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The Best Mechanics in Christchurch

Discover the best mechanics in Christchurch with our comprehensive guide. Whether you require a service, brake repairs, or other car repairs, our guide and trusted list ensures quality service that save you money.
Updated 11 March 2024

Summary:
  • ​Need a reliable Car Mechanic in Christchurch? Whether you need a service, brake repairs or any other type of repair, our guide aims to save you money.
  • Every Christchurch car owner fears calling a garage only to hear "we’ve found a couple of things wrong with your car that will need to be replaced".

Our Christchurch mechanic guide covers:​​​
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How Much do Christchurch Mechanics Charge?

Mechanic hourly rates in Christchurch can vary depending on the location, speciality & the specific services provided. However, the average hourly rate at a workshop in New Zealand is around $100-$140 per hour. If you're at a dealership, especially a European one, you may pay up to $180 per hour.

How much is a service?
The AA reports that the average service cost is between $150 and $250, which will vary based on the make of your car. A basic service is available for around $50 from VTNZ.

For repairs, get a quote first and ask the right questions:
  • ​Disagreements over price will arise when a mechanic and customer failed to agree on a cost before the work is done.
  • Requesting a quote detailing the cost of a job will minimise the chances of any nasty billing surprises. Such a quote will formally set out the cost of a job so that you know what to expect. 

Whatever the issue with your car, when organising a quote, we suggest asking:
  1. What is the estimate of the total cost to fix the problem(s)?
  2. ​Is GST included? 15% adds up, so make sure the final price you hear and agree to is GST-inclusive. For example, $300 becomes $345 with GST included.
  3. What is the guarantee period? You want a solution, not a short-term fix, so ask to make sure that the proposed solution offered is final.

What can I do if a mechanic does work without asking me first?

In the age of internet reviews, this is much less common, but it still happens. According to the Consumer Guarantees Act, motorists are not liable to pay for any unauthorised work performed on cars - as long as they have been clear about the service's limits.
For example:
  1. If you drop off your car at a garage and say "fix whatever is wrong with it", you will be required to pay the full amount for any work performed.
  2. Alternatively, if you drop it in and ask for the mechanics to find out what's wrong with it, but they undertake repairs that are more than a minor 'fix', you are not liable to pay the bill without raising a dispute.
  3. To ensure no disputes arise, it's always best to get a quote upfront.
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The Top Christchurch Mechanics Available Right Now

​Our list below, which is no particular order, covers mechanics in Christchurch. We have selected these mechanics based on their history of longstanding service within Christchurch, location and data extracted from internet reviews on Google Business, Facebook, TradeMe Services and others.

Mechanics on Grafton

Base: Waltham, Christchurch
Hours: Mon to Fri 8 am – 5 pm
Google Review rating: 4.8/5
Facebook Page: Mechanics on Grafton
Website:  Mechanics on Grafton
Email address: [email protected]
Phone: 03 365 6386
 
Customer Feedback:
  • Flawless communication  
  • Excellent services with reasonable prices  
  • Takes time to explain the issues on the car  
  • Provides options to fit the client’s budget  
  • A friendly and helpful team of mechanics 
  • Fast and reliable service  
 
Pros:
  • Provides reasonable price range 
  • .Available for after-hours service and offers night drop service 
 
Cons:
  • None 
 
Important Must-know Facts and Services:
  • Mechanics on Grafton provides servicing and maintenance for cars, vans and 4WD
  • They have experienced car mechanics and the latest diagnostic equipment to help repair a vehicle to the highest standard possible
  • Offers services for computer diagnostic scanning, general repairs, mechanical problems, engine repairs, etc.
  • Repair clutch, brakes, tyres and puncture 

New Brighton Automotive Ltd

Base: Brighton, Christchurch 
Hours: Mon to Fri 7 am – 5:30 pm, Sat 8 am – 12 pm
Google Review rating: 4.7/5
Facebook Page: New Brighton Automotive Ltd
Website:  New Brighton Automotive Ltd
​Email address: [email protected]
Phone:   03 388 3630 
 
Customer Feedback:
  • Professional and friendly service  
  • Works fast and efficient  
  • Shows how they value their customers  
  • Trustworthy and personable mechanic 
 
