You're driving down the street, and you hear a squeak, or a knock, or some other foreign sound that indicates your formerly healthy automobile is ailing. You may need the brakes checked or the oil changed, or maybe it's time to repair the transmission or get new tires. If these are not things you're capable of doing on your own, it's time to bring the car into your local mechanic. Question is, which one?
Your car is important - without transportation, you're unable to get to work and get errands completed. Without your car you can't ferry the kids to school or dance practice, and date night is reduced to a mere dream. If you need repairs, you need to make sure you hire the right auto care company to handle your car. If you don't have a regular service, here are a few factors to consider before you make that appointment:
1) Longevity. How long has the garage been in business? It is a name synonymous with your community?
2) Association. Is the auto repair shop associated with a particular automotive brand, like AC Delco or NAPA? Is the garage part of a reputable car dealership that handles your make?
3) Referrals. Where do your friends and family take their cars when they need servicing?
4) Reviews. If you have access to sites like Angie's List, Yelp, or the reviews at Google Local, you can determine public opinion of particular garages and services.
5) Price. How much does the garage charge for services? Are their packages available or is everything a la carte?
When your car needs repair, put it in good hands. Research your area repair service shops and determine through reviews and personal recommendations which one is best for you.
