Pros 
Cons Tyre Mart: Wheels, WoFs & Whacky Service in Waitakere
Tyre Mart, located at 141 West Coast Road, Glen Eden, Waitakere, has garnered a mixed bag of reviews, currently holding a 4.0-star rating on Google. Operating Monday to Friday from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM, this tire shop offers wheelchair accessible entrance and parking, and accepts both credit and debit cards. However, delivery and same-day services are currently unavailable. This review aims to delve into the experiences of customers, highlighting both the positive and concerning aspects of doing business with Tyre Mart. The phone number is +64 9 818 3265.
The Good: Prompt Service & Trustworthy Expertise (When it Happens)
Several customers consistently praise Tyre Mart for its quick turnaround times and quality of work when the service runs smoothly. A recurring theme in positive reviews is the efficiency in addressing immediate tyre issues. For example, one customer reported a damaged tyre and a swift replacement within just 30 minutes. Other testimonials highlight:
- Prompt & Efficient Repairs: Speedy tyre replacements and fixes, often appreciated when dealing with urgent situations.
- Excellent Customer Service: Many have experienced friendly, accommodating staff willing to go the extra mile. “Super lovely and accommodating to my needs,” one reviewer stated.
- Honest and Transparent Pricing: Customers appreciate the lack of hidden costs and the mechanic's willingness to obtain consent before undertaking any work.
- Dedicated & Trustworthy Work: Repeated mentions of exceptional service, outstanding work, and placing faith in the quality and honesty of the work performed. “Every time I have needed to visit Tyre Mart they have gone above and beyond...great quality honest work with a fast turn-around time."
- Long-Standing Loyalty: Several reviewers mention supporting Tyre Mart for years due to their flexibility and willingness to accommodate customer wishes - until recently.
This suggests a potential inconsistency in service, which we'll explore further.
Red Flags: Inconsistent Service & Owner Conduct Concerns
A worrying pattern emerges from several negative reviews, centered on the behavior of the owner (identified as Priti) and a perceived reluctance to perform certain services. Key criticisms include:
- Unhelpful and Dismissive Attitude: Multiple customers report feeling dismissed and unheard by the owner, with one account detailing being literally shut out of the shop while attempting to explain a specific issue. This unwillingness to listen to customer concerns raises serious questions about customer service.
- Questionable Service Refusals: One customer was told they couldn’t have their tyres fitted because of a potential risk of rim scratches, despite having successfully had tyres fitted to the same vehicle previously. The explanation—a broken fitting machine—was seen by the customer as a fabricated excuse.
- Suspicious WOF Practices: Perhaps the most concerning claim involves a WOF inspection where the shop reportedly identified rust on a cross member, then offered to repair it for $300. A second opinion from a mechanic at a different shop revealed no rust and only minor flaking paint, which was easily remedied. This casts serious doubts on the integrity of WOF inspections conducted at Tyre Mart. Customers are strongly advised to seek second opinions on any repair work reported by Tyre Mart.
- Unbalanced Tyre Issues: At least one customer was sent away with unbalanced tyres after a new tyre fit and had to return to the same shop for a rescheduled fit.
Here’s a summarized table highlighting common complaints:
| Complaint | Frequency | Potential Issue |
|---|---|---|
| Rude/Dismissive Owner | 3 | Poor Customer Service |
| Refusal of Tyre Fitting | 1 | Potential Bias/Fabrication |
| Suspicious WOF Recommendations | 1 | Integrity Concerns |
| Tyre Balancing Issues | 1 | Quality Control |
Accessibility & Payment Options: A Positive Foundation, Undermined?
While Tyre Mart scores points for accessibility, accepting both credit and debit cards alongside wheelchair access – physical features that demonstrate a commitment to inclusivity – these positives are unfortunately overshadowed by the issues discussed above. The accessibility features are clearly listed:
- Wheelchair accessible entrance: Ensuring access for customers with mobility challenges.
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot: Providing convenient parking for wheelchair users.
- Accepts Credit and Debit Card payments: Offers convenient payment options for customers.
However, the consistently reported poor customer service, and potential issues with vehicle assessments, negate some of the positive impressions created by these accessibility and payment options. While convenient features are valuable, they cannot compensate for a general lack of professionalism and integrity. As one review states, "Once bitten, twice shy," a stark warning of past negative experiences.