How To Choose A Car Repair Shop

Whether you’ve gone too long without an oil change, ignored the “check engine” light or let your car’s battery die, there comes a time when most vehicles will need repairs. But finding a trustworthy auto mechanic can be a challenge. A few simple precautions can help you choose a shop that will be honest and competent.

Ask to see a repair shop’s licenses. Your state Attorney General’s office or local consumer protection agency may know whether a particular repair shop has been subject to complaints. Also, ask to see copies of any warranties or service contracts. Check them to make sure you understand what’s covered and if any limits apply, such as time, mileage or deductibles. If a repair shop creates its own maintenance schedule for your vehicle, compare it with the manufacturer’s recommendations in your owner’s manual. Also, find out if any replacement parts are new or used and how much labor will be involved.

The National Institute for car service Mirrabooka Excellence (ASE) tests and certifies automotive professionals so that shop owners and service customers can better gauge a technician’s level of expertise. Mechanics can earn certification in one of several series. After earning certification in all of the required testing areas for a specific series, they can become ASE Master technicians.

Most mechanics have some vocational or technical training in addition to on-the-job experience. Some community colleges offer certificate programs in automotive service technology, and some vocational schools offer degree programs leading to a full-time career as an automotive mechanic. Those who want to become auto mechanics often join an apprenticeship program at a local auto repair shop or car dealership.

Talk to the manager or owner of a repair shop before allowing them to work on your vehicle. Ask for a detailed written estimate that includes the condition of your vehicle, the repairs and parts needed and the estimated cost of labor. If you are not satisfied with the repair shop’s estimate or if the repair work is more expensive than expected, you can ask for a refund.

Look for a clean, well-organized shop. If the shop is cluttered or disorganized, it can reflect poorly on the quality of its work. Ask for a list of all the parts replaced and their part numbers. Compare the list with the corresponding parts in your vehicle to make sure all of the necessary replacement parts were installed. Also, find out if any parts were used or not original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts.

Check for a detailed invoice when you pick up your vehicle. The shop must provide you with an invoice that shows each repair made, the parts that were replaced and their costs. The invoice must also show if any of the parts were new or used and the amount of labor that was performed. Finally, the shop must include the odometer reading at the time of the repair and the date the invoice was prepared.

Beware of shops that try to sell you unnecessary services or parts for your vehicle. A good mechanic should be able to give you an objective opinion about which repairs are needed.