What can a mobile mechanic do at your door?

Mobile mechanics are a handy idea, though the label can make it sound as if every job can be done anywhere. The truth is more nuanced. Some work is ideal for a visit, some needs a workshop and some is simply not what a particular mechanic offers.

Here is how it works for We Fit Any Clutch Cornwall, who travels across Cornwall to cars and vans of all makes.

What jobs suit a visit to your home or work?

Clutch replacement and repair, flywheel replacement, gearbox fluid changes, fault finding and electrical diagnosis, and many gearbox removal and refitting jobs can often be done where the vehicle is parked. These jobs mainly need good access, firm level ground and the right parts.

Whether yours is among them depends on the vehicle and the location. The mechanic can usually give a first view from the details you send, but cannot promise anything before inspection.

• Clutch replacement and repair
• Flywheel replacement
• Gearbox fluid changes
• Fault finding and electronics
• Many gearbox removals and refits

What are the limits of working outside a workshop?

Weather, space and ground conditions set the boundaries. Heavy rain, wind, a steep slope or soft surface can make the work unsafe. Jobs that need large fixed equipment, such as lowering a whole engine and subframe, are better suited to a workshop.

Gearbox rebuilds generally need a clean bench environment, with the unit removed and stripped down. The gearbox can be taken off at your location and then dealt with elsewhere if necessary.

What is outside what we offer?

We focus on clutches, gearboxes, differentials, fluids, and electrical fault finding. We do not offer roadworthiness tests, routine servicing, tyres or bodywork, and we do not provide recovery or towing. If your vehicle needs moving, that has to be arranged with a recovery provider.

Being clear about this saves you time. If your problem turns out to fall outside our work, we will say so and point you in the right direction.

Is a mobile mechanic less capable than a garage?

Not by nature. The skills and the parts are the same, and the difference is the setting. A mobile mechanic works with what fits in a vehicle, so the toolkit is chosen with care and larger items are brought only when the job calls for them.

The real test is honesty. A good mobile mechanic describes what can be done on site, what cannot and what the alternatives are, rather than overpromising.

Can a mobile mechanic diagnose any fault?

Many faults can be investigated on site, including those linked to warning lights, electrics and drive problems. Some diagnoses depend on seeing the vehicle under load or need a proper road test, and some need equipment that stays in a workshop.

A good diagnosis is about asking questions, checking systematically and ruling out the simple things first. That does not change because the visit is at your door.

How do I know if my job is suitable?

Message us with the make, model and engine, describe the symptoms and say where the vehicle is. The mechanic can tell you whether a visit looks sensible or whether a workshop is wiser.

If the vehicle will not select gears or the clutch pedal sits on the floor, do not keep driving. Tell us where it is and the mechanic can advise on options.