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You may remember us posting an article about the importance of female-friendly garages back in 2021 (it feels like ten years ago!). We feel so strongly about this topic that we felt it deserved another post. A year later, we still come across multiple customers who are initially nervous that we’re overcharging them or lying about something they need. This is particularly pertinent amongst our female customers but not completely uncommon with other genders. We treat every single one of our customers in the same way; never ripping people off, taking advantage of their potential lack of knowledge or making them feel embarrassed for this. But, unfortunately, at some garages, this is the reality, which sadly has resulted in everybody being a little wary of putting their trust in a new garage.

You are not alone if you’re a woman who has dreaded taking your car to a garage. A whopping nine in ten women believe they are treated differently at auto-repair shops than men. And with 31% confused by jargon and 28% nervous about asking technical questions, it’s no wonder women view a trip to the dentist more favourably than getting a car serviced, according to AutoMD. Yet, shockingly, despite the statistics above, many auto-repair garages are not making an effort to be ‘female appropriate.’

First impressions count, and if women, men, or people of any gender walk into a dirty, uninviting reception area, they are likely to feel uneasy from the off. Even things that may seem insignificant, like old, faded calendars on the wall and insufficient lighting, can impact how comfortable someone feels. On the contrary, a light, airy space with plenty of seating and tasteful decor will have the opposite effect. Another essential aspect of a reception is the right staff. A warm smile, friendly demeanour, and understanding approach go a long way to building trust and calming nerves.

Confused.com states that over a third of women motorists worry a mechanic will rip them off. This is a scary statistic, but it’s understandable given that some technicians use jargon and fail to explain what the car needs and any work completed. Then there’s the fear that you’ll be laughed at if you misunderstand anything. On the other hand, an honest garage would go through everything in detail and layman’s terms without patronising. The reception/admin team and mechanics should treat each customer with respect and compassion.

No garage should conduct work before getting prior approval from the customer, regardless of gender. This may seem like a given, but you’d be surprised how many garages aren’t so forthcoming when communicating effectively with customers. You may have heard horror stories about garages taking advantage of women, perhaps overcharging them, or doing more work on their car than discussed and still being charged for it. In fact, according to a study performed by The Times, women are much more likely to be quoted high prices for car repairs than men for the same services. It’s important to note that this isn’t always the case, however.

A handful of garages make providing a safe, welcoming environment and services to people of all genders a priority. With our all-female receptions and knowledgable, helpful technicians, we at K Brown Auto Repairs are dedicated to treating all customers with the same courtesy and care, regardless of gender.

Your car is an asset – possibly your most valuable, second to your house. Part of looking after your car is getting it serviced regularly, but choosing which garage to trust can be tricky.

Despite what you might believe, you don’t have to take your car to the main dealer for its regular service. Although the dealership might feel like the most risk-free choice, many independent garages can offer the same quality of servicing (following manufacturer guidelines in the same way) for a price that won’t burn a hole in your pocket.

Why are main dealerships so expensive?

And how can independently-run garages charge less? Put simply, there’s a big difference in overheads. Dealerships run a large showroom, pay more staff and budget for the added extras, like coffee machines in their waiting rooms. While you’re unlikely to get a barista-style coffee at an independent (although we do offer drinks to our waiting customers!), if you’ve found one you can trust, you will get the same level of service – and isn’t that what’s most important?

Key main dealer and independent garage comparisons:

• Technicians that work at a main dealer aren’t automatically more qualified. Fully trained mechanics are the same wherever they work.
• It’s a common misconception that going to an independent will mean you miss out on genuine parts for your vehicle. Many, like us, will give you the choice as to what type of part is fitted.
• If you want to understand better what’s wrong with your car or the work that has been done on it, you’re much more likely to be able to speak to a jargon-free technician at an independent.
• Main dealers tend to be less flexible when it comes to squeezing customers in at the last minute because they follow stricter time slots. If your car needs to be seen as soon as possible – if you’re travelling a long way the next day or need your vehicle for work, for example – an independent garage will be more likely to fit it in.
• It’s worth noting that, ultimately, independent garages have to work harder to maintain a good reputation. They can’t rely on their brand to get customers, so it’s reasonable to suggest they provide more attentive customer service, smoother communication, and a more personal experience.

Going to an independent garage can be beneficial, but unfortunately, not all can be trusted. It’s always best to form your own impression of the garage you are considering by looking at their website (is it up to date?; does it provide ample information about their services?; is it professional?) and checking out their reviews. If you’re still unsure, try giving them a call to ask them a question about their services. How they respond to your question, their phone etiquette, and the general feel of the conversation should either sway you to give them a go or confirm your worries. Ensure the garage in question is VAT-registered if your vehicle is under warranty.

Money is tight for everyone at the moment; if you’re looking for ways to cut back on costs without compromising on quality, give an independent garage a go – you may be pleasantly surprised.