What is your car actually doing?
You do not need to know the cause to book a repair. Find the symptom below and it will point you at the job it usually turns out to be. Usually, not always, which is exactly why we inspect the car before quoting anything.
How to describe a fault
The four things a technician wants to know. Answer these and the diagnosis starts ahead.
Something you hear
Knocking, grinding, squealing, whining or a rattle that changes with speed or steering.
Something you see
A warning light, a puddle under the car, smoke from the exhaust or uneven tyre wear.
Something you smell
Burning oil, hot coolant, fuel, or a sharp smell from the air conditioning.
Something you feel
Vibration through the wheel, a soft brake pedal, pulling to one side or hesitation on acceleration.
The most useful detail is when it happens: cold start or warm, going over bumps, braking, turning, accelerating, or only above a certain speed. A fault that appears under one condition and not another narrows the list far faster than any scan tool.
Symptoms and what they usually point at
802 complaints we see, grouped by the part of the car they come from.
General Car Repair
- You are about to buy the car, sell it, or take it on a long tripGeneral Vehicle Inspection
- The car is new to you and you do not know its service historyGeneral Vehicle Inspection
- Something feels different but you cannot describe it preciselyGeneral Vehicle Inspection
- A dashboard warning light came on and went off againGeneral Vehicle Inspection
- It has been more than a year since the car was properly looked atGeneral Vehicle Inspection
- Engine feels rough at idle or the car shakes at traffic signalsEngine Tune-Up
- Noticeably weaker pulling power, especially on an inclineEngine Tune-Up
- Fuel consumption has crept up with no change in your drivingEngine Tune-Up
- Hesitation or a stumble when you press the acceleratorEngine Tune-Up
- Harder starting than usual, particularly on cold morningsEngine Tune-Up
- The service interval by kilometres or months has been reachedOil Change
- Oil on the dipstick is black, thin or smells burntOil Change
- Oil pressure or oil can warning light appears briefly at idleOil Change
- The engine sounds noisier than usual on a cold startOil Change
- You do not know when the oil was last changedOil Change
- You are having the engine oil changedOil Filter Replacement
- Oil pressure light flickers at idle when the engine is hotOil Filter Replacement
- Seepage or a wet, gritty deposit around the filter housingOil Filter Replacement
- The last service records an oil change but no filterOil Filter Replacement
- The filter is visibly rusted or damagedOil Filter Replacement
- The car feels flat when accelerating or climbingAir Filter Replacement
- Fuel consumption has risen without any change in drivingAir Filter Replacement
- The filter element looks grey, matted or blocked with dustAir Filter Replacement
- Black smoke or a rich smell from the exhaust on accelerationAir Filter Replacement
- You drive regularly on dusty or unpaved roadsAir Filter Replacement
- Weak airflow from the vents even on the highest fan settingCabin Filter Replacement
- A musty or dusty smell when the fan startsCabin Filter Replacement
- The windscreen demists slowly or fogs up repeatedlyCabin Filter Replacement
- Visible dust blowing from the ventsCabin Filter Replacement
- Hay fever or dust irritation that is worse inside the carCabin Filter Replacement
- Hesitation or power loss when climbing or overtakingFuel Filter Replacement
- The engine cuts out at steady speed and then restartsFuel Filter Replacement
- Long cranking before the engine firesFuel Filter Replacement
- Jerking at motorway speed that eases when you lift offFuel Filter Replacement
- Fuel pump noise that is louder than usualFuel Filter Replacement
- Dark patches on the driveway or parking spotOil Leak Repair
- Burning oil smell, especially after drivingOil Leak Repair
- Smoke or haze from the engine bay when stopped at a signalOil Leak Repair
- Oil level dropping between services with no visible smoke from the exhaustOil Leak Repair
- Oily, dust-caked film down one side of the engine or gearboxOil Leak Repair
- Coolant level in the expansion tank keeps droppingCoolant Leak Repair
- Temperature gauge climbing higher than normal, especially in trafficCoolant Leak Repair
- Sweet smell or white steam from the engine bayCoolant Leak Repair
- Coloured stains or crusty deposits on hoses and the radiatorCoolant Leak Repair
- Heater blowing cold air when the engine is warmCoolant Leak Repair
- Squealing on start-up or when the air conditioning switches onDrive Belt Replacement
- Battery or charging warning light coming onDrive Belt Replacement
- Cracks, shiny glazed faces or missing chunks on the belt ribsDrive Belt Replacement
- Steering feels heavy at low speed on a car with hydraulic assistanceDrive Belt Replacement
- A chirping or rumbling noise from the front of the engineDrive Belt Replacement
- A hose feels spongy, rock hard, or swollen near the endsHose Replacement
- Coolant loss or steam from the engine bayHose Replacement
- Rough or hunting idle, which often points at a vacuum hoseHose Replacement
- A hissing sound from the engine bay at idleHose Replacement
- Fuel smell around the engine or under the carHose Replacement
- Strong vibration through the seat or steering at idle, easing as you driveEngine Mount Replacement
- A thud or clunk when you select gear, pull away, or brake hardEngine Mount Replacement
- The engine visibly lifts or rocks when you blip the acceleratorEngine Mount Replacement
- Cracked, split or oil-wet rubber visible on a mountEngine Mount Replacement
- Vibration through the gear lever that was not there beforeEngine Mount Replacement
- The service interval in kilometres or months has been reachedPeriodic Maintenance Service
- The service reminder light on the dashboard has come onPeriodic Maintenance Service
- You are preparing the car for a long tripPeriodic Maintenance Service
- You want a maintenance record for resalePeriodic Maintenance Service
- The last service was skipped or you do not know when it wasPeriodic Maintenance Service
- You are about to drive to Murree, Lahore or another long tripFluid Top-Up & Check
- A fluid warning light has appeared on the dashboardFluid Top-Up & Check
- You have seen a drip or stain under the parked carFluid Top-Up & Check
- The brake pedal or clutch pedal feels different from usualFluid Top-Up & Check
- The temperature gauge has been reading higher than normalFluid Top-Up & Check
Engine Services
- Check engine light is on, flashing, or keeps returningEngine Diagnosis
- Loss of power, rough running or stallingEngine Diagnosis
- Knocking, ticking or rumbling from the engineEngine Diagnosis
- Smoke from the exhaust, in any colourEngine Diagnosis
- You have been quoted major engine work and want it verifiedEngine Diagnosis
- A diagnosis has identified a specific failed engine componentEngine Repair
- Oil or coolant leaking from a known joint on the engineEngine Repair
- A noise traced to one accessory, tensioner or pulleyEngine Repair
- A warning light returning after a part was replaced elsewhereEngine Repair
- Rough running traced to a mechanical rather than electronic causeEngine Repair
- Low or uneven compression confirmed across several cylindersEngine Overhaul
- Heavy blue smoke and high oil consumptionEngine Overhaul
- Deep knocking from the bottom of the engine under loadEngine Overhaul
- Metal particles found in the oil or the sumpEngine Overhaul
- The engine has overheated severely and lost power afterwardsEngine Overhaul
- Bearing knock or a seized crankshaft confirmed by inspectionEngine Assembly Replacement
- A hole or crack in the block, or a thrown connecting rodEngine Assembly Replacement
- Severe scoring in the bores found on a borescope inspectionEngine Assembly Replacement
- Overhaul quoted as uneconomic compared with a sound replacement blockEngine Assembly Replacement
