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From the time of their first MOT or running repair, every motorist starts to discover the different mechanics, repair shops and auto garages in their area - and many are taken by surprise at how many sole traders and small garages can be found in the backstreets within just a few yards of their home.


This is especially true close to town centres, where these side street repair shops are found in greater numbers, even within easy reach of the brand-name chains and franchises that often occupy more visible locations.

A backstreet mechanic can provide the same services as a chain garage, in principle, but you'll often find certain jobs come up time and time again - here are some of the usual suspects.

1. Oil and filter changes

An oil change is one of the pieces of routine maintenance that almost all motorists are aware needs doing, so it's no surprise that it's one of the main reasons why vehicle owners pop round to their local side street service centre.

It's easily done with few specialist tools required - and you'll often find garages that offer oil and filter changes as part of the same engine check package.

2. Engine and brakes

Checking the engine, brakes and other essential parts of the car is a more involved process, and may need an inspection pit, an elevated platform for the vehicle to be lifted on, or both.

This is where equipment starts to get larger and more expensive, and even though this is physical machinery more than delicate electronics, it's important to protect it with suitable motor trade insurance for mechanics.

3. Exhaust changes

A blown or broken exhaust pipe is a common occurrence and exhaust changes are a regular request at backstreet garages and high street chains alike.

It's crucial to get permission in advance for all the work required, as removing an exhaust pipe can quickly lead to replacing the manifold and more of the piping and gaskets than you originally expected.

Other issues

There are a few issues that apply especially to smaller side street mechanics' garages than to larger locations - for instance, do you have secure on-site storage for all of your tools and equipment?

If your premises are less well protected than the brand-name garages with their security systems, make sure you meet the requirements of your motor trade insurance policy and that it covers the full value of your tools.

Finally, if as members of the public have relatively easy access to your premises during working hours, make sure you have suitable motor trade insurance for mechanics' garages like yours - including public liability insurance in case a visitor manages to injure themselves in your care.