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FAQ

Take a look at the answer to some common questions asked by our customers 

Can't find an answer to your question?

Free phone 0114 243 2728
View

Are you and your mechanics insured?

Our mechanics are insured fully comprehensive on your vehicle. This means that they can carry out road tests. We also have full public liability insurance.

View

Are you members or accredited by Industry trade bodies?

Yes. We are members of the Retail Motor Industry Federation (RMI).
The RMI is the UK's leading automotive trade body, representing franchised car and commercial vehicle dealers, independent garages, bodyshops, motorcycle dealers, petrol retailers, auction houses and cherished number plate dealers, who provide sales and services to motorists and businesses across the UK.
As memebers of the RMI we are also members of the
The Independent Garage Association which (IGA) is the largest and most prominent representative body in the Independent garage sector.
The IGA aims to support and encourage independent garages to thrive in all aspects of their business by offering advice, information and services which ensure that the independent service and repair sector can remain efficient and competitive in an increasingly complex business landscape.

We are also part of the Trust My Garage network. In order to maintain this we have to comply with a strict code of practice. By using a member of TRUST MY GARAGE you can also be reassured that you are using a nationally recognised brand.

View

Can I come in for a MOT without an appointment?

Yes. We operate a drop in MOT service. Ideally book before you come but if you are unable to we will MOT your car when a technician is available.

View

Can I use synthetic oils?

Synthetics and semi-synthetics give improved performance at high temperatures and mat extend the length of time between services. They are the preferred choice for high performance cars or for drivers who value long life/durability. They are generally more expensive than normal oil. Your vehicle handbook will specify the type of oil you require. Do not use a synthetic oil in your vehicle unless your manufacturer has confirmed that synthetic oil is suitable. Do not mix synthetic with mineral oil. If in doubt seek further advice from our Autocentre.

View

Can you confirm the service schedule for my car?

We cannot provide detailed extracts from manufacturer’s workshop manuals.
The vehicle handbook that came with the car when new will include basic service interval information.
Any reputable independent garage should have access to manufacturer's technical data. We use an industry accepted provider called Autodata. Our latest Autodata platform covers over 32,000 models across 136 different vehicle manufacturers. This provides our workshops with access to over 500,000 step-by-step procedures. Data provided includes details of the manufacturer's service times, schedules and operations.

View

Can you fit my own parts e.g. tyres, exhausts, batteries etc. that I have purchased elsewhere / supplied myself?

We do not fit tyres supplied by our customers. Instead, we fit only tyres and other spare parts from our reputable suppliers. We do this for your safety, as we can only be sure that the tyres are the correct standard by using reliable suppliers that we have dealt with for many years and have a positive reputation. We only use only use tyres from trusted suppliers because warranty support is available if there are problems in future with your product.

View

Can you fix problems with an automatic gearbox?

Yes, but occasionally gearboxes, especially automatic gearboxes are complex pieces of equipment and sometimes need specialised repair.

For instance, if it's a problem with the electronics which control the gearbox, it is better to get help from a franchise dealer as they will receive regular software updates from the manufacturer. We can advise of this if you bring the vehicle into our Autocentre. The Federation of Automatic Transmission Engineers may also be able to provide some information.

View

Can you repair a tyre?

Yes, we use industry accepted repair techniques which provide a cost effective alternative to replacing a tyre. Not all tyre failures can be repaired.

View

Can you replace my airbag?

Yes we can replace any vehicles airbag. Please bring your vehicle into our Autocentre for further advice.

View

Can you replace my tyre at my home?

Yes, we provide a mobile servicing, repair and tyre service. These services can be carried out at your home or at your workplace

View

Do I have to get my car serviced by a main dealer?

Since October 2003 you are not obliged to get the car serviced by a franchise dealer during the warranty period. You must though, get it serviced according to the manufacturer's recommended schedule and criteria using only manufacturer approved parts. The legislation only applies to the part of the warranty offered by the manufacturer, i.e. insurance-backed extended warranties offered by dealers are not covered and may stipulate different conditions.
If you do decide not to use your maker’s dealer then you must use the recommended schedule and criteria using approved parts. You must also keep records so you can demonstrate to the manufacturer that servicing was undertaken to their requirements. We carry out 1000s of services a year and ensure that our services are carried out to the highest standard. We stamp all servicing log books after the work has been carried out. Our mobile technicians each carry a company stamp to ensure all servicing records are up to date.

We would advise that you get all warranty work carried out by the franchised dealer as it is easier for them to deal directly with the manufacturer.

View

Do you use high quality parts for repairs?

Yes, all of the parts used by the DSA Group are required to be Original Equipment (OE) quality.

View

How can I find the size of my tyre?

