how to find the best auto repair shop

• Find a shop for your brand of car Many garages specialize in certain makes. ...
• Ask your family and friends Especially seek recommendations from those who have a vehicle similar to yours.
• Search the Internet Look for information about local mechanics on Angie's List, the Consumer Reports car repair estimator, and the Mechanics Files at Cartalk.com. ...
• Check for certification Your mechanic and shop should be certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence, or ASE.
• Check the Better Business Bureau Auto repair shops rank 12th on the bureau's list of common complaints. ...
Give the shop a tryout Before your car needs a big repair, you might want to try out some local shops with smaller repairs or maintenance items, such as oil ...
Ask about warranties What kind of guarantees does the shop give on repair work? Warranties can vary greatly among shops, so ask about them ahead of time. ...
Make sure the shop is convenient Even the best shop might not be worth the effort if its hours conflict with your schedule or you have few transportation options after ...

Full Answer

How to find a quality auto repair shop?

Whether you are new in town or you are just looking for a new shop, the experts at ASE offer some guidelines to help take some of the anxiety out of your search:

• Look for a repair facility before you need one; you can make better decisions when you are not rushed.
• Ask friends, co-workers and associates for recommendations.
• Consult local consumer organizations, such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and chambers of commerce, about the reputation of the shop. ...

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How to choose the right auto repair shop?

Tips For Choosing The Best Auto Repair Shop

• Cheap Isn’t Always Cheerful. In the motor industry, you get what you pay for. ...
• Professional Certifications. It’s worth checking if your repair shop possesses the professional qualifications to perform maintenance and repair work on your car.
• Trained Technicians. ...
• Ask About Pricing. ...
• Go Online. ...
• Use The Experts. ...

How to select an auto repair shop?

Tips to choose the right auto repair shop

• Don’t wait. You’ll be relieved you have a trustworthy mechanic when your car won’t start or if you get into an accident.
• Ask for recommendations. ...
• Look online. ...
• Make sure the shop works on your make and model of vehicle. ...
• Compare estimates. ...
• Check your warranty. ...
• Test the shop with a small repair. ...

How to start a successful auto repair shop?

Start a car repair shop by following these 10 steps: Plan your Car Repair Shop. Form your Car Repair Shop into a Legal Entity. Register your Car Repair Shop for Taxes. Open a Business Bank Account & Credit Card. Set up Accounting for your Car Repair Shop. Get the Necessary Permits & Licenses for your Car Repair Shop.

How do you know if an auto shop is good?

The shop has a clean rap sheet. The Better Business Bureau (bbb.org) can show you how long the shop or dealership has been in business, how many complaints have been resolved lately and its BBB rating. Be wary, though, of online user ratings.

How do I know if my mechanic is honest?

Honest mechanics will communicate clearly with you in words you can understand before, during and after the repair. Compare any scheduled repair with your owner's manual. Honest mechanics will give you written estimates including parts, labor, and other supplies.

What makes a good repair shop?

A good auto shop doesn't just fix the problem—they actually listen to you as you tell them about it. Pay attention while you talk to the mechanic about your problem. Notice if they're short with you or dismissive of anything you suggest. Also, ask about any sort of guarantee for their work.

Are local repair shops cheaper than dealerships?

LOCATION. Facilities usually are smaller and have less overhead than dealerships. This can mean significantly lower prices for customers. It takes more work to find the right auto shop, because there can be a couple of dozen corner garages in the same town.

How do you know if a mechanic is scamming you?

10 Signs that Your Mechanic is Cheating YouThe Neverending Repair. ... The Scare Attempt. ... Fishy Terms. ... Cheap Spares. ... Unnecessary Repairs. ... Refusal to Show the Old Car Parts. ... Straying From the Manual. ... Bad Explanations.More items...

How do you spot a dishonest mechanic?

Warning Signs Of A Dishonest Mechanic: Know Before You TowThey Have No Credentials. If the auto shop you choose doesn't have certifications in the field, they're probably not dependable. ... They Won't Give You a Written Quote. ... They Try to Scare You. ... They Won't Show You Old Parts. ... They Don't Like to Answer Questions.

What should I expect from an auto repair shop?

What to Expect from an Auto Repair ShopExpect that the shop's employees are certified. ... Expect to be briefed on their procedures and their costs—in writing. ... Expect that they help you understand your repair. ... Expect that they keep you updated.

Who is the most famous mechanic?

Of the hundreds of nominations we received in our search for America's Most Popular Mechanic, only a few had multiple submissions made in their honor. And none stirred more passion and enthusiasm than Mike Besso, mechanic and proprietor of Main Street Automotive in Little Falls, New Jersey.

How do you do auto body estimate?

6 Steps to Write an Auto Repair EstimateStep 1: Check What Needs To Be Done. ... Step 2: Decide How Long The Repair Will Take. ... Step 3: Be Detailed. ... Step 4: Know What The Competition Charges. ... Step 5: Make It Professional. ... Step 6: Deliver Your Estimates On Time.

Is it worth servicing car at main dealer?

It doesn't matter how new or old your car is, it needs regular servicing by well-trained mechanics. A car dealership has a reputation to keep, and some argue that they will do a better job of servicing than an independent garage.

Do I have to get my car serviced by a main dealer?

It's important to mention that you don't have to use a main dealership to service your car. But doing so ensures the correct parts are used and the right jobs are carried out at the right time.

Do I have to get my car serviced at the dealership?

“It's important that you follow the manufacturer guidelines concerning service intervals, such as one year or 10,000 miles, and you must use the approved parts. But otherwise, you can't be forced to use a dealer's workshop for your car's service.”

Are most mechanics honest?

