There are many things to consider whenever choosing an auto mechanic, and unfortunately, you do not normally consider them until you are in dire need of a repair shop. It is always best to have time on your side when choosing services, though it is not always possible. Here are a few tips for finding a decent auto mechanic who is honest, reliable, and affordable, with quality service.
Referrals: Ask friends, family and coworkers where they go when they have car trouble. Referrals hold a lot of weight across the board, and if there was something wrong with the service, you are sure to hear about it from a friend or family member. Take their advice, but do so with a grain of salt, some people are difficult or extremely easy to please. Their referrals can pose as a jump off point for your search.
Dealerships: Many people are tempted to head right to the dealership's auto body shop, but that is generally the least affordable option. While these shops have mechanics trained in your specific type of car, the materials they use are more expensive, and they generally charge more for labor per hour.
Chains: The good thing about chains is that you will generally get a guarantee for your services. If they mess anything up, or fail to fix something properly, there is a chain of command to follow to ensure that you get compensated.
Independently Owned Shops: While it is harder to be certain that you will receive quality service from a smaller mechanic, they are generally much, much more affordable than your other options. This is where referrals truly come into play. If you get a referral to a small, independent auto shop, you are likely to get quality service at an affordable price.
There are a few other things to pay attention to when considering mechanics. You want someone that speaks to you in layman's terms, not someone who condescendingly throws jargon out to confuse you. A trustworthy mechanic wants you to understand what he or she will be doing to your car, rather than pulling the wool over your eyes to charge you extra.
