A car is the second largest investment most of us make after a house, so it only makes sense that we want to trust the person who is going to be repairing it. And while you might think finding a reliable auto repair shop and a good mechanic might be a difficult task, it really isn't if you know what to search for. Let's get you on the right track.
The best way to guarantee you find a good repair shop is to start looking for that quality shop before your car needs repairs. Once your car is broken, then you won't have time to research the quality of the shop because you are forced to rush around trying to find a place to have it fixed.
It's much better to establish a relationship with a repair shop and the mechanic long before things break. Regular maintenance, in fact, will help reduce the risk of your vehicle breaking down and it's the perfect way to decide whether you like what a shop has to offer. Start small with a simple oil change and build from there.
When you start your search, you should rely on word of mouth. Try listening to what others have to say about different repair shops. Ask friends, family, and co-workers who they would recommend. You can try checking with the BBB to find out who has had complaints against them.
It's a mistake to base your decision on just the price. If the price is lower, it doesn't really mean a cheaper bill. Some shops have a flat rate charge for each repair type no matter how long it takes them. Charging for every hour it takes is what others do which might work out cheaper but it could also work out to more if the mechanic runs into a snag. While a lower rate doesn't always mean poor service, a higher rate doesn't always mean better service. Be sure to do your research.
Snoop around a bit once you think you have found the right shop. You should check to see that the shop appears well organized and neat.
There are also some questions worth asking.
Do they have up to date equipment What are the types of diagnostic equipment that they have? Will they be able to provide references from other customers? Do they specialize in a certain type of vehicle Are their technicians certified What are the brand of parts that they use? Any ideas what their policy is relating to customer satisfaction? What exactly is their warranty? What are the type of payments that they accept? Any ideas what their labor rate is?
Keeping a record of the maintenance and repairs that you have done to your vehicle is very important. Making sure that their records are kept in a safe place is also essential.
If you use these tips, then finding a reliable auto repair shop won't be that difficult.
The best way to guarantee you find a good repair shop is to start looking for that quality shop before your car needs repairs. Once your car is broken, then you won't have time to research the quality of the shop because you are forced to rush around trying to find a place to have it fixed.
It's much better to establish a relationship with a repair shop and the mechanic long before things break. Regular maintenance, in fact, will help reduce the risk of your vehicle breaking down and it's the perfect way to decide whether you like what a shop has to offer. Start small with a simple oil change and build from there.
When you start your search, you should rely on word of mouth. Try listening to what others have to say about different repair shops. Ask friends, family, and co-workers who they would recommend. You can try checking with the BBB to find out who has had complaints against them.
It's a mistake to base your decision on just the price. If the price is lower, it doesn't really mean a cheaper bill. Some shops have a flat rate charge for each repair type no matter how long it takes them. Charging for every hour it takes is what others do which might work out cheaper but it could also work out to more if the mechanic runs into a snag. While a lower rate doesn't always mean poor service, a higher rate doesn't always mean better service. Be sure to do your research.
Snoop around a bit once you think you have found the right shop. You should check to see that the shop appears well organized and neat.
There are also some questions worth asking.
Do they have up to date equipment What are the types of diagnostic equipment that they have? Will they be able to provide references from other customers? Do they specialize in a certain type of vehicle Are their technicians certified What are the brand of parts that they use? Any ideas what their policy is relating to customer satisfaction? What exactly is their warranty? What are the type of payments that they accept? Any ideas what their labor rate is?
Keeping a record of the maintenance and repairs that you have done to your vehicle is very important. Making sure that their records are kept in a safe place is also essential.
If you use these tips, then finding a reliable auto repair shop won't be that difficult.
About the Author:
When you're in the market for under hood or under car repair, Carolinas AAA will provide the highest level of commitment to service for your car.
No comments:
Post a Comment