You can find the size of your current tyres by looking at your car tyres sidewalls; it will be imprinted as shown in the image below. The tyre size will be shown in a series of numbers, it will look something like '195/55r16 87v’. You should check both the back and front tyres as the sizes can often be different. We can also help you with this process if you contact us.
The Tyre sizes that can be found in your car manual may be misleading. This is due to the manufacturer’s standard tyres being replaced throughout its use.

View

How long should a catalytic converter last?

Catalysts may last for 10 years, but this is dependent on mileage and engine tune. 60,000 miles would be a fair estimate and you can generally expect to replace the catalytic converter once, possibly twice, during the life of a vehicle.
If failure occurs early, it's important to find and fix the cause of the problem before fitting a new CAT otherwise the replacement can be expected to fail prematurely too. There are three main ways in which the Catalysts fail. These are melt down, carbon deposits or fracture. For more information about your Catalyst please contact our Autocentre.

View

How long should a catalytic converter last? When should it be replaced?

Catalytic Converters usually last around 50,000 miles or 10 years. This benchmark can differ greatly but it’s usually accepted that a car will require its catalytic converter replaced once throughout is entire lifespan. However, if a failure occurs early, you should find the cause of the failure as it can make the replacement fail for the same reason.

View

How often do I need to check the anti-freeze? When does it need to be changed?

Your anti-freeze will remain at its best for around 2 years. We would advise any time after 2 years would be an appropriate time to change your anti-freeze fluids. It should either be changed every 2 years or every 30,000 miles, whichever point is reached first. You should check your anti-freeze levels monthly and more often than that in winter.

View

I cannot find the tyre brand I want on the website, what can I do?

You can call our experts and request your preferred brand. We have a variety of tyre suppliers on hand and we are sure that we can provide that tyres you specify.

View

Should I get air conditioning serviced?

Regular servicing is important to maintain the system working effectively and efficiently. Up to 15% of the refrigerant gas will be lost annually. Our advice is to:
• Run your air conditioning at least once a week throughout the year.
• Get the refrigerant gas checked regularly and topped up by a qualified technician to the manufacturer’s recommended levels.
• Help improve hygiene and air quality with a regular cabin filter change. These can become blocked with pollen. This may be included as part of your service. Please contact our Autocentre to confirm.
• Regularly clean the air duct which helps remove the bacteria and fungi that can cause unpleasant odours.
• Service air-conditioning units every 30,000 miles or two years to avoid costly repairs.
• Contact our Autocentre to find out more.

View

What are your opening hours?

Our opening hours are 0800-1730 Monday-Friday and 0800-1500 on Saturdays days.

View

What car brands do you service?

We service all car brands from Mercedes to Ford at a fraction of the price paid when having your car serviced at a main dealer. Our services are tailored to the type of car we are working on. Our trained mechanics have extensive experience in servicing and repairing car brands such as Audi, BMW, Nissan, Vauxhall, Volkswagen, Mercedes, Mini, Fiat, Astra, Toyota, Peugeot, Hyundai, Seat, Skoda, Land Rover, Skoda, Renault, Kia, Citroen, Honda and Volvo, amongst many more.

View

What if I have a problem with the work or service I have received?

In the first instance please contact your service point of contact. In the vast majority of instances the dispute will be resolved at this level. If the issue cannot be resolved at this level it will be escalated to management level and we will try to resolve the issue.
Dispute Resolution
We are committed to providing the best customer service possibly, but inevitably as with all industries, disputes between service providers and consumers occur. We will fully endeavour to resolve the dispute and work towards a fair outcome, but where this is not possible it may be necessary to refer the problem to an independent third party.
We are subscribed to the National Conciliation Service (NCS) which is the UK’s certified automotive retail Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) provider. As one of our customers, you are able to use the NCS if you feel we have not internally been able to resolve your complaint.
The NCS has been certified by the Chartered Trading Standards Institute (TSI) as compliant with UK and EU regulations in respect of ADR.”
About the National Conciliation Service
The NCS is accredited by the Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI) under the Consumer Disputes (Competent Authorities and Information) Regulations 2015. It was the first automotive industry provider to achieve certification.
The NCS has been operating since 1964 and covers the widest range of automotive dispute of any ADR service currently open to the motor trade, including service and repair contracts of vehicles, sale contracts of vehicles, used cars and lost deposits.
Having expertise in the automotive industry ensures that the NCS is equipped to handle disputes, as they understand the technical complications that can arise with vehicles, and the challenges or miscommunication that can occur when attempting to resolve these issues.

View

What is the legal tyre tread depth limit?

Your tyre must have a minimum depth 1.6 millimeters across the central ¾ of tread, around the complete circumference of the tyre to be legally viable for use. Although we do recommend having your tyres replaced once they’re at around 3 millimeters.

View

What tyre brands do you stock?

