KCM Automotive

Hayden Taylor, of Snells Beach Autos, is moving his garage just north of Warkworth after 15 years in Mahurangi East. The new business, K C M Automotive will be operating out of Hayden’s property where he has been busy building a brand new full-service premises at 68 Kaipara Flats Road.

The new location will offer a more convenient service for residents west of Warkworth, as well as those working in town. It’s only three minutes from Hill Street, and Hayden has courtesy cars for customers who want to drop off their vehicle.

Hayden encourages drivers to regularly come in for at least a basic service.
“For $150 to $200 it also means there is a pair of eyes on your engine, to notice any issues.”

He says vehicle owners ought to have their transmission fluid done every couple of years to prevent common problems. “It’s cheap to get done, but it could be $3000 to repair if left unattended or even force you to write off the car.”

Twenty years ago, when Hayden left school, he told his Dad that he would like to have a break and do nothing for a while over the Christmas break. The next day, Hayden was informed he had a job at the local garage and he would start Monday. Hayden says his philosophy is to be up front and honest with his customers. “I was told by my dad never to compromise on integrity, and that has always stuck with me.”

Hayden takes the time to explain to customers the repairs that need to be made to their vehicle. Hayden has 3000 customers on his database and some of them still drive from Auckland and Dargaville for his service. Unlike some garages, Hayden doesn’t surprise his customers with a long, itemised bill after quoting for a basic job.

“We’ll always give customers a list at the end of what needs doing, or give them a call in the day if it’s serious.”
Hayden is shifting to the new premises on Kaipara Flats Road from October 1 and will be open Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm.