Several garages across Warwickshire are opening their doors in July as part of an initiative to tackle ‘Garage Anxiety’, a term describing drivers’ concerns about taking their vehicles for servicing or repairs due to fears of being overcharged, a lack of trust, or unaffordable bills. Avoiding essential maintenance can lead to points, fines, and increased risk of collisions from vehicle defects.
The Warwickshire Road Safety Partnership has collaborated with Whitmoore Auto Centre (Atherstone), Just Nice Clean Cars (Warwick), and Protyre Autocare (Rugby, Southam, Warwick, Alcester) to host free open evenings. Building on the success of similar events in October 2024, these sessions invite drivers to meet mechanics, explore facilities, ask questions, and receive tips on simple vehicle checks.
James Godley, Retail Operations Director at Protyre Autocare in Warwick, stated they are “proud to support” the project, aiming to help young drivers feel more confident. Carl Jay, Owner of Just Nice Clean Cars Warwick, emphasised the importance of vehicle maintenance for safety and cost efficiency, particularly for new drivers.
Sharon Hilton, leading the project for the Warwickshire Road Safety Partnership, highlighted findings from a survey of 17-24-year-old drivers in Warwickshire. While only 3% delayed MOTs, 50% admitted delaying services, primarily due to fear of cost or being overcharged. Hilton warned that neglected repairs increase the risk of road incidents.
By fostering direct interaction with mechanics, the initiative seeks to empower drivers to find trusted garages and understand options for spreading repair costs. This effort aims to promote safer vehicles on the road, contributing to the goal of reducing road casualties in Warwickshire by 50% by 2030.
Open Evenings in July (5:30 – 6:30 pm unless stated):
- 30 June: Protyre Rugby – 11 Paynes Ln, Rugby CV21 2UH
- 1 July: Protyre Alcester – Arden Business Centre, B49 6HW
- 1 July: Whitmoore Auto Centre – Radcliffe Road Atherstone (5:00 – 6:00 pm)
- 2 July: Protyre Warwick – Emscote Rd, Warwick CV34 4PH
- 2 July: Just Nice Clean Cars – Millers Rd, Warwick CV34 5AE
- 3 July: Protyre Southam – Southam Dr, Southam CV47 0RB
No booking is required; all are welcome. More information about the Warwickshire Road Safety Partnership is available online.
Source: Warwick Nub News