We stock tyres from all of the world’s leading brands for vans, cars, 4x4’s and SUV’s. We also stock tyres to suit drivers on a budget too! Our large variety of tyres appeal to all drivers, no matter the budget. The tyre brands we stock include Bridgestone tyres, Michelin tyres, Pirelli tyres, Goodyear tyres, Dunlop tyres, Avon tyres, Firestone tyres, Yokohoma tyres, Tigar tyres, Wanli tyres, Rovelo tyres, BCT tyres, Aotelli tyres, Westlake Tyres, Fortuna tyres and Continental tyres, along with many more.

View

When does my oil need to be changed?

This dependent on your car manufactures servicing intervals. Changing oil often improves performance and reduces wear on your engine. We recommend frequent oil changes which could be as often as 5000 miles for Synthetic oil and 3000 miles for normal oil. Oil maintenance is a fundamental component in keeping your vehicle running efficiently, therefore checking oil every 3-4 weeks is recommended. Contact our Autocentre for further advice.

View

When should the cambelt (also referred to as cam belt) be renewed?

There is not a standard change interval for cambelts. It be anywhere between 30,000-100,000 miles and may have a time based interval as well. An example of this would be a specified change at 60,000 miles or 5 years whichever occurs first. In most cases if the cambelt fails it will result in major failure to the vehicle and possibly consequential secondary damage to other components. Our advice is to check the maintenance requirements for the cambelts very carefully. Please contact our Autocentre for further advice. We do not replace cambelts as part of our mobile service.

View

Where can I buy a good reconditioned engine?

The word 'reconditioned' has different meanings to different repairers. Sometimes the reconditioning work is minor and can be as little as applying a coat of paint. You may pay cheap and end up paying twice. Our advice is a to steer away from back street garages. For reputable suppliers of reconditioned engines contact the Federation of Engine Remanufacturers (FER)

View

Why are my brakes making noise?

Noise emanating from your brakes may be a sign that your brakes have become unsafe. We recommend you contact us immediately and we can arrange for a mobile technician to check your brakes out and give advice on any remedial action required. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

View

Are you and your mechanics insured?

Our mechanics are insured fully comprehensive on your vehicle. This means that they can carry out road tests. We also have full public liability insurance.

View

Are you members or accredited by Industry trade bodies?

Yes. We are members of the Retail Motor Industry Federation (RMI).
The RMI is the UK's leading automotive trade body, representing franchised car and commercial vehicle dealers, independent garages, bodyshops, motorcycle dealers, petrol retailers, auction houses and cherished number plate dealers, who provide sales and services to motorists and businesses across the UK.
As memebers of the RMI we are also members of the
The Independent Garage Association which (IGA) is the largest and most prominent representative body in the Independent garage sector.
The IGA aims to support and encourage independent garages to thrive in all aspects of their business by offering advice, information and services which ensure that the independent service and repair sector can remain efficient and competitive in an increasingly complex business landscape.

We are also part of the Trust My Garage network. In order to maintain this we have to comply with a strict code of practice. By using a member of TRUST MY GARAGE you can also be reassured that you are using a nationally recognised brand.

View

Can I use synthetic oils?

Synthetics and semi-synthetics give improved performance at high temperatures and mat extend the length of time between services. They are the preferred choice for high performance cars or for drivers who value long life/durability. They are generally more expensive than normal oil. Your vehicle handbook will specify the type of oil you require. Do not use a synthetic oil in your vehicle unless your manufacturer has confirmed that synthetic oil is suitable. Do not mix synthetic with mineral oil. If in doubt seek further advice from our Autocentre.

View

Can you confirm the service schedule for my car?

We cannot provide detailed extracts from manufacturer’s workshop manuals.
The vehicle handbook that came with the car when new will include basic service interval information.
Any reputable independent garage should have access to manufacturer's technical data. We use an industry accepted provider called Autodata. Our latest Autodata platform covers over 32,000 models across 136 different vehicle manufacturers. This provides our workshops with access to over 500,000 step-by-step procedures. Data provided includes details of the manufacturer's service times, schedules and operations.

View

Can you fit my own parts e.g. tyres, exhausts, batteries etc. that I have purchased elsewhere / supplied myself?

We do not fit tyres supplied by our customers. Instead, we fit only tyres and other spare parts from our reputable suppliers. We do this for your safety, as we can only be sure that the tyres are the correct standard by using reliable suppliers that we have dealt with for many years and have a positive reputation. We only use only use tyres from trusted suppliers because warranty support is available if there are problems in future with your product.

View

Can you fix problems with an automatic gearbox?

Yes, but occasionally gearboxes, especially automatic gearboxes are complex pieces of equipment and sometimes need specialised repair.

For instance, if it's a problem with the electronics which control the gearbox, it is better to get help from a franchise dealer as they will receive regular software updates from the manufacturer. We can advise of this if you bring the vehicle into our Autocentre. The Federation of Automatic Transmission Engineers may also be able to provide some information.

