Well, I'm finally back home and at my computer. I'm sure there are hundreds of posts already praising
@DJAlix, but for those watching this thread I thought I'd do an honest review.
Short Version :-
Summary: DJAlix is the exact opposite of an Audi Showroom. ... there's no free latte's and comfy sofa, but everything can be done, and for less money than you expected.
Long Version :-
Firstly, as you will have seen on the thread, his communication is great. When private messaging, there were standard terms and conditions, directions and a few other considerations for prospective customers. Price's and options were clear (for my particular car), so I requested an appointment availability.
It's seriously impressive how he was able to squeeze me in so quickly, but I guess that's because he's got it down to a fine art on how long jobs actually take. I think he must be very busy, which is always a good sign for me.
Today was the day of the appointment. The address was a residential area in north London. Having worked in London, I have some awareness about the atmosphere in different areas of London, so this wasn't a concern for me. I would say to others though, its in a good area, and you won't be greeted by hoodies and the like.
I was greeted downstairs and instructed where to park. To be honest, at this point I was slightly anxious as I realised I would be leaving my car and keys while I was given directions to the local sights, cafes/bars etc. With instruction that it would be approximately 2 hours, and I would be given 20 odd minutes notice that it was nearly ready etc. Fortunately for me, I persuaded myself that it would be fine, he's not going to have survived on this forum so long if he wasn't on the level.
After walking around, I found there was plenty of places to sit and hang out etc. So not a problem there. Also, the area is quite smart so no concerns around walking about with my laptop in a rucksack, phone, watch etc.
I get back to the car, and I'm given the tour of everything that's changed. I'm sure he's well practiced in handing vehicles over, but the tour of the changes we had agreed on (and obviously CarPlay) was very nice. It certainly gave me great confidence that everything we had agreed for the price was done (and even a few freebies thrown in).
We had a nice chat, at this point I still hadn't had a request for any money. I'm a software developer by trade, and a car enthusiast on the side. Our general chat gave me more confidence that he really does know what he's doing. One of the biggest concerns anyone should have about letting somebody (including Audi) update firmware, configuration on their car is what if it goes wrong, and how can it be recovered. Needless to say by this point I had already had the work done (using my faith in this forum), but I was so much more relaxed after our general chat about how in depth his knowledge really is.
I finally insisted he ask me for the money
Although I had the cash in my pocket, other sensible payment options were there. I set off, and I'm loving the CarPlay. If you haven't used it before, I suggest you have a look at a friends (in any make of car). My 2015 A6 Allroad doesn't have a touch screen, but 90% of the time I've found the jog wheel works as expected. I'd used CarPlay in many courtesy cars, but somehow it was surreal and awesome to have it in my own (too old - according to Audi) car. I can't recommend both CarPlay and
@DJAlix enough. If in doubt go for it, PM and find out what your options and costs are. In my case, it was more reasonable than I expected, and the Quality of Service and confidence in abilities were worth every penny.
Thanks again.
