Advance Vehicle Services: Kiwi Car Care

Services offered by Advance Vehicle Services

Engine Rebuilds & Head Gasket Replacement ⚙️

Brake Diagnosis & Repair 🛑

Emergency Brake Services (especially during the holidays!) 🎄

Headlight Replacements 💡

Pre-Purchase Vehicle Health Checks ✅

Oil & Filter Changes 🛢️

Pothole Damage Assessment & Repair 💥

Vehicle Diagnostics & Troubleshooting 🔍

Flexible & Urgent Repairs ⏱️

Parts Sourcing & Installation 🛠️

Pros	Cons
Super knowledgeable and transparent with pricing.	Oil and filter change bill was significantly higher than at other garages.
Able to quickly diagnose issues and find parts, even during a busy period like Christmas.	Rates are unclear, and the explanation of 'better quality oil' was not satisfactory.
Flexible and helpful, especially for travellers.	Customers left feeling angry and disappointed with the pricing.
Great customer service and fast replacement of parts.
Very helpful with advice and saved customers while travelling.
Friendly staff, highly recommended.
New owner is very helpful and the garage is a great local option.
Team goes the extra mile for vehicle care.
Shop manager Wayne is helpful, respectful, and knowledgeable.
Returns phone calls to keep customers informed.

Pros

Cons

Super knowledgeable and transparent with pricing.

Oil and filter change bill was significantly higher than at other garages.

Able to quickly diagnose issues and find parts, even during a busy period like Christmas.

Rates are unclear, and the explanation of 'better quality oil' was not satisfactory.

Flexible and helpful, especially for travellers.

Customers left feeling angry and disappointed with the pricing.

Great customer service and fast replacement of parts.

Very helpful with advice and saved customers while travelling.

Friendly staff, highly recommended.

New owner is very helpful and the garage is a great local option.

Team goes the extra mile for vehicle care.

Shop manager Wayne is helpful, respectful, and knowledgeable.

Returns phone calls to keep customers informed.

Advance Vehicle Services: Kiwi Car Care – Praises & Pitfalls

Advance Vehicle Services, located in Waiwhakaiho, New Plymouth, consistently earns a solid 4.8-star rating, suggesting a generally positive experience for its customers. Offering a range of mechanic services, from oil changes to complex engine repairs, AVS has become a known entity within the Taranaki region. Their commitment to accessibility, with both wheelchair accessible entrance and parking, is a welcome aspect for many. Payment options are straightforward, accepting debit cards for ease of transaction. The business operates Monday to Friday from 8 AM to 4:30 PM, closed on weekends, so planning your visit is essential. You can reach them directly at +64 6 757 5567.

The Good Oil: Stellar Service & Going the Extra Mile

Many reviewers highlight the exceptional customer service and dedication displayed by the team at Advance Vehicle Services. A recurring theme is their willingness to go above and beyond, particularly in urgent situations. Here's a summary of the praise:

Emergency Saviours: Numerous customers recount how AVS rescued them during travel emergencies. One traveller describes being "so fortunate" AVS was open on December 24th, rapidly diagnosing and fixing a brake issue so they could continue their Christmas journey. Another highlights advice and assistance provided while travelling.
Honest & Transparent: Several reviewers commend the transparent pricing and willingness to stick to original quotes, even when work takes longer than anticipated. One notable instance involves a blown head gasket, where AVS worked significantly longer than expected and still honoured the initial cost.
Knowledgeable & Proactive: Customers appreciate the staff's expertise and their willingness to offer helpful advice. Whether it's a pre-purchase health check or spotting damage from potholes, the team impresses with their attention to detail.
New Management Magic: Positive feedback regarding the new owner, Wayne, is common. Reviewers describe him as “on the ball,” helpful, respectful, and possessing “years of knowledge,” coupled with the ability to return calls and keep customers informed.
Reliable & Trustworthy Many reviewers state they would “100% recommend” Advance Vehicle Services, highlighting a sense of trust and confidence in their work.

