Ashton's Garage
Practical servicing & maintenance advice from Ashton’s Garage.
A leaking car can leave anything from a small damp patch to a serious loss of engine oil. Find out the common causes, what you can safely check and when professional inspection is needed.
Power steering fluid helps some steering systems work smoothly and safely. Learn what it does, how to check it, which warning signs to watch for and why not every modern car uses it.
Transmission fluid does not have one universal change interval. Find out how your gearbox type, manufacturer guidance and driving conditions affect when it should be inspected or replaced.
Learn the common signs of a worn or damaged auxiliary belt, what it does, and when a professional inspection is the safest next step.
An auxiliary belt drives several important engine accessories, including the alternator and, on some cars, the water pump. Here is how it works, what warning signs to look for and why belt condition matters.
Most auxiliary belts should be inspected during routine servicing and whenever warning signs appear. Learn what the belt does, how often it needs checking, which symptoms matter and why replacement intervals vary between vehicles.
A clear, consistent service history can support a car’s value by giving buyers confidence in its maintenance and condition. Here is what records are worth, what buyers look for and how to fill gaps responsibly.
A missed service is not always obvious. Learn the common signs your car may be overdue maintenance, what they can mean and when professional checks are sensible.
A practical pre-trip checklist covering tyres, fluids, lights, brakes, visibility, breakdown equipment and the warning signs that should be checked by a garage before you set off.
A car can usually sit unused for several weeks, but batteries, tyres, brakes and fluids can cause problems if it is left for longer. Here is what to check before driving again.
A sudden increase in fuel use can be caused by driving conditions, tyre pressures, servicing issues or a developing fault. Here is what to check and when to seek professional help.
A vehicle health check is a practical visual and functional inspection designed to identify developing problems before they become more expensive or affect safety. Here is what a typical check may cover, how it differs from an MOT or service, and when professional advice is sensible.