- Metal debris throughout the oil systemEngine Assembly Replacement
- Coolant level drops with no external leak anywhereHead Gasket Replacement
- White smoke or steam from the exhaust that does not clearHead Gasket Replacement
- Bubbles or exhaust smell in the coolant expansion tankHead Gasket Replacement
- Creamy deposit under the oil filler cap or on the dipstickHead Gasket Replacement
- Overheating that returns soon after the coolant is topped upHead Gasket Replacement
- Compression low on one or two cylinders with a leakage test showing escape past the valvesCylinder Head Repair
- Persistent misfire on the same cylinder after ignition and fuel checksCylinder Head Repair
- Coolant loss or overheating after a previous head gasket repairCylinder Head Repair
- Ticking from the top of the engine with uneven valve clearancesCylinder Head Repair
- Blue smoke at start-up, which often points to worn valve stem sealsCylinder Head Repair
- Blue smoke from the exhaust, especially under accelerationPiston & Ring Replacement
- Engine oil level dropping steadily with no external leakPiston & Ring Replacement
- Low compression that improves when oil is added to the cylinderPiston & Ring Replacement
- Fumes or pressure pushing out of the oil filler when the engine runsPiston & Ring Replacement
- Loss of power and rough running with oily spark plugsPiston & Ring Replacement
- A deep rhythmic knock from low in the engine that worsens under loadCrankshaft Repair
- Oil pressure warning light at idle or at low engine speedCrankshaft Repair
- Metal flakes in the oil or on the sump magnetCrankshaft Repair
- The engine has run low on oil or lost oil pressure previouslyCrankshaft Repair
- Knocking that follows engine speed rather than road speedCrankshaft Repair
- The service interval in kilometres or years has been reachedTiming Belt Replacement
- The belt is cracked, glazed or has missing teeth on inspectionTiming Belt Replacement
- A rattling or whining noise from the timing cover areaTiming Belt Replacement
- Oil contamination on the belt from a leaking sealTiming Belt Replacement
- You have no record of the belt ever being changedTiming Belt Replacement
- A rattle for a second or two on cold start-upTiming Chain Replacement
- Camshaft or crankshaft correlation fault codes storedTiming Chain Replacement
- Rough running or reduced power alongside the rattleTiming Chain Replacement
- Plastic fragments found in the sump or on the strainerTiming Chain Replacement
- Long oil change intervals or a history of missed servicesTiming Chain Replacement
- Ticking from the top of the engine that rises with engine speedEngine Noise Diagnosis
- A rattle for a few seconds after a cold startEngine Noise Diagnosis
- A deep knock that gets louder under load or up a hillEngine Noise Diagnosis
- Whining or squealing from the front of the engineEngine Noise Diagnosis
- A new noise that appeared after a recent repair or serviceEngine Noise Diagnosis
- Check engine light flashing while the engine shakesEngine Misfire Repair
- Rough idle with the car shaking at a standstillEngine Misfire Repair
- Jerking or stumbling under accelerationEngine Misfire Repair
- Loss of power and higher fuel consumptionEngine Misfire Repair
- A smell of unburnt fuel from the exhaustEngine Misfire Repair
- Ticking or tapping from the top of the engine at idleValve Adjustment
- Hard starting and weak low speed pulling powerValve Adjustment
- The car runs on CNG and has covered high mileage since the last adjustmentValve Adjustment
- Uneven compression readings across cylindersValve Adjustment
- A previous adjustment was done without measuring, or long agoValve Adjustment
- The existing engine has seized or suffered major internal damageEngine Replacement
- Overhaul has been quoted as costing more than a sound replacement engineEngine Replacement
- The block is cracked or the crankshaft is beyond grinding limitsEngine Replacement
- The engine has been run without oil or coolant and lost compressionEngine Replacement
- Repeated major repairs on the same engine within a short periodEngine Replacement
Transmission & Gearbox
- Grinding or crunching when changing into a particular gearManual Gearbox Repair
- A gear jumps out on its own, often on the overrunManual Gearbox Repair
- Whining or rumbling that changes with gear selectionManual Gearbox Repair
- The lever is stiff, vague, or will not enter a gearManual Gearbox Repair
- Oil leaking from the gearbox casing or drive shaft sealManual Gearbox Repair
- The engine revs but the car does not accelerate as it shouldAutomatic Transmission Repair
- A hard jolt or a long delay when changing gearAutomatic Transmission Repair
- The car is stuck in one gear or will not shift upAutomatic Transmission Repair
- Transmission warning light or a gear indicator flashingAutomatic Transmission Repair
- Burnt smell or very dark fluid on the dipstickAutomatic Transmission Repair
- A shudder or vibration when pulling away gentlyCVT Transmission Service
- The engine rises in revs without matching accelerationCVT Transmission Service
- Whining that changes pitch with road speedCVT Transmission Service
- Transmission warning light or reduced power modeCVT Transmission Service
- The fluid interval for your model has been reachedCVT Transmission Service
- Judder or shuddering when moving off from a standstillDCT Transmission Service
- Jerky, uneven progress in slow stop-start trafficDCT Transmission Service
- A transmission overheating or fault message on the dashboardDCT Transmission Service
- Delay or a clunk when selecting drive or reverseDCT Transmission Service
- The service interval for the transmission fluid has been reachedDCT Transmission Service
- Gear changes have become notchy or slightly harder than beforeTransmission Oil Change
- The oil on the dipstick is dark, thin or smells burntTransmission Oil Change
- The car has been used heavily in stop-start traffic or for towingTransmission Oil Change
- You have no record of the gearbox oil ever being changedTransmission Oil Change
- Noise present in several gears rather than only oneGearbox Overhaul
- Grinding into more than one gear even with a healthy clutchGearbox Overhaul
- A gear that will no longer engage at allGearbox Overhaul
- Heavy metal contamination found in the drained gear oilGearbox Overhaul
- A previous localised repair that has not lastedGearbox Overhaul
- Overhaul has been quoted as more expensive than a sound replacement unitGearbox Replacement
- The gearbox casing is cracked or the mounting points are damagedGearbox Replacement
- The gearbox has seized or a gear has broken up internallyGearbox Replacement
- Extensive internal damage found once the unit was openedGearbox Replacement
- Parts for an overhaul are not available for your modelGearbox Replacement
- Slipping, jerking or delayed gear changesTransmission Diagnosis
- A transmission or check engine warning lightTransmission Diagnosis
- Noise, vibration or clunking that changes with gear selectionTransmission Diagnosis
- The car has gone into limp mode with limited gearsTransmission Diagnosis
- You have been quoted a gearbox overhaul and want it verifiedTransmission Diagnosis
- A whine or howl that rises with road speed, not engine speedDifferential Repair
- Clunking when taking up drive or changing between forward and reverseDifferential Repair
- Oil leaking from the rear of the gearbox or the axle casingDifferential Repair
- A rumbling that changes when cornering left versus rightDifferential Repair
- Vibration that appears only under powerDifferential Repair
- Clicking or knocking when turning at low speed, especially on full lockAxle & CV Joint Replacement
- Grease thrown onto the inside of the wheel or the wheel archAxle & CV Joint Replacement
- A split or missing rubber boot on the drive shaftAxle & CV Joint Replacement
- Vibration under acceleration that eases when you lift offAxle & CV Joint Replacement
- A clunk when moving off or changing between forward and reverseAxle & CV Joint Replacement
