Sometimes, car repair shops operate in pretty sneaky ways. It's all too easy for regular consumers like you and me to get suckered and taken for a ride. This article looks at a few of the secret tricks mechanics use, and what you can do to avoid them.
Does That Really Need To Be Fixed?
Some of the stuff they tell you to get fixed immediately isn't important at all. They're just trying to stuff their pockets. In fact, major car repair chains have been busted hustling their customers to meet quotas. It's true that there are some regular maintenance things that ought to be done when you take your vehicle into the shop, but beware of some less-than-ethical mechanics out there who try to make a couple extra bucks selling you repairs you don't need. How do you avoid it? Do a little research and learn about your vehicle. This way, you can know what needs to be fixed and what doesn't.
Is That Under Warranty?
If you've got a new vehicle, it's under warranty, but usually only if you take it to the dealer. The only trouble is that the dealer charges an arm and a leg. You can take it to another car repair shop, but they may or may not be qualified to work on it. Sometimes the warranty sounds great, but it ends up being not all it's cracked up to be. Because of this, make a phone call and make sure what's covered and what's not, and where you can get what done. It's a lot of question asking, but you'll be glad when you see the bill later.
Did They Get It Done?
This isn't really a trick because it's often not done on purpose. Sometimes, when you take your vehicle in and the shop is really busy, it simply gets forgotten in the mad rush. You're driving home in it and nothing's been changed at all - then a few months later the problem comes back. A great way to avoid this is to ask them to see the old parts after the work has been done. This way you can make sure that they actually did the work they charged you for.
Did You Get Your Stamp Today?
Lots of car shops offer you a stamp card. Every time you come in, they give you a stamp; then, after so many stamps, you a get a free something-or-other. It sounds like a nice deal, doesn't it? Well, this is all part of their marketing strategy. They give you the card and the stamps, and this makes you feel like you're in the middle of something. It keeps you coming back for more, even when you don't need it. If they offer a card, take it of course; but don't get carried away. The prize at the end isn't worth all the extra trips and services you don't need.
They're Not All Bad Guys!
Car repair shops are a dirty bunch, aren't they? Well, here's the biggest secret of all - Not all of them are. In fact, there are lots of great shops. It's just a matter of being a smart shopper and finding the right one. Start looking today and find a car repair place that does a great job at a great price.
