There was no question whether Bradford’s Drive True Automotive would stay open or not during the ongoing COVID-19 crisis; vehicles still require proper maintenance by a licensed mechanic.
Owners Amber & Tom Smith have been taking care of Bradford vehicles for almost 10 years. Their shop, located on Dissette Street, has a small reliable team of three mechanics working full time.
When COVID-19 hit the Smiths didn’t hesitate to remain open, as front-line workers still needed proper maintenance for their vehicles – but adjustments to operations within the shop were necessary.
“We’re offering contactless service all the way” asserts Amber. “We have a key drop off box which allows customers to park their car, drop the keys off and leave.”
While Drive True’s waiting room remains closed, only one customer at a time may enter the premises for payment purposes. Customers may also pay over the phone by credit card.
Once vehicles are in Drive True’s care, the real work begins!
“Our mechanics immediately start sanitizing inside of the car first for their safety,” explains Amber. “We use an industrial grade anti-bacterial (solution) used in hospitals.”
Commonly touched ‘hot spots’ being cleaned include seatbelts, door knobs, steering wheels, and door handles.
“Once that is completed, our mechanics work on the vehicles in separate garage bays,” said Amber, noting that social distancing between the mechanics is possible.
“We also sanitize all shared tools and equipment between the mechanics; they need to be safe too,” adds Amber. “The alignment tool is something everyone uses so that gets sanitized often.”
Customers should be prepared to allow an additional 30 minutes to one hour for sanitization, but there is no extra charge for this service.
“When the mechanics are done, we secure the customer’s key back in the drop box and the car gets sanitized again from the mechanic's use,” said Amber.
The Smiths added that deliveries are taking longer, such as car parts or tires.
“Patience is needed from our customers, as some of our suppliers are limited right now,” explains Amber.
“We didn’t have to shut down, didn’t have to lay off employees… we are fortunate enough to keep everything going.”
The Smiths and staff look forward to celebrating Drive True’s 10 year anniversary this September and are hoping COVID restrictions are lifted enough by then to have an open house.
