Vehicles are essential for many business people and being off the road can prove both costly and frustrating.
- A recent RAC survey revealed, that of the 1,400 respondents;60% received a bad experience when using a garage
38% came away with unresolved car issues
36% felt that they were overcharged
Identifying a trustworthy, reliable good car garage is not always straightforward, but is vital.
“Asking colleagues and friends for recommendations is a good starting point” remarks Alan Locke, from AYCEN Group in Manchester. “Additionally, bodies like Motor Codes, Bosch, Honest John and the Good Garage Scheme assess and rate garages as well as provide servicing checklists and advice for customers”.
Independent garages often welcome all makes and models but tend to specialise in certain brands and can use their accumulated knowledge and experience to work more efficiently.
“Good mechanics respectfully listen to customers’ first-hand observations, plus thoughts garnered through online research, before pinpointing issues using their up-to-date diagnostics systems. Ensuring a garage uses original equipment manufacturer (OEM) or high quality pattern parts and that their work is covered by at least one year’s warranty will provide added peace of mind” Alan continues.
“Garages should never proceed without customers first approving their written, itemised quotations, which clearly state parts, labour, VAT and any card surcharges”.
Customers should expect to be updated in a timely manner and given plain-English explanations of which parts need replacing. Perhaps they could be provided with a photo or video before being offered the replaced parts to keep.
On occasion, a customer may still not be fully happy once the garage has completed the job, and a good mechanic will reasonably investigate any remaining issues until everyone is satisfied.
“With a strong emphasis on customer service, we provide a free collection and delivery service, courtesy cars, reimbursed train or bus fares and, at the very least, a pleasant reception area.
“Over the years, we have continually strived to put our customers first, working on their vehicles while they get back to their busy schedules”, concludes Alan.
Business Aspects Magazine would like to thank Alan Locke for his contribution to this article.
