Question 1

How do I book a service or repair?

Accepted Answer

You can book online using our booking form, call us on 07438 625647, or email info@boostgarage.co.uk. We confirm all appointments by phone or email within 2 hours during business hours.

Question 2

Do I need to book in advance?

Accepted Answer

We recommend booking in advance, especially for complex repairs, ECU remapping, or MOT tests. For smaller jobs we can often accommodate same-day or next-day appointments. Call us and we'll do our best.

Question 3

What are your opening hours?

Accepted Answer

We're open Monday to Friday 08:00–18:00 and Saturday 08:00–14:00. We're closed on Sundays and bank holidays.

Question 4

How long will my vehicle be in?

Accepted Answer

This varies by job. An MOT takes around 45 minutes. A full service typically takes 2–4 hours. More complex repairs like turbo replacement, timing chain, or DPF work may require a full day or sometimes an overnight. We always give you a realistic estimate when you book.

Question 5

Do you offer a courtesy car or drop-off service?

Accepted Answer

We don't currently operate a courtesy car scheme. However, we're based close to local bus routes and can often work around your schedule. Call us to discuss what works for you.

Question 6

Can I wait at the garage while my vehicle is worked on?

Accepted Answer

Yes, for shorter jobs like MOTs or diagnostics you're welcome to wait. We have a comfortable waiting area. For longer jobs, we recommend dropping off and collecting later.

Question 7

How much does a service cost?

Accepted Answer

Our interim service starts from £89.99 and a full service from £139.99 for most vehicles. Prices vary depending on make, model, and engine size. We always provide an exact quote before any work begins.

Question 8

Will I be charged for a diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

We charge a diagnostic fee only if we carry out a full computer scan or detailed inspection. We'll always tell you upfront if there's a diagnostic charge, and this is usually credited against the repair cost.

Question 9

What payment methods do you accept?

Accepted Answer

We accept cash, all major debit and credit cards. Payment is due on collection of your vehicle.

Question 10

Do you provide written quotes?

Accepted Answer

Yes. For any work over a simple part replacement, we provide a written quote either in person, by phone, or by email before work commences. You'll never be surprised by the bill.

Question 11

Do you offer any discounts?

Accepted Answer

We run regular promotional offers — check our website or ask when booking. We also offer competitive pricing for fleet vehicles and returning customers.

Question 12

What is the cost of an MOT at Boost Garage?

Accepted Answer

Our MOT tests are competitively priced. The maximum DVSA rate is £54.85. Call us or check our MOT page for current pricing and any promotional rates.

Question 13

What happens if my car fails its MOT?

Accepted Answer

We'll give you a detailed failure certificate explaining what needs to be fixed. If you'd like us to carry out the repairs, we'll quote immediately — and in many cases we can start the same day. If you prefer to take it elsewhere, that's absolutely fine.

Question 14

Can I drive my car after a failed MOT?

Accepted Answer

If your current MOT certificate has not expired, you can drive your vehicle to get it repaired. However, if the failure is for a dangerous defect, you should not drive the vehicle until it's repaired.

Question 15

How early can I book an MOT before it expires?

Accepted Answer

You can book your MOT up to a month before it expires without losing any time on your new certificate. We recommend booking at least 2 weeks before your expiry date.

Question 16

Do you do MOTs on all vehicle types?

Accepted Answer

We test Class 4 vehicles (cars and light vans up to 3,000kg). For motorcycles, heavy vehicles, or minibuses, please call us to check availability.

Question 17

Why is my engine warning light on?

Accepted Answer

An engine warning light (MIL) can indicate anything from a faulty sensor to a serious engine issue. We recommend getting it checked promptly. We use professional diagnostic equipment to read fault codes and identify the root cause accurately.

Question 18

Do you work on all makes and models?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We work on all makes and models — domestic and European cars, SUVs, and light commercial vehicles. We have specialist knowledge in BMW, Audi, VW, Mercedes, Ford, Vauxhall, and more.

Question 19

How accurate is your diagnostic equipment?

Accepted Answer

We use professional-grade multi-brand diagnostic tools equivalent to dealer-level systems. This means we can read manufacturer-specific fault codes and live data, not just generic OBD codes.

Question 20

What is ECU remapping?

Accepted Answer

ECU remapping (or chipping) is the process of modifying the software in your car's Engine Control Unit to optimise performance, power, and fuel efficiency. We tune the factory settings which are often conservative for emissions/fuel economy compromises.

Question 21

Is ECU remapping legal?

Accepted Answer

Yes, ECU remapping is legal in the UK. However, you must inform your insurance company as it constitutes a modification. Failure to do so could invalidate your policy.

Question 22

Will remapping affect my warranty?

Accepted Answer

On vehicles still under manufacturer warranty, remapping may affect the warranty. We recommend checking with your manufacturer or dealer first. For out-of-warranty vehicles, it's not an issue.

Question 23

Can my ECU remap be reversed?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We always store your original ECU map before making any changes. If you ever want to revert to the factory settings, we can do that.

Question 24

What is a DPF and why does it block?

Accepted Answer

A Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) traps soot from diesel exhaust. It normally burns off this soot during longer motorway drives (regeneration). Short urban journeys prevent regeneration, causing the filter to block over time.

Question 25

Can a blocked DPF be cleaned rather than replaced?

Accepted Answer

Often yes. We use professional DPF cleaning solutions and forced regeneration techniques to restore a blocked DPF. Replacement is only recommended when the filter is physically damaged or too heavily contaminated. Cleaning typically costs a fraction of replacement.

Question 26

My DPF warning light is on — can I still drive?

Accepted Answer

If the DPF warning light is on, you should avoid short journeys and try a sustained motorway drive (20+ minutes at 60+ mph) to trigger active regeneration. If the light remains on, book in promptly. Continued driving with a blocked DPF can cause expensive engine damage.

Common Questions Answered

Booking & General

Pricing & Payments

MOT

Engine & Diagnostics

ECU Remapping

DPF & Emissions

Still have a question?