View

Can you replace my airbag?

Yes we can replace any vehicles airbag. Please bring your vehicle into our Autocentre for further advice.

View

Can you replace my tyre at my home?

Yes, we provide a mobile servicing, repair and tyre service. These services can be carried out at your home or at your workplace

View

Do I have to get my car serviced by a main dealer?

Since October 2003 you are not obliged to get the car serviced by a franchise dealer during the warranty period. You must though, get it serviced according to the manufacturer's recommended schedule and criteria using only manufacturer approved parts. The legislation only applies to the part of the warranty offered by the manufacturer, i.e. insurance-backed extended warranties offered by dealers are not covered and may stipulate different conditions.
If you do decide not to use your maker’s dealer then you must use the recommended schedule and criteria using approved parts. You must also keep records so you can demonstrate to the manufacturer that servicing was undertaken to their requirements. We carry out 1000s of services a year and ensure that our services are carried out to the highest standard. We stamp all servicing log books after the work has been carried out. Our mobile technicians each carry a company stamp to ensure all servicing records are up to date.

We would advise that you get all warranty work carried out by the franchised dealer as it is easier for them to deal directly with the manufacturer.

View

Do you use high quality parts for repairs?

Yes, all of the parts used by the DSA Group are required to be Original Equipment (OE) quality.

View

How long should a catalytic converter last?

Catalysts may last for 10 years, but this is dependent on mileage and engine tune. 60,000 miles would be a fair estimate and you can generally expect to replace the catalytic converter once, possibly twice, during the life of a vehicle.
If failure occurs early, it's important to find and fix the cause of the problem before fitting a new CAT otherwise the replacement can be expected to fail prematurely too. There are three main ways in which the Catalysts fail. These are melt down, carbon deposits or fracture. For more information about your Catalyst please contact our Autocentre.

View

How long should a catalytic converter last? When should it be replaced?

Catalytic Converters usually last around 50,000 miles or 10 years. This benchmark can differ greatly but it’s usually accepted that a car will require its catalytic converter replaced once throughout is entire lifespan. However, if a failure occurs early, you should find the cause of the failure as it can make the replacement fail for the same reason.

View

How often do I need to check the anti-freeze? When does it need to be changed?

Your anti-freeze will remain at its best for around 2 years. We would advise any time after 2 years would be an appropriate time to change your anti-freeze fluids. It should either be changed every 2 years or every 30,000 miles, whichever point is reached first. You should check your anti-freeze levels monthly and more often than that in winter.

View

My boss is concerned about car repairs being carried out in his car park. What should I say?

We take pride in being clean and efficient with any of the work we undertake. We take health and safety extremely seriously, just like any business needs to nowadays. We often section off your vehicle with hazard indicators so that the area our professionals are safe from other vehicles and are able to carry out work with the high health and safety standards we have in place. The fact that your car is being repaired at work allowing you to fulfill your duties, instead of having to start work an hour late because you’ve visited a traditional high street garage is seen as a convenience to most bosses. There should not be any visible mess where we have worked. If there were to be any mess we insure you that we’d dispatch someone to clean of it immediately, however we are proud to say that none of our customers have ever complained of leaving mess to date.

View

Should I get air conditioning serviced?

Regular servicing is important to maintain the system working effectively and efficiently. Up to 15% of the refrigerant gas will be lost annually. Our advice is to:
• Run your air conditioning at least once a week throughout the year.
• Get the refrigerant gas checked regularly and topped up by a qualified technician to the manufacturer’s recommended levels.
• Help improve hygiene and air quality with a regular cabin filter change. These can become blocked with pollen. This may be included as part of your service. Please contact our Autocentre to confirm.
• Regularly clean the air duct which helps remove the bacteria and fungi that can cause unpleasant odours.
• Service air-conditioning units every 30,000 miles or two years to avoid costly repairs.
• Contact our Autocentre to find out more.

View

What car brands do you service?

We service all car brands from Mercedes to Ford at a fraction of the price paid when having your car serviced at a main dealer. Our services are tailored to the type of car we are working on. Our trained mechanics have extensive experience in servicing and repairing car brands such as Audi, BMW, Nissan, Vauxhall, Volkswagen, Mercedes, Mini, Fiat, Astra, Toyota, Peugeot, Hyundai, Seat, Skoda, Land Rover, Skoda, Renault, Kia, Citroen, Honda and Volvo, amongst many more.

View

What if I have a problem with the work or service I have received?

