About Our Business
The business was founded in October 1995 by Peter carrying out restoration and repair of older models of Volvo cars such as the 1800S and 120 at Edolphs Farm in a one car workshop, starting with a box of tools, four axle stands and a timing light! Peter’s experience with Volvos goes back to having a part time job in 1967 at the Reigate Volvo Dealer, Lesbourne Garage ending up back there as a full time technician ten years later having worked in between at two British Leyland Dealers and a period being self-employed.
Before long it became abundantly clear that people wanted their newer models of Volvo cars servicing and repairing, a significant number of new customers being referrals from existing customers.
In 1997 the business moved to Charlwood Place at John Lory’s Farm where we are now. With the increase of business in newer models of Volvo cars, changes had to be made. So with the addition of added skills and equipment I took the decision to do a lot less restoration work on the older cars and concentrate on servicing and repairs, updating our image to Charlwood Automotive in 2015 as we decided to specialise in Minis as well as Volvo cars. The workshop was upgraded in 2018 adding an MOT and tyre bay along with a rebuild of the reception office.
We have the Volvo VIDA diagnostic system, essentially the same as Volvo Dealers, which gives us access to all aspects of vehicle information and diagnostics that a lot of the off the shelf hand held diagnostic devices cannot do.
Our staff consists of two highly trained technicians, Joe and Guy working in our well equipped workshop with Jennifer in the office.
If you contact us by telephone you will find Jennifer very helpful whether your query is about parts, servicing, or general enquiries.