Trusted mechanical repairs in Cape Town

As a leading automotive service and repair chain in Cape Town, Kohler Motors is your trusted partner for any mechanical repair task. Our experienced technicians ensure your car runs smoothly and safely.

We offer gearbox and transmission repairs, clutch replacements, suspension fixes, starter motor replacements, wheel bearing repairs, alternator services, turbo-charger maintenance, fuel injector cleaning, and steering system repairs. Come in to discuss if your engine or gearbox has failed and needs replacement. We offer cost-effective alternatives for overhauling your engine with the same guarantee as an agent's replacement.

Our expert technicians will diagnose and repair any problem, getting you back on the road quickly and safely. Trust Kohler Motors for reliable and efficient automotive repairs.

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Count on Kohler Motors for all mechanical repairs

Our expert technicians can repair any critical components of your vehicle. With the increasing cost of new cars, it is often more cost-effective to repair rather than replace your vehicle.

Kohler Motors’ offers an extensive range of repairs to key areas of your vehicle, including the following:

Gearbox (Transmission)

This set of components works in conjunction with the engine and is essential in getting your car to move forward or backwards. Most commonly, the transmission connects to the crankshaft of the engine via a flywheel or clutch or fluid coupling. The most common transmission types are: Manual, Automatic, Semi-Automatic and Continuously Variable (CVT) and dual clutch transmission (DCT)..

The most common issues that occur with transmissions are the following:

A noisy transmission in neutral
Slipping or jumping when you change gears
Grinding or shaking gear change
A burning smell
Fluid leaking
Engine noise
Thick or cloudy transmission fluid
Failed needle roller bearings (automatic transmission)

Should you experience any of the above, don’t hesitate to book your vehicle in to Kohler Motors for a check-up.

Clutch

Your clutch is used constantly while you drive and is therefore subject to wear and tear.

Unfortunately, we are all sometimes guilty of ‘riding the clutch’, instead of doing quick gear changes and other bad habits that add to the stress on the clutch. The longer the clutch is kept pressed down, the more wear occurs on it, which shortens the life of the component. Good driving habits can greatly improve the lifespan of your clutch.

The most common issues that can occur with the clutch are the following:

Slipping clutch – When the pressure plate and the clutch disk wears down, it can cause the clutch to ‘slip’, causing a momentary loss of acceleration (engine racing).
Clutch chatter
Grinding when shifting gears
Difficulty getting in and out of gear
Leaking fluid
A hard clutch pedal
Clutch stays on the floor

If your car is displaying any of the above symptoms, book it in to your nearest Kohler Motors branch immediately. The sooner we get to the bottom of the issue, the better!

Suspension

The suspension system consist of several components, including the chassis. The six components of most concern are the springs (supports the vehicle’s weight and absorbs excess energy from road shocks), the shock absorbers and the struts. The anti-sway bar (that shifts the movement of the wheels and stabilizes the vehicle), the ball joints, and the spindle are also important.

Apart from providing a comfortable ride, the suspension also improves vehicle safety and performance. The suspension can be easily over-looked because of the ‘out of sight, out of mind’ factor. However, it can take a beating, especially by potholed streets or if you routinely carry heavy loads.

Common issues with suspension can include:

A rough or uncomfortable ride
Car nosediving when you brake
Car pulling to one side when driving
Drifting or pulling during turns

If your suspension is displaying any of the above symptoms, book it in and our expert technicians will investigate.

Starter Motor

The starter is an electric motor that turns the engine over. In the early days of motoring, people had to use a crank handle to do the same task. Now the starter does it for you. The two components most commonly prone to fail in starters are the solenoid or the starter motor itself. Like most components, they are subject to wear and tear, and will eventually fail.

These are the most common indicators that something is faulty when you try to start your car:

Whirring or buzzing sound
Loud click
Harsh grinding noise
No sound at all

If you hear any of these (or don’t hear anything at all) when attempting to start your car, book it in at your nearest Kohler Motors branch immediately.

Wheel Bearings

The wheel bearing allows the wheel to rotate smoothly and without friction. Most wheel bearings use tapered roller bearings consisting of a set of spherical steel balls held in line by a metal track called a race, typically sealed up with high-temperature grease. Roller bearings are generally used on the driven wheels of a vehicle, while tapered bearings are predominantly used on the non-driven wheels.

Wheel bearings are engineered to last, but they will eventually lose their lubricity, wear out, and will need to be replaced. Any of these symptoms are signs that a wheel bearing replacement may be due:

Does your car feel loose?
Is it pulling to one side?
Is the steering vibrating?
Are your tyres wearing unevenly?