Pros:
  • Operates on Saturdays
 
Cons:
  • Usually booked and busy 
 
Important Must-know Facts and Services:
  • New Brighton Automotive Ltd is a locally owned and operated automotive service provider 
  • Provides mechanical repairs and regular servicing for all make and model of cars
  • Provides services for warrant of fitness, oil filter change, air filter check, and cooling system testing
  • Offers free towing service, brake, clutch and suspension check

McGirr Motors

Base: Central City, Christchurch 
Hours: Mon to Fri 8 am - 5:30 pm
Google Review rating: 4.9/5
Facebook Page: McGirr Motors
Website:  McGirr Motors
​Email address: [email protected]
Phone:  03 379 6698 
 
Customer Feedback:
  • Quick to take action  
  • Friendly and honest staff  
  • Offers fair prices  
  • Gets the work done professionally  
 
Pros:
  • MTA approved 
  • Work is done by competent and trained mechanics  
 
Cons:
  • No weekends services 
 
Important Must-know Facts and Services:
  • McGirr Motors started operating in Central City in 1999
  • Offers services for warrant of fitness, diagnostic scanning, auto trans flushing, tyre-fitting and balancing 
  • Provides mechanical repairs for petrol and diesel 

Fitzgerald Motors

Base: Hornby, Christchurch
Hours: Mon to Fri 7:30 am - 5:00 pm
Google Review rating: 4.8/5
Facebook Page: Fitzgerald Motors
Website:  Fitzgerald Motors
​Email address: [email protected]
Phone:  03 349 7813 
 
Customer Feedback:
  • Friendly and honest staff  
  • Gives helpful advice on the best course of action  
  • Willing to go the extra mile to provide quality workmanship
  • Provides professional service  
  • Produces reliable diagnostics  
 
Pros:
  • Informs the client before any unexpected work required 
 
Cons:
  • Usually booked and busy 
 
Important Must-know Facts and Services:
  • Fitzgerald Motors is an automotive repairer and expert mechanic for 4WDs, cars, caravans, trailers, motorbikes and light commercial vehicles
  • A representative of Auto Super Shoppe national brand with highly experienced and knowledgeable mechanics 
  • Provides services for warrant of fitness, oil filter change, air filter check, and cooling system testing
  • Offers free towing service, brake, clutch and suspension check

Supreme Auto Christchurch Ltd

Base: Waltham, Christchurch 
Hours: Mon to Fri 8 am – 5 pm 
Google Review rating: 4.9/5
Facebook Page: Supreme Auto Christchurch Ltd
Website:  Supreme Auto Christchurch Ltd
Email address: [email protected]
Phone: 03 366 7022
 
Customer Feedback:
  • Great client communication  
  • Goes above and beyond expectations  
  • Quick, efficient and cost-effective 
  • Mechanics are friendly and experienced  
 
Pros:
  • Finishes work on time 
 
Cons:
  • No weekends operations
 
Important Must-know Facts and Services:
  • Supreme Auto Christchurch Ltd is an automotive repair shop that has been servicing the Christchurch area since 1992
  • Fully qualified technician with authority to conduct Warrant of Fitness inspection and repair.   
  • Offers repairs for tyres, cambelts, and clutch
  • Provides services for fleet car and vehicles diagnostics

Steve Welford Automotive Ltd

Base: Sydenham, Christchurch
Hours: Mon to Fri 8 am – 5 pm
Google Review rating: 4.8/5
Facebook Page: Steve Welford Automotive Ltd
Website:  Steve Welford Automotive
​Email address: [email protected]
Phone:  03 379 2062
 
Customer Feedback:
  • Highly experienced mechanics  
  • Reasonable rates and pricing  
  • Takes responsibility for their work  
  • Clearly explains the work to be done  
 
Pros:
  • Fast turnaround time 
 
Cons:
  • No weekends operation
 
Important Must-know Facts and Services:
  • Steve Welford Automotive Ltd is a one-stop auto service shop that works with Japanese imported cars, European brands, 4WDs, vintage and classic cars from 1928 and beyond
  • Offer services for warrant fitness, lubrication, suspension, steering and replacement
  • Provides general mechanical repairs and full ad comprehensive diagnosis of problems

