Closer look: Goh performing a check on a tyre at his workshop in George Town. — ZHAFARAN NASIB/The Star
GEORGE TOWN: With car owners eager to add a touch of shine to their vehicles for Chinese New Year, some car maintenance operators are now serving customers by appointment only.
WorldTech Auto Care manager Charles Ong said many customers were starting the New Year by not only cleaning their homes but also giving their cars extra shine and care.
“We are now serving customers by appointment to better manage the surge in demand, which has increased by about 50% since the start of the month.
“We are offering polishing services until Jan 20, after which we will focus exclusively on washing and waxing.
“Polishing can take anywhere from four hours to a full day, and with customers’ busy schedules leading up to the festival, many would leave their cars with us.
“Washing is much quicker, so we expect an increase in last-minute customers,” she said.
She also said the shop would close for two weeks after the peak period to give staff members a well-deserved festive break.
A tyre shop operator here reported a growing demand for additional services ahead of the festival, with cars spilling out onto the street outside his shop.
Goh Swee Hin (Komtar) Sdn Bhd manager Jacob Goh said their inspection would cover key areas such as brake pads, radiator coolant, battery condition, engine oil and the suspension system for customers preparing for long drives.
He said customers could do basic inspections at home and address necessary repairs promptly to avoid last-minute congestion.
“Engine oil should be replaced every 5,000 to 8,000km, while tyres should be rotated every 8,000km to prevent uneven wear.
“Tyres should not be older than four years from the date of manufacture, as older tyres may harden and risk cracking or bulging under pressure.
“We strongly encourage customers to check the treadwear of their tyres and ensure the radiator water levels are adequate before embarking on a long drive,” he said when met at his shop on Jalan Dr Lim Chwee Leong here.
Goh said customer numbers have surged since the end of last year, with the shop now averaging 70 customers daily, up from 45.“To manage the higher workload, we have extended our operating hours into the night, and workers are paid overtime to complete tasks,” he said.
