In a world where cars are as common as the air we breathe, finding the ideal auto repair shop might seem like a walk in the park. But in reality, it’s not as easy as it appears.
With a multitude of options scattered around, it’s very difficult to find the best auto repair shop. There are tons of factors to consider when choosing one to trust your precious vehicle with.
Here are tips to help you navigate the daunting path of selecting the right auto repair shop for you.
Get Recommendations from Friends
Just like you’d ask your friends for advice on finding a good doctor or hairstylist, you can do the same for auto repair shops. Always ask the people that you trust the most and that are willing to offer genuine help to you.
Talk to friends, family, and coworkers who know a thing or two about cars. They can share their experiences and point you in the right direction.
Read Reviews Online
Nowadays, people love sharing their opinions online. Look up the repair shops you’re considering and read what others have to say. You can easily determine a shop’s reputation by going through their customer reviews.
Check out Google Reviews for honest feedback from real customers, as they can’t be modified by the company itself. It’s a great way to get a sense of whether a shop is worth your time.
Know the Average Costs
Before you bring your car in for repairs, do a bit of research on what the average costs are in your area. Prices can vary a lot depending on the level of services. This will help you avoid overpaying.
But mostly be cautious of car repair shops that offer the same services at super low prices – they might not be telling you the whole story.
Consider the Location
Believe it or not, where a repair shop is located can affect how much you pay. Shops in fancier neighborhoods usually charge a lot more because the residents there can afford heftier repair bills.
Think about where you’re going and take into account the locality of the shop before you decide if it’s worth the extra cost.
Ask about Licenses and Certifications
You want to make sure your car is in good hands, right? Ask the mechanics if they have the right licenses and certifications. Typically, auto mechanics require ASE certification.
These documents will validate their experience in the field and show that they know what they’re doing and can be trusted with your vehicle.
Experience Matters
Cars are complex machines, so it’s important to have experienced mechanics working on them. It would be a foolish idea to let some ill-experienced mechanic deal with your expensive vehicle.
Find out how long the mechanics have been doing this job – it’s a good sign if their head mechanic has a lot of experience under their belt.
Ask Questions
Lastly, have a chat with the shop’s manager and mechanics. See if they really care about fixing your car and if they know what they’re talking about.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions about your car’s problem. You need to have some car knowledge yourself first. Do your own research beforehand before heading into the shop. Doing so will help you figure out if they’re the real deal.
