DIAGNOSTICS | Coastal Autos

The skilled mechanics at Coastal Autos take pride in ensuring your vehicle is safe on the road and our service advisers efficiently manage your job from booking to drop off and pick up. Vehicle diagnostics isn’t just about plugging in a scan tool and reading a code — it’s about understanding your car from the inside out.

VEHICLE DIAGNOSTICS

Our technicians will take the time to properly test, inspect, and interpret what your vehicle is telling us, so we can get to the root of the issue, not just treat the symptoms. Whether it’s a flashing check engine light or a strange noise you can’t quite place, we’ll give you straight answers and a clear plan forward.

We believe good diagnostics saves you money and time in the long run. That’s why we invest in the latest tools and training, so we can pick up on issues early and avoid unnecessary repairs. And if something’s not quite right, we’ll talk it through with you — no jargon, just honest advice you can trust.

There is a cost involved with diagnostic work because it involves using specialised, often very expensive equipment and the expertise of a trained technician who’s spent years honing their skills. Identifying the true cause of a fault can take time, technical knowledge, and precision, and you're paying for that depth of experience as much as the tools used.

My car needs the lower control arm bushes replaced, what are they and why are they important?

Lower control arm bushes play a crucial role in your car's suspension system. These rubber or polyurethane components sit between the control arm and the vehicle's frame, providing cushioning and reducing vibrations. They help to absorb the shocks and bumps from the road, ensuring a smoother and more comfortable ride. Additionally, they maintain proper alignment of the control arms, which helps to keep your wheels aligned correctly, enhancing steering stability and handling. Over time, these bushes can wear out or become damaged, leading to a less smooth ride and potential handling issues. Regular inspection and replacement, when necessary, are important to keep your vehicle driving smoothly and safely.
Why do I need to replace the engine mount in my car?

Replacing the engine mounts in your car is essential for maintaining a smooth and safe driving experience. Engine mounts are designed to secure the engine to the vehicle's frame while absorbing vibrations and shocks. Over time, these mounts can wear out or become damaged due to the constant stress and strain they endure. When engine mounts fail, you might notice increased vibrations, clunking noises, or even misalignment of the engine. Replacing worn or damaged engine mounts not only improves the comfort of your ride by reducing vibrations but also ensures that the engine remains properly aligned and securely in place, preventing potential damage to other components and maintaining overall vehicle stability.
What are the signs my suspension needs attention?

If your ride feels bumpy, your car pulls to one side, or there's a knocking noise over bumps, your suspension could be worn. It’s best to get it checked before it affects safety.
When should I get a wheel alignment?

You should get a wheel alignment if your vehicle pulls to one side, your steering feels off-centre, or your tyres are wearing unevenly. It's also a good idea to have it done after replacing suspension parts, getting new tyres, or hitting a decent pothole or curb. A proper alignment helps your car drive straight, improves tyre life, and saves fuel too.