"The team at Advance Vehicle Services always go the extra mile... I always leave feeling like they’ve taken care of me and my vehicle." – A satisfied customer.

Fair Dinkum Concerns: Pricing Discrepancies & Rate Transparency

While overwhelmingly positive, a significant number of reviews also point towards potential issues with pricing transparency and consistency. This concerns a few customers.

Unexpected Costs: One reviewer expressed significant disappointment after an oil and filter change costing $400, double the usual price they’ve paid elsewhere. Despite explanations citing "better quality oil," they struggled to understand the rate discrepancy.
Lack of Clarity: The discrepancy highlighted a general desire for greater clarity on pricing structures and the rationale behind service costs. Customers feel they would benefit from a more thorough breakdown of charges.
Reputation at Stake: This feedback suggests that while the quality of service might be high, maintaining a strong reputation relies on maintaining consistent and transparent pricing, avoiding any perception of price gouging.

Previous Garage Oil Change	Cost
Average Garage	$200
Advance Vehicle Services	$400

Accessibility & Amenities: Making It Easy for Everyone

Advance Vehicle Services are actively seeking to provide good User Experience.

Wheelchair Accessible: The facility is welcoming to all, boasting both a wheelchair-accessible entrance and parking lot, promoting inclusivity.
Convenient Payment Options: Debit card payments are readily accepted, simplifying the transaction process.
Location: Situated at 14 Smart Road, Waiwhakaiho, New Plymouth 4373, New Zealand, AVS enjoys a fairly accessible location within the Waiwhakaiho borough of New Plymouth.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mechanic Advance Vehicle Services in New Plymouth

What types of services does Advance Vehicle Services offer?

Advance Vehicle Services provides a comprehensive range of mechanical services, from routine maintenance like oil and filter changes to more complex repairs such as engine work, including head gasket replacements. They also offer pre-purchase vehicle health checks and are known for their diagnostic skills, quickly identifying and resolving issues like brake problems. They handle everything from headlight repairs to general vehicle servicing, ensuring your vehicle is running smoothly and safely. Their expertise extends to servicing vans and other vehicles, catering to a wide variety of needs.

What is the reputation of Advance Vehicle Services regarding pricing and transparency?

Advance Vehicle Services has generally received positive feedback regarding pricing transparency. Customers have reported that the shop honors original quotes, even when the work required exceeds initial expectations. They are known for being upfront about costs and keeping clients informed throughout the repair process. While one customer experienced a higher-than-expected bill, the majority praise the shop's honesty and reasonable pricing, often finding the final cost to be less than anticipated. Wayne, the shop manager, is particularly noted for his communication and keeping customers in the loop.

What are the opening hours for Advance Vehicle Services?

Advance Vehicle Services is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. The workshop is closed on Saturdays and Sundays. It's always a good idea to call ahead, especially if you require urgent assistance, to confirm their availability and ensure they can accommodate your needs. Their phone number is +64 6 757 5567. Planning your visit during their operating hours ensures a seamless experience.

Does Advance Vehicle Services offer accessibility features for customers?

Yes, Advance Vehicle Services prioritizes accessibility for all customers. The workshop features a wheelchair accessible entrance and a wheelchair accessible parking lot, ensuring ease of access for individuals with mobility requirements. They also accept debit card payments for added convenience. Advance Vehicle Services strives to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone seeking vehicle servicing in the Waiwhakaiho area.

What makes Advance Vehicle Services stand out from other mechanics in New Plymouth?

Advance Vehicle Services distinguishes itself through exceptional customer service and a commitment to going the extra mile. Customers frequently highlight the team's friendliness, helpfulness, and willingness to assist, even in urgent situations. The shop’s knowledgeable staff, particularly Wayne, are praised for their expertise, respect, and proactive communication. They are known for their ability to diagnose complex issues and provide reliable, transparent service, earning them a strong reputation within the local community.