Pros 
Cons A Reputation Built on Honesty & Trust
Peter Donnell Automotive, located in Petone, Lower Hutt, has garnered a stellar 4.9-star rating, a testament to the exceptional service and unwavering honesty that defines its operation. The consistent praise echoed in online reviews isn’t just about fixing cars; it’s about building trust and providing a refreshing contrast to the often-unscrupulous practices within the automotive industry. Many customers specifically highlight Pete’s commitment to thorough inspections without pushing unnecessary services or parts – a quality frequently missing elsewhere. One customer, recounting a negative experience with a previous WOF inspection, found solace in Pete's integrity and transparent approach, stating it “was worth the wait” and declaring themself a "lifetime customer." This dedication to ethical practices has cultivated a loyal following across the Wellington region, extending even to customers willing to travel considerable distances – one client commutes from Whitby just to have Peter service their vehicle.
Why Customers Keep Coming Back: More Than Just a Mechanic
It's clear that Peter Donnell Automotive offers more than just routine maintenance. The recurring themes in customer feedback showcase a service built on reliability, expertise, and genuine care. Here's a breakdown of what consistently impresses:
- Exceptional Expertise: Pete and his team possess a breadth of knowledge across various vehicle types, from modern imports to classic V8s. One review specifically praises Pete’s "spot on" work with a 318 engine, noting it now "goes like a cut cat.”
- Rapid Response & Flexibility: Getting a car into the shop quickly is often a challenge. Peter Donnell Automotive stands out with its ability to accommodate urgent needs, with one customer receiving service "on very short notice." They also showcased ability to source rare parts quickly.
- Fair and Competitive Pricing: Repeatedly, customers emphasize the affordability of Peter's services. Several reviewers found quotes from other local shops to be “overpriced” compared to the reasonable rates at Peter Donnell Automotive.
- No-Nonsense, Respectful Service: As one customer pointed out, female clients feel respected and not condescended to, a common concern in traditionally male-dominated industries. This approachability adds to the overall positive customer experience.
- Long-Standing Relationships: Many customers have been entrusting their vehicles to Peter’s care for years, even decades. One client has been using his services since 2008, despite moving suburbs, highlighting the unwavering quality and trust they have cultivated.
"Repairing with Peter since 2008. I have moved to different suburbs in Wellington since then and every now and then I take the car to a mechanic near me, and that reinforces me how best is Peter. Living in Whitby I still go to Peter for all my car needs, that's for his best service, trusted timeframe and best price." - A Loyal Customer
Accessibility & Payment Options
Peter Donnell Automotive strives to be accessible and convenient for all customers. Here’s a summary of their facility and payment offerings:
Accessibility Features:
| Feature | Enabled |
|---|---|
| Wheelchair Accessible Entrance | Yes |
| Wheelchair Accessible Parking Lot | Yes |
Payment Methods Accepted:
- ✅ Debit Cards
- ✅ NFC Mobile Payments
- ❌ Credit Cards (Not Accepted)
Their opening hours are designed to accommodate busy schedules: Monday to Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM. The shop is closed on weekends, providing ample work time during the week.
Contact & Location Details
Need honest car service in the Lower Hutt area? Here's how to connect with Peter Donnell Automotive:
- Phone: +64 4 568 8666
- Address: Peter Donnell Automotive, 455 Jackson Street, Petone, Lower Hutt 5012, New Zealand
- Location: Petone, Lower Hutt, NZ
- Opening Hours:
- Monday: 8 AM–5 PM
- Tuesday: 8 AM–5 PM
- Wednesday: 8 AM–5 PM
- Thursday: 8 AM–5 PM
- Friday: 8 AM–4:30 PM
- Saturday: Closed
- Sunday: Closed