Pros 
Cons Allison Autos: A Whanganui Mechanic Garnering High Praise
Allison Autos, located at 10 Purnell Street, Whanganui 4500, NZ, is earning a reputation as a top-tier mechanic in the region, boasting an impressive rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars. Phone them at +64 6 347 6126 to book an appointment. While specialising in European vehicle repairs, customers consistently highlight the shop's expertise across various makes and models. Beyond skilled mechanical work, a strong focus on customer communication and integrity seems to be at the heart of Allison Autos' success. Operating Monday to Friday, from 8 AM to 5 PM, this isn't your average garage; it's a local business providing quality automotive care. They are closed on weekends, so planning your visit is essential.
The Good: Expert Service & Honest Pricing
The overwhelming sentiment from customers reveals a consistent appreciation for Allison Autos' quality of service and pricing. Here's a breakdown of what reviewers are loving:
- European Car Specialists: Many specifically praise Allison Autos for their expertise in handling European vehicles, particularly BMW. One customer highlighted a significant cost saving on a sump oil leak repair compared to going directly to BMW.
- Thorough Diagnostics & Proactive Maintenance: Customers appreciate the thoroughness of the inspections while the vehicle is in for service. Allison Autos isn’t just fixing the immediate issue; they're attending to other maintenance needs, demonstrating proactive care and integrity.
- Clear Communication & Honest Advice: Josh, apparently a key figure in the business, is consistently praised for his willingness to explain repairs and recommendations clearly to customers. This builds trust and ensures customers understand what's being done to their vehicles.
- Value for Money: Time and again, reviewers express surprise at the reasonable pricing, particularly given the high quality of work performed. Servicing a Fiat Motorhome was described as offering "great value for money."
- Little Extras: The thoughtful touches, like a car wash and candy sticks, are appreciated and contribute to a positive overall customer experience.
"Allison always do a check over of car while they have it and attended to a couple of other maintenance issues at same time grateful for their attention and integrity. Back again for tune on my toyota, same top notch service and pricing." - A very satisfied BMW and Toyota owner.
Areas for Improvement: Security & Communication Concerns
While the vast majority of reviews are positive, a significant concern has been raised regarding the security of vehicles left on-site while awaiting repairs.
- Vehicle Break-in Incident: One customer reported their vehicle being broken into while parked at Allison Autos, with the business reportedly having no insurance coverage for such incidents as the carpark is considered public. This wasn’t communicated proactively, with the police alerting the customer to the incident. This is a serious area needing immediate attention.
- Communication Regarding Delays: The lack of communication regarding the break-in highlights a need for improved communication practices. Keeping customers informed of any issues while their vehicle is in the shop is crucial for building and maintaining trust.
| Aspect for Improvement | Details |
|---|---|
| Security | Implement or improve security measures in the carpark. |
| Communication | Proactive updates regarding vehicle status and any issues. |
| Insurance Coverage | Review insurance coverage for vehicles on-site. |
Facility & Payment Details: Accessible and Convenient
Allison Autos strives to provide a comfortable and convenient experience for customers. Here’s a look at their facilities and payment options:
- Accessibility: Allison Autos is committed to accessibility. They feature both a wheelchair accessible entrance and a wheelchair accessible parking lot.
- Payment Options:
- Accepted: Debit cards are accepted. NFC mobile payments (likely including Apple Pay and Google Pay) are also supported.
- Not Accepted: Credit cards are currently not accepted.
- Opening Hours: Consistent weekday hours (8 AM – 5 PM) make scheduling appointments relatively straightforward.
This focus on accessibility and modern payment options underscores a dedication to providing a positive and inclusive customer experience alongside their skilled car repairs. Supporting a local Whanganui business like Allison Autos is a bonus for many customers.