Clutch Services
- Engine revs rise but the car does not accelerate to match, especially uphillClutch Plate Replacement
- A burning smell after pulling away or after a hill climbClutch Plate Replacement
- Judder or shuddering as the clutch takes upClutch Plate Replacement
- The biting point has moved very high or very lowClutch Plate Replacement
- Oil visible around the bell housing jointClutch Plate Replacement
- The clutch pedal has become noticeably heavy or unevenPressure Plate Replacement
- Gears grind on engagement because the clutch does not release fullyPressure Plate Replacement
- Slipping continues after a new clutch plate was fittedPressure Plate Replacement
- Visible blue heat marks or deep wear grooves on the diaphragm fingersPressure Plate Replacement
- A rattling or knocking from the bell housing at idlePressure Plate Replacement
- Judder when pulling away that returns after a new clutchFlywheel Repair & Replacement
- A rattle or growl from the bell housing at idle that changes when the clutch is pressedFlywheel Repair & Replacement
- Grinding or a crunch when starting the engineFlywheel Repair & Replacement
- Deep grooves, blue discolouration or fine cracks visible on the flywheel faceFlywheel Repair & Replacement
- A burning smell and slipping after a period of heavy clutch useFlywheel Repair & Replacement
- A rumbling or whirring noise that starts when you press the clutch pedalClutch Bearing Replacement
- A squeal that appears only with the pedal partly downClutch Bearing Replacement
- Noise that disappears completely when your foot is off the pedalClutch Bearing Replacement
- Vibration felt through the clutch pedalClutch Bearing Replacement
- A heavy pedal combined with a growling noiseClutch Bearing Replacement
- The biting point is very high or very close to the floorClutch Adjustment
- Gears grind slightly when selecting first or reverseClutch Adjustment
- The clutch feels like it drags even with the pedal fully downClutch Adjustment
- Free play at the top of the pedal feels excessiveClutch Adjustment
- The pedal has changed feel gradually over recent weeksClutch Adjustment
- The clutch pedal sinks slowly to the floor when held downClutch Master & Slave Cylinder
- Pedal feels soft, spongy, or has lost its resistanceClutch Master & Slave Cylinder
- Fluid level in the clutch or brake reservoir keeps droppingClutch Master & Slave Cylinder
- Wet patches under the pedal inside the car, or at the gearboxClutch Master & Slave Cylinder
- Gears become hard to select even though the clutch is not slippingClutch Master & Slave Cylinder
- Clutch slipping under load, particularly in high gear or uphillClutch Kit Replacement
- Burning smell after pulling away or climbingClutch Kit Replacement
- Judder when taking up drive from a standstillClutch Kit Replacement
- Noise from the bell housing when the pedal is pressedClutch Kit Replacement
- Biting point right at the top of the pedal travelClutch Kit Replacement
Auto Electrical
- A component works sometimes and not othersCar Wiring Repair
- A fuse blows repeatedly as soon as it is replacedCar Wiring Repair
- Lights or gauges flicker, or dim when another item is switched onCar Wiring Repair
- Burning smell or melted insulation found in the engine bayCar Wiring Repair
- Faults appeared after an accessory, audio system or CNG kit was fittedCar Wiring Repair
- Battery or charging warning light on while drivingAlternator Repair & Replacement
- Headlights dim at idle and brighten when you revAlternator Repair & Replacement
- The battery goes flat overnight or within a couple of daysAlternator Repair & Replacement
- A whining or grinding noise from the alternatorAlternator Repair & Replacement
- Burning smell from the alternator areaAlternator Repair & Replacement
- One loud click and nothing else when you turn the keyStarter Motor Repair
- Rapid clicking without the engine turningStarter Motor Repair
- The engine cranks slowly even with a good batteryStarter Motor Repair
- A grinding or whirring noise while crankingStarter Motor Repair
- The car starts sometimes and not others, with no warning lightsStarter Motor Repair
- One headlight, tail light or indicator does not workHeadlight & Tail Light Repair
- Indicators flash much faster than normal on one sideHeadlight & Tail Light Repair
- Lights are dim, flicker, or brighten and dim as you driveHeadlight & Tail Light Repair
- Brake lights stay on, or do not come on at allHeadlight & Tail Light Repair
- Condensation or water visible inside a lamp unitHeadlight & Tail Light Repair
- One or more electrical items have stopped working togetherFuse & Relay Replacement
- A fuse blows again shortly after being replacedFuse & Relay Replacement
- A relay clicks rapidly or does not click at allFuse & Relay Replacement
- A burning smell or discoloured fuse holder in the fuse boxFuse & Relay Replacement
- Electrical faults that began after an accessory was installedFuse & Relay Replacement
- Check engine light with a code naming a specific sensorSensor Replacement
- Rough idle, poor throttle response or high fuel consumptionSensor Replacement
- Temperature gauge or fuel gauge reading incorrectlySensor Replacement
- The car starts and stalls, or will not start when hotSensor Replacement
- A sensor has already been replaced and the fault returnedSensor Replacement
- The window moves slowly or stops partwayPower Window Repair
- A clicking or grinding from inside the door with no movementPower Window Repair
- The glass has dropped down inside the doorPower Window Repair
- One window works from the door switch but not the master switchPower Window Repair
- The window is crooked in its frame or will not sealPower Window Repair
- One door does not lock or unlock with the othersCentral Locking Repair
- The doors lock and unlock on their own while drivingCentral Locking Repair
- A buzzing or repeated clicking from inside a doorCentral Locking Repair
- The remote works sometimes or only from very closeCentral Locking Repair
- Nothing responds to the remote but the key still worksCentral Locking Repair
- The car will not start and there is no communication with the scan toolECU / ECM Repair
- Multiple unrelated fault codes appearing at the same timeECU / ECM Repair
- Water damage found in the ECU location after flooding or a leakECU / ECM Repair
- A component does not operate even though its wiring tests goodECU / ECM Repair
- Faults began immediately after a jump start or a welding repairECU / ECM Repair
- The horn does not sound, or sounds weak and unevenHorn & Wiper Motor Repair
- Wipers move slowly, stop partway, or stop in the middle of the screenHorn & Wiper Motor Repair
- A humming from the wiper motor with no blade movementHorn & Wiper Motor Repair
- Intermittent wipe setting does not work but normal speeds doHorn & Wiper Motor Repair
- Washer pump runs but no fluid reaches the screenHorn & Wiper Motor Repair
- A warning light has come on and stayed onDashboard Warning Light Repair
- A light appears intermittently, often in specific conditionsDashboard Warning Light Repair
- Several warning lights illuminated togetherDashboard Warning Light Repair
- A light came back shortly after being cleared elsewhereDashboard Warning Light Repair
- A warning message on the information display you do not recogniseDashboard Warning Light Repair
- Rough idle and a noticeable loss of powerIgnition Coil Replacement
- Misfire that appears when the engine is hot or under loadIgnition Coil Replacement
- Jerking during accelerationIgnition Coil Replacement
- A fault code naming a specific cylinder misfireIgnition Coil Replacement
- Harder starting, especially on cold morningsSpark Plug Replacement
- Rough idle or a slight shake at a standstillSpark Plug Replacement
- Higher fuel consumption with no change in drivingSpark Plug Replacement
- Hesitation when acceleratingSpark Plug Replacement
- The plug replacement interval has been reached, or the car runs on CNGSpark Plug Replacement
