John (second left)

Collins Motors is a Hammersmith institution

For John Collins, one consequence of his business being such a long-standing part of the W6 community is that residents have grown up going to his garage. ‘It’s true. We have “youngsters” coming in who I remember in pushchairs,’ smiles John. ‘They’re following their parents’ example – it means we’re doing something right!’

Operating from the same Trussley Road premises since 1980, three generations of the family work with each other.

‘I started the business with my dad Sean,’ explains John. ‘He’s still involved and my brother Brian runs our Park Royal garage. My son James and nephew Richard work with me and Brian’s son Jack is with him.’

The experienced Collins team comprises in-house and dealership trained mechanics and they handle all makes and models. Clearly, with 95% of customers being regulars, John has a winning formula – and that is reflected in the company motto: Old-fashioned Courtesy and Modern Technology.

‘Of course, we invest in the latest kit,’ he says. ‘But, equally importantly, I believe in personal service. For example, if we find that more work is needed than we anticipated, we put in a courtesy call to the owner. We let the client make the final decision, then there are no surprise charges.’

That ethos also applies to MOTs. ‘If there’s a problem we offer a free re-test period. If you get the repairs done – not necessarily by us – and return the car within seven days, we won’t charge.’ Using plain English is another promise. ‘When we replace a part we show the customer the old one and explain what has happened and why.’

John is very proud to have served W6 for so many years and new clients are being introduced all the time. ‘We’ve found that when one of our “regulars” moves away they leave our card out for the new people!’

Services include:

Servicing Brakes Steering Wheel Alignment MOTsExhausts BatteriesTiming Belts Clutches Suspension

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