Business Details
17 Years
experience
Your Trusted Independent Mercedes-Benz Specialist
Avantgarde Automotive is an independent Mercedes-Benz specialist with over 12 years of experience in servicing, repairs, diagnostics, and MOTs. Founded in 2009 by Steve Mowat, a former Mercedes-Benz dealership manager with 20 years in the prestige automotive sector, we combine technical expertise with customer-centric service. Our team of certified technicians uses genuine Mercedes-Benz parts and state-of-the-art diagnostic tools, including the official STAR system and Hunter 4 Wheel Alignment machine. We offer competitive pricing with up to 50% savings on main dealer labour rates and a 2-year warranty on all genuine parts. Our commitment to quality extends to pre-owned Mercedes-Benz vehicles, meticulously prepared to the highest standards. Recognised as the top-rated Mercedes specialist within 25 miles of Bristol, we prioritise transparency, efficiency, and long-term client relationships. Our workshop in Clevedon serves local and national clients, including owners of high-performance models like the SLR McLaren. With decades of combined experience and a focus on continuous investment in technology and training, we ensure every vehicle receives expert care. Customer testimonials highlight our prompt problem resolution, fair pricing, and dedication to exceeding expectations.
Services
Servicing
Repairs
Diagnostics
MOTs
4 Wheel Alignment
AC Servicing
ServicePlan
Pre-Owned Cars
SLR McLaren
Digital Service Updates
Served areas
- Bristol, North Somerset
Details
- Year established: 2009
Highlights and features
- Certified Mercedes-Benz technicians with factory training
- Use of genuine Mercedes-Benz parts with 2-year warranty
- Competitive pricing with 50% savings on main dealer rates
- 20+ years of combined experience in prestige automotive sector
- Award-winning customer satisfaction and transparent service
What people say
Excellent Service
Highly recommended
Professional and dedicated staff
Competitive pricing
Quick diagnosis
Services
Servicing
Our Mercedes-Benz servicing combines technical expertise with genuine parts to maintain vehicle performance. We follow manufacturer specifications and provide digital service updates. Clients receive detailed reports and competitive pricing with a local match guarantee.
Repairs
Using the Mercedes-Benz STAR diagnostic system, we identify and resolve mechanical issues efficiently. Repairs include parts and labour with a 2-year warranty on genuine components. Our technicians handle complex faults with precision and transparency.
Diagnostics
Advanced diagnostics with the STAR system ensure accurate fault detection. We provide written quotes for repairs after scanning onboard computers. This service minimises downtime and prevents recurring issues through thorough analysis.
Air Conditioning Service
We recharge and service air conditioning systems to restore efficiency and hygiene. The process includes draining, refilling, and inspecting components. Regular servicing prevents bacterial growth and maintains optimal cooling performance.
Pre-Owned Cars
Hand-picked pre-owned Mercedes-Benz cars are prepared to high standards. Each vehicle undergoes comprehensive checks and servicing. This service offers clients premium used cars with guaranteed quality and competitive pricing.
People
Steve Mowat
Owner and Managing Director
With 20 years in the prestige automotive sector, Steve founded Avantgarde Automotive in 2009. He previously worked at McLaren Automotive and Mercedes-Benz dealerships, specialising in diagnostics and management.
Jenny Mowat
Director and Marketing Manager
Jenny holds a BA in Marketing and Business Management. She oversees brand strategy, marketing, and operational support at Avantgarde Automotive, ensuring cohesive business growth and client engagement.
Lee Masters
Service Team Manager
Lee manages service reception with a focus on customer satisfaction. His background in client relations ensures seamless communication and efficient handling of vehicle servicing and repair needs.
Gary Tripp-Edwards
Master Technician
Gary has 30+ years of experience across multiple marques. As a manufacturer-trained technician, he specialises in complex mechanical and electrical diagnostics for Mercedes-Benz vehicles.
Alistair Farndon
Senior Technician
Alistair is a factory-trained Mercedes-Benz technician with expertise in electrical systems. His methodical approach ensures accurate fault diagnosis and reliable repairs for all Mercedes-Benz models.
Questions
What services do you offer for Mercedes-Benz vehicles?
We provide servicing, repairs, diagnostics, MOTs, air conditioning services, and pre-owned Mercedes-Benz sales using genuine parts and advanced tools.
Are your technicians certified for Mercedes-Benz work?
Yes, our team includes factory-trained technicians with Mercedes-Benz certifications and decades of combined experience in the prestige sector.
Do you offer competitive pricing compared to main dealers?
We guarantee up to 50% savings on main dealer labour rates with a price match guarantee for like-for-like services.
Can you service high-performance models like the SLR McLaren?
Yes, we specialise in high-performance Mercedes-Benz models, including SLR McLaren, with tailored diagnostics and repairs using specialist equipment.
What warranty do you provide on parts and labour?
All genuine Mercedes-Benz parts come with a 2-year manufacturer warranty, and our labour rates are competitively priced with guaranteed quality.
How can I book an appointment?
Call us at 01275 217270 or use our online booking form to schedule a service or repair appointment at your convenience.
