Do I need to hand over my vehicle keys to the driver for collection and drop-off?

When utilising a collection and drop-off service for your vehicle's service or repairs through Garage.co.uk, handing over your vehicle keys to the driver at the time of collection is a necessary step. This procedure is crucial for several reasons:

Reasons for Handing Over Keys

• Vehicle Movement: The garage needs the keys to move your vehicle safely from the collection point to the garage and then back to the drop-off location. This includes loading and unloading your vehicle if a transporter is used.
• Service Requirements: To carry out the agreed-upon work, the mechanics need access to your vehicle. This ranges from basic operations, such as moving the vehicle into the service bay, to needing the ignition on for diagnostic tests.

Security and Trust

• Professional Service: Garages offering collection and drop-off services understand the importance of trust and security in handling your vehicle and keys. They ensure that keys are safely managed throughout the service process, with protocols in place to secure them when not in use.
• Identification: Drivers or garage representatives should clearly identify themselves upon collection, providing peace of mind that you are handing your keys over to a trusted individual.

Preparing for Collection

• Key Handover: It's advised to hand over only the vehicle key or fob necessary for driving. If your keyring includes other keys or accessories, consider removing them beforehand.
• Clear Instructions: If there are any specifics about your vehicle that the driver needs to be aware of, such as an immobiliser or a tricky ignition, make sure to inform them at the time of key handover.

In summary, providing your vehicle keys to the garage’s driver is an essential part of using a collection and drop-off service. It facilitates not only the physical movement of your vehicle to and from the garage but also ensures that the garage can perform the required work efficiently. Trust and security are paramount, with garages taking considerable care to respect and protect your property throughout the service process.