Pros 
Cons Blighs Road Auto Service Ltd: A Mixed Bag of Christchurch Car Care
Blighs Road Auto Service Ltd, nestled in Strowan, Christchurch, consistently earns a solid 4.7-star rating. Located at 52 Blighs Road, this mechanic has become a familiar face for many Christchurch drivers requiring everything from routine WOFs to more complex engine work. Their accessible facilities, including wheelchair access and parking, further enhance their appeal. They accept debit and NFC mobile payments, though credit cards aren't currently an option. Operating Monday to Friday from 7:00 AM to 4:45 PM, and closed on weekends, Blighs Road Auto Service Ltd offers a convenient schedule for busy individuals. But does the service consistently live up to the hype? Let's dive into the customer experiences, both the glowing praise and the frustrating complaints, to determine if they’re truly worth your business.
The Good: Speed, Value, and Trustworthy Workmanship
Several reviewers consistently highlight the positive aspects of Blighs Road Auto Service Ltd. Here’s a breakdown of what customers love:
- Excellent Value: Numerous comments mention their service being "affordable," "excellent value," and providing a "great price." This makes them an attractive option for those on a budget.
- Professional & Friendly Team: The staff are frequently described as "friendly," "helpful" (especially highlighting the male staff), and possessing a "great team spirit." This creates a welcoming and approachable atmosphere.
- Reliable Repairs & WOFs: Many customers report successful WOF passes and reliable repairs. One customer emphasized the thoroughness of their work, especially regarding their Mercedes servicing over the years.
- Speedy Servicing (Sometimes!): Several reviews highlight how quickly they serviced vehicles, with one van service completed professionally and swiftly.
- Using Customer Parts: The ability to use your own spare parts, as mentioned by one reviewer, is a definite bonus and adds flexibility for customers.
"So lucky to have these guys (and gals) as my 'local'. Been taking my vehicles there for WOF's for years as well as the servicing of my Mercedes. The team go above and beyond to get your car sorted for you, exceptional customer service and always a thorough job. Cannot recommend them highly enough." - A Loyal Customer
Areas for Improvement: Time Management & Communication
Despite the abundance of positive feedback, recurring criticisms point to critical areas needing attention. These don’t negate the positive experiences, but highlight potential pitfalls for future customers.
- Poor Time Management & Appointment Adherence: This is the most significant complaint. Multiple reviewers mention excessively long wait times, even with pre-booked appointments. One customer waited nearly two hours for a wheel alignment, during which time other walk-in customers were served before them. This raises serious questions about the value of booking an appointment in the first place.
- Lack of Communication: A common theme is the lack of communication regarding the progress of work and unexpected charges. One customer wasn't notified that their brakes were finished, leading to a frustrating wait. Another was charged for a repair they hadn't authorized and, surprisingly, had already been completed elsewhere.
- Unexpected Charges & Quotes: The experience of being charged significantly more than the initial quote, as described by one customer, is concerning. While the extra charge wasn't exorbitant ($22), the lack of transparency and the discomfort it caused are noteworthy. Being asked to pay "almost triple what we agreed on" is a severe lapse in customer service.
- Lack of Apology/Explanation: The absence of an apology or explanation for the considerable delays is seen as unacceptable, further exacerbating the negative experience.
Weighing the Options: Is Blighs Road Auto Service Ltd the Right Choice for You?
Ultimately, deciding whether to trust Blighs Road Auto Service Ltd with your vehicle requires careful consideration.
Here’s a quick summary table:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Affordable Prices | Inconsistent Time Management |
| Friendly & Helpful Staff | Poor Communication Regarding Work & Costs |
| Reliable Repairs & WOFs | Unexpected Charges |
| Accepts Own Parts | Lack of Apology for Delays |
| Accessible Facilities | Appointment System Seems Flawed |
| Discounted Petrol (Cardholders) |
Recommendations:
- Book Appointments with Caution: While booking an appointment is recommended, be prepared for potential delays. It's advisable to factor in extra time and bring something to occupy yourself.
- Clarify Quotes & Scope of Work: Before any work begins, request a detailed, written quote. Confirm the exact services to be performed and what parts will be used.
- Inquire for Updates: Don't hesitate to ask for regular updates on the progress of your vehicle.
- Be Prepared to Advocate for Yourself: If you feel you’re being overcharged or if you haven’t authorized a specific repair, speak up immediately.
- Consider Other Options: Given the mixed reviews, especially concerning time management and communication, exploring other mechanics in the Christchurch area might be worthwhile, particularly if your time is precious.
Contact: +64 3 351 6277, 52 Blighs Road, Strowan, Christchurch 8052, NZ. Open Monday to Friday, 7:00 AM – 4:45 PM.