It may come as a surprise, but some garages have been known to charge customers for parts that were never fitted and to recommend the needless replacement of various components, from non-existent screen wash top-ups to unnecessary new brake discs.

RAC commissioned a survey in winter 2014 and the results were somewhat concerning for the automotive industry. Nearly two-thirds (60%) of motorists polled said they experienced bad service the last time they took their car to a garage for a routine service, repair or MOT, 38% driving away with unresolved problems and over a third feeling they had been overcharged. It therefore really pays dividends to find a garage you can trust.

Over the last decade or so, manufacturers have incorporated more and more computer systems in their cars, which often make relatively simple repair tasks quite complex. It is therefore important to identify a garage with the diagnostics tools required in order to communicate with your vehicle. Manufacturers’ warranties can often remain protected without having to visit a main dealer, where prices tend to be higher.

Taking your vehicle to a garage that is a member of the Bosch network is a wise move, as their technicians should be trained to high standards and have the latest equipment at their disposal. AYCEN specialise in Mercedes-Benz and BMW but cater for all makes and models for our customers in the Manchester region.

Good garages appreciate the needs of motorists who rely on them and hence provide customer-focused services such as a free collection and delivery service, courtesy cars, SMS reminders and free vehicle health checks.

Customers should expect to be given no-obligation, itemised quotations, along with plain English explanations of any parts that may need repairing or replacing.

Transparent garages are happy to give customers any old parts, along with a receipt and paperwork outlining the 12-month guarantee the work and new components should be covered by.

We’ve heard stories of motorists whose cars’ protective undertrays were simply thrown away after an oil change, as the garages deemed it too much effort to screw them back on. It pays to be an informed customer, alert to such practices. One gentleman in the North West told a garage what he thought the problem with his car might be, only for them to keep his car for 6 weeks, after which they admitted he was right all along. Also to be avoided are garages who work on a trial and error basis, replacing part after part at the customer’s expense, with no promise that the fault will be resolved.

Identifying a garage you can rely on will enable you to relax and focus on your own routine, knowing that your car is in capable hands and will be back on the road in efficient time.