In the first instance please contact your service point of contact. In the vast majority of instances the dispute will be resolved at this level. If the issue cannot be resolved at this level it will be escalated to management level and we will try to resolve the issue.
Dispute Resolution
We are committed to providing the best customer service possibly, but inevitably as with all industries, disputes between service providers and consumers occur. We will fully endeavour to resolve the dispute and work towards a fair outcome, but where this is not possible it may be necessary to refer the problem to an independent third party.
We are subscribed to the National Conciliation Service (NCS) which is the UK’s certified automotive retail Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) provider. As one of our customers, you are able to use the NCS if you feel we have not internally been able to resolve your complaint.
The NCS has been certified by the Chartered Trading Standards Institute (TSI) as compliant with UK and EU regulations in respect of ADR.”
About the National Conciliation Service
The NCS is accredited by the Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI) under the Consumer Disputes (Competent Authorities and Information) Regulations 2015. It was the first automotive industry provider to achieve certification.
The NCS has been operating since 1964 and covers the widest range of automotive dispute of any ADR service currently open to the motor trade, including service and repair contracts of vehicles, sale contracts of vehicles, used cars and lost deposits.
Having expertise in the automotive industry ensures that the NCS is equipped to handle disputes, as they understand the technical complications that can arise with vehicles, and the challenges or miscommunication that can occur when attempting to resolve these issues.

View

What is the benefit of having DSA Mobile or DSA Tyres come to me, to service my car, instead of going to my main dealer or local garage?

Our service allows you to spend your day doing whatever you want to do. We relieve the hassle that is usually associated with taking your vehicle to the garage and waiting for them to call you so you can pick up your car. We believe that people are too busy in today’s environment to be dedicating a whole day to taking their car in to a garage. We offer a transparent service where our friendly professionals come to you and get the job done right!

View

What tyre brands do you stock?

We stock tyres from all of the world’s leading brands for vans, cars, 4x4’s and SUV’s. We also stock tyres to suit drivers on a budget too! Our large variety of tyres appeal to all drivers, no matter the budget. The tyre brands we stock include Bridgestone tyres, Michelin tyres, Pirelli tyres, Goodyear tyres, Dunlop tyres, Avon tyres, Firestone tyres, Yokohoma tyres, Tigar tyres, Wanli tyres, Rovelo tyres, BCT tyres, Aotelli tyres, Westlake Tyres, Fortuna tyres and Continental tyres, along with many more.

View

When does my oil need to be changed?

This dependent on your car manufactures servicing intervals. Changing oil often improves performance and reduces wear on your engine. We recommend frequent oil changes which could be as often as 5000 miles for Synthetic oil and 3000 miles for normal oil. Oil maintenance is a fundamental component in keeping your vehicle running efficiently, therefore checking oil every 3-4 weeks is recommended. Contact our Autocentre for further advice.

View

When should the cambelt (also referred to as cam belt) be renewed?

There is not a standard change interval for cambelts. It be anywhere between 30,000-100,000 miles and may have a time based interval as well. An example of this would be a specified change at 60,000 miles or 5 years whichever occurs first. In most cases if the cambelt fails it will result in major failure to the vehicle and possibly consequential secondary damage to other components. Our advice is to check the maintenance requirements for the cambelts very carefully. Please contact our Autocentre for further advice. We do not replace cambelts as part of our mobile service.

View

Where can I buy a good reconditioned engine?

The word 'reconditioned' has different meanings to different repairers. Sometimes the reconditioning work is minor and can be as little as applying a coat of paint. You may pay cheap and end up paying twice. Our advice is a to steer away from back street garages. For reputable suppliers of reconditioned engines contact the Federation of Engine Remanufacturers (FER)

View

Why are my brakes making noise?

Noise emanating from your brakes may be a sign that your brakes have become unsafe. We recommend you contact us immediately and we can arrange for a mobile technician to check your brakes out and give advice on any remedial action required. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

View

Are our mobile tyre vans equipped with appropriate tools for the job?

Our vans are fitted with state-of-the-art tyre machinery that allows us to carry out any tyre maintenance/ repair efficiently and securely. We use the same standard of equipment that you would expect to see in our Autocentre, with the added convenience that we bring the equipment to you.

View

Are you and your mechanics insured?

Our mechanics are insured fully comprehensive on your vehicle. This means that they can carry out road tests. We also have full public liability insurance.

View

Are you members or accredited by Industry trade bodies?

Yes. We are members of the Retail Motor Industry Federation (RMI).
The RMI is the UK's leading automotive trade body, representing franchised car and commercial vehicle dealers, independent garages, bodyshops, motorcycle dealers, petrol retailers, auction houses and cherished number plate dealers, who provide sales and services to motorists and businesses across the UK.
As memebers of the RMI we are also members of the
The Independent Garage Association which (IGA) is the largest and most prominent representative body in the Independent garage sector.
The IGA aims to support and encourage independent garages to thrive in all aspects of their business by offering advice, information and services which ensure that the independent service and repair sector can remain efficient and competitive in an increasingly complex business landscape.

We are also part of the Trust My Garage network. In order to maintain this we have to comply with a strict code of practice. By using a member of TRUST MY GARAGE you can also be reassured that you are using a nationally recognised brand.

