Search

The Best Mechanics in Wellington

Discover the best mechanics in Wellington 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 3 December 2025
Summary:
  • ​Need a reliable Car Mechanic in Wellington? Whether you need a service, brake repairs or any other type of repair, our guide aims to save you money.
  • Every Wellington 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 Wellington mechanic guide covers:​​​
​

How Much do Mechanics Charge?

Mechanic hourly rates in Wellington 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 $200 and $400, and it will vary depending on the make of your car. 

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.
​

​Trusted and Reliable Wellington Mechanics Available Right Now

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

Access Mobile Mechanics

Base: Whitby, Porirua 
Hours: 24/7
Google Review rating: 5.0/5
Facebook Page: Access Mobile Mechanics
Website:  None
​Email address: Not specified
Phone:  021 876 879  
 
Customer Feedback:
  • Fast and responsive mobile mechanic service, often on-site within an hour
  • Friendly, approachable, and patient, explaining work clearly without condescension
  • Reliable and efficient, quickly diagnosing and fixing issues
  • Offers helpful advice to prevent future problems and save costs
  • Flexible and accommodating, going above and beyond for customers
    ​
Important Must-know Facts and Services:
  • Provides 24-hour service for any mechanical issues
  • Access Mobile Mechanics provides automotive service anywhere within the Greater Wellington
  • Offers vehicle servicing, tune-ups, warrant of fitness, general repairs, tyre change, electrical system check and repair

313 Motors Ltd

Base: Te Aro, Wellington 
Hours: Mon to Fri 8 am – 5 pm, Sat 8 am – 12:30 pm 
Google Review rating: 5.0/5
​Website: 313 Motors Ltd
Facebook Page: 313 Motors Ltd
​Email address: [email protected]
Phone: 04 555 0329
 
Customer Feedback:
  • Honest and transparent mechanic service with no unnecessary upselling
  • Efficient and professional, completing jobs to a high standard
  • Knowledgeable staff who clearly explain vehicle issues
  • Reliable and customer-focused, prioritising satisfaction
    ​
Important Must-know Facts and Services:
  • Established in 2017, quickly earning a reputation for quality repairs, professional workmanship, friendly service, and fast turnaround times
  • ​Services include cambelt servicing, battery checks, vehicle servicing, tune-ups, WOF inspections, general repairs, tyre changes, and electrical system checks and repairs

Driscoll Motors Ltd

Base: Te Aro, Wellington
Hours: Mon to Fri 7:45 am–5 pm 
Google Review Rating: 4.3/5
Website: Driscoll Motors Ltd
Facebook Page: Driscoll Motors Ltd 
Email address: [email protected]
​Phone: 04 384 2913
 
Customer Feedback:
  • Honest, reliable, and dependable service with no upselling
  • Friendly and approachable staff, making visits stress-free
  • Professional and thorough WOF inspections and repairs
  • Clear advice and guidance, especially for customers less familiar with cars
  • Quick turnaround on urgent repairs, including same-day service​
 
Important Must-know Facts and Services:
  • Offers new customers a Warrant of Fitness (WoF) inspection for $69, redeemable by mentioning the coupon when booking
  • Family-owned business in Wellington with over 35 years of experience in vehicle servicing and repairs
  • Offers a comprehensive range of services including auto electrical repairs, air conditioning servicing, diagnostics, batteries, tyres, and Warrant of Fitness (WoF) inspections
  • Provides a 12-month or 20,000 km warranty on workmanship and parts, ensuring customer satisfaction​​


Autoxpress Wellington Ltd

Base:  ​Newtown, Wellington
Hours: Mon to Fri 8 am–5 pm
Google Review Rating: 4.6/5
Website: Autoxpress Wellington Ltd  
Facebook Page: Autoxpress Wellington Ltd 
Email address: [email protected] 
​Phone: 04 380 0191

Customer Feedback:
  • Fast and efficient tyre fitting, accommodating urgent bookings
  • Friendly and professional staff providing excellent customer service
  • Accurate and reliable work, including correct wheel torque checks
  • Quick brake pad replacements at competitive prices
  • Trusted, long-term service with consistent quality workmanship

Important Must-know Facts and Services:
  • Provides Certificate of Fitness (CoF) inspections, Warrant of Fitness (WOF) services, and free quotations
  • Offers a wide range of services including tyre sales, fitting, balancing, and mechanical repairs
  • Specialises in Japanese vehicles, suspension systems, and balancing, with a focus on providing quality services at affordable prices​

Auto Care Kilbirnie

Base: Kilbirnie, Wellington
Hours: Mon to Fri 7:30 am – 5 pm 
Google Review rating: 4.7/5
Facebook Page: Auto Care Kilbirnie
Website: Auto Care Kilbirnie
​Email address: [email protected]
Phone:   04 387 2105
 
Customer Feedback:
  • Friendly, approachable, and knowledgeable family-run business
  • Reliable and professional service for WOF, repairs, and servicing
  • Excellent communication and patient guidance for all car needs
  • Convenient and accommodating, making collection and drop-off easy
 
Important Must-know Facts and Services:
  • Auto Care Kilbirnie has been providing auto mechanical service and repair to the Wellington region for over 35 years
  • Caters all types of vehicles, including European brands, classic and racing cars
  • Provides services for warrant of fitness, wheel alignment, engine management, oil change, car air-conditioning, clutch repairs, etc.
  • MTA Assured

