Pros 
Cons Wortelboer Motors Ltd: A Mixed Bag of Experiences in Ruakākā
Wortelboer Motors Ltd, located on State Highway 15A in Ruakākā, NZ, holds a respectable 4.8-star rating, indicating a generally positive perception amongst customers. This auto repair shop, helmed by Paul, serves the local community with a range of services, including Warrant of Fitness (WOF) inspections and general repairs. Based on customer feedback, the experience at Wortelboer Motors seems to be highly variable, swinging between exceptional service and deeply concerning issues related to pricing and workmanship. The convenience of their location and open hours—Monday-Friday 8 AM - 5 PM, and Saturday mornings 8 AM - 12:30 PM—make them accessible for many in the Ruakākā area. They proudly offer wheelchair accessible entrance and parking, catering to a wider range of customers. Payment options include debit and credit cards. Let's delve deeper into the specific comments and concerns voiced by customers.
The Good: Reliability, Honesty, and Helpful Service
Several reviewers highlight Paul’s expertise and honesty, portraying him as a breath of fresh air in an industry often criticised for less-than-transparent practices. Here’s a summary of the positive feedback:
- Trust and Reputation: Multiple customers were referred to Wortelboer Motors by friends, demonstrating a strong word-of-mouth reputation. One customer even travels from outside the local area specifically due to the trust they have in Paul’s service.
- Accessibility and Convenience: Several positive reviews noted the ease of getting a WOF done, particularly highlighting Paul’s ability to accommodate urgent requests and fit customers in quickly. The wheelchair accessibility is also a significant advantage for some.
- Friendly and Helpful: Customers consistently describe Paul as "awesome," "a good guy," and "beyond helpful." He seems to have a knack for handling customers with diverse automotive problems in a calm and reassuring manner.
- Quality Work (in some instances): A number of users share positive experiences regarding the efficiency with which Paul handles issues.
- Specific Quote: "Paul is an amazing mechanic and I could not recommend him highly enough. It’s always really daunting finding a new mechanic when you move to a new town but he made it a breeze by being beyond helpful. Thank you so much Paul we appreciate you :)"
| Positive Attributes | Examples from Reviews |
|---|---|
| Honesty | "Paul is good. Honest. Don't find many mechanics around like that." |
| Reliability | "Reliable, reasonable and honest car mechanic." |
| Accessibility | "Only local place that could fit me in." |
| Helpful Attitude | “Paul is such an awesome guy…without stress.” |
The Concerns: Overcharging & Questionable Workmanship
Unfortunately, a significant counterpoint to the praise is a serious concern regarding pricing and the quality of work performed. One review paints a starkly different picture, alleging substantial overcharging and questionable practices. It's important to note this is a single perspective, but it raises crucial points:
- Exorbitant Labour Costs: The reviewer claims to have been charged $1650 for “a few hours labour and transmission fluid,” a price they deemed "ridiculously" high and unjustified. They alleged charges for work "not asked of."
- Vehicle Condition Worsened: Alarmingly, the reviewer stated that their vehicle's running condition was worse upon leaving the workshop than when it arrived.
- Dismissive Response: The reviewer reported Paul's response to their concerns was dismissive, stating “it is what it is.”
- Quote: "Definitely not recommended, I was heavily overcharged/ripped off and the invoice didn't justify the price $1650 for a few hours labour and transmission fluid...my car left in worser running condition than when it arrived. Stay clear people, shafty mechanic here charging out the anus.”
- Payment Particulars: Wortelboer Motors Ltd takes both debit and credit cards, however, credit cards currently are not enabled for payments.
These claims, if accurate, highlight a potentially serious issue and underscore the importance of obtaining detailed quotes and thoroughly understanding the scope of work before authorizing any repairs. This outspoken critic cautioned others to "stay clear."
Contacting Wortelboer Motors Ltd & Considerations
Ultimately, the reviews for Wortelboer Motors Ltd present a mixed picture. While many customers laud Paul’s expertise and helpfulness, the allegations of overcharging and subpar workmanship cannot be ignored. Here's how you can reach out and what to consider:
- Phone: +64 9 432 7430
- Address: Wortelboer Motors Ltd RD 1 State Highway 15A, Ruakākā 0171, New Zealand
- Recommendations:
- Obtain Detailed Quotes: Always request a written quote outlining all proposed work and associated costs before any repairs begin.
- Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask questions about the diagnostic process, the proposed repairs, and why specific parts or services are required.
- Review Invoice Carefully: Before authorizing payment, meticulously review the invoice to ensure it accurately reflects the agreed-upon work and prices.
- Consider Second Opinions: For major repairs, especially those involving significant costs, consider seeking a second opinion from another mechanic.
The discrepancies in customer feedback suggest that experiences at Wortelboer Motors Ltd are inconsistent. It is advised that prospective customers proceed with caution, armed with a clear understanding of their vehicle’s needs, and proactively manage the repair process to protect their interests.