Call Now
Website
Call
Business Details
47 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Trusted Vehicle Sales and Servicing in Carterton
Established in 1979 by Arthur & Millie Dowley, our family-run business has built a reputation for integrity and quality service. We prioritise transparency, ensuring all necessary work is clearly explained with evidence of worn parts. Our commitment to honesty means we never recommend unnecessary replacements, focusing instead on building long-term relationships. With state-of-the-art equipment and highly qualified technicians, we service all makes and models while maintaining manufacturer warranties.

Our dedication to customer care includes a loyalty scheme, courtesy vehicles, and a family-friendly waiting area. As a member of the RMI Trust My Garage Scheme, we adhere to strict standards of excellence. Supporting local charities and offering discounts to RAF personnel and Blue Light Card holders reflects our community focus. Over four decades of experience ensure your vehicle receives expert attention in Carterton, Oxfordshire.
Services
MOT Testing Vehicle Servicing Tyre Fitting General Repairs Diagnostics Air Conditioning Servicing Breakdown Recovery Trailer Servicing Fleet Servicing Electric Vehicle Servicing
Details
  • Year established: 1979
Highlights and features
  • Were a trusted family business operating since 1979.
  • We offer a price promise to match local quotes.
  • Highly qualified technicians with up-to-date training.
  • Loyalty scheme offering 25 off after multiple visits.
  • Providing a courtesy car or collection/drop-off service.
Associations and certifications
  • Retail Motor Industry (RMI) Trust My Garage Scheme
  • Financial Conduct Authority
What people say
Fantastic service Really well looked after Genuine car dealers Extremely pleased Dog felt at home
Services
MOT Testing
We provide full MOT testing for cars, bikes, vans, trikes, and motorhomes. Our certified technicians ensure compliance with UK standards using modern equipment. Customers benefit from transparent assessments and optional same-day repairs when parts are available.
Vehicle Servicing
Regular servicing extends vehicle lifespan through scheduled maintenance. We use original equipment parts and advanced diagnostics to maintain manufacturer warranties for all makes and models.
Tyre Fitting
We supply and fit premium tyres from Petlas, Michelin, and Pirelli. Our experts ensure proper installation and alignment for safety, while offering seasonal tyre advice tailored to driving conditions.
General Repairs
Our skilled technicians handle timing belt replacements, clutch repairs, and diagnostics using state-of-the-art tools. We prioritise clear communication about necessary work and provide guarantees for all repairs.
Breakdown Recovery
Available for local customers, our recovery service addresses roadside emergencies. Combined with 24/7 breakdown coverage, we ensure swift assistance and transport to our Carterton facility.
People
Richard Dowley
Owner/Director
Richard has led Dowleys since 2019, continuing the family legacy established in 1979. With decades of automotive experience, he oversees daily operations while maintaining hands-on involvement in customer service.
Questions
What services does Dowleys offer?
We provide MOT testing, vehicle servicing, tyre fitting, general repairs, diagnostics, and used car sales. Additional services include air conditioning maintenance and breakdown recovery.
Do you offer emergency breakdown assistance?
Yes, we provide recovery services for local customers and partner with providers offering 24/7 breakdown coverage across Oxfordshire.
How can I schedule an appointment?
Book online via our website or contact us directly at 01993 842345. We offer flexible scheduling for servicing, MOTs, and repairs.
Are your technicians qualified?
Our team includes Isuzu Master Tech trained specialists and experienced technicians with ongoing training to maintain industry standards.
What sets Dowleys apart from other garages?
We combine over 40 years of family-run expertise with price-matching guarantees, courtesy vehicles, and community-focused values in Carterton.
Videos
Reviews (6)
Jack Relf
Dec 02, 2021 Report
Absolutely stoked! Great car, great price and great customer service. Couldnt ask for much more! Wanted to give a big shout out to the bald fella absolutely incredible when it comes to cars. Told him what I wanted and he delivered. Top man
Mick Smith
Nov 27, 2021 Report
Richard promised the Vehicle was very good, and true to his word our Renault Trafic was excellent! We're delighted to have found Dowley's, a great example of good old fashioned honesty and customer service. Thank you.
Up & Atom
Nov 05, 2021 Report
Tried to convince me my head gasket had blown because it was leaking water, with a 1000-2500 repair cost. I did the job myself and found it was not the head gasket at all, but an 11 water pipe had cracked. As i paid for an inspection, I can only assume the inspection was either not carried out... or they were trying to rip me off BIG time. But based on their inspection (which i foolishly trusted.) I went ahead and took the head off. There was no evidence of a gasket failure what so ever. Only when I took the water pump off did I see the blaringly obvious cause of the fault. In short, I caught
Del Boye
Oct 31, 2021 Report
Richard was just a genuine guy from start to finish. I wanted to look at a few cars and arranged a meeting on a Sunday and, even though he got stuck in a bit of traffic and arrived a little late, he was friendly and helpful during the appointment, pointed me in the direction of some other cars that might be of interest and didn't put any pressure on me. I was honestly going to buy one of the ones I tested when out of the blue an ideal model came up elsewhere. If I am looking again, I'll start here.
Giacomo Cioncoloni
Oct 28, 2021 Report
I went to Dawleys since they were advertising a car I was interested in buying. After a call Richard was very quick to upload pictures of the car on the website and also share with me, moreover we arranged a test drive two days later. His son also was very professional (he was with me during the test drive). The purchase was also very quick and Richard took care of all the paperwork, also was very patient to explain to me all the procedures and the things to do.
Definitively a positive experience.
John Hands
Oct 02, 2021 Report
Excellent customer service. All the staff are so friendly and welcoming. It really feels like a family environment. They always have the time to listen and then provide sound advice. Excellent communication, keeping me updated on progress. Highly recommended; this is the place to come for any services or repairs, great price and tasty coffee.