Motorworx Service

Base: Thorndon, Wellington
Hours: Mon – 8 am - 4:30 pm
             Tues – Thur 8am - 5pm 
             Fri –  8am - 4pm 
Google Review rating: 4.9/5
Facebook Page: Motorworx Service
Website:  Motorworx Service
​Email address: [email protected]
Phone:   04 385 0060 
 
Customer Feedback:
  • Excellent service, especially in urgent situations, accommodating special needs with care and attention
  • Fair pricing with high-quality workmanship, including additional touches like car cleaning
  • Efficient in sourcing and fixing hard-to-find European car parts, handling everything seamlessly
  • Honest and straightforward, providing fair estimates without unnecessary upselling
  • Small but capable team with a strong attitude, excellent customer service, and high levels of reliability
 
Important Must-know Facts and Services:
  • ​Has been operating in the Wellington area for over 20 years
  • Skilled and equipped to repair and service any part of European and Japanese vehicles
  • Offers full vehicle servicing, belt replacement, power steering fluid flush, suspension repairs, air conditioning repairs, warrant of fitness, vehicle grooming, etc.

Broadway Motors Ltd

Base: Strathmore Park, Wellington
Hours: Mon to Fri 7 am – 5:30 pm
Google Review rating: 4.8/5
Facebook Page: None
Website:  Broadway Motors Ltd
​Email address: [email protected]
Phone:  04 939 0416  
 
Customer Feedback:
  • Friendly, approachable, and professional team
  • Quick, tidy, and honest service
  • High-quality mechanical expertise
  • Helpful and considerate advice, even suggesting cost-saving options elsewhere
  • Trusted local mechanic with long-term customer care​
 
Important Must-know Facts and Services:
  • Broadway Motors Ltd are mechanical and auto electrical specialists based in Strathmore, Wellington
  • They cater to both fleet companies and individuals for vehicle servicing, maintenance, and repairs
  • Services include WOF checks, auto electrical work, and mechanical repairs
  • MTA assured

Wellington European

Base: Mount Cook, Wellington 
Hours: Mon to Fri 7:30 am – 5 pm 
Google Review rating: 4.7/5
Facebook Page: Wellington European
Website:  Wellington European
​Email address: [email protected]
Phone:  04 384 8867
 
Customer Feedback:
  • Friendly, approachable, and professional staff
  • Quick, efficient, and thorough servicing for European cars
  • Clear communication with advice and options for all repairs
  • Fairly priced with high-quality workmanship
  • Highly recommended for European car owners
 
Important Must-know Facts and Services:
  • Wellington European is an MTA-approved automotive repair business based in Mount Cook, Wellington
  • Specialises in European car servicing using the latest diagnostic equipment
  • Services include WOF inspections, vehicle servicing, parts, and performance upgrades

Car Therapy Centre

Base: Gilmer Terrace, Wellington
Hours: Mon to Thur 7:30 am – 4 pm 
Google Review rating: 4.9/5
Facebook Page: Car Therapy Centre
Website:  Car Therapy Centre
​Email address: [email protected]
Phone:  04 472 8279
 
Customer Feedback:
  • Fast, efficient, and effective car repairs and WOF services
  • Honest and professional mechanics with clear communication
  • Friendly, approachable, and knowledgeable team
  • Competitive pricing for high-quality, thorough service
  • Highly recommended for trustworthy and reliable automotive care
 
Important Must-know Facts and Services:
  • Car Therapy Centre brings over 30 years of experience in the automotive industry with a team of expert mechanics
  • They handle all vehicle services and maintenance, including WOF inspections, car servicing, repairs, diagnostics, tune-ups, and oil changes
  • Also offer new tyres and wheel alignments
  • MTA approved

Prop Auto Ltd

Base: Te Aro, Wellington  
Hours: Mon to Fri 7:30 am – 5:30 pm
Google Review rating: 4.9/5
Facebook Page: Prop Auto Ltd
Website: Prop Auto Ltd 
​Email address: [email protected]
Phone:  04 801 8083
 
Customer Feedback:
  • Friendly, approachable, and sincere team
  • Reliable and efficient service, even at short notice
  • Clear explanations and transparent pricing
  • Trustworthy and professional mechanics
  • Consistently high-quality service for ongoing vehicle maintenance 
 
Important Must-know Facts and Services:
  • Family-owned and operated vehicle repair centre in central Wellington, specialising in both diesel and petrol vehicles
  • Offers comprehensive services including tyre balancing, tune-ups, computer diagnostics, and general mechanical repairs
  • MTA Assured, ensuring professional standards and quality workmanship

Midas Newtown

​Base: Mount Cook, Wellington 
Hours: Mon to Fri 7:30 am – 5 pm, Sat 8 am – 12 pm
Google Review rating: 4.6/5
Facebook Page: None
Website:  Midas Newtown
​Email address: [email protected]
Phone:  04 389 2226
 
Customer Feedback:
  • Honest and trustworthy with strong business integrity
  • Efficient service with clear and upfront communication
  • Fair and competitive pricing
  • Friendly and approachable team
  • Reliable go-to choice for ongoing car maintenance and repairs
    
Important Must-know Facts and Services:
  • Midas Lower Hutt is part of a locally owned and operated network of workshops across New Zealand
  • Operating since 1988, they provide reliable and professional mechanical services
  • Services include mechanical repairs, maintenance, warrant of fitness checks, and oil changes
  • They also offer tyre services and wheel alignments
​

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 Wellington mechanics charge per hour?

Mechanic hourly rates in Wellington 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. 
Related guides:
⚠️​ 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.