View

Can you fit my own parts e.g. tyres, exhausts, batteries etc. that I have purchased elsewhere / supplied myself?

We do not fit tyres supplied by our customers. Instead, we fit only tyres and other spare parts from our reputable suppliers. We do this for your safety, as we can only be sure that the tyres are the correct standard by using reliable suppliers that we have dealt with for many years and have a positive reputation. We only use only use tyres from trusted suppliers because warranty support is available if there are problems in future with your product.

View

Can you repair a tyre?

Yes, we use industry accepted repair techniques which provide a cost effective alternative to replacing a tyre. Not all tyre failures can be repaired.

View

Can you replace my tyre at my home?

Yes, we provide a mobile servicing, repair and tyre service. These services can be carried out at your home or at your workplace

View

Do you use high quality parts for repairs?

Yes, all of the parts used by the DSA Group are required to be Original Equipment (OE) quality.

View

How can I find the size of my tyre?

You can find the size of your current tyres by looking at your car tyres sidewalls; it will be imprinted as shown in the image below. The tyre size will be shown in a series of numbers, it will look something like '195/55r16 87v’. You should check both the back and front tyres as the sizes can often be different. We can also help you with this process if you contact us.
The Tyre sizes that can be found in your car manual may be misleading. This is due to the manufacturer’s standard tyres being replaced throughout its use.

View

I cannot find the tyre brand I want on the website, what can I do?

You can call our experts and request your preferred brand. We have a variety of tyre suppliers on hand and we are sure that we can provide that tyres you specify.

View

My boss is concerned about car repairs being carried out in his car park. What should I say?

We take pride in being clean and efficient with any of the work we undertake. We take health and safety extremely seriously, just like any business needs to nowadays. We often section off your vehicle with hazard indicators so that the area our professionals are safe from other vehicles and are able to carry out work with the high health and safety standards we have in place. The fact that your car is being repaired at work allowing you to fulfill your duties, instead of having to start work an hour late because you’ve visited a traditional high street garage is seen as a convenience to most bosses. There should not be any visible mess where we have worked. If there were to be any mess we insure you that we’d dispatch someone to clean of it immediately, however we are proud to say that none of our customers have ever complained of leaving mess to date.

View

What car brands do you service?

We service all car brands from Mercedes to Ford at a fraction of the price paid when having your car serviced at a main dealer. Our services are tailored to the type of car we are working on. Our trained mechanics have extensive experience in servicing and repairing car brands such as Audi, BMW, Nissan, Vauxhall, Volkswagen, Mercedes, Mini, Fiat, Astra, Toyota, Peugeot, Hyundai, Seat, Skoda, Land Rover, Skoda, Renault, Kia, Citroen, Honda and Volvo, amongst many more.

View

What if I have a problem with the work or service I have received?

In the first instance please contact your service point of contact. In the vast majority of instances the dispute will be resolved at this level. If the issue cannot be resolved at this level it will be escalated to management level and we will try to resolve the issue.
Dispute Resolution
We are committed to providing the best customer service possibly, but inevitably as with all industries, disputes between service providers and consumers occur. We will fully endeavour to resolve the dispute and work towards a fair outcome, but where this is not possible it may be necessary to refer the problem to an independent third party.
We are subscribed to the National Conciliation Service (NCS) which is the UK’s certified automotive retail Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) provider. As one of our customers, you are able to use the NCS if you feel we have not internally been able to resolve your complaint.
The NCS has been certified by the Chartered Trading Standards Institute (TSI) as compliant with UK and EU regulations in respect of ADR.”
About the National Conciliation Service
The NCS is accredited by the Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI) under the Consumer Disputes (Competent Authorities and Information) Regulations 2015. It was the first automotive industry provider to achieve certification.
The NCS has been operating since 1964 and covers the widest range of automotive dispute of any ADR service currently open to the motor trade, including service and repair contracts of vehicles, sale contracts of vehicles, used cars and lost deposits.
Having expertise in the automotive industry ensures that the NCS is equipped to handle disputes, as they understand the technical complications that can arise with vehicles, and the challenges or miscommunication that can occur when attempting to resolve these issues.

View

What is the benefit of having DSA Mobile or DSA Tyres come to me, to service my car, instead of going to my main dealer or local garage?

Our service allows you to spend your day doing whatever you want to do. We relieve the hassle that is usually associated with taking your vehicle to the garage and waiting for them to call you so you can pick up your car. We believe that people are too busy in today’s environment to be dedicating a whole day to taking their car in to a garage. We offer a transparent service where our friendly professionals come to you and get the job done right!

View

What is the legal tyre tread depth limit?

Your tyre must have a minimum depth 1.6 millimeters across the central ¾ of tread, around the complete circumference of the tyre to be legally viable for use. Although we do recommend having your tyres replaced once they’re at around 3 millimeters.