​Mister Mechanical

Base: Hornby, Christchurch 
Hours: Mon to Fri 8 am – 5 pm
Google Review rating: 4.9/5
Facebook Page: Mister Mechanical 
Website:  Mister Mechanical
​Email address: [email protected]
Phone:  03 349 5982
 
Customer Feedback:
  • Polite, friendly and respectful staff  
  • Services car feels like brand new  
  • Takes time to listen to client concerns 
  • Effortless booking of service  
 
Pros:
  • Uses updated tools and premium parts to ensure the high standard performance of the vehicle
 
Cons:
  • No weekends operation 
 
Important Must-know Facts and Services:
  • Mister Mechanical has over 25 years of experience in serving the Christchurch area
  • Services all makes and models of vehicles, from simple wiper issues to engine overhauls
  • Provides services for warrant of fitness, oil filter change, air filter check, and cooling system testing
  • Offers free towing service, brake, clutch and suspension check

Sparks Auto Electric

Base: Woolston, Christchurch
Hours: Mon to Thur 8 am – 5 pm, Fri 8 am – 4 pm
Google Review rating: 4.8/5
Facebook Page: Sparks Auto Electric
Website:  Sparks Auto Electric
Email address: [email protected]
​Phone:  03 389 7070
 
Customer Feedback:
  • Fairly priced quotation  
  • Honest, reliable and focused on safety  
  • Quick to respond  
  • Keeps the client updated about the progress of their vehicle  
 
Pros:
  • Provides quality yet low-cost service
 
Cons:
  • No weekends operations
 
Important Must-know Facts and Services:
  • A team of skilled and qualified professionals repair a vast range of faults on a wide variety of vehicles
  • Provides services for boats, marines and trailers, etc.
  • Resolves electric problems and e-road installation and repair 

Elite Service Centre (2007) Ltd

Base: Sydenham, Christchurch 
Hours: Mon to Fri 8 am – 5 pm
Google Review rating: 4.7/5
Facebook Page: Elite Service Centre (2007) Ltd
Website:  Elite Service Centre (2007) Ltd
​Email address: [email protected]
Phone:   03 365 7331  
 
Customer Feedback:
  • Great and knowledgeable staff  
  • Excellent service at a reasonable cost  
  • Good customer service  
  • Reliable mechanics  
 
Pros:
  • No long waiting time  
 
Cons:
  • Not operating on weekends 
 
Important Must-know Facts and Services:
  • Elite Service Centre (2007) Ltd is an automotive repair and maintenance centre located in Sydenham, Christchurch
  • Provides services o warrant fitness, mechanical repairs and preventive maintenance

Clinch Automotive Ltd

Base: Sydenham, Christchurch
Hours: Mon to Fri 8 am – 5 pm
Google Review rating: 4.9/5
Facebook Page: Clinch Automotive Ltd
Website:  Clinch Automotive
​Email address: [email protected]
Phone:  03 377 9520 
 
Customer Feedback:
  • Carefully explains everything to the client  
  • Friendly and professional service  
  • Skilled and honest mechanics with a passion for work  
  • Reasonable pricing  
 
Pros:
  • No surprise bills after the service 
 
Cons:
  • None 
 
Important Must-know Facts and Services:
  • Clinch Automotive Ltd is a car specialist for Jaguar, Land Rover, BMW, Audi and VW
  • Has a wide range of car repairs and services, including mechanical, electrical and complete overhauls
  • Provides services for warrant of fitness, oil filter change, air filter check, and cooling system testing
  • Offers free towing service, brake, clutch and suspension check

My Auto Shop

My Auto Shop mechanics come to your home, office or work site to complete any work you need on your car.
Google Rating: 4.8/5
Base: Christchurch Wide
Website: My Auto Shop
Facebook Page: My Auto Shop
Email Address: [email protected]
Phone: 09 887 8317

Further details:
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Car Mechanic Frequently Asked Questions

Maintenance can be a part of car ownership, often forgotten about by drivers, and if you don't keep on top of it, repairs can come as unwelcome surprise costs. However, finding a great mechanic and staying on top of your car servicing can save you money in the long run. 

How much do Christchurch mechanics charge per hour?

Mechanic hourly rates in Christchurch can vary depending on the location, speciality & the specific services provided. However, the average hourly rate at a workshop in New Zealand is around $100-$140 per hour. If you're at a dealership, especially a European one, you may pay up to $180 per hour.