If you are experiencing any of the above with your car, the best course of action is to book it in with Kohler Motors and have our experienced technicians investigate.

Alternators

The alternator works in conjunction with your battery to ensure your car has the electrical power it needs. When your car is mobile it actually serves to charge the battery and keep your electrical system functioning.

When your alternator is faulty and failing to do its job properly, any of these symptoms can manifest themselves:

Dim lights
Alternator warning light comes on
Battery is weak or dead
Odd sounds or weird smells
Several electrical malfunctions at once

If you’re not sure of the source of the problem, don’t stress! The experts at Kohler Motors will find the fault and fix it for you. Just book your car in and let us take it from there.

Turbo-chargers

Turbo-chargers are becoming more and more common in vehicles as manufacturers push for fuel efficiency without losing too much power. The turbo-charger’s function is to increase the amount of power you can extract from a smaller-sized engine. In some cases, you can get a 1.0 litre turbo with the same power as a 1,6 litre naturally aspirated engine!

Very basically, the turbo works by forcing more air into the mix of fuel and oxygen, providing an attendant boost in power. They also improve fuel efficiency as they require less fuel for the same amount of power. If you drive a turbo-charged car, it’s even more important that you change our oil and filters regularly as per manufacturer specifications.

These are the signs that your turbo could be experiencing issues:

‘Check engine’ warning light comes on.
Boost gauge – if the amount of boost you used to get has dropped off, get it checked.
Smoking exhaust
Power levels have dropped off
Loud whining noise

The above might not be your turbo but if any of these occurs, the best course of action is to book it in with Kohler Motors and let our experts get under the hood and see what’s what.

Injectors

The fuel injector is the part that’s responsible for ensuring the fuel is injected into the engine in precisely the right amounts. This ensures you don’t use more fuel than you need as you accelerate or slow down. Because it has to be precise, it is controlled by a computer chip via signals from the ECU.

A faulty fuel injector can cause the vehicle to misfire, to lose power and acceleration, and even to a reduction in fuel efficiency. In severe cases, it can cause stalling or prevent the engine from running at all. If the fuel injector sprays too much fuel into the cylinder, this will create a surge in the engine and acceleration will be slower. If an insufficient amount of fuel needed for combustion is supplied, it will place more demand on the injector to supply it with sufficient fuel, which can severely affect your fuel efficiency.

If you notice any of the above symptoms, don’t hesitate to book a check-up at your nearest Kohler Motors branch. Our technicians will quickly get to the bottom of the problem.

Steering

The steering system is far more than just the wheel. It is, in fact, an entire system – comprising the wheel you have your hands on, to the steering column and then the steering gear. The two most common forms of steering are rack and pinion and recirculating-ball steering, the latter being most commonly found on SUVs and trucks. You also get power steering – hydraulic and electric.

The common warning signs that something is wrong:

Steering wheel vibration when driving – this is the most common steering issue but it could also be your braking system. A Kohler Motors technician will be able to determine which is the source of the problem.
A stiff wheel (if your system is electric)
Steering wheel off-centre
Squealing noise
Uncontrollable steering

Because everything is connected to everything else, the above problems may not be your steering. Kohler Motors’ technicians will accurately determine the source of the problem and get it fixed properly and safely.

Quality car maintenance & repair experts

Kohler Motors is a leading light in the automotive maintenance and repair industry, with a reputation for professionalism and reliability that we’ve worked hard to establish. You can trust us to diagnose your vehicle’s issues or if you simply need a service, major, condition-based or minor, we’re more than happy to assist. Click below to find out more!

Bosch-trained technicians

Our technicians are trained according to standards set by Bosch Global and are qualified to work on all types of vehicles – from entry-level to luxury. They receive regular training refreshers to keep up with developments in the auto world.

All vehicle makes & models

Every Kohler Motors technician is qualified to work on all vehicle makes and models, including major brands such as VW, BMW, Mercedes, Toyota, Isuzu, Hyundai, Kia, and Renault. Our diagnostics database is constantly updated with schematics for tens of thousands of models.

Genuine replacement parts

We use only the highest-quality replacement parts. Genuine Bosch or OEM parts are selected wherever possible, as well as RMI-approved parts (if a Bosch part is not readily available). Bosch manufactures an extensive range of quality parts for vehicles, from wipers to headlamps to brake systems. All Bosch parts come with a 12-month warranty.