Reviews (24)
Mr. Mark B. Jenkins
Mar 20, 2026
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Thanks Steve and Craig... very pleased with my recent visit... good job Guys, thankyou muchly
Took my C250 to Torquay today and everything works as it should
Took my C250 to Torquay today and everything works as it should
Gary Towle
May 29, 2022
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Excellent Service and highly recommended. Took car in on late Monday evening. Had noise coming from engine. They new exactly what the problem was. All fixed and had car back Thursday. Car running perfectly. Thank you Steve & team. Gary
Tim Fischer
May 23, 2022
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Brilliant service and staff well worth the extra drive from Bristol. All there staff are Mercedes trained and know the cars inside out and a bonus is the cost
Susie Mo
May 19, 2022
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Excellent service! Customer service excellent and extremely knowledgeable. Never too hurried to fully explain things either.
L.
Mar 15, 2022
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Was recommended Avantgarde Automotive on a AMG owners club I am part of. From the initial inquiry regarding a fault with my C63 to upon collection of having the fault rectified they was 5* especially Lee who handled my booking and looked after me while my car was in for repair. Very happy with the service I received and I'll definitely be using them in the future going forward! If you're into cars they have some pretty cool cars over there on the ramps or parked up! Which shows they have a good reputation in my eyes to be trusted with these sort vehicles! 5
Megan Gell
Feb 16, 2022
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Issue with ignition barrel in MB estate, sorted on time and within cost estimate with plenty of helpful info and lovely team. Thank you!
James Wilson
Feb 13, 2022
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I had the dredded electronic steering lock with my car marooned on my drive, got it recovered to these guys and they were very helpful and did a fantastic job - no hassle whatsoever! Highly recommended! Services: General repairs & maintenance, Oil change, Steering & suspension repair
William Clews
Nov 19, 2021
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Super service from Mercedes approved technicians at the right price. Highly recommended. Services: General repairs & maintenance, Oil change, Air & cabin filter replacement
Wayne Reddy
Aug 16, 2021
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Great place! They know there stuff. SLR specialist.amg. Steve is the guy to know. Shmee150 great content
David Honeyman
Jul 30, 2021
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This was my first visit to Avantgare Automotive but doubt it will be my last. Excellent friendly but professional service with reall attention paid to ensuring everything was OK with my car before it was returned. I especially like that a test drive was undertaken and a report provided on how it performed under real road conditions as so many workshops these days refuse to drive customers cars believing (wrongly in my opinion) they can diagnose any problem through inspection only. If your Mercedes-Benz needs looking after then give these folks a chance and I doubt you will regret it.
Nick Tarr
Feb 27, 2019
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I had a just out of warranty C class with a NOX sensor problem.
Avantgarde suggested that I go back to the dealership. Mercedes agreed to pay 81% of the repair costs on a goodwill basis. Avantgarde gets full marks for integrity. These guys can be trusted.
Avantgarde suggested that I go back to the dealership. Mercedes agreed to pay 81% of the repair costs on a goodwill basis. Avantgarde gets full marks for integrity. These guys can be trusted.
Paul Carpenter
Feb 02, 2019
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Wouldn't take my Mercedes anywhere else, excellent workmanship, honest and excellent service, every time
James Giblin
Mar 16, 2018
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"A very good experience." Excellent customer service with a fully detailed explanation on all faults found and work required. The report and associated cost were promptly discussed before any work was carried out. The Lower control arm bushings were marked and retained to demonstrate the true extent of the wear to give that extra peace of mind!. TOP JOB
Guy Heaton
Strikes me there are some fake reviews being posted here. I have no direct experience of this company however they are very active on Mercedes forums and have helped me with advice and part numbers. I'm a long way from Bristol but if I was in the area and had a problem with my Merc this is where I would go.
Rob
Steve is the man to go to for Merc diagnostics, 2 other garages told me I needed a new gearbox, Steve had it sorted in a couple of hours with a new speed sensor, saved me a small fortune.
Roger Dawe
I trust Steve implicity to do the necessary work required. Recommendations sent me here and they were correct.
Ciaran O'Kane
In my experience Steve is one of the best MB mechanics around. He knows the product inside out. The problem with reviews is that if there are 500 excellent reviews people will look at the one bad one and form an opinion. But look deeper, especially at the crass bad reviews on here from different people...they all use exactly the same bad grammar. Trying to destroy someone's reputation because your blackmail did not work is despicable.
Alastair Bell
Had dealings with Steve for some time now and always found him knowledgeable, helpful and courteous. Thoroughly recommended
Andy Wright
Thanks again Steve, your years of MB experience really saved me a fortune with the E320cdi gearbox advice, I hope to be down your way soon for a service soon. Also appreciate your free MB forum advice over the years, you have left a lot of happy Merc drivers out there.
Steve Goodfellow
Just wanted to say a big thanks for all the superb advice and service you've given since I bought my Mercedes. I will always recommend your garage to anyone that asks.Keep up the great work.
Pete Lattimer
Very good place. Friendly, professional, approachable and know Mercedes cars extremely well. Personally I would prefer to ask them for advise etc. than the main dealers.
Laura Delaney
Another service done! Excellent as always. Steve is very helpful. He explains things clearly so I can understand. Lovely clean garage. Always seems to be busy. A good local, reliable and honest garage. Definitely recommend them. Reception staff also very polite. Steve also fixed the DPF problem on my husbands Mercedes. My husband is over the moon.
John Laidlaw
Whilst I've not used the garage directly as an extremely helpful member of a certain MB forum I've had great advice from Steve which has solved at least one issue for me and he willingly gives numerous members on there free advice. Truly cares about MB cars! Their reputation is second to none from those we know who use them
Christopher Bradley
Following a recommendation from a friend used Avantgarde today, excellent service with everything explained in detail and nothing too much trouble. Very impressed with the professionalism and customer care shown by all. Would definitely recommend