Pros 
Cons Tyres Cheap: Auckland's Tyre Shop – Hits, Misses & Customer Tales
Tyres Cheap, located at 778/3 Great South Road, Penrose, Auckland 1061, has become a talking point in Auckland’s tyre servicing scene. With a solid 4.8-star rating and readily accessible via phone at +64 9 571 3470, it presents an appealing option for motorists seeking affordable tyre solutions. But the customer experience appears to be a bit of a mixed bag, with testimonials ranging from exceptional service to frustrating encounters. Let's delve into what makes Tyres Cheap tick, drawing from real customer reviews. The shop operates Monday to Wednesday and Thursday from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM, with Saturday hours from 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM, and remains closed on Fridays and Sundays.
The Good: Speedy Service and Competitive Pricing
A significant number of customers consistently praise Tyres Cheap for its speed and affordability. Several reviews highlight managers like Costa who provide a "quick but thorough job" and a "real quick" service, even on Saturday mornings. Here’s a breakdown of what customers appreciate:
- Fast Turnaround: Multiple reviewers mention the impressive speed of tyre changes, with one customer experiencing a full set of four tyres being changed in just 30 minutes.
- Competitive Pricing: A recurring theme is the exceptionally fair pricing compared to other garages in the area. Several customers explicitly state the "very good, fair prices."
- Going the Extra Mile: The team at Tyres Cheap occasionally demonstrates a willingness to go above and beyond. One customer recounts how the staff rushed out to retrieve a specific tyre they didn't initially have in stock, while the customer waited.
- Expert Advice: Reviewers have also mentioned receiving "good advice," indicating a level of knowledge and willingness to assist customers.
- Customer Highlights:
"Spectacular! Next time I’m in Auckland and in need of some tyre servicing I’ll only go to these guys!" "It is always a pleasure to experience such a great customer service. Super affordable price is just a bonus on top of that." "Unpretentious tyre shop with quick service, fats communication, good advice and good prices."
The shop’s facilities also contribute positively to the experience. They offer in-store pickup, in-store shopping, and onsite services. Accessibility is well catered for with wheelchair accessible entrance, parking and seating. They also accept credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.
The Not-So-Good: Questionable Practices and Inconsistent Quality
While many customers rave about their experience, a concerning number have reported issues that cast a shadow on Tyres Cheap’s reputation. It appears that quality control and transparency can be inconsistent.
- Inflated Charges & Questionable Recommendations: One reviewer reported being charged to inflate tyres that didn’t require repair, only for those tyres to go flat again shortly after. This raises concerns about potential upselling and potentially faulty workmanship.
- Tyre Fitting Costs: Another customer was shocked by a $35 charge to fit a tyre they had already purchased, highlighting a perceived lack of transparency in pricing and potential exploitation of customers. They subsequently found a much cheaper option at Tyre Power nearby.
- Inconsistency: Several comments indicate a dramatic decline in service quality recently. One reviewer explicitly states, "This place used to be good. But last two times. They shocking." This suggests a potential issue with staffing or management changes affecting consistent service delivery.
- Stock Issues: While staff are sometimes willing to go the extra mile, the shop does occasionally struggle with stock. It is always a good idea to call to ensure that they have what you need prior to visiting.
These negative experiences clearly demonstrate that Tyres Cheap isn't consistently delivering the quality they advertise.
Weighing Up: Should You Give Tyres Cheap a Try?
Deciding whether or not to utilise Tyres Cheap requires careful consideration. The lure of competitive pricing and rapid service is undeniable, but the reported inconsistencies and potential for questionable practices demand caution.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Competitive pricing | Inconsistent service quality |
| Fast turnaround | Potential for inflated charges |
| Helpful staff (Costa) | Questionable recommendations |
| Good advice | Reported decline in quality |
| Accessible facilities | Potential stock issues |
Recommendations:
- Call Ahead: Always confirm stock availability and specifically discuss pricing for any services you require before visiting.
- Get a Second Opinion: If you're unsure about a recommended repair or service, consider getting a second opinion from another tyre shop.
- Keep Records: Document any work performed and associated costs for future reference.
- Consider Alternatives: While Tyres Cheap can offer great deals, alternatives like Tyre Power (mentioned favorably by some reviewers) are worth exploring, especially given the reported inconsistencies.
Tyres Cheap presents a compelling if somewhat risky option for Auckland motorists. Being aware of the potential pitfalls and employing the recommendations above can help ensure a more positive and transparent experience.