Computer Diagnostics
- A warning light is on and you want to know what it meansOBD-II Scanning
- The car feels different and you want to check for stored faultsOBD-II Scanning
- You are buying or selling the carOBD-II Scanning
- A fault was cleared elsewhere and you want to see if it has returnedOBD-II Scanning
- You want a record of the car's fault history before a repairOBD-II Scanning
- The check engine light is on steadilyCheck Engine Light Diagnosis
- The light flashes, which usually means an active misfireCheck Engine Light Diagnosis
- The light comes on and goes off again on different journeysCheck Engine Light Diagnosis
- Loss of power, rough running or higher fuel consumption alongside the lightCheck Engine Light Diagnosis
- The light returned after being cleared somewhere elseCheck Engine Light Diagnosis
- A warning light you do not recognise has appearedWarning Light Diagnosis
- Several lights have come on at the same timeWarning Light Diagnosis
- A light appears only at certain speeds or temperaturesWarning Light Diagnosis
- A warning message on the information displayWarning Light Diagnosis
- A light stays on after a repair was carried outWarning Light Diagnosis
- A fault code naming a sensor, especially one already replaced onceSensor Testing
- Rough running, poor economy or hesitation with no obvious causeSensor Testing
- A gauge or reading on the dashboard that is clearly wrongSensor Testing
- The car starts then stalls, or runs badly only when hot or coldSensor Testing
- A repair elsewhere replaced a sensor and the fault came backSensor Testing
- The scan tool cannot communicate with the engine control unitECU Diagnostics
- Many unrelated fault codes stored at the same timeECU Diagnostics
- The car will not start and there is no spark or injector signalECU Diagnostics
- Faults began after flooding, a jump start, or welding on the carECU Diagnostics
- You have been quoted a replacement control unit and want it verifiedECU Diagnostics
- ABS warning light on, often with the traction control lightABS & Airbag Module Diagnosis
- Airbag or SRS warning light on or flashingABS & Airbag Module Diagnosis
- The ABS activates on normal dry roads when it should notABS & Airbag Module Diagnosis
- Lights appeared after wheel bearing, brake or seat workABS & Airbag Module Diagnosis
- The speedometer reads erratically alongside an ABS lightABS & Airbag Module Diagnosis
- A fault that comes and goes and never sets a codeLive Data Analysis
- Fuel consumption is worse than it should be with no warning lightLive Data Analysis
- Hesitation or a flat spot only under certain conditionsLive Data Analysis
- A repair has already been attempted without resolving the complaintLive Data Analysis
- The car runs well when cold and poorly when hot, or the reverseLive Data Analysis
- You are about to buy a used car and want its electronic health checkedPre-Purchase Computer Scan
- The seller says a warning light was fixed but has no paperworkPre-Purchase Computer Scan
- The dashboard shows no lights at all, which can mean a recent resetPre-Purchase Computer Scan
- You suspect the car has been in an accidentPre-Purchase Computer Scan
- You want a record of the car's condition on the day of salePre-Purchase Computer Scan
Battery Services
- Engine cranks slowly, especially on the first start of the morningBattery Testing
- Car starts fine after a jump but is flat again the next dayBattery Testing
- Headlights dim noticeably when the engine is idlingBattery Testing
- Dashboard warning light for the battery or charging systemBattery Testing
- Clicking sound from under the bonnet instead of crankingBattery Testing
- Battery is more than three years old and starting is getting slowerBattery Testing
- Battery fails a load test or has dropped well below rated capacityBattery Replacement
- Repeated jump-starts needed to get the car goingBattery Replacement
- Swollen or leaking battery caseBattery Replacement
- Starting takes longer every morning as the weather changesBattery Replacement
- Electrical items reset or misbehave when the engine is crankedBattery Replacement
- Engine will not crank and only a click is heardJump-Start Service
- Dashboard lights are dim or go out when the key is turnedJump-Start Service
- Car was left with headlights or interior lights onJump-Start Service
- Vehicle has been parked unused for several weeksJump-Start Service
- Central locking and alarm behave oddly before the car refuses to startJump-Start Service
- Battery goes flat every few days for no clear reasonCharging System Inspection
- Battery warning light stays on or flickers while drivingCharging System Inspection
- Headlights brighten and dim as engine speed changesCharging System Inspection
- Squealing noise from the belt area on start-upCharging System Inspection
- A replacement battery failed within months of being fittedCharging System Inspection
- White or blue-green powder visible around the battery postsBattery Terminal Cleaning
- Starting is intermittent, fine one time and dead the nextBattery Terminal Cleaning
- Wiggling a battery cable changes whether the car startsBattery Terminal Cleaning
- Clamp feels loose or has been tightened many timesBattery Terminal Cleaning
- Electrical faults that come and go without a patternBattery Terminal Cleaning
- Dashboard lights up but the car will not go to ready modeHybrid 12V Battery Replacement
- Multiple unrelated warning lights appear togetherHybrid 12V Battery Replacement
- Doors unlock slowly or the alarm behaves strangelyHybrid 12V Battery Replacement
- Car sat unused for several weeks and now shows no responseHybrid 12V Battery Replacement
- Repeated need to boost the small battery in the boot or under the bonnetHybrid 12V Battery Replacement
Car AC & Heating
- Cooling has faded gradually over a seasonAC Gas Refill
- Air is cool but never cold, even with the fan on fullAC Gas Refill
- Compressor clutch switches on and off rapidlyAC Gas Refill
- AC cools at speed but not while standing in trafficAC Gas Refill
- System was opened for another repair and needs rechargingAC Gas Refill
- Loud rattle or grinding from the engine bay when AC is switched onAC Compressor Repair & Replacement
- Compressor clutch does not engage at allAC Compressor Repair & Replacement
- Belt squeals or has been thrown offAC Compressor Repair & Replacement
- No cooling at all although the system has gasAC Compressor Repair & Replacement
- Metal particles found in the refrigerant circuit during serviceAC Compressor Repair & Replacement
- Oily wet patch or dye trace visible on the front of the condenserCondenser Replacement
- Refrigerant lost repeatedly after refillsCondenser Replacement
- Visible impact damage or heavy corrosion on the front faceCondenser Replacement
- High-side pressure abnormally high with poor coolingCondenser Replacement
- Cooling drops badly in slow trafficCondenser Replacement
- Refrigerant disappears with no leak found under the bonnetEvaporator / Cooling Coil Replacement
- Musty smell and oily film on the inside of the windscreenEvaporator / Cooling Coil Replacement
- Cooling fades within days of every refillEvaporator / Cooling Coil Replacement
- Water dripping inside the cabin on the passenger sideEvaporator / Cooling Coil Replacement
- Dye appears at the evaporator drain tubeEvaporator / Cooling Coil Replacement
- Fan works only on the fastest speedBlower Motor Repair
- Whining, ticking or rattling noise from behind the dashboardBlower Motor Repair
- Airflow is weak even with the fan set to maximumBlower Motor Repair
- Fan cuts out and returns as you go over bumpsBlower Motor Repair
- Burning smell from the vents when the fan is switched onBlower Motor Repair
- AC needs regassing every few monthsAC Leak Detection
- Cooling fades a few weeks after a refillAC Leak Detection
- Oily residue around AC pipe joints or on the condenser faceAC Leak Detection
- Compressor cycles rapidly on and offAC Leak Detection
