Independent motor factor praises Autoelectro’s ‘exceptional customer service’

For independent motor factors, choosing the right supplier is about more than just price – it’s about availability, quality and trust. For the Stockport-based motor factor, Rick Charnock Components, that journey has come full circle with Autoelectro, which is celebrating 40 years of service in 2026.

The partnership dates back over 20 years when Rick Charnock Components operated as a supplier to motor factors, providing strong numbers of units of Autoelectro’s starter motors and alternators. 

Rick Charnock Components Managing Director, Stewart Charnock, said: “We were travelling from Manchester to Liverpool five times-a-day. Customers spent well; it was a lucrative model.”

However, as market conditions became more challenging, the business adapted: “We went into a bit of a decline and made the decision to supply garages directly instead,” Stewart acknowledged.

“We changed our model completely – from motor factor supplier to garage supplier – and we’ve been doing that successfully for the last 10 years.”

Why Autoelectro came back into focus

During the transition period, Autoelectro became an in-fill supplier, with Rick Charnock Components exploring and switching brands during the last decade to become its main rotating electrics supplier.

Stewart said: “Outside of those main suppliers, we always used Autoelectro. They were always there – and they always had the product.” 

The turning point came around 12 months ago, as Stewart recalled: “We sat down with Autoelectro and said: ‘Let’s do this properly.’ They’ve been a consistently reliable supplier with strong availability. Before that, we had explored an OE-brand route, but in practice we needed broader availability and a more comprehensive range.” 

A partnership that delivers

Following that meeting, Rick Charnock Components committed to stocking Autoelectro products as its main supplier with new stock delivered shortly after terms were agreed.

Stewart said: “We’ve not looked back since. What we’re selling now is a comprehensive, diverse range. If it is not on the shelf, it is next-day delivery.”

For a family-run business, that reliability is critical: “We’re trusted to supply, not just a recognised brand but a quality product,” Stewart said. “And that’s exactly what we’re doing; in fact, customers are starting to ask for Autoelectro by name. That shows how far the partnership has come – we’ve really turned a corner!”

Expertise, quality and versatility

Graham Stubbs, who worked closely with both Rick Charnock Components and Autoelectro over the years before taking a permanent position at the motor factor, highlighted another key strength: technical capability. 

“I’ve known Autoelectro for many years,” he said. “I used to take customers to Autoelectro’s remanufacturing facility in Bradford to show customers the process. The testing facilities are fantastic. 

“The team provide technical guidance through their MAM system. If a unit is problematic, they’ll flag it so we can prevent issues before they happen. They even provide technical bulletins in the box – that’s exceptional customer service.”

With more than 5,000 references available, Autoelectro can supply both new and older starter motors and alternators, ensuring Rick Charnock Components’ workshop customers can service vehicles ranging from classic models to the newest vehicles on the road with the latest 48V MHEV technology.

“They’ve always got what we need,” Graham added. “And it’s at a fair price.” 

Graham’s background in quality management systems also gives him confidence in the business: “I taught quality management systems for 10 years, so I understand what ‘good’ looks like. Autoelectro’s ISO 9001 accreditation tells me its processes are robust and the business is run correctly.”

The value of a true supply partner

For Rick Charnock Components, its decision to back Autoelectro has been transformative. The combination of consistent availability, proven quality and strong technical support has given the motor factor the platform to better serve its workshop customers, while reinforcing its own reputation as a trusted supplier.

Stewart concluded: “We don’t have to think about supply anymore. We know product is coming, we know it’s right, and we’re really happy with it.”