Engine Removal Needed to Fix Snapped Bolts

The Problem

This Porsche Macan came into our workshop with an oil leak that the owner had noticed getting progressively worse.

Oil leaks on modern engines can come from several different areas, so it’s important to properly investigate the source before replacing parts unnecessarily. In this case, the leak was leaving oil around the engine bay and creating that familiar burnt oil smell once the engine warmed up.

Our Diagnosis

After carrying out a full inspection, we traced the leak back to the rocker covers. Because the Macan uses a V6 engine configuration, it has two rocker covers; one on each bank of cylinders.

When we looked more closely, we discovered that two of the rocker cover bolts had snapped. This meant the rocker cover could no longer seal properly against the engine, allowing oil to escape. We managed to remove one broken bolt without too much trouble, but the second bolt was located on the near-side bank tight against the bulkhead, making access almost impossible with the engine in place.

The Fix

To carry out the repair properly, we had to remove the engine and gearbox assembly as a complete powertrain unit. Once removed, we could safely access and extract the damaged bolt without risking further damage to the engine.

We then fitted new rocker cover gaskets and replacement bolts, reassembled everything carefully, and checked the engine thoroughly for leaks.

After testing, the Porsche was running perfectly again and returned to the customer oil-tight and ready to go.

The Problem

This Ford Focus came into our Manchester workshop for a timing belt replacement. The owner was aware that their engine uses a “wet belt” system, meaning the belt runs inside the engine and is lubricated by oil. These setups are known for wearing down over time, with the belt material breaking up and potentially causing bigger issues if left unchecked.

Our Diagnosis

As part of our inspection, we looked for signs of belt degradation. On engines like this, fibres from a worn timing belt can break off and block the oil pump filter, leading to low oil pressure; a common issue with this type of engine. We checked the system carefully for any contamination and made sure everything else was in good condition. While inspecting the vehicle, we also found a cracked exhaust cowling that needed attention.

The Fix

We carried out a full timing belt replacement, which on this engine is a particularly time-consuming job due to the belt’s internal position. We also checked and cleaned the relevant components to ensure there was no debris affecting the oil system. Finally, we replaced the damaged exhaust cowling. With everything completed, the Focus is now running smoothly and safely, giving the owner peace of mind for the miles ahead.

The Problem

This VW Up came to us with oil leaking from underneath the car. The owner had recently had the vehicle serviced at a main dealer, so it was understandably frustrating to discover an issue so soon afterwards. Oil leaks are never something to ignore, as they can quickly lead to engine damage if the oil level drops too low.

Our Diagnosis

We carried out a thorough inspection to find the source of the leak. After getting the car safely raised and checking underneath, we identified the problem: a crack in the sump, right around the area of the sump plug. This is a key point where oil is drained during servicing, and if overtightened or stressed, it can sometimes lead to damage like this.

The Fix

To properly resolve the issue, we fitted a brand new sump to ensure a solid, long-lasting repair. Once installed, we refilled the engine with fresh oil and checked everything over to confirm there were no further leaks. The car is now sealed, safe, and back on the road as it should be.

If you ever notice oil spots where you park or a warning light on your dashboard, it’s always best to get it checked sooner rather than later.

AdBlue System Fault Diagnosed and Repaired

This Audi Q2 came into us with warning lights showing on the dashboard. The customer wasn’t sure what the issue was, but the lights indicated a fault within the emissions system. As with many modern diesels, problems with the AdBlue system can quickly lead to further warnings or even restricted vehicle performance if left unresolved.

Our Diagnosis


We started with a full diagnostic scan, which flagged a fault with the AdBlue heater system. This system uses two heaters to keep the AdBlue fluid at the correct temperature. After further testing, we identified two separate issues: a faulty AdBlue heater relay and a broken wire in the circuit supplying power to heater number two.

During testing, we fitted a new relay, but noticed heater two still wasn’t receiving power. Using the diagnostic tool, we confirmed the issue by temporarily introducing a good wire into the circuit, which immediately triggered the system as expected. This confirmed a wiring fault rather than a component failure alone.

The Fix


We replaced the faulty relay unit and carried out a proper repair to the damaged wiring. Once completed, we re-tested the system to ensure both heaters were working correctly and all warning lights were cleared.

The Audi is now running exactly as it should, with the AdBlue system fully operational and no faults present.

The Problem

An Audi A4 came into our Manchester workshop with several warning lights showing on the dashboard and noticeably reduced engine power. The driver explained that the car felt restricted when accelerating and wasn’t performing as it normally would. When warning lights appear alongside a loss of power, it’s often a sign that the engine management system has detected a fault and placed the car into a protective mode.

Our Diagnosis

We started by carrying out a full diagnostic scan to see what fault codes the car was reporting. The scan identified an open circuit fault relating to the fuel pressure regulator valve.

When we opened the bonnet to inspect the area more closely, we immediately noticed a strong smell of rat urine. After examining the wiring around the valve, the cause became clear — the wiring loom had been nibbled by rodents, leaving the circuit broken.

Unfortunately, this type of damage is becoming increasingly common, particularly for vehicles parked overnight in city centre areas, where rats can sometimes get into the engine bay and chew through wiring.

The Fix

To resolve the issue, we repaired the damaged wiring to the fuel pressure regulator valve and restored the electrical connection.

Once the repair was completed, we cleared the fault codes and re-tested the vehicle.
The warning lights disappeared and the engine returned to normal performance, confirming the problem had been successfully fixed.

It’s a good reminder that unexplained warning lights can sometimes have unusual causes — but with the right diagnostic tools and experience, they can usually be traced and resolved quickly.

The Problem

A customer brought their Vauxhall Corsa in after pressing the clutch and hearing a loud bang. Straight away, something felt wrong under their foot. They even found a loose part in the driver’s footwell. The clutch pedal felt strange and unreliable, making the car unsafe to drive.

Our Diagnosis

We’ve seen this before. On some Corsas, the clutch pedal release spring can snap. It’s only a small spring, but it plays a big role in returning the pedal smoothly after you press it. When it breaks, the pedal can drop, stick, or feel completely wrong.

The tricky part? That spring lives deep inside the pedal box – the metal frame that holds the pedals in place. To reach it, the entire dashboard and much of the interior have to come out. It’s a surprising amount of work for such a small component.

The Fix

We carefully stripped back the interior, removed the dashboard, and accessed the pedal box. Once inside, we replaced the broken spring and checked everything was aligned and moving correctly. After refitting the interior, the clutch pedal was back to feeling solid and smooth, just as it should.

It’s a great example of how a tiny part can cause a big problem, and why odd noises or changes in pedal feel are always worth getting checked early.