Britain’s best car brands for servicing and repairs have been revealed as dealers prepare to reopen showrooms following the Covid-19 lockdown.
Japanese manufacturers dominate the rankings, according to research by new car-buying platform What Car?, with five manufacturers in the top 10.
In a survey of 18,000 motorists, franchised dealers for cars up to 20 years-old were ranked on the quality of their work, perceived value for money and friendliness of staff.
Lexus dealers were voted as the best in the country, with a score of 94.1 per cent. Japanese manufacturers occupied five of the top 10 positions, with Subaru, Honda, Suzuki and Toyota dealers praised by their owners.
In contrast, some luxury brands, including Audi, Mercedes, and Land Rover were ranked at the bottom of the table with scores more than 10 per cent lower than Lexus, and owners often rating their value for money low.
Showrooms and dealerships are expected to reopen to the public on June 1 under government plans. Since mid-March they have been closed to help prevent the spread of the Covid-19 virus, with dealers only allowed to operate remotely.
What Car? also surveyed independent garages for cars up to 20 years-old. Suzuki independent dealers were found to offer the best overall service, with a satisfaction score of 95.8 per cent, behind Lexus and Citroen.
What Car? editor Steve Huntingford said: “Our research shows which brands are seen to offer the best satisfaction and value for money.
“On this evidence, owning a car from a premium brand is no guarantee of top-level service, with the bottom three places in our chart occupied by premium franchises.
“Motorists need to do their research and be prepared to vote with their feet and take their custom elsewhere if they’re unhappy with the service they receive.”
