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HR Auto Specialists

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HR Auto Specialists

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Set up in 2016, H R offer reliable and honest servicing, repairs and fabrication work. Formed by jo

26/09/2026

A gearbox oil leak on this Porsche Cayenne had us doing a bit of detective work. We didn’t want to run the vehicle and risk the gearbox running low, so we used the smoke machine to help track down the source.

The culprit? A cracked gearbox heat exchanger, tucked away in a spot that’s about as awkward and inaccessible as they come!

We replaced the heat exchanger and carried out a gearbox service. Thankfully, the gearbox is working perfectly.

Another tricky leak found and sorted at HR Auto Specialists.

21/09/2026

One broken bolt can completely change the scale of a job.

This Discovery 4 initially required investigation into a cracked intake manifold and a leaking EGR valve. Smoke testing clearly exposed the manifold leak, and the vehicle was also due its rear timing belt replacement.

Unfortunately, during dismantling we encountered a broken bolt that couldn’t be repaired properly with the body in place. The only correct option was to remove the body and gain suitable access.

With the body removed, we were able to repair the broken bolt and complete all the required work properly, including:

• Replacement intake manifold
• New EGR valve
• Rear timing belt replacement
• New auxiliary belt tensioners and idlers
• Water pump replacement

We also found that the earth strap inside the wheel arch was on its last legs, so this was replaced before it could cause further electrical or starting problems.

A considerably bigger job than originally anticipated, but everything was repaired correctly and several developing issues were dealt with at the same time.

HR Auto Specialists

18/09/2026

🚨 TRACTION CONTROL FAULT ON THIS VOLVO XC90! 🚨
This XC90 came into H R Auto Specialists with a traction control fault — but rather than throwing parts at it, we got straight to the diagnostics! 🔍🔧
By checking the live data, we quickly identified the culprit: a faulty steering angle sensor. 🎯
We then liaised with the AA to arrange the warranty claim, and once authorised, the repair was carried out.
✅ Fault diagnosed
✅ Warranty claim handled
✅ Repair completed using a genuine part
✅ Full road test carried out
✅ Vehicle back working as it should! 💪
Proper diagnostics save time, money and unnecessary parts!
Got a warning light or fault on your vehicle? Don’t ignore it — bring it to H R Auto Specialists and let us find the problem. 🔧
📞 Get in touch today!

11/09/2026

Built for adventure…

This Defender underwent a full rebuild with a replacement galvanised chassis and bulkhead before being equipped for touring and off-road use.

The modifications included:

* Old Man Emu suspension
* Safety Devices roof rack and ladder assembly
* ARB Intensity driving lights
* ARB rooftop tent and awning
* Heavy-duty front bumper and WARN winch
* Snorkel
* Side steps, chequer plate and additional body protection
* Swing-away rear carrier

A well-planned Defender isn’t about fitting everything available—it’s about selecting the right equipment for how the vehicle will actually be used.

Whether you’re looking for one carefully chosen upgrade or a complete rebuild, we can help plan and build a Defender around your requirements.

Looking to upgrade your Defender? Get in touch to discuss your plans.

09/09/2026

Performance upgrades for our Land Rover customers

HR Auto Specialists is an Alive Tuning Authorised Agent, giving our Land Rover customers access to a wide range of specialist tuning and performance upgrades.

From ECU tuning through to complete, matched packages, we can supply and fit:

• Hybrid and VNT turbo upgrades
• Uprated intercoolers and boost hoses
• Performance exhaust systems
• Suspension and handling upgrades
• Tuning packages matched to the vehicle and fitted components

Whether you’re looking for improved drivability and towing performance or want to build something considerably more capable, we can help select the right package for how your Land Rover is actually used.

Available for Defender, Discovery and selected Range Rover models.

📍 HR Auto Specialists – Meadowfield, Durham
📞 0191 378 2972

06/09/2026

That’s not something you normally expect to see at the tailpipe…

This Volvo came into us with an AdBlue system fault.

After carrying out diagnostic checks, we traced the problem to a failed AdBlue injector. Instead of correctly dosing the exhaust system, it was leaking excessive AdBlue into the exhaust, leaving crystallised deposits all the way through to the tailpipe.

The failed injector was replaced using a genuine part, restoring the AdBlue system to correct operation.

While the vehicle was with us, we also completed an engine oil and filter service to keep everything up to date.

Another fault diagnosed and repaired at HR Auto Specialists

03/09/2026

Something a little different for our own Defender…

These custom lower protection panels were designed in-house to follow the Defender’s body lines and incorporate our HR logo and Td5 detailing.

They’ve been finished in Raptor coating to match the rock sliders, giving the Defender a tougher, more individual look while adding protection to the lower bodywork.

One of the advantages of designing parts ourselves is that we’re not limited to what’s available off the shelf. If you’ve got an idea for your Defender, we may be able to help turn it into reality.

What do you think of the finished design?

📍 HR Auto Specialists – Meadowfield, Durham
📞 0191 378 2972

01/09/2026

Defender axle rebuild and suspension overhaul

Another stage completed on this Defender build, with the refurbished axle assemblies fitted and built back up with renewed braking components and Old Man Emu suspension.

It’s the sort of work that largely disappears once the wheels are back on—but doing it properly makes a huge difference to how the vehicle drives, stops and lasts.

At HR Auto Specialists, we can help with everything from individual Defender repairs and upgrades through to:

• Axle overhauls
• Hub and swivel repairs
• Brake and suspension upgrades
• Chassis and corrosion repairs
• Gearbox and transfer box work
• Engine conversions and complete builds

Whether you’ve got a working Defender that needs sorting or a long-term project you want built properly, give us a call to discuss it.

📍 HR Auto Specialists – Meadowfield, Durham
📞 0191 378 2972

31/08/2026

Defender TD5 Conversion – Custom Stainless Exhaust

A little look at the fabrication side of the workshop.

This Defender has previously undergone an engine conversion with us, replacing the original 300Tdi with a TD5.

As part of the conversion, the TD5 engine has been positioned further back in the chassis to help improve weight distribution and centre of gravity.

Because of the altered engine position, an off-the-shelf exhaust system simply wasn’t going to work, so a completely custom system was required.

The system has been fabricated in-house using high-grade stainless steel, with the sections carefully formed and TIG welded to suit the installation.

Still a work in progress in these photos, but a nice example of the custom fabrication involved when carrying out conversions like this.

HR Auto Specialists
0191 3782972

Address

Unit 3 Edwardson Road
Durham
DH78RL

Opening Hours

Monday	9am - 5pm
Tuesday	9am - 5pm
Wednesday	9am - 5pm
Thursday	9am - 5pm
Friday	9am - 5pm

Telephone

+441913782972

Website

http://hr-autos.co.uk/

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