Halfords launches zero-contact garage service

Car servicing provider Halfords has introduced a “contactless” maintenance scheme for drivers worried about the coronavirus.

During the outbreak, the motoring group’s mobile technician team will continue to operate but will offer at-home services without its engineers coming into contact with vehicle owners who are self-isolating.

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Karl Baker from Halfords who is responsible for the service says: “By introducing a contact-free fittings and repairs service, we believe we will give customers who are staying indoors or self-isolating the option of still being able to drive when they really need to, while also protecting our technicians.”

The option of zero-contact services is being offered by Halford's Mobile Expert and Tyres on the Drive, which offer tyre fitting and general maintenance such as oil changes, windscreen repairs and battery replacement.

How it works

After booking online or through a phone call customers will need to ensure their vehicle is parked in a suitable location and pre-agree a safe drop stop for their keys and locking wheel nut.

The mobile van technician will then call to confirm the pre-agreed location and then carry out the job. After the service or fitting is complete the customer will receive communication on their phone and can inspect the work, while the technician remains at a safe distance in the van.

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All technicians wear a new pair of disposable gloves for each individual job.

Free MOT retest

Halfords also announced this week that it would waive the MOT retest fee for drivers who have been forced to self-isolate.

Normally Halfords Autocentres will carry out the retest for free within 10 days of a car failing its MOT but charge £35 if it is carried out after that date.

To help drivers who cannot make it back to a Halfords Autocentre within that 10-day window, the group is allowing them to rebook at a later date without incurring the charge.

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Andy Randall, Halfords Autocentres managing director commented: “We are monitoring the potential impact of the coronavirus and want to do as much as possible to help keep the nation moving at this critical time. We’re looking at each situation on a case-by-case basis and are pledging to waive the MOT retest fee for anyone who, because of coronavirus, misses the 10 day window to get a free retest, following a fail.”

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