Cars are complex machines, but a good mechanic can help translate their moving parts into an easy-to-understand language. Follow this simple framework to ensure you have a good experience during your next visit to the auto repair shop.
Find the Right Auto Service
Having a car professionally maintained can be expensive. It’s worth the time to consider your options when finding the right service center for you, your car, and the specific problem it may be having. These options vary widely from specialists to big-name chain stores that can handle oil changes, tires, brakes, and exhaust. For general repairs and maintenance, there are independent mechanics and dealerships to be aware of as well.
For cars that are less than 6 years old, your first stop should be the dealership. Here, the technicians have the most up-to-date service equipment, data, and factory parts required to fix even the most complex issues. You may even discover the issue with your car is covered by a recall, and you may receive service for no cost or a heavily reduced cost. Dealerships will also provide conveniences like walk-in help and loaner cars.
The downside is that dealership service can be expensive. Depending on the severity of your issue, you can get your first opinion from the dealership and then shop other options from there.
At a chain auto service center, you can usually get your car repaired the same day, but the range of services and the competency of the technicians may be limited. These are fine if you just need regular service, like an oil change. Similarly, if you just need new tires or brakes, this might be a good option. However, you will rarely get to talk to the mechanic that is actually working on your car.
A qualified independent mechanic, especially one where the owner of the business is the mechanic working on your car, is a great option. In most cases, these are highly experienced mechanics that can provide excellent service at a reduced cost compared with a dealership, as you’re dealing directly with the individual working on the car—no middle man. Look for advertisements highlighting Automotive Service Excellence, or ASE, certification. Read online reviews and ask friends and family members for recommendations. Be patient—the best mechanics always have a backlog of work.
For uncommon car problems, a specialized shop may be a good option. Consider getting opinions and repair estimates from specialists when it comes to concerns like air conditioning, bodywork, and window glass.
Do Your Research
After you've figured out what kind of shop is best for your car, do some research on what kind of TLC your car needs. Learning about the problem will show you the severity and approximate cost associated with the repair, making it easier to communicate with a mechanic. Try using social media to see if anyone you know has had a similar problem. Try to understand what is involved in the repair and what is the cost. Not all cars are created equal, so always temper the information you receive from friends with some facts.
Don’t forget Google, either. The internet is a treasure trove of auto-repair help. You can watch videos online and read forum posts to get a general understanding of what is going on.
Finally consider your car’s maintenance schedule. Often, repairs are tied to planned maintenance. If you or the previous owner of your car avoided keeping the car up-to-date with its maintenance schedule, repairs are likely right around the corner.
Ask Questions
When your mechanic suggests a repair, don’t be afraid to ask for an itemization of the cost estimate. Always “trust but verify” what the mechanic is telling you. You should expect an itemized estimate, which you can view as a contract. Understand the cost of the parts versus the cost of the labor. Ask about where the parts are coming from and whether premium OEM parts are being used. Make sure to ask whether there will be additional costs or the potential for other problems to be discovered during the repair.
Ask your mechanic if there are additional tests that may provide additional certainty regarding the problem and the proposed repair. Asking to see the damaged or broken parts once they are removed isn’t a bad idea either. This can help you can understand the problem and ensure the mechanic is doing the necessary service.
On many occasions, your problem may be intermittent. If your car isn’t suffering any consistent symptoms, the mechanic will depend on you to accurately describe the problem. It may make you feel silly, but replicating a concerning noise verbally can help the mechanic sort through potential problems.
Understand the auto shop’s warranty policy and how to follow up if you still have an issue. Ask if there is anything else that should be done during the repair; you may be able to save on future labor costs by tackling multiple problems at once. If you are having a wheel bearing replaced, for example, it may be economical to have the brakes replaced at the same time.
Pay for a Pro
Don’t get sidetracked by suspiciously inexpensive offers from questionable mechanics. To get a repair done correctly, economically, and with a guarantee, seek out a professional with access to a full auto repair shop. Avoid “shade-tree” mechanics or mechanics lacking proper certification.
Mechanics, generally, will approach dealing with the customer from a position of authority. If the quoted price for a repair seems high, feel free to ask questions, but don’t argue with them on the spot. Instead, get a second opinion from another qualified mechanic. Also, ask if there are options to make the repair more affordable. A good mechanic will plan to do a complete repair that is certain to address the problem with little chance of a near-term relapse.
The Bottom Line
Don’t pretend to be an expert when talking with a mechanic. Do as much research beforehand as you can, but once you’re there, continue to ask questions. No one wants to overpay for a car repair, but working with an ASE-certified shop can save you money in the long run.