- System will not hold vacuum during a serviceAC Leak Detection
- Air from the vents stays cold in winter however long you driveHeater Repair
- Heat on one side of the cabin but not the otherHeater Repair
- Sweet smell or fogging on the inside of the windscreenHeater Repair
- Damp or wet carpet in the front passenger footwellHeater Repair
- Coolant level dropping with no leak visible under the bonnetHeater Repair
- Clicking from behind the dashboard when temperature is adjustedHeater Repair
- AC blows warm or only slightly cool airAC Not Cooling Diagnosis
- Cooling works sometimes and stops without warningAC Not Cooling Diagnosis
- Cooling is fine on the move but poor in trafficAC Not Cooling Diagnosis
- Compressor never switches onAC Not Cooling Diagnosis
- Engine temperature rises whenever the AC is usedAC Not Cooling Diagnosis
- Musty or sour smell in the first minute after switching on the ACCabin Odour & AC Cleaning
- Smell returns every year as the weather warmsCabin Odour & AC Cleaning
- Passengers with dust allergies react inside the carCabin Odour & AC Cleaning
- Visible dirt on the cabin filterCabin Odour & AC Cleaning
- Windscreen fogs and leaves an oily filmCabin Odour & AC Cleaning
Brake Services
- Metallic squeal or scraping when you brakeBrake Pad Replacement
- The car takes noticeably longer to stopBrake Pad Replacement
- Brake pedal travels further than it used toBrake Pad Replacement
- Heavy brake dust on one wheel compared with the otherBrake Pad Replacement
- Pad material visibly thin when you look through the wheelBrake Pad Replacement
- Steering wheel or pedal shudders when braking from speedBrake Disc Replacement
- Deep grooves or a lip you can feel at the edge of the discBrake Disc Replacement
- Blue heat discolouration or visible cracks on the disc faceBrake Disc Replacement
- Grinding noise after pads were left too longBrake Disc Replacement
- Braking feels uneven or pulses at low speedBrake Disc Replacement
- Rear brakes feel weak and the front does all the workBrake Drum & Shoe Service
- Handbrake needs many clicks to hold the carBrake Drum & Shoe Service
- Scraping or rubbing from the rear wheelsBrake Drum & Shoe Service
- Fluid seeping at the back of a rear wheel or on the tyre inner wallBrake Drum & Shoe Service
- Car pulls to one side under brakingBrake Drum & Shoe Service
- Rear wheels lock too easily on loose surfacesBrake Drum & Shoe Service
- Pedal slowly sinks to the floor when held under steady pressureMaster Cylinder Repair
- Brakes feel fine at first press but fade on a secondMaster Cylinder Repair
- Fluid level drops with no leak visible at any wheelMaster Cylinder Repair
- Fluid staining or damp on the bulkhead behind the reservoirMaster Cylinder Repair
- Pedal feels different from one day to the nextMaster Cylinder Repair
- Fluid in the reservoir looks dark brown rather than clearBrake Fluid Change
- Pedal softens after repeated braking down a long slopeBrake Fluid Change
- Fluid has not been changed for more than two yearsBrake Fluid Change
- Moisture test shows a high water contentBrake Fluid Change
- Brakes feel inconsistent in wet or humid weatherBrake Fluid Change
- ABS warning light stays on after startingABS Diagnosis & Repair
- Brake pedal pulses at low speed when it should notABS Diagnosis & Repair
- ABS light appears only after driving a certain distanceABS Diagnosis & Repair
- Speedometer drops out along with the ABS warningABS Diagnosis & Repair
- Wheels lock under hard braking with no ABS pulsingABS Diagnosis & Repair
- One wheel much hotter than the others after a driveBrake Caliper Repair
- Car pulls to one side when brakingBrake Caliper Repair
- Burning smell from one wheelBrake Caliper Repair
- Pad on one side worn far more than the otherBrake Caliper Repair
- Brake stays partly on and the car feels held backBrake Caliper Repair
- Fluid leaking around the caliper piston bootBrake Caliper Repair
- Lever comes up much further than it used toHandbrake Adjustment
- Car rolls on a slope with the handbrake appliedHandbrake Adjustment
- Handbrake holds on one side onlyHandbrake Adjustment
- Warning light stays on with the lever fully downHandbrake Adjustment
- Rear brakes drag slightly after the lever is releasedHandbrake Adjustment
- Squeal that appears only when braking gentlyBrake Noise Diagnosis
- Grinding sound that gets worse as you press harderBrake Noise Diagnosis
- Knocking from a wheel over bumps and when brakingBrake Noise Diagnosis
- Noise from the rear only, or only when reversingBrake Noise Diagnosis
- Squeal in the morning that disappears after a few stopsBrake Noise Diagnosis
Suspension & Steering
- Car keeps bouncing after a speed breaker instead of settlingShock Absorber Replacement
- Nose dives heavily under brakingShock Absorber Replacement
- Oily wetness running down the body of the shock absorberShock Absorber Replacement
- Uneven cupped wear patches across the tyre treadShock Absorber Replacement
- Rear end feels loose or floaty on the motorwayShock Absorber Replacement
- Knocking or creaking from the front over bumpsStrut Replacement
- Steering feels notchy or clicks when turning at low speedStrut Replacement
- Oil visible on the strut bodyStrut Replacement
- Car sits lower on one sideStrut Replacement
- Tyre wearing on one edge despite recent alignmentStrut Replacement
- Loud bang from the front after hitting a potholeStrut Replacement
- Dull knock from the front over rough road and speed breakersSuspension Bush Replacement
- Steering feels vague and the car wanders on the motorwaySuspension Bush Replacement
- Visible cracks, splits or rubber missing from a bushSuspension Bush Replacement
- Tyres wear unevenly soon after an alignmentSuspension Bush Replacement
- Clunk when pulling away or braking gentlySuspension Bush Replacement
- Knock from one front corner over bumpsBall Joint Replacement
- Steering feels loose or wanders at speedBall Joint Replacement
- Creaking sound when turning at low speed or parkingBall Joint Replacement
- Torn rubber boot with grease thrown around the jointBall Joint Replacement
- Uneven tyre wear on the inner or outer edgeBall Joint Replacement
- Play in the steering before the wheels respondTie Rod End Replacement
- Steering wheel not straight when driving straightTie Rod End Replacement
- Front tyres feathered or worn on one edgeTie Rod End Replacement
- Rattle or knock felt through the steering over rough roadTie Rod End Replacement
- Car drifts and needs constant small correctionsTie Rod End Replacement
- Free play at the steering wheel before the wheels moveSteering Rack Repair
- Knock from the centre of the car over bumpsSteering Rack Repair
- Power steering fluid level dropping and wet rack bootsSteering Rack Repair
- Steering heavy in one direction onlySteering Rack Repair
- Whining from the pump that worsens as fluid is lostSteering Rack Repair
- Steering has become heavy, particularly when parkingPower Steering Repair
- Whining or groaning that rises as you turn the wheelPower Steering Repair
- Fluid leaking under the front of the carPower Steering Repair
- Steering heavy for a moment on a cold start then improvingPower Steering Repair
- Power steering warning light on an electric systemPower Steering Repair
- Humming or droning that rises with road speedWheel Bearing Replacement
- Noise changes or disappears when steering left or rightWheel Bearing Replacement
- Rumble or growl felt through the floorWheel Bearing Replacement
- Play felt when rocking the wheel top and bottomWheel Bearing Replacement
- Roughness felt when the raised wheel is spun by handWheel Bearing Replacement
- ABS light appears alongside the noiseWheel Bearing Replacement
- Heavy knock from one corner after hitting a potholeControl Arm Replacement
- Steering pulls to one side and alignment will not holdControl Arm Replacement
- Tyre on one side wearing rapidly on an edgeControl Arm Replacement
- Visible bend, crack or damage to the armControl Arm Replacement
- Clunk when moving off or brakingControl Arm Replacement
