Pros 
Cons Village Automotive & Exhaust: The Good Oil on Havelock North’s Mechanic
Village Automotive & Exhaust, located at 3 Cooper Street in Havelock North, consistently receives high praise for its skilled workmanship and efficient service. Boasting an impressive 4.80 rating, this mechanic shop is clearly a favourite amongst many in the community and those passing through. Customers repeatedly highlight the reliability and honesty of the team, alongside good prices – a trifecta any vehicle owner appreciates. They are open Monday to Friday 8am-5pm, ensuring accessibility for most working schedules.
Many reviewers specifically praised their responsiveness during emergencies. One customer recounts being stranded with a puncture en route to Wellington and how Village Automotive & Exhaust swiftly resolved the issue, getting them back on the road within 30 minutes. Others commend their diagnostic abilities, relating stories of previously unfixed issues being effortlessly identified and resolved, particularly during WOF (Warrant of Fitness) checks. The facility is also accessible with both wheelchair-accessible car parks and entrances, and accepts various payment methods including credit, debit and NFC mobile payments. The team’s willingness to explain complex repairs – even going the extra mile with pictures for international customers – has garnered significant approval.
Spotlighting the Stellar Service
The overwhelmingly positive sentiment towards Village Automotive & Exhaust centres around a few key themes:
- Expertise: “Fantastic mechanics. Really knowledgeable...” is a common refrain, indicating a high level of technical skill.
- Professionalism: Described as “Super professional and great to deal with,” the team appears to prioritise a courteous and respectful approach.
- Speed & Efficiency: Multiple reviews mention swift turnaround times, especially in urgent situations.
- Honesty & Transparency: A recurring point is the shop's perceived honesty, a valuable attribute in an industry often plagued by mistrust.
Here's a quick snapshot of what customers are saying:
| Aspect | Customer Feedback |
|---|---|
| WOF Checks | "Fixed an old issue other mechanics couldn’t find." |
| Emergency Repair | "Got me back on the road to Wellington in 30 minutes!" |
| Communication | "Took the time to explain with pictures." |
| Overall | "Best mechanic ever!!" |
A Shadow of Disappointment: Addressing the Negative Experiences
While the majority of feedback is glowing, it’s important to acknowledge some deeply concerning reports. A few customers have expressed significant dissatisfaction, alleging dishonesty, aggressive behaviour, and financial discrepancies. One review details a substantial price increase (40% above the initial estimate) and accusations of misleading information regarding estimate validity. The customer reports being told any stated price was not an estimate, but a fluctuating figure destined to increase.
Perhaps the most troubling accusations involve aggressive behaviour, including verbal abuse, threats to withhold the vehicle, and attempts to involve third parties in a dispute. The reviewer, a single mother and student, felt targeted and exploited, stating the mechanic was “verbally abusive, made derogatory comments” and questioned his mental state. It’s essential to note these are serious allegations and require careful consideration. Village Automotive & Exhaust can be contacted on +64 6 877 1633 to discuss these issues directly. The shop’s policy regarding estimates and work authorisation should be clarified.
Weighing the Feedback: A Balanced Perspective
The contrasting reviews for Village Automotive & Exhaust paint a complex picture. While a significant number of customers have had overwhelmingly positive experiences – praising the shop’s skills, speed, and honesty – the severe criticisms regarding behaviour and pricing cannot be ignored.
It’s crucial for potential customers to be aware of this divide. Seeking a detailed, written quote before any work commences is highly recommended, as is clarifying the process for addressing potential discrepancies. Given the seriousness of the negative feedback, it may be prudent to obtain multiple quotes and carefully assess the mechanic's communication style and responsiveness to concerns before entrusting them with your vehicle. Ultimately, while Village Automotive & Exhaust clearly resonates positively with many, a degree of caution and due diligence is advised.