Central Garages

Business Details

50+ Years

experience

Your Trusted Auto Dealers in Devon

Established in 1954, Central Garages has remained a family-run business dedicated to providing exceptional customer service in vehicle sales, servicing, and repairs. Our history spans over six decades of adapting to industry changes while maintaining core values of quality and value for money. We pioneered the Mazda franchise in the region and transitioned to specialize in premium used cars, supported by experienced technicians and state-of-the-art facilities. Our commitment to transparency is reflected in our FCA-authorised credit broking services and comprehensive warranties. With two branches in Torquay and Brixham, we combine local expertise with nationwide service standards. Our Fast Fit centre offers competitive pricing on tyres, batteries, and exhausts, backed by a legacy of trust built through generations.

We prioritise customer satisfaction through flexible financing options, courtesy cars, and a 'while you wait' service for MOTs and minor repairs. Our team's technical expertise, honed through decades as former MG Rover dealers, ensures every vehicle meets rigorous safety and performance standards. We continually reinvest in infrastructure, including purpose-built workshops and showrooms, to enhance client experience. Looking ahead, we remain committed to evolving with customer needs while preserving the personal touch that defines our family heritage.

Services

Used Car Sales Vehicle Servicing MOT Testing Body Repairs Fast Fit Services Parts Supply Credit Broking Collect & Deliver Courtesy Cars Warranty Claims

Details

Year established: 1954

Highlights and features

We offer 60 years of family-run automotive expertise with transparent pricing
Our FCA-authorised credit broking provides tailored financing solutions
Fast Fit service delivers competitive pricing on essential vehicle maintenance
Experienced technicians maintain manufacturer-specific technical knowledge
Two purpose-built facilities with nationwide warranty coverage

Associations and certifications

Financial Conduct Authority

Website

Update Listing

Services

Used Car Sales

We offer a comprehensive selection of quality-checked used cars sourced nationwide. Every vehicle undergoes rigorous inspection, servicing, and MOT certification before sale. Our inventory includes diverse makes and models with transparent pricing and nationwide warranty coverage.

Vehicle Servicing

Our manufacturer-trained technicians provide scheduled and interim servicing for all vehicle makes. Using genuine parts and diagnostic equipment, we ensure optimal performance while maintaining warranty validity. Services include digital service records and complimentary vehicle valeting.

MOT Testing

We offer Class IV and VII MOT testing with expert pre-inspection checks. Our facilities accommodate 'while you wait' testing, with advisory repairs conducted promptly. Technicians provide detailed explanations of results and required remedial work.

Fast Fit Services

Our dedicated centre provides rapid replacement of tyres, batteries, exhausts, and air conditioning systems. We guarantee competitive pricing with manufacturer-approved components, supported by expert fitting from qualified technicians using specialist equipment.

Body Repairs

The Mazda-approved bodyshop handles insurance and retail repairs using advanced paint-matching technology and OEM parts. We manage claims processes for customers, with dedicated vehicle cleaning and protection treatments available post-repair.

Questions

Do you offer financing options for used car purchases?

Yes, as FCA-authorised credit brokers we arrange tailored finance packages through multiple lenders, including Hire Purchase and PCP agreements.

Can I get an MOT test without prior booking?

While walk-ins are accepted, we recommend booking to ensure capacity. Our MOT lanes operate with 'while you wait' service during business hours.

Are your used cars covered by warranty?

All used vehicles include a nationwide warranty with options to extend coverage through manufacturer-backed schemes.

Do you service vehicles outside manufacturer warranties?

Yes, our technicians maintain service records digitally and use OEM specifications to preserve warranty validity regardless of franchise status.

What areas do you cover for vehicle collection/delivery?

We offer local collection and delivery within Torbay and South Devon, with arrangements possible for wider Devon locations subject to availability.

Are parts available for non-Mazda vehicles?

Our parts department stocks components for all major manufacturers, with specialist access to Mazda and former MG Rover parts through our supplier network.

Reviews (5)

Write a Review

Maire McCaskie

Oct 29, 2021 Report

The whole experience was excellent. Nothing was too much trouble and it was evident that pride was taken in presenting the car at its best.Thank you so much to Scott and all the team

Jack Richards

Oct 03, 2021 Report

I was looking for a mazda 3 headlight, I originally phoned for a part number to find one elsewhere, the staff are really helpful not only did they provide me with the part number but I was also given really helpful advice in what may be the cheepest option for myself. Ie breakers or online. As it turned out the price central garages offered me for the part was the most competitive, guaranteed to fit, and least hassle. (who would of thought going directly to a main dealer would be the cheepest option and with the least stress)
I highly recommend this garage and thank the staff for all there help

Andy Dursley

Aug 25, 2021 Report

Well , yesterday the wife's little Smart car , decided enough was enough and broke again , so the decision was made scrap it . Went on Autotrader and found Central Garages Torquay , and there she was a 9yr lime green Smart Passion , love at first sight (like when we met 38yrs ago ) salesman Richard did a really professional job and we bought it .
5 star service , worth a visit

Sue May

Aug 03, 2021 Report

Bought the car from here last year. Really happy with it. Took it back today for service and MOT. Service was excellent from booking it in to picking it up!

David Beamish

Jun 23, 2021 Report

Travelled 136m x2 to view a Mazda2.We soon realised the advertising spec for the car was different to the advert online & pasted to window.The car had a badly scratched passenger side broken 'skirt.'Promising to repair skirts/polish headlights (this was written down on receipt)we went ahead. On picking it up -the 'broken skirt' had been 'pop riveted' together & sprayed with touch up aerosol & looked worse than before.Acknowledged as a bad repair -said they would have another go & we could pick it up in a week (which would be another 136mx2!) or we could have 50 to get repaired ourselves(not sure