MOT Testing in Modbury

Modbury is a small South Hams market town on the A379 with narrow streets, steep approaches and rural lanes in every direction. Low-speed manoeuvres and hill starts add wear to brakes, clutches and suspension, which is just what a yearly MOT is designed to catch.

Automaster is an independent garage at Longcombe Cross near Totnes. We test cars and vans and can carry out repairs and retests. This page explains how the process works, so you know what to expect.

Do you cover Modbury and the South Hams?

Yes. Drivers from Modbury, Ermington, Ivybridge, Kingston and Kingsbridge bring vehicles to our garage near Totnes. Booking is online or by phone.

If you drive a van for a business, mention it so we can book a Class 7 MOT. Cars are tested under Class 4.

Modbury drivers are used to reaching us by country roads, and our garage near Totnes is simple to find once you are at Longcombe Cross.

What will be checked on my car?

Lights, indicators, brakes, tyres, steering, suspension, exhaust and emissions, mirrors, windscreen, seatbelts, plates and warning lights are all covered, as is the condition of the body structure for safety.

Steep hills and narrow streets mean frequent use of brakes and low-speed steering, so wear tends to show up early in those areas. We would rather you knew about it now.

• Brake pads and discs
• Steering joints
• Tyre condition
• Lights and indicators

What do dangerous, major and minor mean?

Dangerous means do not drive until fixed. Major means the vehicle fails. Minor means it passes with the issue recorded, and advisories flag wearing parts.

After a fail we can repair and retest. Terms depend on the fault and the timing, so ask. If the brakes or steering are affected, do not keep driving on those steep approaches.

Any dangerous or major item is a safety concern, so the plan should be to repair first and drive after. We can explain what is involved in plain words.

Why have an inspection before the test?

A quick pre-MOT inspection finds simple faults early, such as bulbs and wipers. It can also warn about wear before it becomes a fail, and gives you time to arrange repairs.

Driving rural lanes in every direction can scuff and damage tyres, so a look at those is sensible. A tyre with a bulge or cut should be dealt with straight away.

When is my MOT due, and how do I book?

The first MOT is due at three years, then each year. A test up to a month minus a day early keeps the renewal date the same.

You can book online or by phone. Ask for a quote for any repairs once we know what the vehicle needs.

If you want some breathing room, test early. You will still keep the renewal date, and there is more time to arrange repairs if the test finds something.