- Knock or clunk over bumps and speed breakersSuspension Noise Diagnosis
- Creaking when turning into a driveway or over a kerbSuspension Noise Diagnosis
- Rattle from the front that changes on rough roadSuspension Noise Diagnosis
- Car feels loose or unsettled at speedSuspension Noise Diagnosis
- Noise appeared after hitting a large potholeSuspension Noise Diagnosis
- Light rattling knock over small bumps and broken roadStabilizer Link Replacement
- Noise louder on one side than the otherStabilizer Link Replacement
- Clonk when the wheel drops into a potholeStabilizer Link Replacement
- Body leans more than usual in cornersStabilizer Link Replacement
- Visible torn boot or loose joint on the linkStabilizer Link Replacement
Cooling System
- Coolant puddle under the front of the carRadiator Repair & Replacement
- Temperature gauge climbing, especially in trafficRadiator Repair & Replacement
- Coolant level in the reservoir keeps droppingRadiator Repair & Replacement
- White steam or a sweet smell from the bonnetRadiator Repair & Replacement
- Visible crusty stains or damp on the radiator face or tank seamRadiator Repair & Replacement
- Heater blows cold because the system is low on coolantRadiator Repair & Replacement
- Coolant looks rusty, muddy or has lost its colourCoolant Flush & Replacement
- Coolant has not been changed for several yearsCoolant Flush & Replacement
- Temperature runs higher than it used to in trafficCoolant Flush & Replacement
- Heater output is weaker than beforeCoolant Flush & Replacement
- Sediment or oily film visible in the expansion tankCoolant Flush & Replacement
- Coolant dripping from behind a pulley or the timing coverWater Pump Replacement
- Whining or rumbling noise that changes with engine speedWater Pump Replacement
- Engine overheats although the radiator and fan are fineWater Pump Replacement
- Crusty coolant stains around the pump housingWater Pump Replacement
- Heater blows cold while the temperature gauge reads highWater Pump Replacement
- Temperature gauge rises quickly then keeps climbingThermostat Replacement
- Engine takes a long time to warm up and the heater stays coolThermostat Replacement
- Gauge reads below normal even after a long driveThermostat Replacement
- Fuel consumption has risen with no other changeThermostat Replacement
- Upper radiator hose stays cold while the engine is hotThermostat Replacement
- Temperature rises in traffic and falls when drivingCooling Fan Repair
- Fan never audibly runs, even when the engine is hotCooling Fan Repair
- Fan runs constantly from the moment the engine is startedCooling Fan Repair
- AC cooling gets poor at idle while the engine warms upCooling Fan Repair
- Rattling or scraping sound from the fan areaCooling Fan Repair
- Blown fan fuse that keeps failingCooling Fan Repair
- Coolant leak visible at a hose end or clampRadiator Hose Replacement
- Hose feels spongy, rock hard, or swollen near the jointRadiator Hose Replacement
- Cracks appear in the rubber when the hose is squeezedRadiator Hose Replacement
- Coolant level drops slowly with no puddle underneathRadiator Hose Replacement
- Sweet smell after parking a hot engineRadiator Hose Replacement
- Temperature gauge reads high or the warning light comes onEngine Overheating Repair
- Steam or a sweet smell from the bonnetEngine Overheating Repair
- Coolant boiling or pushing out of the expansion tankEngine Overheating Repair
- Heater blows cold while the engine runs hotEngine Overheating Repair
- White smoke from the exhaust with coolant lossEngine Overheating Repair
- Engine loses power and feels rough when hotEngine Overheating Repair
- Temperature climbs in slow traffic and settles on the moveRadiator Cleaning & Flushing
- Visible dust, leaves or insects packed into the radiator faceRadiator Cleaning & Flushing
- AC cooling drops at idle as the engine heats upRadiator Cleaning & Flushing
- Coolant looks rusty or leaves brown depositsRadiator Cleaning & Flushing
- Overheating returned soon after a coolant changeRadiator Cleaning & Flushing
Fuel System
- Engine cranks but will not startFuel Pump Replacement
- Loss of power climbing a hill or when accelerating hardFuel Pump Replacement
- Car cuts out when hot and restarts once cooledFuel Pump Replacement
- Whining noise from the fuel tank areaFuel Pump Replacement
- Long cranking before the engine catchesFuel Pump Replacement
- Hesitation that gets worse as the tank runs lowFuel Pump Replacement
- Rough or uneven idle, especially when coldFuel Injector Cleaning & Replacement
- Hesitation or stumble when acceleratingFuel Injector Cleaning & Replacement
- Misfire code stored for one or more cylindersFuel Injector Cleaning & Replacement
- Fuel consumption has risen noticeablyFuel Injector Cleaning & Replacement
- Strong petrol smell or black smoke from the exhaustFuel Injector Cleaning & Replacement
- Engine runs unevenly after long periods of city drivingFuel Injector Cleaning & Replacement
- Idle speed hunts up and downThrottle Body Cleaning
- Engine stalls when coming to a stopThrottle Body Cleaning
- Hesitation in the first moment of accelerationThrottle Body Cleaning
- Idle is high or erratic on a cold startThrottle Body Cleaning
- Visible black carbon around the throttle plateThrottle Body Cleaning
- Idle problems appeared after an air filter was neglectedThrottle Body Cleaning
- Power loss when climbing a hill or accelerating hardFuel Filter Service
- Hesitation and jerking at steady motorway speedFuel Filter Service
- Long cranking before the engine startsFuel Filter Service
- Filter has not been changed within the service intervalFuel Filter Service
- Car ran on fuel of doubtful quality and now runs poorlyFuel Filter Service
- Hard starting when cold or when hotCarburetor Repair & Tuning
- Engine stalls at idle or when the clutch is pressedCarburetor Repair & Tuning
- Black smoke and a strong petrol smellCarburetor Repair & Tuning
- Fuel consumption much worse than it used to beCarburetor Repair & Tuning
- Petrol seeping or flooding from the carburettorCarburetor Repair & Tuning
- Engine surges at steady throttleCarburetor Repair & Tuning
- Petrol smell inside or around the carFuel Line Repair
- Wet patch or drip under the car that smells of fuelFuel Line Repair
- Fuel level dropping faster than the driving explainsFuel Line Repair
- Hard starting because the system will not hold pressureFuel Line Repair
- Visible rust, flaking or damage on the fuel pipes underneathFuel Line Repair
- Gas smell inside the cabin or bootCNG/LPG Kit Inspection
- Car runs poorly on gas but normally on petrolCNG/LPG Kit Inspection
- Cylinder date is unknown or the plate is unreadableCNG/LPG Kit Inspection
- Cylinder moves or rattles in the bootCNG/LPG Kit Inspection
- Kit was fitted by an unknown workshop and never checkedCNG/LPG Kit Inspection
- Backfiring or hesitation when switching over to gasCNG/LPG Kit Inspection
Exhaust System
- Car has become noticeably louder, especially when acceleratingExhaust Repair
- Rattling or knocking from underneath over bumpsExhaust Repair
- Exhaust smell inside the cabin at idle or in slow trafficExhaust Repair
- A hissing or puffing sound that rises with engine speedExhaust Repair
- Black sooty marks visible around a joint underneathExhaust Repair
- Deep booming or roaring noise from the rear of the carSilencer Replacement
- Loose internal rattle when you tap the silencer boxSilencer Replacement
- Visible rust holes or soot streaks on the silencer shellSilencer Replacement
- Noise that got worse suddenly rather than graduallySilencer Replacement
- Exhaust tip hanging lower than it used toSilencer Replacement
- Metallic ticking from the engine bay that is loudest on cold startExhaust Manifold Repair
- Tick that quietens or disappears once the engine warms upExhaust Manifold Repair
- Exhaust smell in the engine bay or through the ventsExhaust Manifold Repair
- Check engine light with fuel mixture or oxygen sensor codesExhaust Manifold Repair
