How to Find a Good Auto Repair Shop
Getting good recommendations from friends and family is the best way to find a trustworthy auto repair shop. Ask for names of shops that they have used and if they were satisfied with the service.
Remember to dig out your owner's manual and follow the carmaker's recommended maintenance schedule. Stay away from a shop that suggests you need work beyond what the owner's manual says.
Look for Certifications
The mechanics who work at a shop should be certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). A good repair shop will display the certificates of its technicians, and will be happy to answer any questions you have about their qualifications.
Also look for the blue-and-white ASE emblem on shop doors and in window signs. It indicates that the shop follows a code of ethics and requires its technicians to pass certain minimum tests and maintain certifications.
Mechanics should be able to explain your car's problems in a way you can understand. If they seem condescending or unwilling to take the time to do so, it may be a sign that they are not a good fit for you and your car.
Ask friends and co-workers about their experiences with local repair shops, and try a few out for maintenance services like oil changes to see how they perform. Make note of how the experience went, and what factors you took into consideration.
Look for Reputation
Finding a mechanic you can trust is no laughing matter. Crooked auto mechanics can cost you dearly, so it's best to find a shop that has built up a reputation for honest and quality work. One of the best ways to do this is by asking friends, family, and co-workers for recommendations.
A good mechanic should be willing to explain any underlying problems that may be making the car shudder, squeal, rattle, or stall, Mattinat says. Some of these issues are common to particular models, while others could be caused by something more serious.
Another thing to look for is whether the shop offers a warranty on parts and labor, or both. Checking online reviews can also give you an idea of what to expect. You should also choose a shop that specializes in your vehicle's make because they'll speak your car's language, Ibbotson says. This will save you money in the long run. They'll know how much to charge for a repair and how to spot any potential overcharges.
Look for Reviews
Whether it's online reviews or word of mouth from trusted friends and family members, testimonials are an important part of the search for a reliable repair shop. Look for a shop with many testimonials and a proven track record.
A reputable auto repair shop should be transparent about their rates and services. They should be able to provide you with an estimate of the average rate for their repairs, and they should be comfortable discussing pricing with you.
Ask the shop what types of warranties and customer guarantees they offer on their work. Make sure that the warranty covers parts and labor, and that it's backed by an automotive service association. It's also a good idea to get any guarantee in writing. Make sure you understand the terms and conditions of the warranty, including its coverage limit, deductibles and transferability to new owners.
Look for Experience
A good auto repair shop should be able to handle most common repairs, but you may need a specialist for electronics or systems that are specific to your car. A mechanic that specializes in your car's brand might be better equipped to diagnose or repair these kinds of issues, says Mattinat.
Many mechanics will briefly run through the underlying problems that need to be fixed and then tell you how much the repairs will cost. Look for a mechanic that takes the time to explain these underlying problems and helps you plan ways to prevent them from happening in the future.
When comparing prices for a particular repair, be sure to check CR's Car Repair Assistant tool and ask for a written estimate that breaks down the costs of parts and labor. Shops with wide variation in estimates may be overcharging for parts or labor. Ask about the hourly rate and whether it varies by car model.
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Getting good recommendations from friends and family is the best way to find a trustworthy auto repair shop. Ask for names of shops that they have used and if they were satisfied with the service. Remember to dig out your owner's manual and follow the carmaker's recommended maintenance schedule. Stay away from a shop that…