Our Guarantees

All parts come with a 12-month warranty. Batteries come with a 2-year warranty. Our work is also backed by a 6-month/10,000km guarantee for labour.

Book your car repair at Kohler Motors

We are standing by to take your car service or repair booking! Our experienced staff will ensure your car performs at optimal levels while you wait (and enjoy complimentary coffee on us) or our staff will arrange to drop you off at your home or office and collect you when your vehicle is ready.
Fill out the form below to make your booking.

Select a Branch:(Required)

Claremont
Address: 198 Iman Haron Street Claremont, 7708
Manager: Deon Adriaans 067 859 3276
Office: Alyssa Hermans 063 096 8159
Telephone: 021 674 4646
Email: claremont@kohlerauto.co.za

N1 City
Address: N1 Motor City, Cnr Vasco Blvd and Frans Conradie Drive, Goodwood, 7460
Manager: Jonathan Mitchell 074 576 7781
Telephone:021 569 3795
Email: n1city@kohlerauto.co.za

Parow
Address: 84 Voortrekker Road Parow, 7500
Manager: John Hendricks 084 941 3535
Telephone:021 930 4666
Email: parow@kohlerauto.co.za

Parklands
Address: N1 Motor City, Cnr Vasco Blvd and Frans Conradie Drive, Goodwood, 7460
Manager: Jonathan Mitchell 074 576 7781
Telephone:021 569 3731
Email: parklands@kohlerauto.co.za

Tokai
Address:268 Main Road Tokai
Manager: Candice Meiring 083 423 4916
Office: Michaela Engel 021 510 7263
Email: tokai@kohlerauto.co.za

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After submitting your ‘Get a Service Estimate’ enquiry, you can expect an email with the estimate from us within one hour. If your request is made after hours, your estimate will be emailed to you during the morning of the following working day. Select your preference if you would like us to call you or email your estimate.

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Our auto service success stories

We like to think we are the leading auto service and vehicle repair chain in Cape Town but don’t take our word for it! The below is a sampling of actual feedback from our customers. We work hard to always deliver a 5-star experience, no matter how big or small the job may be.

The Service advisor Kyleigh is incredibly helpful & responds quickly. Even the mechanic that worked on my car was there to meet with me and explained everything. Recommend them if you want to have peace of mind that the job will be done well with good customer service. Will definitely be taking my car back to them in the future.

Craig Gordon

Very happy with the service. Extremely friendly and communicative staff. They did a thorough inspective of an electrical fault (exposed wires causing warning lights to flash) and manage to fix the problem. Other places I took my car for the same issue weren't able to find the problems and charged all sorts for "other" issues.

Philip Winfield

Fantastic customer service. From the lady who did the car check when I booked in, to the gentleman who offered me a ride home (without me asking for one), to the lady explaining that we didn't do an immediately payment so we can't get the car. I never felt like I should argue that I wanted my car as they had our money, which is usually the norm. I was treated with the respect at the highest level.

Fagma Bassier

Had a clutch repair plus major service done here recently. Everybody was professional at all times. All repairs were properly quoted and discussed beforehand and any delays were mentioned immediately. I can highly recommend their service based on what I have experienced and I will definitely make use of them again should it be necessary.

Jacques Kirchner

How to find us across Cape Town

There are six equally well-equipped and expertly-managed Kohler Motors branches in the greater Cape Town area. The map below shows where they are so you can find the one nearest to you. Make a booking today and bring your car or truck up to optimal levels of performance!

Claremont

Parow

Tokai

Parklands

N1 City

Strand

About Kohler Motors

Since our launch in 2000, Kohler Motors has since grown to six workshops around the greater Cape Town area.

As part of the global Bosch Car Service network, we are committed to maintaining a very high standard in auto repair and servicing. That’s reflected in every aspect of our operation – from front line and admin staff to our expert technicians.

An unwavering commitment to customer service remains our central focus; your satisfaction is what matters most to us!

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you guarantee your work?

Yes, we do! You get a 12-month warranty on genuine Bosch parts, and a 6-month or 10,000km guarantee on our workmanship. Batteries come with a 2-year warranty.

Can I book my service online?

Yes, it is a quick and easy process. Just click on ‘Book a Service’

What is the range of services you offer?

We offer three services: the CBS or Condition Based Service, the Major (Handbook Service), and an Oil Change Service. Furthermore, we are experts in fault finding of electronic, electrical, and mechanical car components and repair all automotive faults.

We will never start a repair before our written quote is authorized by the customer.

Is my car insured while it’s at your workshop?