- Soot staining visible where the manifold meets the headExhaust Manifold Repair
- Check engine light with a catalyst efficiency codeCatalytic Converter Diagnosis
- Car feels breathless and will not pull above a certain speedCatalytic Converter Diagnosis
- Smell of sulphur or rotten eggs from the exhaustCatalytic Converter Diagnosis
- Rattling from the converter body when tappedCatalytic Converter Diagnosis
- Fuel consumption climbing with no other explanationCatalytic Converter Diagnosis
- Check engine light with an oxygen sensor or fuel trim codeOxygen Sensor Replacement
- Fuel average dropping noticeably over a few weeksOxygen Sensor Replacement
- Rough or uneven idle, particularly when coldOxygen Sensor Replacement
- Hesitation when pulling away from a stopOxygen Sensor Replacement
- Strong fuel smell from the exhaustOxygen Sensor Replacement
- Hissing or puffing noise that changes with engine speedExhaust Leak Repair
- Exhaust smell inside the car in slow trafficExhaust Leak Repair
- Ticking noise under the front of the car when coldExhaust Leak Repair
- Check engine light with lean mixture codesExhaust Leak Repair
- Soot deposits around a joint or flange underneathExhaust Leak Repair
Denting & Painting
- Visible dent or crease in a door, wing or bonnetDent Repair
- Paint cracked or chipped at the centre of an impactDent Repair
- Panel gap looks uneven next to the damageDent Repair
- Door or bonnet edge catching when opening or closingDent Repair
- Ripples visible along the panel when light reflects across itDent Repair
- Panel folded, torn or creased beyond a simple dentPanel Repair
- Door or bonnet no longer closes or lines upPanel Repair
- Rust or splitting along a seam or edgePanel Repair
- Previous repair lifting, bubbling or showing a colour differencePanel Repair
- Water leaking into the cabin near the damaged areaPanel Repair
- Deep scrapes showing white or black plastic under the colourBumper Repair
- Cracks radiating from an impact pointBumper Repair
- Bumper sagging or sitting away from the wing on one sideBumper Repair
- Torn or missing mounting tabs behind the bumper edgeBumper Repair
- Paint flaking off the bumper while the metal panels are fineBumper Repair
- Lacquer peeling or flaking across the roof, bonnet or bootComplete Car Paint
- Colour faded unevenly from years in the sunComplete Car Paint
- Scratches and touch-ups across most panelsComplete Car Paint
- Several older repairs that no longer match each otherComplete Car Paint
- You want to change the car's colourComplete Car Paint
- One panel visibly duller or a different shade after an old repairPartial / Panel Paint
- Lacquer peeling on the bonnet or roof onlyPartial / Panel Paint
- Scratches too deep to polish outPartial / Panel Paint
- Primer or bare metal showing after a scrapePartial / Panel Paint
- Rust spots starting at a stone chipPartial / Panel Paint
- Visible collision damage to panels, bumper or lightsAccident Repair
- Car pulls to one side or the steering wheel sits off centre after an impactAccident Repair
- Doors, bonnet or boot no longer close properlyAccident Repair
- Coolant, oil or washer fluid leaking after the impactAccident Repair
- Warning lights that appeared immediately after the collisionAccident Repair
- Light scratches visible mainly in direct sunlightScratch Removal
- Circular swirl marks across the bonnet or bootScratch Removal
- Scuff marks transferred from another car or a gateScratch Removal
- Paint looking dull and flat rather than glossyScratch Removal
- Fine dust scratches from dry wipingScratch Removal
- Round or oval dent with paint fully intactPaintless Dent Removal
- Door ding from a car parkPaintless Dent Removal
- Shallow dimples across a bonnet or roof from hailPaintless Dent Removal
- Dent in the middle of a flat panel rather than on an edgePaintless Dent Removal
- Damage you can feel but only see at certain anglesPaintless Dent Removal
- Paint bubbling along a wheel arch, sill or door bottomRust Repair
- Brown staining running down from a seamRust Repair
- Soft or flaking metal when pressedRust Repair
- Holes visible from underneath the carRust Repair
- Damp carpet in the footwell or bootRust Repair
Tires & Wheels
- Tread level with the wear bars in the main groovesTire Replacement
- Cracks in the sidewall rubber from age and heatTire Replacement
- A bulge or blister on the sidewallTire Replacement
- Tyre losing pressure repeatedly with no repairable punctureTire Replacement
- Date code showing the tyre is around six years old or moreTire Replacement
- One tyre repeatedly lower than the othersPuncture Repair
- Nail, screw or metal fragment visible in the treadPuncture Repair
- Tyre pressure warning light coming onPuncture Repair
- Hissing sound from the tyre when parkedPuncture Repair
- Car pulling to one side at low speedPuncture Repair
- Car drifts to one side on a level, straight roadWheel Alignment
- Steering wheel sits crooked while driving straightWheel Alignment
- Tread worn off the inner or outer edge of one tyreWheel Alignment
- Steering feels heavier or vaguer after hitting a potholeWheel Alignment
- New tyres wearing out faster than expectedWheel Alignment
- Steering wheel shakes at a particular speed bandWheel Balancing
- Seat or floor vibrates at highway speedWheel Balancing
- Vibration that appeared after a tyre was fitted or repairedWheel Balancing
- Missing balance weights visible on the rim edgeWheel Balancing
- Uneven, patchy wear across the treadWheel Balancing
- Front tyres visibly more worn than the rearsTire Rotation
- Road noise increasing as the tread wears unevenlyTire Rotation
- It has been a long time since the tyres were last movedTire Rotation
- Tread depth difference you can see between axlesTire Rotation
- Grip feeling weaker at the front in the rainTire Rotation
- Humming or growling that rises with road speedWheel Bearing Service
- Noise that gets louder turning one way and quieter the otherWheel Bearing Service
- Rumbling you can feel through the floorWheel Bearing Service
- Play when the wheel is rocked top to bottom off the groundWheel Bearing Service
- Roughness felt when spinning the wheel by handWheel Bearing Service
- Vibration that started right after hitting a potholeRim Repair
- One tyre slowly losing air with no puncture foundRim Repair
- Visible flat spot or lip on the rim edgeRim Repair
- Kerb scuffing on the outer face of an alloyRim Repair
- Balance weights keep being needed on the same wheelRim Repair
Roadside Assistance
- Engine stopped while driving and will not restartBreakdown Assistance
- Car will not crank or start at allBreakdown Assistance
- Temperature gauge in the red and steam from the bonnetBreakdown Assistance
- Warning light came on and the car lost powerBreakdown Assistance
- Loud noise followed by the car refusing to moveBreakdown Assistance
- Engine turns over slowly then clicksEmergency Jump-Start
- No dashboard lights or very dim lightsEmergency Jump-Start
- Central locking and windows working weaklyEmergency Jump-Start
- Car started fine yesterday and is dead this morningEmergency Jump-Start
- Battery warning light was on before the car stoppedEmergency Jump-Start
- Warning light on with obvious loss of powerEmergency Mechanic
- Temperature climbing while you are still drivingEmergency Mechanic
- New fluid puddle under the car after stoppingEmergency Mechanic
- Loud squeal or grinding that started suddenlyEmergency Mechanic
- Smoke or a burning smell from the engine bayEmergency Mechanic
- Tyre visibly flat or shreddedFlat Tire Assistance
- Sudden bang followed by the car pulling hard to one sideFlat Tire Assistance
- Loud flapping noise from one cornerFlat Tire Assistance
- Tyre pressure warning with the car feeling unstableFlat Tire Assistance
- You have a spare but no jack or wheel braceFlat Tire Assistance
- Car will not start and cannot be revived on siteTowing & Recovery Coordination
- Gearbox will not engage or the car will not moveTowing & Recovery Coordination
