New research reveals that 71 per cent of motorists with cars over three years old, rely on their local independent garage for servicing and repairs, while just 18 per cent use the dealer or garage from which they bought the car.
The research, commissioned by MyCarNeedsA.com, shows that the majority of motorists are loyal to their local independent garage, with 74 per cent of respondents saying they rely on them for all their servicing, MOT and repairs.
However, although most motorists will return to a garage if they’ve had a good experience, over a quarter need help with choosing a reliable and trustworthy garage.
Of those that need recommendations, 11 per cent will ring round to get the best deal; seven per cent will ask a friend for recommendations; four per cent will look up businesses online; and four per cent will use an online comparison site to check prices, reviews and services in their local area.
The research also reveals that almost a third of respondents dislike booking servicing, MOTs and repairs, while a further 15 per cent dislike searching for a reliable garage they can use.
For 85 per cent of motorists, using an online service to compare garages and prices is preferable to making a booking with a garage themselves.
Great opportunity for garages
Scott Hamilton, managing director of MyCarNeedsA.com commented: “The research is great news for independent garages, as it shows there is a huge amount of customer loyalty, if motorists are happy with the quality of service they are receiving.
“Many motorists feel more comfortable going online to find a garage and source a quote, rather than dealing with garages directly which gives garages a great opportunity to capture incremental customers by having a strong presence online.
“We work closely with reputable garages to give motorists a quality service, at the right price. So it’s a win, win situation.”
MyCarNeedsA.com
MyCarNeedsA.com now works with four thousand dealers, garage and workshop partners nationwide.
Only authorised repairers provide quotes for work, after a thorough vetting process and only genuine parts are used on all customer vehicles.
Service books are stamped and a 12 month guarantee on all parts and labor is provided.
Eighty per cent of jobs generated by MyCarNeedsA.com for its service providers are grade A.
For further information about MyCarNeedsA.com, call 028 3833 8091 or click ‘more details’ below.