Choosing an auto mechanic is not something that should be done lightly. Whether you are looking for a new one or need to find someone to fix your car, there are many factors you should take into consideration before making the decision. In this article, we will go over 7 questions that can help make the process easier and ensure you get quality workmanship every time.
Why Is It Important To Ask Questions Before Choosing An Auto Mechanic?
An auto mechanic is a person who repairs and maintains your car. Asking questions before choosing one will help ensure that you are getting a good deal and reliable service, as well as prevent any problems or misunderstandings later on down the road. You need to be sure of their qualifications, experience level, and what they can do for your vehicle, otherwise, it could cost you more than just money. Here are seven important questions that anyone should ask before choosing an auto mechanic:
1. What is your experience with this make and model of car?
If they have worked on it before, there may be no need to worry. However, if the auto mechanic has never even seen one like yours before or only sees them occasionally, he or she will not know how to handle any potential problems that may arise. This can cost you extra money in both labor fees and parts needed for repairs. Be sure the person knows what they are doing so you get good quality service at a reasonable price.
2. Are you licensed and insured?
The answer to this question should always be yes. A reputable mechanic will have all of the appropriate credentials and documentation required by local laws. If they don’t, then you shouldn’t take your car there for any work at all because it means they are breaking the law. It is also important that he or she has insurance coverage in case anything goes wrong during the process. It’s easy to gloss over these questions when you’re tempted with low prices but don’t make a hasty decision before asking them, especially if it’s an emergency where time isn’t on your side.
3. Do you charge for an estimate?
A good auto mechanic will always give an accurate estimate on how much they expect the work to cost. This way, you can decide whether it’s worth getting the job done or not. You don’t want to pay for more than is necessary, so be sure that your choice of auto shop does this for free. If they charge extra just to check out your car and tell you what repairs are needed, then consider taking it elsewhere unless necessary. While there may be reasons why a fee would be appropriate, any additional fees should only come after diagnostics have been completed and presented as a proposal, do not let them change prices once their diagnosis has.
4. Is your estimate going to be written down on paper?
An estimate that is written down and signed by both the mechanic and yourself can be used as a legal contract if there are any disagreements later on. If you don’t receive an estimate in writing, make sure to get it before work begins. This will help prevent confusion or misunderstandings about costs should other problems arise during the repair process.
5. Do you have an ASE Certification?
Now that you have narrowed down your search to a few auto mechanics in your area, take the time to visit each one. When you arrive at each business ask them if they are certified through ASE (Automotive Service Excellence). If they say yes then this is great news because it means that you will be dealing with somebody who has experience working on cars and has taken their certification exam which shows adherence to high-quality service.
6. Is there a warranty on the service and parts?
A reputable auto mechanic will have a warranty on their service and parts. This way, if something goes wrong within the first few months after the work is done you can go back to them for help or your money back. If there isn’t then that should be a red flag that they don’t believe in their abilities or quality of workmanship which means you shouldn’t either and look elsewhere. Warranties come with all different periods but no matter what one chooses it is important not to get locked into an extremely long-term contract unless you are sure this is where he or she will take care of your car for years (used cars excluded).
7. Will you call me first if something arises?
You want to choose a mechanic who will be honest with you. If there are any additional charges or issues, they should let you know before proceeding so that nothing gets added on by surprise. This is especially important if it’s something expensive like needing new tires or an engine replacement.
Given the importance of this decision, we’ve provided a list of questions to ask before choosing an auto mechanic. We hope these 7 questions will help you find the right fit for your car needs. If not, feel free to contact us any time and one of our automotive experts would be happy to answer all your questions.
Are You Looking for an Independent Auto Repair Shop You Can Trust?
If you’re considering making a change to an independent auto repair mechanic trusted by thousands of happy customers, look no further than autoTECH Blackhawk. Why? We differ from other automotive repair shops because we are a relationship shop. This means that the more of your car repair needs we support you with, the better able we are to customize our recommendations based on your driving habits and needs. Whether you want to keep the daily driver in ‘good enough’ condition, style your new car so that it’s customized just for you, maintain your favorite car in ‘like new’ condition, or even train your whole family to be more knowledgeable about cars – we partner with you to ensure that your cars meet your needs. We also offer an industry-leading 3-Year/36,000 mile warranty, so we only use Original Equipment and manufacturer-recommended products. Contact us now to book your no-contact, friendly appointment! We truly value your trust and your business, so thank you for staying local with your auto repair needs.
