Halfords expands its mobile car servicing fleet as home fitting demand soars

That growth has spurred the fleet expansion from 105 to at least 125 by the end of April and add two new hubs to its network. Eighty more mechanics are also being recruited. While the bulk of the home fitting service’s jobs involve tyres, mechanics are also helping customers with battery replacements, diagnostic tests, oil changes, and windscreen chip repairs.

Demand for replacement batteries has been particularly high as drivers fear starting problems as vehicles stand idle for longer.

Demand for battery jobs jumped by more than 150 percent last May as lockdown eased.

Since November home-based assistance has grown again with an 18 percent increase in December.

Recent research by Halfords shows car owners don’t know much about car battery maintenance.

Some 20 percent of motorists have never had their battery checked, despite regular tests being recommended.

A majority of us don’t know how to change a car battery, and most 25-34-year-olds don’t have a clue.

Reassurance is what motorists are seeking when they opt for a home check, believes Karl Baker, the head of Halfords Mobile Expert.

“Over the past year there has been a clear shift in people’s attitudes to car maintenance, with more preferring this to be carried out at home or at work rather than visiting a garage or store,” he says.

“This will continue to be reinforced as many cars will be sat parked for an extended period as the country lives through the current lockdown. By introducing a contact-free fittings and repairs service, we are giving customers the option of still being able to drive when they really need to, while also protecting their safety. Our technicians stand ready to reach motorists that want to keep their cars maintained during the period.”

Halfords Mobile Expert vans can change tyres, replace and cold start batteries, carry out diagnostic checks, change engine oil and filter, top up antifreeze and service windscreens.

By parking their car in an accessible place and placing keys and locking wheel nuts in a safe location, customers can give technicians access to their car without contact, who then carry out their job while taking hygiene precautions such as wearing PPE and arriving in a cleaned van.

For appointments visit Halfords’ Mobile Expert Vans click here.