11 replies to this topic

[tomodan]

Hi

I’m new to VX ownership (lightening yellow no62) and am looking for recommendations for a specialist in Wiltshire. I do most of my own work but like to have a trusted specialist for stuff I can’t do at home. Initially I’m looking for a geo check but would like to find someone who does everything.

I’ve come across Neil Garner in Kemble but believe Neil is no longer involved in the business and wondered if anyone base used them since it changed hands? I think the guy running it now is called Ricardo?

Any recommendation appreciated!

[scw02102]

Back on Track (Guildford) is a drive but worth while.

I travel the 1.5 hours each way as they know what they are doing and well respected for the south of England lotus and VX ers.
Looked after my VX for the last 7 years plus.

[hairy]

I've used Neil Garner for many years, as far as I can tell its the same people working there just the owner emigrated to New Zealand I think.

[tomodan]

Thanks Moonlander that’s reassuring. I was wondering if it was a “sold the name” situation which could be hit or miss! I assume you have always been happy with their service and expertise? I’m probably being a bit over cautious but having had some amazing marque specialists with 911’s and M3’s in the past Im keen to pick a good one for the VX!

[hairy]

Yes they've always been very good - I'm on first name terms with them now. They have a lot of TVRs and Lotuses there.

[TheRealVXed]

People will probably argue the toss on this as there is a lot of love for BoT on this forum, however I have always used Plans Motorsport, which is also in Surrey, but in Dunsfold (where the TopGear test track is).  Always had great service from them and never had a problem with their work, and they are a great bunch of people.

 

Also I use Hoffmans in Henley-on-Thames who are a bit more expensive, but also very good.

Edited by TheRealVXed, 08 June 2020 - 09:43 PM.

[Baloo]

Plans Motorsport moved from Dunsfold quite a number of years ago. How do they compare against BoT. Prices, quality of work, etc. 

 

Thanks.

[Strugs]

Plans Motorsport moved from Dunsfold quite a number of years ago. How do they compare against BoT. Prices, quality of work, etc. 

 

Thanks.

 

The Plans guys still occasionally call BoT to ask for advice on VXs.. make of that what you will!  

[menright]

I am based in Swindon and was also looking for a local dealer that could work on the VXT. Was advised to check out Neil Garner as well as Bridge street garages Wootton Bassett.

 

[TheRealVXed]

 

Plans Motorsport moved from Dunsfold quite a number of years ago. How do they compare against BoT. Prices, quality of work, etc. 

 

Thanks.

 

The Plans guys still occasionally call BoT to ask for advice on VXs.. make of that what you will!  

 

 

I have always had very good service from them, and have never had any issues with the quality of their work or anything like that.  To be honest if they don't know about something I would rather they phoned for advice to be honest whether it's BoT or anywhere else.  Simply put, I used BoT once and personally, it wasn't for me.

 

I also haven't used Plans for a couple of years clearly  and the last couple of times I did I dropped my car at the owner's house so he could give me a lift home when they didn't have any courtesy car available so haven't been to the actual workshop for a while..

 

Prices are similar I think.

Edited by TheRealVXed, 04 February 2021 - 07:43 AM.

[Firthy]

My friend bought his S2 Exige from Plans (which was a Plans car). it only went back there once to get gearbox rebuilt (warranty)

Let’s just say the quality of the work that had been done on the car wasn’t great and a lot of it had to be redone.

 

The staff turnover is or was quite high so the service was very hit and miss.

 

Edited by Firthy, 04 February 2021 - 08:50 AM.

[Baloo]

My experience has generally been good at Plans (I agree with a lot of the comments above).