In a further show of strength, 91% of drivers indicated that they were highly satisfied with their experience at a HiQ centre.

More than 75% of the HiQ fast fit network and 612 sample customers participated in the research, which took place between November and December 2009.

The news strengthens HiQ's claim of being the 'fast fit network you can be sure of' and comes on the back of some encouraging 2009 trading results.

In the first 12 months of opening as a fully franchised operation, retail turnover was up in double digit figures, average ticket value rose by more than 5% and retail footfall increased by more than 8%.

HiQ retail director Juergen Titz said: 'The results are extremely encouraging for us, but we know that there is still a lot of work still to do.

'Our strategy is to change the face of the fast-fit sector and become the fast-fit network you can be sure of.

'Customer service is absolutely paramount in this strategy and we continue to set rigorous standards on a monthly basis to keep us ahead of our competitors.

'Our strength lies in the fact that we are a national brand with the peace of mind of having "local heroes" in the community carrying out the work.'