A Tale of Two Experiences: The Good, The Bad, and The Unresolved at Smith&Smith® Manukau
Smith&Smith® Manukau, located in Manukau City Centre, Auckland, presents a complex picture when it comes to auto glass repair services. With a rating of 3.9 out of 5, based on customer feedback, it’s clear the company isn't universally loved. Situated at 22C Cavendish Drive, their opening hours cater to a decent weekday schedule (8 AM – 5 PM), with Saturday hours extending to 4:30 PM. The Manukau branch boasts accessibility features, including wheelchair-accessible entrance and parking - a welcome plus for customers with mobility needs. Payment options include debit and credit cards. The consistently reported range of experiences, detailed below, are a crucial consideration for anyone needing windscreen repair in Auckland.
The Dark Side: Recurring Issues and Damaged Trust
Several reviews paint a stark picture of frustration and disappointment stemming from Smith&Smith® Manukau. A recurring theme is the incorrect ordering of windscreens, leading to multiple visits and significant inconvenience. One customer recounts a particularly harrowing experience, detailing two separate visits for the same repair – incurring over $100 in taxi fares each time. The second visit culminated in a half-finished job, a messy work area, and the ongoing issue of wind noise due to improperly installed clips and joints. A significant delay in receiving the correct glass (a staggering 13 weeks!) prompted the customer to abandon the service and seek assistance from Novus Glass instead.
It's not just delays; blatant misrepresentation also appears to be a concern. One reviewer alleges being misled by a technician about an insurance excess refund, only to discover significant discrepancies later. The technician's dismissive response about the visible damage (“It’ll pass WOF.”) represents a concerning lack of concern for customer satisfaction and the quality of work performed. Statements like "Smith&Smith used to be my go-to, but never again" are a testament to the damage caused by these issues. The feedback underscores a need for tightened quality control, improved communication, and a commitment to honest, transparent customer service.
Here's a summary of the most common grievances:
- Incorrect Windscreen Orders: Leading to multiple visits & costs.
- Half-Finished Repairs: Leaving vehicles in a worse state than before.
- Misleading Information: False promises regarding insurance refunds.
- Dismissive Technician Behavior: Lack of concern for visible defects.
- Significant Delays: Extended wait times for correct parts.
Glimmers of Positivity & Mobile Service Excellence
While many experiences were negative, not all customer interactions at Smith&Smith® Manukau were disastrous. Several reviews highlight positive outcomes, particularly regarding their mobile service. One customer appreciated the same-day repair and clear explanation of the process before work began. The efficient turnaround and clear communication were lauded. Another praised the "outstanding customer service" received from the 0800 number and mobile technicians. This experience included excellent communication and a well-versed explanation of the replacement windscreen, demonstrating a positive service dynamic. The clarity and expertise of the mobile technicians have clearly impressed some customers. The mobile team's ability to provide a smooth repair process directly to the client's location undoubtedly adds value.
Aspect | Positive Feedback |
---|---|
Speed of Service | Same-day repair possible |
Communication | Clear explanations of the repair process |
Mobile Team | Outstanding customer service, well-versed technicians |
Overall Experience | Job well done within the expected timeframe |
Beyond Windscreens: Smiggle's Side & Service Hiccups
Interestingly, one review touches on the Smiggle store located within the same Manukau complex. While unrelated to windscreen repair, it highlights customer satisfaction with the staff, product quality, and a suggestion for price transparency between online and in-store options. This note about pricing would be useful for anyone in the area planning on using either service.
Beyond the core issues, other customers have experienced frustrating operational hurdles. One client’s previously booked 2 PM appointment was disregarded in favour of a later arrival, showcasing significant scheduling mismanagement. Another expressed annoyance with a "rubbish quoting service," where they were unable to receive a quote, even after visiting the facility. Furthermore, others experienced delays of two weeks without any curtesy call from Smith & Smith. Questions linger around the focus on upselling (window wipers in one case) over addressing the core issue of vehicle repair. These seemingly minor but frequently cited feedback points suggest opportunities for Smith&Smith® Manukau to improve overall customer interaction and operational efficiency.