Choosing the right ‘vehicle doctor’
Five top tips from the Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA) for choosing a mechanic that won't let you down ...
A vehicle is a big investment, therefore caring for your investment makes sense. But finding the right vehicle ‘doctor’ can be a challenge.
Dewald Ranft, Chairperson of the Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA), a constituent association of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), offered these five tips to help you in the search for a top-notch mechanic …
• Belonging is better business
The first thing you should look for is a logo. Repair workshops should have their memberships or accreditations on display.
We would highly recommend looking for the RMI and MIWA logos. Why? Owners of the RMI and MIWA workshops need to adhere to strict criteria which are checked regularly. Secondly you have recourse if you aren’t entirely satisfied with the service you received. You can escalate your grievance to the MIWA and/ or the RMI, both of which will assist you through a dispute-resolution process.
• Grading
When choosing accommodation, it’s common to refer to the star rating to make an informed decision about where to holiday. So why not do the same when looking for somewhere to have your vehicle serviced?
A MIWA-graded workshop meets specific accreditation requirements and is subject to random external audits. By choosing a four- or five-star workshop you can be assured of top service.
• Equipment
Does the workshop look professional, tidy and organised? Does it look like the staff have the correct tools and equipment to do their work? Ask questions and look around. You are within your rights to have all the information before making a decision.
• Training
While we are facing a skills shortage in the sector, top workshops are doing in-house and external training to ensure all mechanics are qualified to deal with the tasks before them.
Once again, speak to the workshop owner about training levels of mechanics and any specialisations they may have. For example, some mechanics specialise in a particular vehicle make.
• Efficiency
A top workshop will have efficient systems in place to assist customers. Getting a quote should be a quick and seamless process.
Communication should be good, whether its directly with the workshop owner or an administration person. If you find the process tedious, look elsewhere. There are many workshops around the country that are highly professional in their customer service approach.
“Remember that the cheapest repair price is not always the best option. Building a level of trust with your mechanic is also important. If in doubt, get references from customers who have used the workshop. Check out websites and social media to see if there have been negative posts. Many workshops are eager for your business and will offer an exceptional service. Look around and compare,” recommended Dewald.
Do you perhaps have more information pertaining to this story? Email us at randfonteinherald@caxton.co.za (please remember to include your contact details in the email) or phone us on 011 693 3671.
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