It’s very important to have a mechanic you can trust, but how do you find one?
Is your car giving you headaches?
Dealerships tend to charge huge fees, so they’re not an option.
And no matter how handy you are, you may not be able to do all major repairs yourself.
Here’s how you find a trusted car mechanic for your needs:
How Much Should You Pay?
Currently, most mechanics charge $85 to $130 per hour.
How much you’ll pay depends on where you live, what type of car you drive, and what pieces you need.
Brake pads replacement costs anywhere from $198 to $345. Clutch assembly replacement is at least $1,425. If you need to replace the timing belt and water pump, expect to pay $1,336 to $1,877.
Car repair is not cheap. Thus, it’s essential to find an auto mechanic who keeps the costs low.
A skilled mechanic can fix your car and keep it running longer. Finding one is the hardest part.
Research and Compare
Most car owners don’t know who to trust for auto repairs. If you’ve been ripped off in the past, you might believe all mechanics are crooks.
Or maybe you’re a total newbie and know nothing about car repairs.
The best thing you can do is to educate yourself. The more you know, the better.
Get quotes from at least three different experts. This will help you make an informed decision.
Search for auto repair shops that offer coupons and vouchers. Show your coupon to the car mechanic to cut costs.
Get Recommendations for a Car Mechanic
Word-of-mouth is your best ally. Ask your friends and colleagues if they know a trustworthy mechanic.
Go online and read customer reviews on local car repair shops. Use social media to gather information.
If a relative or friend owns the same type of car, ask for his opinion.
Check out local business directories, such as Yelp, Angie’s List, and the Better Business Bureau. These should give you a clue on where to find auto repair shops in your area.
For instance, Angie’s List offers lots of articles and tips on car repairs. Customers can rate and review the companies listed here.
Check for Certifications
Once you find a car mechanic, ask about their credentials. An Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification indicates that you’re dealing with an expert.
To get this certificate, mechanics need to study and pass a test. They must also have at least two years of experience.
Additionally, many specialists hold certifications in certain types of cars or specialty repairs. If you have a vintage car or need complex repairs, choose an expert.
Ask Questions
An informed customer is a smart customer. Before hiring a mechanic, take the time to ask some questions.
Do they offer liability insurance?
What types of vehicles do they specialize in?
What types of auto parts do they use – new, OEM, aftermarket, or used?
How many years have they been in business?
What is their payment policy?
A good car mechanic should be eager and willing to answer any questions you may have. They should be able to explain what’s wrong with your car and how to prevent future damage.
Now that you know how to find a trusted mechanic, it’s time to start your search!
At Sanford’s Auto, we’re always here to help you with any questions you may have.