Choosing the right auto mechanic is a difficult decision, but it doesn’t have to be. As long as you know what to look for and how to find it, selecting an auto mechanic should be easy. In this article, we will explore 5 steps that will help you choose the perfect auto mechanic in no time.
What Is An Auto Mechanic?
An auto mechanic is a person who repairs and maintains automobiles. The term covers a large number of people, from those working in a repair shop to employees working for an automaker or dealership, who are responsible for doing routine maintenance such as oil changes and replacing brakes. In addition to the routine work that most auto mechanics perform, many specialize in areas such as engine rebuilding or transmission repair. Although some may have been trained by their employers, formal training is often provided through post-secondary trade schools. However, this does not mean that all certified mechanics do the same type of work, different types of car manufacturers require different technical skills and there can be major differences in compensation and responsibility levels between them even if they both hold the same certification credentials. A good auto mechanic keeps up-to-date on new technologies and techniques.
How To Choose An Auto Mechanic In Five Easy Steps
It’s not always easy to know if a mechanic is trustworthy or competent. You can’t just go by the name on the sign outside, either. Sometimes those signs are just for show and sometimes they’re downright misleading. It’s no big deal though because there are 5 simple steps you can follow that will help you find a mechanic who will work hard to keep your car running smoothly for years to come:
1. Determine your needs.
You need to know what your needs are. If you want a mechanic who can do anything, then go ahead and pick them. But if you have specific problems that require certain skills or tools, this is the time to figure it out. You might find that there are several different people around town with whom you could work, and all of them would be able to fix whatever problem comes up for your vehicle. So before diving in headfirst, take inventory of exactly how many cars will be affected by any given repair job so as not to overburden one person’s schedule with too much work.
2. Ask about the mechanic’s credentials.
Many mechanics will be happy to provide you with additional information about their training and experience. This is not only a great opportunity for the consumer to get more acquainted with their prospective mechanic’s qualifications, but it can also help them decide if they want someone who might charge higher rates because of his/her special talent in fixing one type of car or another.
3. Check the company’s reputation.
Check to see how long they have been around. If a company has been in business for several years and is well-established then it’s likely that their work is of better quality than a newer shop which may not be entirely trustworthy yet. Also, consider the overall reputation of the auto mechanic as an individual about their staff members. Do some research on Google where you can find detailed reviews written by previous customers who were satisfied with their service or if not. Use these details to inform your decision-making process when choosing someone new.
4. Look for a mechanic that is eager to demonstrate the issue.
You want a mechanic that is confident and knowledgeable about what he or she can do to help. One way of finding out this information is by asking the mechanic how they know there’s an issue with your car, as well as if they have successfully fixed any issues like yours before. Another good indicator of someone who knows what they are doing is a service center that lets you see under the hood of your vehicle. Of course, not all auto shops will allow for this type of viewing but it shows their confidence in being able to fix whatever may be wrong with your automobile. If they don’t let you take a peek at things like hoses and belts then maybe consider going elsewhere because those are the things they can’t easily hide.
5. Go with your gut.
You can tell a lot about a person just by the way they talk. If your mechanic is an expert in his field, he should be able to explain everything you need to know without being condescending or talking down to you. You will also want someone who makes time for questions and doesn’t answer them with it depends or another ambiguous response.
We hope these five easy steps have helped you narrow down your search for a trustworthy mechanic. If you’re still not sure about what to do, give us a call today and our team will help you find the right person for the job.
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.
