Been A Scape Goat

November 29, 2007

Recently I bought a Toyota avensis gs 1.8 1999 model and wanted to do a full service from a local service centre( Fast-Fit Services - Which has a good reputation as told by my friends - ). But later came to know that the service station has moved to some other place and instead another service center ( Nationwide Autocenter ) has taken its place. So I took my car to Nationwide. After inspecting the car they quoted me the following:

170 for Full service

225 for front disk pad replacement

25 for wheel balancing

which came to a total of 431 pounds.

I had to pay because I need the car very urgently and now I understand that It could have done in half of that price.

Now I am relectent to go to that service station and It will very kind if anyone can refer a good service center near Dunstable, Bedfordshire. Here we have the following service station:

1. Quikfit ( Near my place but the problem is that they don't do engine work).

2. Fast-fit is now 20 miles away (Milton keynes).

November 29, 2007

If you're looking for value and good service then really you should forget the 'National' chains and go to an independant mechanics. They rely on reputation so tend to offer a better, more personal service at a reasonable price.

Like any trade, there are good ones and bad ones. Personal recommendations really help .

November 30, 2007

Would not have been cheaper had you gone directly to Mr. T? I know they charge seriously for labour something like £ 70-ish per hour, but given their experience evrything is faster and professional. The parts are cheaper with them (e.g. look for glow plugs for MK2 Toyota Avensis 2003 onwards) and you have peace of mind.

Just a thought.

November 30, 2007

I also say Toyota dealer would be best. The parts would be 100% genuine and I agree it could be cheaper.

I have been ripped off by Kwik Fit in the past I would not go near them for a service. I have got tyres from them and that was OK.

November 30, 2007

Recently I bought a Toyota avensis gs 1.8 1999 model and wanted to do a full service from a local service centre( Fast-Fit Services - Which has a good reputation as told by my friends - ). But later came to know that the service station has moved to some other place and instead another service center ( Nationwide Autocenter ) has taken its place. So I took my car to Nationwide. After inspecting the car they quoted me the following:
170 for Full service
225 for front disk pad replacement
25 for wheel balancing
which came to a total of 431 pounds.
I had to pay because I need the car very urgently and now I understand that It could have done in half of that price.
Now I am relectent to go to that service station and It will very kind if anyone can refer a good service center near Dunstable, Bedfordshire. Here we have the following service station:
1. Quikfit ( Near my place but the problem is that they don't do engine work).
2. Fast-fit is now 20 miles away (Milton keynes).

hello

yes sometimes one'd chose what is better either reliability or the cheappest price. I always service my second wife at Mr T's service centre even its more expensive and it is because i dislike to commision my car to private garages (i had a bad experience before with their cheapper cost for repair and no responsibility). As for me when serviced at Mr T - i can be assured that on the next day my car will be in order at anytime i need (!!!) and it is essencial.

Cheers/Igor