Next to a home, your car is likely your most expensive possession, and even if you have passing knowledge of how it works, you’ll likely need to take it to a mechanic for repairs and maintenance. Finding a mechanic you trust will make car upkeep much more affordable and less stressful.
Consider these 10 questions when visiting a mechanic for the first time.
1. What are your certifications?
Repairing and maintaining modern cars require a high level of specialized skills. A certification from a credible agency can give you the peace of mind that the mechanic has the appropriate training to take care of your car.
Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) is the industry-standard certifying agency for mechanics. After completing a combination of secondary training on automobiles and hands-on experience, ASE-certified mechanics must take a new test every five years, ensuring they have the latest knowledge of automotive trends and technology.
If your mechanic does not have ASE certification, ask the shop manager about manufacturer training certificates and other third-party qualifications.
2. How much for a diagnosis?
Check engine and other repair lights can appear on your dashboard for a variety of reasons, including a simple electrical malfunction. Most mechanics can run a diagnostic test to get a precise error code, pinpointing the problem among hundreds of possibilities. Because this is a low-cost procedure, many mechanics will offer the service free of charge.
In case of a more complex problem, a mechanic might charge a standard hourly fee to determine the necessary repair.
3. Do you have experience with this model?
Whether your car is brand-new or a classic, you should look for a mechanic who has some familiarity with the make and model.
4. How much/how do you charge?
A trustworthy mechanic should be completely upfront and transparent about rates. They should be able to quote you exact prices for routine maintenance like oil changes and tire rotations, and they should have a standard hourly rate for labor. Clarity around prices can help you avoid surprises and budget more accurately for car maintenance.
5. Do you offer written estimates?
When your mechanic inspects your car and makes repair recommendations, they should put the repair estimate in writing. This written agreement reduces the chance of a surprise charge on the final bill. While the final bill may be slightly higher or lower, a written estimate gives you a rough idea of the scope and price of the repairs.
6. Which repairs are essential?
If you’re on a tight budget, you might not be able to afford all the recommended repairs at the same time. A trustworthy mechanic will help you prioritize repairs that optimize your safety and the car’s performance. For example, perhaps you have a tire with extremely worn-out treads, but you also need a new air conditioner. Because a tire blow-out on the highway is extremely dangerous, your mechanic might recommend replacing tires first and holding off on the AC until you can afford it.
A dependable mechanic will not pressure you into elective repairs but will help you decide which repairs are most urgent given your budget.
7. Can you show me?
Many auto repair shops invite customers to check out their vehicle during its inspection in the repair bay. If the mechanic recommends replacing a part, they should allow you to see the defective or worn component to keep the process transparent. If the mechanic is not willing to show you the problem, you might feel more comfortable working with a different mechanic.
8. How long will the repair take?
Most good mechanic shops are busy, which means they can easily get backed up. If you’re planning to sit and wait while your car is being repaired, ask ahead of time for an approximate repair window. While the repair still might take longer than estimated, a rough figure helps you worry less while you sit and wait.
Some mechanics offer shuttle services so you don’t have to sit and wait. Ask if you can catch a ride back to work or home, saving you the time and inconvenience of waiting on your car at the mechanic shop.
9. Is the work guaranteed?
A guarantee instills confidence in the quality of the parts and the mechanic’s workmanship. Many shops will allow customers to bring their cars back if they are not happy with a part or service. Depending on the situation, the mechanic may replace broken parts and perform additional repairs at no cost.
10. Can I speak to other customers?
Feel free to ask your mechanic for permission to speak to other customers. If a past customer speaks highly of the mechanic’s prices and performance, it’s a good indication you’ve found a good mechanic. On the other hand, if past customers express dissatisfaction with the work quality or customer service, you might want to keep looking.