View

What kind of space do you require to change my tyres?

We require minimal space to perform a mobile tyre change. However, we do need access to both sides of the vehicle and a space near where your vehicle is located for our fitting van. This means that car parks are usually perfect, providing that there is a free space at either side of the vehicle where we can access the tyres. Driveways are also another ideal place for us to carry out a tyre change.

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What tyre brands do you stock?

We stock tyres from all of the world’s leading brands for vans, cars, 4x4’s and SUV’s. We also stock tyres to suit drivers on a budget too! Our large variety of tyres appeal to all drivers, no matter the budget. The tyre brands we stock include Bridgestone tyres, Michelin tyres, Pirelli tyres, Goodyear tyres, Dunlop tyres, Avon tyres, Firestone tyres, Yokohoma tyres, Tigar tyres, Wanli tyres, Rovelo tyres, BCT tyres, Aotelli tyres, Westlake Tyres, Fortuna tyres and Continental tyres, along with many more.

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Are you and your mechanics insured?

Our mechanics are insured fully comprehensive on your vehicle. This means that they can carry out road tests. We also have full public liability insurance.

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Are you members or accredited by Industry trade bodies?

Yes. We are members of the Retail Motor Industry Federation (RMI).
The RMI is the UK's leading automotive trade body, representing franchised car and commercial vehicle dealers, independent garages, bodyshops, motorcycle dealers, petrol retailers, auction houses and cherished number plate dealers, who provide sales and services to motorists and businesses across the UK.
As memebers of the RMI we are also members of the
The Independent Garage Association which (IGA) is the largest and most prominent representative body in the Independent garage sector.
The IGA aims to support and encourage independent garages to thrive in all aspects of their business by offering advice, information and services which ensure that the independent service and repair sector can remain efficient and competitive in an increasingly complex business landscape.

We are also part of the Trust My Garage network. In order to maintain this we have to comply with a strict code of practice. By using a member of TRUST MY GARAGE you can also be reassured that you are using a nationally recognised brand.

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Can I use synthetic oils?

Synthetics and semi-synthetics give improved performance at high temperatures and mat extend the length of time between services. They are the preferred choice for high performance cars or for drivers who value long life/durability. They are generally more expensive than normal oil. Your vehicle handbook will specify the type of oil you require. Do not use a synthetic oil in your vehicle unless your manufacturer has confirmed that synthetic oil is suitable. Do not mix synthetic with mineral oil. If in doubt seek further advice from our Autocentre.

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Can you confirm the service schedule for my car?

We cannot provide detailed extracts from manufacturer’s workshop manuals.
The vehicle handbook that came with the car when new will include basic service interval information.
Any reputable independent garage should have access to manufacturer's technical data. We use an industry accepted provider called Autodata. Our latest Autodata platform covers over 32,000 models across 136 different vehicle manufacturers. This provides our workshops with access to over 500,000 step-by-step procedures. Data provided includes details of the manufacturer's service times, schedules and operations.

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Can you fit my own parts e.g. tyres, exhausts, batteries etc. that I have purchased elsewhere / supplied myself?

We do not fit tyres supplied by our customers. Instead, we fit only tyres and other spare parts from our reputable suppliers. We do this for your safety, as we can only be sure that the tyres are the correct standard by using reliable suppliers that we have dealt with for many years and have a positive reputation. We only use only use tyres from trusted suppliers because warranty support is available if there are problems in future with your product.

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Can you fix problems with an automatic gearbox?

Yes, but occasionally gearboxes, especially automatic gearboxes are complex pieces of equipment and sometimes need specialised repair.

For instance, if it's a problem with the electronics which control the gearbox, it is better to get help from a franchise dealer as they will receive regular software updates from the manufacturer. We can advise of this if you bring the vehicle into our Autocentre. The Federation of Automatic Transmission Engineers may also be able to provide some information.

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Can you replace my tyre at my home?

Yes, we provide a mobile servicing, repair and tyre service. These services can be carried out at your home or at your workplace

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Do I have to get my car serviced by a main dealer?

Since October 2003 you are not obliged to get the car serviced by a franchise dealer during the warranty period. You must though, get it serviced according to the manufacturer's recommended schedule and criteria using only manufacturer approved parts. The legislation only applies to the part of the warranty offered by the manufacturer, i.e. insurance-backed extended warranties offered by dealers are not covered and may stipulate different conditions.
If you do decide not to use your maker’s dealer then you must use the recommended schedule and criteria using approved parts. You must also keep records so you can demonstrate to the manufacturer that servicing was undertaken to their requirements. We carry out 1000s of services a year and ensure that our services are carried out to the highest standard. We stamp all servicing log books after the work has been carried out. Our mobile technicians each carry a company stamp to ensure all servicing records are up to date.

