Auto repair and maintenance is no joke - vehicles not only need to be operating at optimum performance levels, they also need to be repaired and maintained within a set timeline and budget; two considerations that many mechanic shops take no notice of.
A lot of us aren’t that great with auto repairs, which is why we go to the mechanic’s in the first place. But how can we trust that what they’re telling us is the truth? And how do we know that they are being honest about prices? The answer: we don’t. But when you find the best mechanic for your needs, you’ll have a much better shot at getting your car fixed in a superior fashion, without being taken for a ride.
Start your search by word of mouth. Ask your friends and family which repair shops they frequent. People generally don’t stay with a mechanic that treats them badly, so you’ll have a good chance of landing a nice, honest mechanic this way. When you have a short list, compare locations. Find the mechanic shops that are in a convenient location (either close to home or work).
Don’t wait until you’re in a dire situation; book a routine appointment with the auto repair shop of your choosing and then do a little price comparison with other places. When you’re there ask some easy questions:
- Do they use new, used or salvaged parts for large-scale fixes?
- What are their labour rates?
- Do they offer rentals or shuttle service?
- What services do they offer?
- What is their warranty on parts and labour?
A great way to snoop is also to “Google” the shop and see if there are any bad reviews or complaints against their work or billing. Contact the better business bureau as well to see if there have ever been complaints lodged against the shop.
If you’re faced with a large-scale auto breakdown and need a different level of work done, make sure to call around and compare prices and always ask which parts they will be using – vehicle specific or general.
As with any service, make sure there is the promise of a long-term relationship that you can build on over the years. The best auto repair shops are the ones that pride themselves in honesty, professionalism and customer service. You bring them the work and they’ll leave you with a functioning vehicle and the shirt you came in with.
Lilly Gordon is a freelance writer and web publisher. She is currently researching Auto Repair in Sherwood Park, Alberta and auto service.
No comments:
Post a Comment