55% of Kiwis find it hard to find a mechanic they can trust
Emergency Services, Doctors, Pilots and Teachers all
rank highly on NZ’s most trusted professions list, while
Politicians, Real Estate Agents and Tow Truck Drivers rate
towards the bottom. Alas, it would appear that Mechanics
don’t fare too well either. Latest research shows that 55%
of Kiwis find it hard to find a mechanic they can trust and
this figure is higher in Auckland where 67% share this
sentiment.
These results and more, are part of a new online study conducted between November 20-28 by respected research agency Toluna for online marketplace BookMyCar.
“While the majority of mechanics do a good job, it is a massive unregulated industry, so it’s important to do your research and know what your quote includes and what might be a hidden extra” says BookMyCar Co-Founder, Ross Hill.
Delving deeper, the research uncovered some alarming results. Aucklanders are least likely to trust their mechanics, with 67% reporting this as an issue. The Bay of Plenty is the least likely region to feel this issue, however, even there 41% are of the opinion that it’s hard to find a trustworthy mechanic. Cantabrians and West Coasters report 49%. The Waikato and central north island provinces are close to the national average in terms of results, with 58% agreeing.
“The survey results suggest that there are more rogue mechanics in some regions than others. Kiwis spend $2.0 billion a year keeping our trusty cars on the road, about a third of that in Auckland where a massive 67% struggle to trust their mechanic. That’s a lot of unhappy spending.” Ross Hill adds.
Kiwis want car maintenance to be transparent and easier, with three quarters wanting mechanics to offer fixed price quotes and half wanting the industry to be more innovative with online bookings.
“BookMyCar is on a
mission to help all Kiwis book car servicing and repairs
like an expert, by providing transparent pricing and
partnering with only the best independent workshops and
mechanics. Everyone, regardless of generation or gender,
should be able to book their car in without the risk of
smoke and mirrors.” adds Ross
Hill.