MOT check on a car parked on a terraced street?

Cars left on slopes and used for short runs can have seized brake parts, corroded brake pipes and tyres worn on the kerb side. The tester checks all of these, along with lights, steering, suspension, exhaust and emissions, mirrors, wipers, seatbelts, plates and body condition for safety.

Warning lights on the dashboard are recorded too, so it is worth noting any that have come on.

If the car has barely moved for a few weeks, a flat battery or a seized rear brake is common, so it helps to start it and drive it a little before the test.

• Handbrake operation on slopes
• Tyre sidewalls near the kerb
• Corrosion on brake pipes
• Lights and bulbs

How are MOT failures graded?

A dangerous defect means do not drive the car. A major defect is a fail and needs repair before a pass. A minor defect is noted but the car passes.

After the test we go through each item so you are clear about priorities and what can be planned for later. Cars used mainly for short hops often fail on one or two items rather than many.

Why get MOT preparation done first?

Short-journey cars often hide small faults, because nothing gets a proper workout. A pre-MOT inspection finds them first, so repairs can be done before the test. That cuts the risk of a retest.

If the car does fail, we can do the MOT repairs and retest. Terms depend on the fault and the timing, so ask.

Let us know if the car has been standing unused, so we can allow for tyres that have flat-spotted and brakes that have started to stick.

How does the MOT date work, and how do I book?

The first MOT is due at three years, then every year. You can test up to a month minus a day before expiry and keep the same renewal date. Booking is online or by phone.

Vans are tested under Class 7, and cars under Class 4. If you use a van for trade work around the harbour and town, tell us when you book.

Do you cover Ellacombe, and where is the garage?

Yes, drivers from Ellacombe, St Marychurch, Torbay, Paignton and Newton Abbot come to us. The garage is at Longcombe Cross near Totnes.

Give us your registration when you ask for a quote, and mention any noises or warning lights.

We are happy to talk through anything you have noticed on those steep streets before you bring the car in.