We would advise that you get all warranty work carried out by the franchised dealer as it is easier for them to deal directly with the manufacturer.

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Do you use high quality parts for repairs?

Yes, all of the parts used by the DSA Group are required to be Original Equipment (OE) quality.

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How long should a catalytic converter last? When should it be replaced?

Catalytic Converters usually last around 50,000 miles or 10 years. This benchmark can differ greatly but it’s usually accepted that a car will require its catalytic converter replaced once throughout is entire lifespan. However, if a failure occurs early, you should find the cause of the failure as it can make the replacement fail for the same reason.

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How often do I need to check the anti-freeze? When does it need to be changed?

Your anti-freeze will remain at its best for around 2 years. We would advise any time after 2 years would be an appropriate time to change your anti-freeze fluids. It should either be changed every 2 years or every 30,000 miles, whichever point is reached first. You should check your anti-freeze levels monthly and more often than that in winter.

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What car brands do you service?

We service all car brands from Mercedes to Ford at a fraction of the price paid when having your car serviced at a main dealer. Our services are tailored to the type of car we are working on. Our trained mechanics have extensive experience in servicing and repairing car brands such as Audi, BMW, Nissan, Vauxhall, Volkswagen, Mercedes, Mini, Fiat, Astra, Toyota, Peugeot, Hyundai, Seat, Skoda, Land Rover, Skoda, Renault, Kia, Citroen, Honda and Volvo, amongst many more.

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What if I have a problem with the work or service I have received?

In the first instance please contact your service point of contact. In the vast majority of instances the dispute will be resolved at this level. If the issue cannot be resolved at this level it will be escalated to management level and we will try to resolve the issue.
Dispute Resolution
We are committed to providing the best customer service possibly, but inevitably as with all industries, disputes between service providers and consumers occur. We will fully endeavour to resolve the dispute and work towards a fair outcome, but where this is not possible it may be necessary to refer the problem to an independent third party.
We are subscribed to the National Conciliation Service (NCS) which is the UK’s certified automotive retail Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) provider. As one of our customers, you are able to use the NCS if you feel we have not internally been able to resolve your complaint.
The NCS has been certified by the Chartered Trading Standards Institute (TSI) as compliant with UK and EU regulations in respect of ADR.”
About the National Conciliation Service
The NCS is accredited by the Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI) under the Consumer Disputes (Competent Authorities and Information) Regulations 2015. It was the first automotive industry provider to achieve certification.
The NCS has been operating since 1964 and covers the widest range of automotive dispute of any ADR service currently open to the motor trade, including service and repair contracts of vehicles, sale contracts of vehicles, used cars and lost deposits.
Having expertise in the automotive industry ensures that the NCS is equipped to handle disputes, as they understand the technical complications that can arise with vehicles, and the challenges or miscommunication that can occur when attempting to resolve these issues.

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What type of vehicle maintenance can you offer to my fleet?

We can provide mobile fleet servicing, mobile tyre fitting, MOTs, repairs, diagnostics, vehicle tracking and fleet management. If you would like to enquire about a fleet service you we have not mentioned then you can find our contact details here.

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What tyre brands do you stock?

We stock tyres from all of the world’s leading brands for vans, cars, 4x4’s and SUV’s. We also stock tyres to suit drivers on a budget too! Our large variety of tyres appeal to all drivers, no matter the budget. The tyre brands we stock include Bridgestone tyres, Michelin tyres, Pirelli tyres, Goodyear tyres, Dunlop tyres, Avon tyres, Firestone tyres, Yokohoma tyres, Tigar tyres, Wanli tyres, Rovelo tyres, BCT tyres, Aotelli tyres, Westlake Tyres, Fortuna tyres and Continental tyres, along with many more.

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When does my oil need to be changed?

This dependent on your car manufactures servicing intervals. Changing oil often improves performance and reduces wear on your engine. We recommend frequent oil changes which could be as often as 5000 miles for Synthetic oil and 3000 miles for normal oil. Oil maintenance is a fundamental component in keeping your vehicle running efficiently, therefore checking oil every 3-4 weeks is recommended. Contact our Autocentre for further advice.

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Why are my brakes making noise?

Noise emanating from your brakes may be a sign that your brakes have become unsafe. We recommend you contact us immediately and we can arrange for a mobile technician to check your brakes out and give advice on any remedial action required. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

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Why should I choose you over any other fleet service provider?

Our company prides itself in only hiring the most experienced and talented mechanics within the industry. This means that no matter what type of vehicle maintenance we are providing you, our mechanics will always offer you an unrivaled level of service. We have gained a reputation for building strong relationships with our clients. Our client relationship are kept in place with our in depth quality control systems we have in place for any vehicle we provide a service for. Offering a service that exceeds the client’s expectation is a key aim of our company. If you would like to contact us to discuss our services then please don’t hesitate to contact us.

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