ATL Automotive Limited, exclusive local dealer of Honda automobiles, has been recognised by American Honda as Gold Star certified.

Steve Chin, service manager, says Honda awarded the company the Gold Star Distributor Certification in September following the completion of key courses by all technicians in an extensive training programme administered by ATL in Jamaica and the Honda South Florida Training Centre.

"Honda requires that a specific number of technicians be trained to cover each area inside the service centre and we have not only met that requirement, hence the Gold Star Certification, but we have gone beyond that to expose them to additional courses to further strengthen our team. Our two master technicians have been trained in all the areas," he said.

The highly competent team comprises 11 technicians equipped with the appropriate mix of maintenance, repair and diagnostic skills to take care of customers' vehicles.

The programme covers training in air conditioning, brake systems, electrical, engine, fuel and emissions, restraints, steering and suspensions, as well as transmissions.

Chin is confident that the newly acquired status augurs well for the ATL Automotive Honda Service Centre.

"We always knew we had the best team in Jamaica. But the recognition from Honda is a major accomplishment for the company as it will increase the level of confidence our customers have in us as an Unbeatable service team. We are here to keep their cars where they belong ... on the road," he said.

Chin says the training is ongoing as one technician must be sent to the training Centre at least once a year.