Smith&Smith® Glenfield: A Mixed Bag of Windscreen Repairs
Smith&Smith® Glenfield, located at 11 Woodson Place, Auckland, has garnered a rating of 3.9 out of 5 stars, suggesting a generally acceptable auto glass repair service. Operating Monday to Friday from 8 AM to 5 PM, and with limited Saturday hours (9 AM to 1 PM), the Glenfield branch offers accessibility with a wheelchair-accessible entrance, parking lot, and although they advertise a wheelchair accessible restroom, it’s currently not available. The business serves Auckland and the broader NZ market, facilitating windscreen repair services with a focus on convenience and, according to some customers, exceptional service. But, as evidenced by a range of reviews, the experience isn’t uniformly positive. While their booking process – particularly when initiated through head office - is praised for being exceptionally smooth, there are underlying concerns regarding repair quality, professionalism and customer service that are worth considering.
The Good: Praises & Seamless Bookings
Several customers have highlighted positive aspects of their interactions with Smith&Smith® Glenfield. The efficient booking process has been a consistent point of praise, with one reviewer from the automotive trade noting the "seamless" experience from initial phone call to final result. Those who have had their windscreens repaired report satisfaction with the outcome, describing the results as "like brand new." Promptness in completing the work is another recurring theme, with cars being ready for collection within the advised timeframe. The willingness to assess a situation and not carry out unnecessary repairs deserves commendation. One customer explicitly appreciated the technician's honest advice regarding existing, likely old, chips – preventing them from incurring an avoidable expense.
Here’s a summary of the commonly praised aspects:
- Efficient Booking Process: Particularly when dealing with head office for initial enquiries.
- Excellent Repair Quality: Windscreens restored to "like new" condition.
- Timely Service: Cars ready for collection as promised.
- Honest Assessment: Refusal to undertake unnecessary work demonstrates integrity.
- Exceptional Communication: Staff are reported to be brilliant and maintain high standards.
- Waiting Room & Amenities: Customers appreciate having access to coffee and a waiting area.
The Not-So-Good: Concerns & Complaints
Despite the positive feedback, a significant number of reviews reveal concerning issues with Smith&Smith® Glenfield. The most common complaint revolves around the quality of the repairs themselves. One customer reported that chips, barely noticeable before repair, became more visible afterward, appearing as if a layer of glue was left on the windscreen. Adding to this, a persistent, glue-like residue coated the entire car after the service, requiring a costly professional cleaning ($245). A lack of professionalism was another recurring theme, with reports of staff refusing to provide receipts, citing an email delivery system that failed to work.
Beyond the repair quality and practical annoyances, several reviewers cited serious concerns about customer service, particularly regarding the management at the branch.
Here’s a breakdown of the issues:
- Substandard Repair Quality: Chips becoming more visible after repair; unsightly glue residue.
- Post-Repair Cleaning Required: Residual glue necessitating professional car cleaning.
- Lack of Receipts: Refusal to provide physical receipts, with failed email delivery.
- Poor Customer Service (Manager): Rude and unhelpful management, particularly from the now-transferred female manager. (Specifically detailed experiences with ongoing issues related to damaged vehicle parts and incorrectly ordered replacements spanning nearly two years.)
- Slow Response to Inquiries: Frustration experienced by customers attempting to book via online channels, resulting in delayed service.
Navigating the Options: Weighing Your Decision
Choosing an auto glass repair service involves balancing cost, convenience, and quality. Smith&Smith® Glenfield presents a mixed picture. While some customers have enjoyed a seamless booking process and excellent repair results, others have encountered significant disappointments. The ownership of accessibility features is also something of note. The wheelchair accessibility listed doesn’t currently have a functioning restroom, which could be a cause of concern for those who require it.
Before booking with Smith&Smith® Glenfield, consider the following:
- Read recent reviews: Stay informed about current experiences.
- Clarify receipt procedures: Ensure you receive a verifiable record of your service.
- Inspect the repair thoroughly: Check for any residue or imperfections immediately after the service.
- Factor in potential additional costs: Be prepared for the possibility of needing a professional cleaning to remove residue.
- Consider alternative providers: Instant Windscreens and other local businesses offer competitive services, so compare options. Contact multiple providers for quotes and read their reviews.
- Be mindful of potential delays: Based on feedback, booking and response times can vary.
- Contact the service centre: When attempting to make an online booking, be prepared for waiting.
The phone number for Smith&Smith® Glenfield is +64 800 483 388. You can find them at Smith&Smith® Glenfield 11 Woodson Place, Glenfield, Auckland 0629, New Zealand.