JB Autos

JB Autos, a Radstock garage with four decades of history

JB Autos is an independent garage based on Radstock Road in Midsomer Norton, Radstock. Its workshop handles MOT testing, servicing, tyre work and mechanical repairs, and the business presents itself as a long-standing local operation built around what it describes as honest advice, skilled technicians and competitive value.

The company traces its origins to 1985, when John Bowness founded it as a sole trader at Stones Cross. It was officially registered in 1990, the date the garage displays as "Est. 1990". A relocation to modern premises at Automotive House was completed in 2018.

Ownership and workshop team

Lee Rodgers is Managing Director and works in daily operations as part of the team. He first joined the garage at 14 as a Saturday car washer, later completing an apprenticeship and staying until 1993, before building a career in technology and data management. He returned to the business after the 2018 move.

Derek Hopkins is co-owner. He bought John Bowness's shares in 2022 when Bowness retired, forming the current leadership partnership; he also continues to look after ImageStor while supporting the garage's strategic growth. Bob Bland is Workshop Manager.

MOT testing and servicing

The garage carries out DVSA-approved MOT tests, which it describes as accompanied by honest assessments and clear explanations. Servicing is offered in both full and interim formats and covers all makes and models. The site also points customers to the official GOV.UK service for setting up a free MOT reminder by email or text.

Repairs, tyres and diagnostics

Beyond routine maintenance, JB Autos handles diagnostics and mechanical repairs for both minor and major faults, as well as tyre fitting. The workshop presents itself as equipped to take on anything from a routine MOT to a complex repair.

Facilities for customers waiting on site

The premises include a free hot desk with power sockets and a quiet workspace, intended for customers who want to work while their vehicle is attended to. There is also free WiFi, tea and coffee, a television, a children's play area and a dog bowl. The garage states that it disposes of oils, fluids, batteries and parts responsibly in line with environmental regulations.

Collection and booking arrangements

Customers can drop in with a vehicle for the team to inspect, and the garage states that it can arrange collection for those unable to get to the premises. Booking in advance is recommended for MOTs and servicing, while drop-ins are accepted for advice and quick jobs subject to availability. The site indicates that emails are answered within 24 hours.

Additional services: maintenance course and self storage

Alongside the workshop, the business lists a Middle Pit Maintenance Course and a self storage facility. The storage facility is described as open, seven days a week.

Reputation as presented by the garage

The website displayed a rating of 4.9 from more than 180 reviews at the time of writing this profile, alongside customer comments referring to same-day MOT and repair work, clear quotations, a waiting area used for work and a lift home while a car was being serviced. These are individual testimonials reproduced on the company's own site rather than an independent assessment.