Before I sing their praises perhaps I should address why I felt the need to find a better service centre.
The previous dealer was friendly and provided what appeared to be good service. So why change? If you don't mind paying over a $1000 for every visit you don't need to read any further. I on the other hand hadn't paid that sort of money since owning an '86 Porsche 928S which at least had 5 litres, 8 cylinders, 32 valves and 220kw of German money sucking power. (Glad I don't pay the fuel bills anymore on that one).
So when someone asks me to pay similar service money for my little '93 Integra beast of 1.8 litres, 4 cylinders, (don't know or really care how many valves) and 100 plus KWs of fuel friendly power, you could imagine I get a just a little bit stroppy. Then there was that little saga of replacing my power steering reservoir twice after only 20K. I was told this is a common problem with my model, (which at the time I found interesting as I thought Honda's were better built). I hadn't dealt with that sort of peculiar issue since owning an '84 Rover SD1, which anyone who's ever owned one of the evil British vehicles sort of expects. I could go on to mention the soggy brakes story and the 'oh jeez we don't know how to fix your auto transmission without taking at least 4K out of your wallet' story but I'm sure you get the picture.
Now for the good news. With some careful navigational planning into areas less travelled I found my way to Honda Care where I met Scott. They promptly drove me to the train station and I couldn't help but wonder how much my 140K service was going to cost. At the end of my working day, I phoned ahead to advise my return and see if the little beast was ready. They picked me up from the station and returned me to their shop. Scott took me inside the office where I fully expected the usual how would you like to part with most of your $1000 sir. Instead I was pleasantly surprised to find he went through their work, told me what would be involved to repair the auto and advised that often the power steering line sweats giving the impression of a leaking seal. (Please note, although I extend myself to changing the oil and filter, I'm definitely not a car repair person so the story is retold as best as I can remember it). Scott also expressed concern when showing me the old auto fluid, advising that it probably hasn't seen a change for some 40K or so, (isn't that what I had previously paid all that money for?). He then nearly flattened me with surprise as the bill came to around $200.
I'm happy to report the car has been behaving ever since, nothing has fallen off or sound funny, so roll on next service, I'll definitely be back. They even repair other makes so Kylie's old Nissan will get some well deserved attention too.
If you are in the same situation and in need of finding a good affordable mechanic, I can highly recommend giving them a visit, (and no I'm not on commission).
Speak with Scott on 3279 6522. Honda Care are located Unit 4/1 Spine St, Sumner Park 4074.
Happy Honda-ring (is that a word?).
Bernie
