How to pick garages you can trust

Collaborative Post | To keep your car running smoothly, taking it to the garage for a little TLC is necessary. It might not be your favourite thing to do, especially with many drivers reporting poor workmanship or rip-off prices at garages. Recent surveys have also found dramatic variations in garage hourly rates across the country, so how do you know who to trust?

Your apprehension is understandable but with the right know-how, you can transform a potentially stressful experience into a confident one. The tips below will equip you with the confidence to choose a trustworthy garage for your next tyre fitting, repairs or MOT service.

Photo by Egor Vikhrev on Unsplash

Understand your tyre needs

Before hitting the road to find a garage, take some time to understand your car's tyre specifications. Check your owner's manual or the placard inside the driver's door for the recommended size, load rating and speed rating.

Fitting tyres that do not match these crucial details could compromise your car’s handling and safety. Knowing these details inside and out empowers you to have informed conversations with potential garages and avoid recommendations that might not be the best fit for your car.

Research your local garages

The internet is an invaluable tool at your disposal – don’t sleep on it! Research local garages in your area specialising in the service you are looking for. Getting an MOT or tyre fittings in major cities like Cambridge is likely to bring up many results, so be sure to only choose a business with a good reputation and positive client testimonials.

Professional garages will also belong to reputable industry schemes like the National Tyre Distributors Association (NTDA). This requires businesses to adhere to a strict code of conduct and ensures fair pricing and quality workmanship.  

Price transparency

Don’t be shy about shopping around and getting some quotes before you commit to a car service or repairs. Call or visit a few garages to compare your chosen tyres and the fitting service.

Be sure to ask about the cost of any additional services, like balancing or valve replacements, to avoid hidden fees. While price is a factor, the cheapest option isn't always the best. Consider the overall package: quality of tyres, expertise of the technicians and customer service.

Customer service matters

While price is important, don't underestimate the value of good customer service. A trustworthy garage will take the time to explain your options clearly, answer your questions patiently and prioritise your safety.

Look for a garage that inspires confidence through clear communication. They should be happy to discuss the pros and cons of different tyre options based on your driving habits and budget.
​

Disclaimer: this is a collaborative post.