What Is an Approved Garage Network?
FixMyCar discusses the ins and outs of approved networks.
Ellie Dyer-Brown
Tuesday September 02 2025
3 min read
An approved garage network is a group of vetted repair centres that meet the high standards set by a backing organisation or a trading standards body. These networks take the guesswork out of choosing a garage by providing drivers with guaranteed quality repairs, excellent customer service and transparent pricing.
How do approved garage networks work?
Garages are vetted based on strict criteria to ensure each member meets the standards of the backing organisation.
The requirements will often include:
Technician qualifications
Customer service
Price transparency
Premises size and/or suitability
Most networks undergo annual audits to verify the ongoing fulfilment of the outlined criteria, and some also conduct spot checks.
The commitment to high standards exhibited by approved networks allows drivers to book with confidence, knowing their cars are in good hands.
Types of approved garage networks
Motoring organisations: Two of the most prominent organisations with approved garage networks are the RAC and AA.
Insurance providers: Most car insurance companies have their own approved repair networks to support the claims process for policyholders.
Independent directories: Other platforms, including FixMyCar, have online directories where garages are vetted to maintain high standards, and customers can leave reviews.
What are the benefits of using an approved garage network?
Using an approved garage network is one of the best ways to ensure your peace of mind when your car needs to be repaired. Here are all the benefits.
Quality repairs: Repairs will be completed to a high standard using the correct parts.
Warranty: You’ll often receive a guarantee on the parts and repair.
Genuine parts: Approved garages use Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) or equivalent quality parts, ensuring a perfect fit and a lasting repair.
Skilled technicians: Mechanics are highly trained and expert at diagnosing a range of issues.
Transparent pricing: A clear pricing policy will be in place, with upfront quotes and detailed invoices.
Clear complaints procedure: Most approved networks have a complaints procedure and require members to join a dispute resolution body, such as The Motor Ombudsman.
Extra services: Many approved repairers offer collection and delivery services, as well as courtesy cars.
Introducing FixRated
FixRated is FixMyCar’s approved garage network, created to give drivers complete confidence when booking repairs.
Every FixRated garage is guaranteed to have:
A four-star rating or above on Trustpilot or FixMyCar
The Motor Ombudsman accreditation
A 12-month warranty on all repairs and parts, unless otherwise specified
A comfortable reception and waiting area
Adequate parking and easy access
Collection and delivery services
And, just as importantly, FixRated garages are committed to clear, friendly communication, so you’ll always feel looked after.
How can I tell if a garage is FixRated?
Look out for the blue FixRated tick on garage profiles!
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Ellie is FixMyCar's Content Manager. She has over three years of experience writing about cars and regularly collaborates with automotive experts to provide trustworthy advice for drivers that is easy understand. Her work has been featured in Yahoo! Finance, iNews, The Daily Express and The Sun. She has a BA in English literature and an MA in creative writing from Durham University. Outside of work, Ellie follows F1 and eagerly awaits Ferrari's next era of dominance in the sport. She drives a Suzuki Swift.