Most people dread going to the car repair shop. We've all heard horror stories of customers getting overcharged or even worse charged for services that were never performed. Fortunately it's not that hard to find a reputable auto repair facility. Here are a few tips to help you find the right one.
First you'll have to decide if you want to get your vehicle repaired at the dealership or at an independent shop. If your vehicle is brand new and still under warranty you may be obliged to have it serviced at the dealer. If it's older you may prefer an independent auto repair and service shop since their prices are generally a lot more reasonable.
The easiest way to find an independent mechanic that you can trust is through a referral from a friend. Ask around and your family members, friends or co-workers are very likely to point you in the right direction. Once you find a reputable mechanic you'll want to establish a relationship; that way you'll always have a helping hand available in case something goes wrong with your vehicle. Another way to find a reputable auto repair shop is to read business reviews on websites such as Yelp. Make sure that the mechanic is ASE certified if you are in the U.S. Certification ensures that the mechanic has passed a rigorous training curriculum and is well equipped to diagnose and fix repairs.
Always ask for an estimate and make sure that it's broken down and itemized so that you know exactly what you are paying for. The estimate should specify pay for labor and parts. Always let the owner know not to perform any repairs without your consent; it's a good idea to see the estimate first. If parts need to be replaced ask for the old part back; this way you can make sure that it was actually replaced.
One of the main reasons for major and costly car repairs is neglect. One of the easiest ways to prevent expensive repairs is to take care of small problems when they occur. That means taking your auto into the shop once you hear an unusual noise or notice anything out of the ordinary (overheating, shaking etc). It's equally important to have maintenance and service performed as instructed in the driver's owners manual. Proper maintenance and care will ensure that your car will last for many years to come.