- Wheel, suspension or steering damage after an impactTowing & Recovery Coordination
- Engine stopped with a loud noise or with no oil pressureTowing & Recovery Coordination
- Hybrid or automatic car that must not be towed on its wheelsTowing & Recovery Coordination
- Fuel gauge on empty and the engine has cut outFuel Delivery
- Engine sputtering then stalling, restarting briefly and stalling againFuel Delivery
- Car cranks normally but will not fire after the low fuel warningFuel Delivery
- Low fuel light has been on for a long distanceFuel Delivery
- Loss of power climbing a slope with the tank near emptyFuel Delivery
- Keys visible on the seat with the doors lockedLockout Assistance
- Car locked itself while the engine was runningLockout Assistance
- Key fob battery dead and no key blade fittedLockout Assistance
- Central locking will not release any doorLockout Assistance
- Boot lock jammed with the key insideLockout Assistance
Car Inspection
- You are about to buy a used car and want it checked firstPre-Purchase Inspection
- Seller's description does not match what you can seePre-Purchase Inspection
- Car has an unusually low price for its year and modelPre-Purchase Inspection
- You noticed a smell, noise or warning light on the test drivePre-Purchase Inspection
- Panel gaps or paint shades look inconsistentPre-Purchase Inspection
- A warning light you want identified before deciding anythingComputerized Inspection
- Car running normally but you want a health checkComputerized Inspection
- Buying a used car and want the modules readComputerized Inspection
- A light that comes on intermittently and clears itselfComputerized Inspection
- Someone cleared the codes and you want to know what returnsComputerized Inspection
- Engine noise you want identified before it gets worseEngine Inspection
- Blue, white or black smoke from the exhaustEngine Inspection
- Oil level dropping between servicesEngine Inspection
- Rough idle or power that is not what it wasEngine Inspection
- You are considering buying the car and want the engine assessedEngine Inspection
- Panel gaps that look uneven between the two sidesBody & Paint Inspection
- One panel a slightly different shade in sunlightBody & Paint Inspection
- Overspray visible on rubber seals or in door shutsBody & Paint Inspection
- Fresh underseal on part of the underbody onlyBody & Paint Inspection
- Bolt heads with paint chipped or marked at the edgesBody & Paint Inspection
- Buying or selling a car and want documented conditionFull Vehicle Inspection Report
- Planning a long trip and want the car checked properlyFull Vehicle Inspection Report
- Several small problems you would rather have assessed togetherFull Vehicle Inspection Report
- Car recently bought and you want to know what you haveFull Vehicle Inspection Report
- Fleet or company vehicle needing a condition recordFull Vehicle Inspection Report
- No consistent record of vehicle condition across the fleetFleet Inspection
- Repair bills varying widely between similar vehiclesFleet Inspection
- Drivers reporting faults that are not being trackedFleet Inspection
- Tyres and brakes being replaced at unpredictable intervalsFleet Inspection
- Need for documented safety checks on company vehiclesFleet Inspection
Hybrid & EV Services
- Hybrid system warning light on the dashboardHybrid Battery Diagnosis
- Battery charge gauge dropping and rising very quicklyHybrid Battery Diagnosis
- Petrol engine running far more than it used toHybrid Battery Diagnosis
- Noticeable loss of accelerationHybrid Battery Diagnosis
- Fuel average falling steadily over recent monthsHybrid Battery Diagnosis
- Diagnosis has shown one or a few blocks significantly out of lineHybrid Battery Cell Replacement
- Hybrid warning returning after codes were clearedHybrid Battery Cell Replacement
- Charge gauge swinging between full and empty within minutesHybrid Battery Cell Replacement
- Petrol engine cutting in constantly at low speedHybrid Battery Cell Replacement
- Reduced power when climbing or overtakingHybrid Battery Cell Replacement
- Hybrid system warning with no obvious battery symptomHybrid Electrical Diagnosis
- Several unrelated warning lights appearing at onceHybrid Electrical Diagnosis
- Car refusing to go into ready modeHybrid Electrical Diagnosis
- Electrical items behaving oddly before a hybrid warning appearsHybrid Electrical Diagnosis
- Fault that comes and goes with heat or rough roadsHybrid Electrical Diagnosis
- Hybrid warning appearing after sustained climbing or slow trafficInverter Cooling Inspection
- Car dropping into reduced power when it gets hotInverter Cooling Inspection
- Inverter coolant reservoir below the minimum markInverter Cooling Inspection
- Coolant in the inverter reservoir discoloured or dirtyInverter Cooling Inspection
- Stored fault codes relating to inverter temperatureInverter Cooling Inspection
- Hybrid system warning triangle or car symbol on the dashboardHybrid System Warning Repair
- Car in limited power or refusing to enter ready modeHybrid System Warning Repair
- Warning appearing when hot, clearing when the car coolsHybrid System Warning Repair
- Charge level behaving erratically alongside the warningHybrid System Warning Repair
- Warning returning days after someone cleared the codeHybrid System Warning Repair
- Car refuses to charge or stops charging part wayEV Diagnostics
- Range dropped noticeably without a change in drivingEV Diagnostics
- Warning light with reduced power or a turtle symbolEV Diagnostics
- Car will not switch to ready or driveEV Diagnostics
- Charging cable or port getting unusually hotEV Diagnostics
- Fluid has never been changed at high mileageHybrid Transaxle Service
- Whining or humming from the transaxle at steady speedHybrid Transaxle Service
- Oil weeping around the transaxle seals or driveshaftsHybrid Transaxle Service
- Hesitation or roughness during the change between electric and petrol driveHybrid Transaxle Service
- Fault codes relating to the hybrid drive motorsHybrid Transaxle Service
Why this list is a starting point, not an answer
The same symptom has several possible causes, and they cost very different amounts. A grinding noise when braking is usually worn pads, but it can be a seized caliper or a failed wheel bearing. A car that will not start is usually the battery, but it can be the starter, the alternator that drained it, or a fuel or immobiliser fault.
A workshop that quotes a price from your description is guessing. Sometimes the guess is right and the bill matches. When it is wrong, the extra appears at the end, after the car is already in pieces. We would rather look at it first and tell you what it actually is.
Browse by part of the car
How a diagnosis runs
What actually happens between you describing it and us knowing.
You describe it
What it does, when it does it, and how long it has been doing it.
We reproduce it
A road test where possible. A fault nobody has witnessed is a fault nobody has found.
We test, not guess
Scan tool, measurement and inspection. A stored code points at a circuit, not at a part.
You get the answer
What is wrong, what it costs to fix, and whether it can safely wait.
How we work
Diagnosis before quote
We find the fault first. A price given over the phone for a noise nobody has heard is a guess.
The price is agreed first
You approve the work and the cost before a spanner is picked up. Extra work means another call.
Parts you can check
We tell you whether a part is genuine, OEM, aftermarket or used, and what each one costs.
Old parts returned
Ask and we will hand back whatever we replaced. It is the simplest proof that the job was done.
Describe the problem
In your own words. There is no wrong way to describe a noise, and we would rather have your version than a guess at the technical term.
Questions about diagnosis
Tell us the car and the symptom
We will arrange a mechanic at your location, or a slot at the nearest workshop. No payment until the price is agreed.