Yes, all cars on our premises are covered by our insurance. We will also pay the insurance excess. We are not able to provide transport while your car is being repaired.

Do you offer pick-ups and drop-offs?

Yes, we are more than happy to drop you off and pick you up when your car is ready, within a certain kilometre limit.

Is it worth repairing my car?

We all love our cars, and properly maintained, cars can last for many years. But there will come a time when it is more economical to trade your car in for a new or second-hand vehicle. This time is normally there, when the repair cost to repair your car comes close to the cost a vehicle like yours is selling on the secondhand market.

If you have to spend, for instance, R 30,000 to get your vehicle into good shape and you can buy a similar, well-maintained car for R35,000, its time to let your old car go. However, if you maintain your car well during your ownership you will not incur such high repair costs. The engines and gearboxes of most cars last, when properly maintained, over 300,000km.

When you decide to buy another used vehicle, bring it into one of our workshops and we will happily check whether the car is in good working order. We charge one hour’s labour for this service for which we will credit you on the first service in our workshop on your new car.

Why are Bosch car parts so highly recommended by car manufacturers?

Quality and Reliability: Bosch has a long-standing reputation for producing high-quality and reliable parts. Their components are engineered and factory-tested to ensure they meet stringent performance standards.
Innovation and Technology: Bosch has been at the forefront of automotive innovation for over a century. They have pioneered many technologies that are now industry standards, such as electronic fuel injection systems.
Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM): Bosch is a trusted OEM for many car manufacturers. This means that Bosch parts are often the same as the original parts installed in vehicles at the factory, ensuring compatibility and performance.

Global Presence and Testing: Bosch operates multiple proving grounds worldwide, allowing them to test their parts under various conditions to ensure durability and performance.
Comprehensive Range: Bosch offers a wide range of automotive parts, from spark plugs to braking systems, making them a one-stop shop for many car manufacturers.
These factors contribute to Bosch’s strong reputation and the widespread recommendation of their parts by car manufacturers.
Is there a specific Bosch part you’re interested in learning more about?

OEM and RMI approved parts.

When we cannot obtain Boch parts for our repairs, we often purchase the correct parts directly from the OEMs. Unfortunately, these parts come with a price and often must be shipped from overseas. That’s why we source parts from local and imported after-market manufacturers. However, we only deal with RMI-approved part distributors to ensure that the parts we install are guaranteed by the supplier.

What type of engine oils do you use for my car?

Motor oils are graded by four different institutions, each focusing on different aspects of oil suitability for modern cars.
SAE: Focuses on viscosity and temperature performance.
API: Focuses on overall performance and engine protection.
ACEA: Focuses on European standards, emissions, and specific engine requirements.
ILSAC: Focuses on fuel economy, emissions on modern engines.

Therefore, selecting the correct viscosity of oils does not mean the oil is suitable for your car. Specifications testing engine protection, emission requirements, specific engine requirements and suitability for catalytic converters must be taken into consideration.

Kohler Motors operates with data provided by ESI {tronic} and AutoManage. AutoManage provides service details for 95% of cars on South African roads, using data received from car manufacturers and the oil companies. Rest assured; with us, your engine gets the correct oil, the oil specified for your car.

I am not happy with Kohler Motors, where can I complain and request action?

If you’re unhappy with your car repaired or serviced with us, you have a few options to address the issue:

·      Complaint to us: Start by discussing the problem directly with one of our directors. Sometimes, issues can be resolved through direct communication.
·      Robert Bosch Head office
Kohler Motors is a franchise of Robert Bosch (Pty)LTD, and they are actively involved in promoting the franchise and ensure that franchisees adhere to a strict code of conduct. Any complaints can be directly reported to the regional head-office in Cape Town.
·      Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI): If the issue is not resolved, you can approach the RMI. They offer a mediation process to help resolve disputes between consumers and RMI-accredited service providers. You can download the complaint referral form from their website and submit it with all supporting evidence. We will adhere to any recommendation from the RMI.
·      Motor Industry Ombudsman of South Africa (MIOSA): If you are still not satisfied, you can contact MIOSA. They manage consumer complaints through a process of adjudication. You can submit a complaint online, via email. We will adhere to any ruling from the MOSA.
·      If you still have not resolved the issue you can lodge a claim with the small claims court.
The Small Claims Court in South Africa is designed to resolve civil disputes quickly and affordably, without the need for a lawyer. Here are some key points:
Claim Limit: You can claim up to R20,000
No Lawyers Needed: You represent yourself in the Small Claims Court.
Languages: All official languages can be used
Steps to Follow:
Contact us (Opposing Party): Try to resolve the issue directly.
Write a Letter of Demand: If unresolved, send a letter of demand to us, giving us 14 days to settle the claim.
Visit the Clerk of the Court: If the claim is not settled, go to the Small Claims Court with your letter of demand and any supporting documents.
Summons: The clerk will help you prepare a summons to be delivered to Kohler Motors.
Court Date: Attend the court hearing with proof that the summons was delivered.
For more detailed information, you can visit the official Small Claims Court website.

