Black Cat Motors, Stratford-upon-Avon

I can heartily recommend Black Cat Motors ("The Greatest Workshop in the World")! Not only did they rescue me and my partner when my brakes seized (in my old Isuzu Bighorn); but, when carrying out its 100,000-mile service, last September (2011), they managed to increase the overall MPG from around 22 to 28, with a massive increase in power, at the same time... (which is as much a reflection on the previous poor service from my previous garage as it is on Black Cat, I suppose). With all the other work they've done, the car now drives better than it did when I imported it 50,000 miles and seven years ago...! I've now entrusted them with my (new to me) 2002 Punto: which they've given a typically thorough servicing (2012) -- remedying all the little niggles I found, as well as being happy to chat about the model's quirks, etc.. (They were also happy to order a gearbox filter and oil from Italy for me, letting me use their courtesy Jaguar S-type for free, while I had to wait for Fiat to deliver the blasted thing...!) They are extremely professional, thorough, friendly and helpful; and all the staff are incredibly knowledgeable... -- although special mention must go to John (the very young and gifted owner, with fantastic electrical skills), Rachel (whose customer service is second to none), and 68-year-young Binsy (the greatest mechanic I've ever encountered -- and who appears to know everything about every machine with wheels ever made...)! I should also mention the workshop's two (real) 'youngsters': Rhys and Dan -- who both undoubtedly share the same ethos as the other staff... -- the latter of whom happily spent ten minutes with me getting rid of an airlock in the Punto's heating system; and actually listening intently to the wisdom I'd gleaned from this forum guide: not letting me drive away until he'd sorted it. It's that sort of care and attention -- and not treating the customer like the idiot he believes himself to be... -- that keeps me and my other half going back.... Mention either the Isuzu or the Punto (or even our decrepit 1994 Renault Clio), when visiting, and you'll get greeted with a big smile... (I hope)! Labour doesn't come cheap, I'm afraid... -- but you gets what you pays for; and, to be honest, if my bills are anything to go by, they're either the most efficient team on the planet, or they are very generous with their time...! I honestly have no connection with Black Cat, apart from being a very happy customer of theirs. (But they really are that good...!)