FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the questions we're asked most often. Can't see yours? Just give us a call.
What types of car repairs do you carry out?
We handle a wide range of repairs, including engine diagnostics, brake repairs, suspension repairs, electrical system repairs and air conditioning repairs, among others.
What mechanical services do you offer?
Everything from routine maintenance - such as servicing, oil changes, tyre checks and brake inspections - to more complex work like engine diagnostics, transmission repairs and electrical troubleshooting.
What diagnostic services do you offer?
Engine diagnostics, electrical system diagnostics, transmission diagnostics and ABS diagnostics. We'll explain what we find in plain terms and give you the cost of any repairs before we start.
How often does my vehicle need an MOT?
Under UK law, most vehicles over three years old must pass an MOT test every year to show they are safe to drive and meet environmental standards. We recommend booking your MOT with us each year so your vehicle stays roadworthy and legal.
Do I need a Class 4 or a Class 7 MOT?
Cars, car-derived vans, motorhomes, taxis and goods vehicles up to 3,000 kg design gross weight need a Class 4 MOT. Goods vehicles over 3,000 kg and up to 3,500 kg design gross weight need a Class 7 MOT. We test both classes.
Which MOT class is my van?
Check the design gross weight on the manufacturer's plate (usually inside the driver's door frame or under the bonnet, the first and highest figure) or on your V5C logbook. Up to 3,000 kg is Class 4; over 3,000 kg and up to 3,500 kg is Class 7. Not every van needs Class 7, and many models come in versions either side of the line, so check the plate rather than guessing.
What happens if my vehicle fails its MOT?
Dangerous and major defects are a fail; minor defects and advisories are noted but the vehicle passes. If your old certificate is still in date and nothing dangerous was found you may still drive the vehicle while it's repaired. A vehicle with a dangerous defect must not be driven until it's fixed. We're a full workshop, so most repairs can be carried out on site, and the DVSA partial-retest rules apply if the vehicle is retested within 10 working days.
Do you regas car air conditioning?
Yes. We recover the old refrigerant, vacuum and leak check the system, then recharge it to the correct weight with the right lubricant. If the air con goes warm again soon after a regas it has a leak, and we will find that rather than just refilling it. Tell us your registration when you book so we can confirm which refrigerant (R134a or R1234yf) your vehicle takes.
My DPF warning light is on. Can you clean the filter instead of removing it?
Yes, and we never remove them. We diagnose the cause first, because a blocked diesel particulate filter is often a symptom of a sensor, EGR or injector fault, then carry out a forced regeneration or a clean. GOV.UK guidance says removing a DPF almost invariably makes the vehicle illegal for road use, and a missing filter is an MOT failure.
Can you repair a blowing or rattling exhaust?
Yes. Exhausts are made in sections, so a blow or a broken hanger rarely means a whole new system. We tell you whether a weld, clamp or hanger will last or whether the section needs replacing, and we do the work on site at Dolly Lane. A major exhaust leak, an insecure system or excessive noise is a major defect in the MOT, so it is worth fixing before your test.
Which vehicles do you work on?
Cars, vans and light commercial vehicles of all makes and models.
How do I book?
Call us on 0113 244 3544, or send a booking request using our online form and we'll call you back to confirm a time.
Still have a question? Get in touch, request a booking or call 0113 244 3544.
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