What are the symptoms of a broken turbo charger?

When your car’s turbocharger is broken, several symptoms may arise. Here are the key signs to look out for:

Loss of Power: A failing turbocharger leads to reduced engine performance and acceleration. Initially, you might notice a small power loss, but a completely blown turbo results in a significant drop in power.
Burning/Leaking Oil: A worn turbo can develop cracks or damaged gaskets, causing oil leaks. This oil may be burned, leading to excessive smoke from the exhaust.
Excessive Exhaust Smoke: More oil in the exhaust system results in grey or blue smoke. Normal exhaust fumes don’t usually have colour, so this change indicates a potential turbo issue.
Change in Sound: While some noise during turbo operation is normal, any humming or rattling sounds could signal a problem with the turbocharger.

If you experience any of these signs, book your car for a turbo checkup into a Kohler Motors branch to inspect the problem. Remember turbos can be repaired at a fraction of the price of a new one. The sooner you attend to the problem, the less will be the damage on your turbo.

Some tips to keep your turbo going:
Change your engine oil regularly using an oil specified by the manufacturer.

Don’t idle aggressively and don’t shut down your engine abruptly as oil can only circulate when the engine is running and the turbo makes up to 100000 refs per minute and gets damaged when oil is not circulating.

What is your your labour rate?

Our labour rate is R700 per hour excl VAT.

• Major service labour between 1.5 and 2.6 hrs., depending mainly on the engine capacity of the vehicle and the parts to be replaced at a particular service. Extra charges for parts to be replaced are not listed on the service schedule.

• Diagnostic electronic test: 1 hr. labour

• Airconditioning service with re-gas: 1 hr. labour, but the extra cost for air conditioning gas and consumables like antibacterial spray, air conditioning oil, and diagnostic dye.

Is there a guarantee for friction materials like brake pads, brake linings and clutch plates?

The guarantees for friction materials like clutches, brake pads, brake discs, brake shoes and clutch plates, are the same as on other parts except that wear and tear (such on pads, discs, linings) reduction of the thickness of the friction part is not included.

The proper installation and maintenance play a crucial role in the longevity and performance of these components. We guarantee the proper installation and that the parts have no manufacturing defects.

Do you work with Fleet-Management and Warranty Insurance companies?

We are working with the following Fleet management companies:

ABSA Fleet Management
NedFleed Management
Standard Bank Fleet Management
Wesbank Fleet Management
RCS Credit Card
RT46 Government Motor Transport & SAPS

And the following warranty insurance companies:

If you deal with a warranty insurance company or fleet Management provider, please let us know, and we will get listed with your deal partner.

Can I buy my own parts and you install them?

We do not install parts brought by our customers for the following reasons:

In case of a part failure, it is very difficult to prove whether the part was faultily supplied, or incorrectly fitted.
Because of our purchasing power, we have a better chance of replacing a failed part with our supplier.
Generally, it does not pay the customer to buy his own parts, because Kohler Motors buys parts at wholesale prices.
In case of a customer claim we must pay the full retail price back to the customer, but cannot claim VAT, because the customer cannot produce a VAT invoice in our company’s name.

We have very generous guarantee conditions on parts and labour (6 months or 10,000km, and for Bosch parts, 12 months with unlimited kms). This can only be granted if the parts are sourced by us.

Can you order my parts and I will get them installed when they arrive?

Why we cannot buy parts for a customer vehicle, when the car is not in our workshop.

Deposits are required by us when a part must be bought for a repair and the car does not remain in our workshop, the customer is requested to pay the full cost price of the part. The reason for this:

Parts supplied by agents are often not returnable.
Customer may not return for the repair.

Deposits may also be requested if the customer needs an expensive repair for his car, and the repair cost comes close to the value of the vehicle. This also applies for cars remaining in our workshop.

In the event of a prepayment or deposit being made, we provide a receipt, which details the value of the payment made and the exact nature of the product and/or services that this payment relates to. The deposit can only be returned to the customer if we are unable to source the part.