Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Trusted MOT & Car Repair Services in Wells-Next-The-Sea
Established in 1952, Dunthornes Garage has served North Norfolk as a family-run business specialising in MOT testing, servicing, and vehicle repairs. With over three decades of experience, we have expanded our expertise to include diagnostics, DPF cleaning, air-conditioning services, and Land Rover maintenance. Our commitment to manufacturer standards ensures all work complies with RMI guidelines, using genuine or quality OE parts to maintain new car warranties. We invest in cutting-edge diagnostic tools and dealer software to address modern vehicle technologies, including secure gateway systems for brands like Volkswagen and Jaguar Land Rover.Our approach prioritises transparency, with detailed fault diagnostics and customer approval before repairs. Offering weekend appointments for MOTs and a courtesy car for urgent needs, we combine technical excellence with a personal touch to serve both local residents and visitors.
Services
MOT Testing
Servicing
Repairs
Diagnostics
DPF Cleaning
Air-Conditioning
Land Rover Services
Battery Replacement
4 Wheel Alignment
Vehicle Electrics
Details
- Year established: 1952
Highlights and features
- Family-run since 1952 with deep local knowledge and community ties.
- RMI membership ensures adherence to manufacturer service standards.
- Use of genuine or quality OE parts to protect vehicle warranties.
- Advanced diagnostics for secure gateway vehicles like VW, Audi, and BMW.
- Flexible weekend MOT appointments and courtesy cars available.
Associations and certifications
- Retail Motor Industry (RMI)
What people say
Lovely and down to earth
Saved our holiday
Knowledgeable and friendly staff
Courtesy car provided
Repaired broken suspension
Services
MOT Testing
We are a Class 4 VOSA-approved MOT test centre offering comprehensive vehicle safety inspections. Our MOTs ensure compliance with DVSA standards, covering brakes, lights, emissions, and structural integrity. Customers benefit from flexible weekday appointments and pre-test advice to maximise first-time pass rates.
DPF Cleaning
Specialist DPF cleaning services for diesel vehicles using Fort Power-Clean technology. We address blocked filters caused by short journeys or poor regeneration, restoring performance and reducing emissions. Our process avoids component dismantling, ensuring faster turnaround and cost-effective solutions compared to replacements.
Vehicle Diagnostics
Advanced diagnostic assessments for modern vehicles with secure gateway systems. Using main dealer software, we bypass manufacturer restrictions to perform coding, resets, and fault analysis on brands like Volkswagen, BMW, and Jaguar. Transparent reporting ensures informed repair decisions.
Air-Conditioning Service
Full air-con servicing for R134a and R1234YF refrigerants, including regas, leak testing, and bacterial treatment. We address reduced cooling efficiency caused by gas loss, ensuring optimal summer performance and eliminating unpleasant odours through disinfection.
Land Rover Servicing
Tailored maintenance for Land Rover models, including engine overhauls, brake upgrades, and chassis treatments. We offer performance enhancements like VGT turbo kits and EBC brake components, combining technical expertise with practical advice for off-road and daily use.
Questions
How do I book an MOT test?
Call us at 01328 711640 during weekday hours or book via email. Weekend appointments are available by arrangement.
Do you service modern vehicles with secure gateways?
Yes, we use genuine dealer software to bypass secure gateways on brands like Volkswagen, BMW, and Jaguar Land Rover.
What DPF cleaning technology do you use?
We use Forté Power-Clean solutions to remove soot and ash deposits without dismantling components, ensuring efficient results.
Can you service both old and new air-conditioning systems?
Yes, we handle R134a and R1234YF refrigerants, including regas, leak testing, and bacterial treatments.
Do you offer Land Rover-specific upgrades?
Yes, we fit VGT turbo kits, EBC brake components, and perform full chassis treatments for improved performance.
Reviews (7)
Cj Smith
Jun 24, 2021
Report
We had problems after getting stones stuck in the wheels between the brakes whilst visiting Wells.
Phoned Dunthornes having googled, he said come around and advised us he would need to take the wheels off and remove the stones. It was near closing time so we left the car ans came back the next morning. He said our problem was common in the area due to the carparks surfaces. Really friendly on the phone and in person on arrival. Car was ready next morning at agreed time. Again really friendly staff. Reasonably priced bill especially considering we turned up from no where just before they shut
Phoned Dunthornes having googled, he said come around and advised us he would need to take the wheels off and remove the stones. It was near closing time so we left the car ans came back the next morning. He said our problem was common in the area due to the carparks surfaces. Really friendly on the phone and in person on arrival. Car was ready next morning at agreed time. Again really friendly staff. Reasonably priced bill especially considering we turned up from no where just before they shut
Debbie Mcgolpin
Jan 24, 2020
Report
We were dropped off by the AA after breaking down, the repair was completed quickly while we wondered round Wells and we were home for tea, thank you for excellent service with a smile, highly recommended thanks
Ian Markwick
Nov 25, 2019
Report
On my way to our holiday at Wells next the Sea, I noticed that my car's OSF brake was binding. Luckily, we completed our journey and our holiday began. I Google'd for a local garage and Dunthornes came up and within walking distance too! I called them and a very friendly lady asked if the car was drivable and if so, could I drop it in with them in the morning. I did just that, the seized caliper was quickly diagnosed and parts ordered. I rejoined my family for a beautiful day on the beach.
Dunthornes kept me informed of the work being done and it was completed by the end of the day. I collected
Dunthornes kept me informed of the work being done and it was completed by the end of the day. I collected
Nick D.
Dec 06, 2018
Report
Broke down on my way back home to France. These guys dropped everything to help and go me back on the road in no time. Super people. Superb service. Thanks so much
Steven Clarke
Nov 13, 2018
Report
Always gives my Defender 90 the best in servicing, upkeep and general repair. Recommend to all car owners expecially land rover!
Gail Stanford
Aug 21, 2018
Report
Julian was really helpful - after travelling from Leicester, our car had an oil leak, but it was sorted as soon as we arrived. Can't thank you enough.
BaileyKnight
Jan 15, 2018
Report
Very helpful, friendly service...highly recommend! On a recent trip to Wells our Discovery 3 developed a fault and visiting Dunthornes they quickly diagnosed the fault and helped us continue our holiday!
