Fix It Yourself At New DIY Garage

A new kind of garage is slashing the costs of motoring for drivers - but only if they are prepared to use some elbow grease. It has all the tools and equipment of a professional workshop but none of the labour charges - and that's because car owners do the work themselves!

Auto Express Car Reviews

15th December 2004

The DIY Garage is the brainchild of Stan Clements, and as co-owner of the business he has plans to franchise the concept - so expect the garages to become a common sight, with outlets set to open across the UK next year.

Motorists can book a bay in his workshop in Aberdeen for ΂£15 an hour, and put their vehicle up on the ramp themselves. There are additional charges to use the garage's own selection of tools.

"The facilities we offer will help people get the job done better and more quickly than if they are trying to carry out the work on their driveway at home," said Clements. "And I am always on hand to give advice when it's wanted." Stan - who used a replica of the car from TV's Knight Rider to promote the launch "as it took the ability to do things for itself to new heights" - has been in the trade for 35 years. "I came up with the idea 20 years ago," he explained. "People who like working with cars want a place that's warm, dry and clean." And business is building already. "The response has been very positive, and with winter here we're expecting demand to be high," added Clements. Basic training courses are also being offered.

For further information on the facility, write to: The DIY Garage, Unit 4, Quarry Road, Northfield Industrial Estate, Aberdeen AB16 5UU. Alternatively, you can get in touch by Emailing thediygarage@btconnect.com or telephoning 01224 695999.