Limvirak Chea is the co-founder and CEO of Fixter, an online platform offering comprehensive car maintenance services across the UK. Launched in Manchester in 2017 by Chea alongside Frédéric Dermer and Cristian Vrabie, Fixter rapidly expanded from a UK tech startup to an international garage network within five years. Supported by a small, skilled team — including certified mechanics and professionals — Fixter attracted investment from AXA and was eventually acquired by Renault.
Alejandro Gonzalez: Can you start with an elevator pitch for Fixter? What are your key goals for the year?
Limvirak Chea: Fixter was launched in 2017 with the vision of transforming the car servicing experience—making it as simple as ordering a takeaway. We partner with top local garages, vet them thoroughly, and negotiate the best rates, ensuring our customers get high-quality car maintenance services. Whether it’s a routine oil change or a major repair, we handle everything from collecting the car to returning it, making the process seamless.
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This year, our primary goals are to expand our presence across the UK by partnering with more garages and to maintain high customer satisfaction levels.
AG: The DVSA recently allowed garages to issue digital MOT failure notes. How is Fixter adapting to support garages through this change?
LC: The DVSA’s move to digital MOT certificates is something we’ve been advocating for. We’ve already been providing digital updates on MOT statuses, so this change aligns well with our existing practices. Our platform allows garages to operate efficiently while ensuring customers receive necessary information in a user-friendly format. Essentially, we’re continuing to use our systems to help garages transition smoothly to the new digital requirements.
AG: How does Fixter build and maintain consumer trust in the garage sector?
LC: Trust is central to our mission at Fixter. We’ve built a carefully curated network of independent mechanical traders (IMTs) who meet our strict standards. Our in-house technical support team plays a key role in guiding customers through their car maintenance journey—explaining industry jargon, coordinating with garages, and ensuring quality service.
Using only original equipment specification parts is another way we maintain trust. By consistently delivering high standards, we see positive customer reviews, particularly on platforms like Trustpilot, which in turn brings us more business.
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By GlobalDataAG: Fixter offers fully automated booking systems. How do these benefit garages?
LC: Our automated booking systems bring significant benefits to garages by increasing efficiency and improving customer experience. By partnering with Fixter, garages can focus on their core work while we handle marketing, customer communication, and administrative tasks. Garages receive confirmed bookings in advance, which helps them plan effectively and minimise downtime. We also assist with vehicle collection and delivery, allowing garages to focus on repairs.
Our technical team supports quick approval for additional work, such as MOT advisories, ensuring fast turnaround times and maximising productivity.
AG: How can garages leverage digital platforms to grow their business? Any examples from Fixter’s experience?
LC: Digital platforms offer garages a powerful tool for growth. By partnering with Fixter, garages gain access to new customers without upfront costs or recurring fees. We agree on rates in advance, giving garages confidence in their revenue.
Many of our partners have seen substantial growth through Fixter. For instance, W&M Motors Ltd in London, which joined us in January 2022, now sees a significant portion of its bookings coming through Fixter. The owner has praised our platform for its efficiency, reliability, and user-friendliness.
AG: What trends in automotive or mobility tech do you see shaping the industry in the coming years? How is Fixter positioning itself?
LC: Two key trends are the shift to electric vehicles (EVs) and the move towards car leasing instead of ownership. These trends are reshaping our industry, and Fixter is adapting by educating our partner garages on these changes and collaborating with EV specialists. While we’re prepared for these trends, we continue to focus on our core market, ensuring we’re well-positioned for the future.
AG: Fixter grew from a UK startup to an international network in five years, attracting investment from AXA before being acquired by Renault. What were the critical steps in securing funding, and how did the Renault acquisition come about?
LC: We revolutionised a sector that hadn’t seen much change in years. Introducing a seamless digital experience in car maintenance was key to attracting investment. Our focus on creating a great end-to-end customer experience played a significant role in Renault’s decision to acquire us and integrate Fixter into their Aftersales team.
There’s no secret to success — just hard work and creating your own luck.
AG: Could you share insights into the UK entrepreneurial ecosystem? What resources or networks have been valuable for Fixter’s growth?
LC: The UK’s entrepreneurial ecosystem is dynamic, but it can be a lonely journey, especially as a CEO. Staying positive, resilient, and surrounding yourself with like-minded co-founders and leaders is crucial. Networking with other entrepreneurs is also valuable — it helps you realise that many face the same challenges, making the journey less isolating.
