Had to get a new battery for one of my cars and went to the two auto parts’ places in the neighbourhood. The first was a place I had not checked out before but the name was good: Super Cheap Auto. Not only did I not get any service but the recommended battery cost $200.
I then went to Repco, where I had always shopped. Hossain, a Lebanese New Zealander working there, almost instantly asked if I needed help. We settled on a unit that was $170, and I could earn AA points on it. He also offered to dispose of my old battery.
Lesson: shop around and do not be fooled by brand names like Super Cheap Auto. Also kudos to excellent service there from Hossain.
* Note that the batteries are different brands with slightly different CCA ratings so we are not comparing apples with apples. But I personally think I got the superior brand for less.—JY