How much is a service for my car?

The cost of a car service will vary depending on your car's make and model, the engine's size and oil capacity, and the specific services included in the service package. Generally, a basic car service can cost between $180 to $300, while a more comprehensive service can range from $300 to $600 or more. 

Many mechanics advertise a 'from' price that may grow with the oil capacity and filter required. 

How do I know what car repairs I need?

If you're unsure what repairs your car needs, it's best to take it to a mechanic for a diagnostic. They can thoroughly inspect your vehicle and provide you with a detailed report of any necessary repairs or maintenance. 

How can I know my car is safe to drive?

Regular maintenance and inspections are crucial for ensuring your car is safe to drive. It's recommended to follow your car manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule and have your vehicle serviced & inspected by a mechanic regularly. The annual warrant of fitness check for your car requires help with this but isn't as thorough as a full service from a mechanic. 
Some easy safety things you can keep an eye on yourself include: 
  • Signs of wear on your tyres 
  • Headlights or indicator bulbs out
  • Bad wiper blades 
  • Shaky steering

Can Mechanics complete a WoF?

Most mechanics in New Zealand has a certified WoF (Warrant of Fitness) inspector who can complete a WoF, which is required annually for all vehicles in the country. A mechanic can inspect your vehicle and provide a WoF certificate if it meets the required safety standards.
What can I do if I'm not happy with the work a mechanic did on my car?
If you're unsatisfied with the mechanic's work on your car, the first step is to contact the mechanic or the shop to discuss your concerns. They may offer to fix the issue or provide a refund. If you're still unsatisfied, you can file a complaint with the Motor Trade Association or the Disputes Tribunal.

What should I look for when choosing a mechanic?

Choosing a mechanic can be a daunting task, but there are a few key things to look for that can help you make an informed decision:
  1. MTA Approval: Look for an MTA (Motor Trade Association)-approved mechanic. This means they have been independently assessed to ensure they meet the industry standards for competency, professionalism, and ethical behaviour.
  2. Great track record of reviews: Check the mechanic's reviews and ratings online. Look for recent reviews from past customers, and see what they have to say about their experience. You can use websites like Google Reviews, Facebook or Trustpilot to find reviews.
  3. Transparency of pricing & expected costs: A good mechanic should be able to provide you with a quote or estimate before any work is done and should explain the costs and any additional fees upfront.
  4. Ability to talk directly to the mechanic: Look for a mechanic who is willing to talk to you directly about your car and the work that needs to be done, not just the office staff. You should feel comfortable asking questions and getting clear answers. A mobile mechanic at your house means you have unfiltered access to ask any silly questions you may have.​

I have an EV. Do I need a special mechanic?

While EVs (Electric Vehicles) have a different engine, many of the car's mechanical parts are still the same, such as brakes, suspension and steering. However, not all mechanics specialize in EVs, so it's best to look for a mechanic or a shop that specializes in EVs or has experience working on them.

What is a Mobile Mechanic?

A Mobile Mechanic is a mechanic who travels to your home or work to perform repairs and maintenance on their vehicle. This can be a convenient option for those short on time and unable to make it to a shop. 

What are the "Dos and Don'ts" when dealing with a mechanic?

Do:
  • Ask for a quote or estimate first, and get it in writing if possible. Check if it's inclusive of GST.
  • Check their availability and confirm a day. You will generally not just be able to show up.
  • Give clear information about your car's problems and how to recreate them.
  • Check the workmanship & part warranty period. Most MTA workshops are six months or 10,000 km.
Don't: 
  • Blame the mechanic for any issues with your car that were pre-existing.
  • Take your car to lots of different mechanics for quotes. Respect their time spent with you.
  • Expect them to be able to fix your car on the spot. Parts are often required to come from suppliers, which may take time. 
⚠️​ Disclaimer: MoneyHub.co.nz has no financial or otherwise relationship with any businesses listed on this page. The pricing information provided is for informational and guidance purposes only and may not accurately represent the actual quotes or final bills for individual services. No provider has paid to appear on our website, and this list should not be considered comprehensive. Please research and obtain quotes directly from a range of businesses to ensure accurate pricing and suitability for your needs.
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