360 Garage
From engine faults and coolant leaks to starting, charging and electrical problems, we carry out mechanical repairs on all makes and models at our Loverock Road workshop. Every repair starts with establishing the actual cause rather than assuming what is needed.
General mechanical repairs cover the wide range of faults that fall outside a scheduled service — problems that develop unexpectedly and need investigation and repair rather than routine maintenance. This spans engine performance and running issues, cooling system leaks and overheating, starting and charging faults, exhaust problems, unusual noises or vibration, and electrical faults affecting anything from lighting to comfort features.
Engine problems can present in many ways — rough running, loss of power, unusual smoke, knocking noises or a warning light. The underlying cause can range from something straightforward like a worn ignition component to something more involved like an internal mechanical fault. We investigate using appropriate diagnostic and physical inspection methods before recommending a repair, since guessing at engine work risks unnecessary cost.
Cooling system faults, most commonly a coolant leak or overheating, need prompt attention because sustained overheating can cause much more serious and expensive engine damage. Leaks can originate from hoses, the radiator, the water pump, a head gasket or various seals and connections. Identifying the actual source is essential before deciding whether a repair is a simple hose replacement or a more significant job.
Starting and charging faults are commonly assumed to be 'the battery'. The underlying cause can equally be the alternator not charging correctly, a faulty starter motor, corroded or loose connections, or a parasitic drain from another electrical system. We test the battery, charging system and starting circuit individually rather than defaulting to a battery replacement, since replacing a battery does not resolve a charging system fault.
How it works
Describe the fault
We ask detailed questions about when and how the fault occurs, which helps focus the investigation before the vehicle is even inspected.
Initial inspection
A visual and physical inspection identifies obvious causes and rules out simple explanations before more involved diagnostic work begins.
Testing and diagnosis
Depending on the fault, this may include electrical testing, pressure testing a cooling system, or live data analysis to confirm the actual cause.
Findings and options explained
We explain what has been found, whether repair or replacement is the more sensible option, and what is involved before agreeing to proceed.
Repair carried out
Once agreed, the repair is completed to the appropriate standard, using suitable parts for the vehicle.
Verification and road test
Where relevant, the vehicle is road tested to confirm the original fault has been resolved before handover.
Capability
The decision between repairing and replacing a component depends on several factors. These include whether the part can be repaired safely and durably, and whether a repair would cost close to or more than a straightforward replacement once labour is accounted for. They also include how critical the component is to safety or reliability. Sealed components, such as many modern alternators or certain electrical modules, are often only available as a full replacement rather than something that can be economically repaired.
Cooling system leaks are a good example of where accurate diagnosis changes the outcome significantly. A leak from a hose or clip is usually a straightforward and inexpensive repair, while a leak from the water pump, radiator or a head gasket involves considerably more labour and parts cost. Identifying the actual source before quoting is essential, rather than assuming the worst or the simplest explanation.
For starting and charging faults, we test the battery, alternator output and starter motor separately. This avoids the common mistake of replacing a battery when the real fault is a charging system that is not keeping it topped up. Replacing the battery alone would simply leave the customer with the same flat-battery problem again in a short time.
Several factors affect the cost of a general repair. These include labour access to the affected component (some parts are quick to reach, others require significant disassembly), and parts availability for the specific make and model. They also include whether diagnostic time is needed to confirm the cause, and the extent of damage if the fault has been present for some time before being addressed.
Where an inspection identifies a defect affecting braking, steering or structural integrity, we explain this clearly and recommend it is addressed without delay rather than treating it as something that can be deferred indefinitely. Not every repair can be scheduled around convenience where safety is genuinely at risk.
Why 360
Reading facility
Garage, MOT, diagnostics, mechanical repairs, performance and alloy-wheel refurbishment.
119 Unit 4 Loverock Road, Reading, RG30 1DZMonday – Friday: 9:00am – 6:00pm
Saturday: By appointment only
Sunday: By appointment only
Questions
Related work
All 360 Garage servicesLoverock Road, ReadingAreas we coverContact 360
360 Garage
MOTs, servicing, diagnostics, repairs and performance upgrades.
