National Tyres and Autocare

Not Trustworthy

I booked an engine flush and oil change at National Tyres in Newcastle City Centre as it was conventient and well priced.
On arrival I asked if they could check for an oil leak as I could smell oil in the cabin when the car was warm. I was advised they didnt do engine work, just brakes suspension and exhausts. (Worrying when the car is booked in for an oil change!)

Later in the morning I got a call to say work had begun and no oil leaks could be seen, but they had noticed I needed new brake pads, discs, a CV boot and the brake flexi hoses were severely perished and in need of replacement as they were ready to burst. I was given a quote and told them I'd look into it.

As I need the car for work and carrying my family I was keen to get the work done soon so I purchased the parts and asked an experiend mechanic friend at a reputable garage to fit them for me as a favour on Saturday Morning which he did.

On completion I asked about the condition of the flexi hoses which he investigated and told me that they were slightly perished but nothing serious - I asked if they would fail an MOT, again he told me he would pass them as they dont look dangerous. When removed from the car they were covered in road dirt and it didnt look as though they'd been checked very thoroughly recently.

I was shocked to hear this after being told 3 days previous that the hoses were at bursting point and I should get them changed as soon as possible as they were dangerous.

I feel the garage saw the 'Baby on Board' sign in the rear window and took full advantage of the situation by trying to scare me into giving the go ahead for the work to be carried out there and then, which is disgusting for a large reputable garage to be conning people this way.

I also asked about an oil leak when the brakes were being replaced and was advised that the rocker cover gasket was leaking slightly and was shown the leak which was easy to spot - whilst they may not 'do engine work' I would hope they can spot an oil leak if they change oil to ensure everything is fitted correctly when they finish the job.

Suffice to say I will not be using National again and will advise people against them also to save their own money and find a trustworthy garage.

23 November 2012

Reply from National Tyres and Autocare

Dear Peter Dixon,

We do apologise for the inconvenience that has been caused to you.

Our branch staff are competent and qualified experts to make an assessment of a vehicle.

Our staff take the opportunity to advise customers upon any work that is needed on a vehicle since many drivers only get their cars looked at when they are in a garage.

Suffice to say, as like any other customer you can either accept our quote or refer to another reliable garage.

On this occasion we would stand by the decision of the branch in its observation of work that they felt was immediate. You have opted for an alternative opinion which is absolutely fine.

Kind regards

National Online Team