A mechanic near Lake Garda, for when the holiday does not go to plan
Z-Garage is in Solferino, a short drive from the south shore of the lake. If your car gives you trouble while you are staying in Desenzano, Sirmione, Peschiera, Garda or nearby, we can take a look and tell you honestly what it needs.
Car trouble near Lake Garda: what to do, step by step
A breakdown on holiday is stressful. These steps usually get you moving again fastest.
- 01
Get yourself somewhere safe
Pull over as far as you can and switch on the hazard lights. Put on the reflective vest before you get out and place the warning triangle behind the car. On a motorway, wait behind the barrier, not next to the car. In an emergency, call 112.
- 02
Call your assistance number
If the car cannot be driven, call the assistance number in your insurance policy, your motoring club membership or your rental agreement. They arrange the recovery, not us. You can ask them to take the car to Z-Garage, Via Francesco Gondrand 2, Solferino.
- 03
Message us on WhatsApp
Send the car model, the country it is registered in, where you are and what happened. A photo of the warning light on the dashboard, or the fault code if you already have one, helps us understand the problem before we see the car.
- 04
We tell you when to bring it in
We work by appointment, so we reply with a realistic time slot. If the car is still safe to drive, you can bring it to us yourself.
How far we are
Approximate driving times from the main places around the lake, in normal traffic. In summer, especially at weekends, allow extra time around Sirmione and Peschiera.
- Desenzano del Garda
- about 20 min
- Sirmione
- about 20–25 min
- Peschiera del Garda
- about 20–25 min
- Garda
- about 45 min
- Pozzolengo
- about 10 min
- Monzambano
- about 10 min
Via Francesco Gondrand 2
46040 Solferino (MN)
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Typical holiday problems we see
A warning light comes on
We read the fault codes and tell you whether you can keep driving or what needs fixing.
Punctured or damaged tyre
Puncture repair when possible, or a new tyre with fitting and balancing.
Air-con stops cooling
System check, leak test and refrigerant recharge.
Strange noises or loss of power
Diagnosis first, then a clear quote before any repair.
Please note: we do not offer towing or roadside assistance. If your car cannot be driven, call your insurer or the assistance number on your rental agreement and ask them to bring it to Z-Garage, Via Francesco Gondrand 2, Solferino. We will take it from there.
How it works
- 01
Write to us on WhatsApp
Send the car model, where you are and what is happening. A photo or video helps.
- 02
We tell you when to come
We reply with a realistic time to bring the car in.
- 03
Diagnosis and quote
We find the cause and tell you the price before starting any work.
- 04
We message you when it is ready
You get on with your holiday and we let you know when you can collect the car.
Languages we speak
Our team speaks Italian, English, Russian, Romanian and Ukrainian. WhatsApp usually works best: you can send photos and keep the quote in writing. Short sentences or a translation app are fine.
Parts for German, Dutch and British cars
Most cars registered in Germany, the Netherlands, Austria or the UK are also sold in Italy, and we order parts from Italian suppliers. The wait depends on the part, so we tell you before we start.
Right-hand drive cars are welcome too. Some parts made only for right-hand drive may not be stocked in Italy. If so, we explain the options and decide with you whether to repair the car here or back home.
If your car has to stay with us
We do not have courtesy cars. If a repair takes longer than a day, we tell you how long so you can plan your stay.
If you need a car in the meantime, we also offer car rental, subject to availability: send us your dates and we will confirm the conditions. Some insurance policies and motoring clubs also cover a hire car or your journey home, so it is worth checking yours.
Questions from visitors
Who should I call first if my car breaks down?
The assistance number of your insurer, motoring club or rental company. You usually find it in your policy documents or on the rental agreement. They arrange the recovery; once you are safe, message us on WhatsApp.
Do I need a Green Card to drive in Italy?
Cars insured in the EU or the UK generally do not need a Green Card in Italy, but you should always carry your insurance documents. If in doubt, check with your insurer before you travel.
Will my insurance pay for the repair?
It depends on your policy. Some cover breakdowns abroad, others only accidents. Call your insurer before the repair starts. We give you a written quote that you can send them.
How can I pay?
Please ask us about payment methods when you book. We confirm the price before starting any work, so there are no surprises when you collect the car.
Do you have a courtesy car?
No, we do not have courtesy cars. We do offer car rental, subject to availability, so ask us if you need a car for a few days.
Is there a garage open on Saturdays near Lake Garda?
We are open on Saturdays from 8:30 to 15:00 and on Sundays by appointment. Monday to Friday we are open from 8:30 to 18:00.
Do you speak English?
Yes, and Italian, Russian, Ukrainian and Romanian too. WhatsApp is the easiest way to reach us.
Can you pick up my car from the lake?
No, we do not offer towing or roadside assistance. If the car cannot be driven, your insurer or assistance service can bring it to us.
Staying on the lake and need a mechanic?
Write to us on WhatsApp and tell us where you are.