The workshop, where lubes help keep local customers happy

"People seem happy to arrive a little early and wait for their cars," says the workshop's office manager Carol Elboz. "Some say it's more peaceful here than home."

The reception area's shiny wooden floors lead to tall glass windows that overlook the workshop's interior with its seven bays. "Nothing's hidden," Carol says. "Our customers can watch their cars being worked on and see the care that's being taken."

George Vergotis, owner of Blackheath Automotive Services, and his team of four mechanics like it that way. They pride themselves on their service and cut no corners in satisfying customers.

Cementing a reputation

And it's Caltex lubes products, George believes, that help to cement that reputation and ensure serviced vehicles leave the premises ready to run well.

The workshop uses 20 Caltex products ranging from Havoline Premium Plus petrol engine oil to Easyshift transmission fluid. Oil consumption alone is around 1,500 litres a month.

"We've been using only Caltex products for the past four years and we're very happy with them," George says. "We've had good reports about their quality and no issues with cars burning oil ñ which was happening before we made the change to Caltex."

The workshop, rebuilt from scratch in 2005, boasts up-to-the-minute diagnostic and mechanical servicing equipment. It's environmentally conscious too, with waste materials recycled and tank water used for complimentary car washes given to all cars booked in for servicing.

Lubes Manager at Caltex's Penrith Depot, Jim Jordan, supplied oil installations at the time of the workshop's rebuild. These consist of overhead gantries with three grades of engine oil, compressed air, coolant and water ñ all digitally dispensed. Jim has been liaising with George and supplying him with Caltex lubes products ever since. He admires the commitment the business has to its customers.

It's a mutually satisfying relationship. "Not only are we happy with Caltex products but the service Jim provides us is outstanding," says George. "He always goes out of his way to ensure we're looked after."

George and most of his team have lived in the Blue Mountains area for decades and understand the importance of quality maintenance for vehicles that travel long distances and handle steep terrain. Holiday periods are particularly busy for the facility located in Blackheath's picturesque heart, but it is loyal, local customers who ensure business remains brisk throughout the year.

The auto facility is, in turn, a significant supporter of its local community. For example it's a major sponsor of Blackheath Public School's biannual billycart derby, providing prizes and show bags for each student.

At the most recent event, Jim provided Caltex bags which Blackheath Automotive Services filled with show bag fare, including Havoline stickers.

"It's a pleasure to support our clients and their customer base," says Jim, "whether it's through our Caltex recognised products and services, or in smaller, different ways."

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