“A car is only trouble at a certain point.” — Ryan Gosling
At some point in time, our vehicles will need to be taken to an auto repair shop. Whether it’s for something major or something minor, an auto repair shop should be on your list of emergency contacts. No one can predict when their car might break down, or start leaking oil, or your starter won’t turn over. So many things can go wrong at any given time to your automobile, so having a local and respected auto repair shop, like us, just a click away is so important.
Below, we want to give you some tips in order to help you choose the right auto repair shop.
Make a List
No matter where you live, there are a lot of auto repair shops around. The first thing we recommend doing is making a list of auto repair shops. Your list should consist of auto repair shops that have been recommended to you by your friends or family, auto repair shops that have positive reviews online, and auto repair shops you’ve used before.
Better Business Bureau
The Better Business Bureau (BBB) should be the first stop when researching a local auto repair shop. They keep a great record on a lot of businesses. They also give certifications to those businesses that have provided top notch service and a quality of work that continues to be maintained. After you’ve narrowed down your list of auto repair shops, head over to the BBB online to look at the shops reputation. When you look up those auto repair shops on the BBB’s website, you’ll be able to find out if there’s been complaints and see how those complaints were worked out. The major positive with the BBB is, you’ll really get a sense of which auto repair shop is doing the job right!
Repair Prices
It’s really to your benefit when choosing an auto repair shop for an expensive repair, to compare auto repair shop prices. If you already know what the issue is with your car, then use that list of auto repair shops you made and call them. Cost is key! It’s also in your best interest to find out if your car has a warranty and to find out if those repairs are covered by that warranty. There are warranty’s out there that you may not know about that may have your cars issues under warranty. Ask questions, and develop a relationship. This will also help when choosing an auto repair shop.
Custom Auto Care
When putting your auto repair shop list together, you should research companies that specialize in your car. According to Consumer Reports, shops that specialize in specific manufacturers have the most up-to-date training and equipment for working on those vehicles. This can be especially important for major repairs. It can be on the expensive side, but there is real piece of mind here knowing that they specialize in the make and model of your vehicle. Research and find the right Custom auto repair shop.
Auto Technicians
Honestly, you should always do a walk in or drive through. If you notice a well maintained and organized auto repair shop, that’ll help when making your decision. Also, Qualified auto technicians are certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (NIASE). You’ll see certificates on the walls of the shop or office with the letters ASE prominently displayed. The technicians should also have ASE patches on their uniforms. If you don’t want to drive by and stop in, please call and ask these questions. Again, piece of mind goes a long way. Don’t hesitate in asking those questions.
Car Apps
This is a newer way to go about things. Obviously, the smart phone is very real. So, an auto repair app can be something to consider when choosing an auto repair shop. Mechanic advisor or OpenBay are mobile apps that help consumers when they know what work they need. Openbay is a Connected Car app that can do be of service, and even send your vehicle computer diagnostics straight to several repair shops. This means that you don’t need to know what’s wrong – the app will tell you, and give this information to shops. Repair shops then quote the repair cost, or give more information on the diagnosis. Consumers then choose a repair shop based on ratings, location, and price.
Auto Repair Shop
When choosing an auto repair shop there are several things you should do first. Putting a great list of recommended auto repair shops together should be the first thing you do. In the end, when you select an auto repair shop, you need to ask questions and develop a confident relationship with the auto repair shop you end up choosing. We hope you choose us! You can contact us at any time for any questions or to set up an appointment.
FAQ Section: Choosing the Right Auto Repair Shop
1. How do I find a trustworthy auto repair shop near me?
Finding a trustworthy auto repair shop near you starts with doing a bit of research. Look for shops with positive customer reviews on platforms like Google and Yelp. Additionally, checking the Better Business Bureau (BBB) for any complaints or certifications can give you peace of mind. It’s also a good idea to ask friends and family for recommendations since word of mouth can be a powerful indicator of a shop’s reputation.
2. What should I look for in an auto repair shop’s pricing?
When evaluating repair shop pricing, it’s important not to just focus on the cost. Sure, you want to avoid overpaying, but extremely low prices can be a red flag. Make sure to get quotes from multiple shops and compare them. Be wary of shops that offer significantly lower prices as they might be cutting corners or using subpar parts. Always inquire if the price includes parts, labor, and any additional fees.
3. Why is the Better Business Bureau (BBB) important when choosing an auto repair shop?
The Better Business Bureau (BBB) plays a crucial role in vetting businesses, including auto repair shops. The BBB provides ratings and detailed reports on businesses, including any complaints filed against them and how they were resolved. A shop with a high BBB rating has likely demonstrated consistent quality in service and customer satisfaction, making it a reliable choice.
4. How can I ensure the mechanics are qualified at the auto repair shop?
To ensure that the mechanics are qualified, look for certifications from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). ASE-certified mechanics have passed rigorous exams and have proven expertise in specific areas of automotive repair. Additionally, a clean and organized shop often indicates that the mechanics take pride in their work.
5. What are the benefits of using auto repair apps?
Auto repair apps like OpenBay and Mechanic Advisor can simplify your search for a repair shop. These apps can diagnose issues based on your car’s symptoms and connect you with nearby shops. You can compare quotes, read reviews, and even book appointments directly through the app. This digital convenience ensures you get the best service at a fair price.
6. Should I choose an auto repair shop that specializes in my car’s make and model?
Choosing a shop that specializes in your car’s make and model can be beneficial, especially for complex repairs. Specialized shops have up-to-date training and tools specific to your vehicle, which can lead to more accurate diagnostics and efficient repairs. While they might be slightly more expensive, the expertise can save you from future headaches.
7. How do I know if an auto repair shop is overcharging me?
If you suspect an auto repair shop is overcharging, don’t hesitate to get a second opinion. You can also research common repair costs online or use tools like RepairPal to check the fair market price for specific repairs in your area. If a shop’s quote is significantly higher than the average, it’s worth questioning or considering other options.
8. Why should I develop a relationship with my auto repair shop?
Building a relationship with your auto repair shop can lead to better service over time. A shop that knows your vehicle history and trusts you as a repeat customer is more likely to go the extra mile to ensure your satisfaction. Regular customers may also receive discounts or priority service in emergency situations.
9. What are the advantages of getting my car repaired at a shop that’s been recommended by friends or family?
Recommendations from friends or family are valuable because they’re based on firsthand experiences. If someone you trust had a positive experience with a particular shop, it’s likely you will too. Personal recommendations often lead to discovering reliable shops that you might not have found through online searches alone.
10. What should I do if I’m unhappy with the service at an auto repair shop?
If you’re unhappy with the service at an auto repair shop, the first step is to communicate your concerns directly with the shop manager. Most reputable shops will work to resolve issues to maintain customer satisfaction. If the issue isn’t resolved, you can file a complaint with the BBB or seek legal advice if necessary.