Most mechanics are honest, he said, but many are pressured by their bosses to perform unnecessary work. “The shop has to stay in business,” Joe said. “There are pressures to do things that maybe you wouldn't do normally.”

How do I not get scammed by mechanics?

How to Protect Yourself from Auto Mechanic ScamsRecommend a Friend. While mechanics can be intimidating, most people can usually find one they trust. ... Ask for Proof. Don't be afraid to speak up. ... Service Centers Tell All. ... Customer Satisfaction Policy. ... Record Keeping in Essential.

When is the best time to look for a repair shop?

The best time to look for a repair shop is before you need one. Ask family and friends for recommendations, and visit AAA.com/Repair to locate nearby AAA Approved Auto Repair Facilities. While a full-service repair shop is preferred, it is not the only option; there are four basic types of shops to choose from:

Why is it important to use a professional auto repair shop?

AAA hopes this advice on choosing a quality shop will contribute to many more miles of economical and trouble-free vehicle ownership.

How does AAA maintain a vehicle?

AAA believes the best way to maintain your vehicle is to choose a quality full-service auto repair shop and have service work performed by professional technicians trained to identify potential problems. This helps prevent breakdowns and often saves money by allowing you to make a small repair now rather than a much bigger one later. Also, a shop that knows you and your vehicle can better advise you about work that may soon be needed.

What is an auto repair chain?

Auto Repair Chains – These shops are often affiliated with department stores, tire companies, auto parts suppliers or other business entities. They often focus on high-volume services performed by low- to mid-level technicians. Chain shops frequently advertise low prices, and can offer good value.

What is a specialty shop?

Specialists – Some independent auto repair shops specialize in certain vehicle makes or systems. By focusing on a limited part of the market, these shops can provide very efficient and effective service. A specialty shop can be a good choice if you drive the make of vehicle it services, or need the type of repairs it provides.

What to do when you narrow your list to a preferred car care facility?

Once you narrow your list to a preferred car care facility, pay it a visit for a minor job like an oil change or tire rotation. While waiting, talk with shop employees and inspect the shop keeping in mind these criteria:

What is dealer service?

Dealerships – Dealer service departments are very familiar with the makes of cars they sell. They know common problems, have factory-trained technicians with the latest equipment, and have access to special service advisories from the automaker.

What is mechanic spot?

The Mechanic Spot has a nice vibe throughout with its simple messaging and skimmability. The most important information is front and center right up top too with clear navigation that’s easy to navigate and understand.

Is Jay Barkers Auto Repair a family owned business?

The only piece that’s not as prominent as it could be (such as in the title) is where they serve. So, maybe instead of “family owned & operated since 1977” it might say “family owned & operated in Louisville, KY since 1977”.

Is the Auto Repair Shop website easy to understand?

The website is simple if you break it down to the basics but it’s clear and easy to understand . As you scroll down the front page everything is laid out well and covers the important basics of an auto repair shop.

Is Verdugo Tires a good website?

Verdugo Tires & Auto Repair website looks great and a lot of effort was made to make a template website look more unique. It was successful and we like the results. Information is clear and succinct and it’s easy to schedule an appointment.

How to fix a car that has been recalled?

Go to a dealership if your car is covered by the original warranty and you want the manufacturer to pay for the fix. Use a dealership, too, if your car has been recalled or is the subject of a "service campaign" in which the automaker offers to correct a defect.

What does a good technician do?

A good technician will let you know when a problem warrants a trip to the dealership or a speciality shop. If you're experiencing a problem with a system that's exclusive to your model or automaker—especially electronics, such as a navigation or multi-function control system—consider taking the vehicle to a dealership.

What is a Tsb repair?

Wherever you go for service, make sure they have access to the manufacturer's latest technical service bulletins (TSBs), which are basically instructions on how to fix common problems with a particular model. Often, an automaker will do TSB repairs for free, but you'll have to go to a dealership to get the work done.

What is routine maintenance?

Routine maintenance items are those listed in your vehicle's owner's manual as part of the model's service schedule. They are intended to keep your vehicle in top operating condition. Repairs are service that needs to be performed to fix a problem. Where you take your vehicle may depend on what needs to be done.

What happens if a car is out of warranty?

If the vehicle is out of warranty, the type of problem may determine where you take it for repair. A reputable independent shop should be able to handle most common repairs. Shops that specialize in your vehicle's brand are more likely to have the proper training, equipment, and up-to-date information.

Do independent shops have more satisfaction than dealerships?

Based on annual surveys, we find consumers generally have a higher level of satisfaction with independent shops over car dealerships.

How to find a good mechanic?

Ask your friends, family, and the internet which places are the best around you. You’ll probably get some helpful advice on a decent mechanic in your price range.

Why do mechanics hate my car?

Mechanics hate my car because Saturns aren’t made anymore so they can never find parts for it. Saturns were a short-lived production by General Motors that didn’t pan out. GM dealers are able to find parts easier and their mechanics have more experience with the type of car.

Can you be met at a car dealership?

At the dealership, there’s a good chance you won’t actually be met by the mechanic —an advantage you get with a smaller repair shop. There will likely be someone hired specifically for customer service that will explain what’s wrong with your car and take your money.

Do mechanics have to go through training?

If they are, it’s not a guarantee of a solid operation, but these associations require mechanics to go through a certain amount of training in order to receive certification, so it’s likely they know what they’re doing.

Is a private garage better than a dealership?

If you appreciate good customer service and a friendly relationship, you’ re better off with a private garage (not that all dealerships are evil, but in my experience, they aren’t the greatest).

Does word of mouth matter to mechanics?

Word of mouth matters a lot to mechanics. That’s how small-town shops get a lot of their business.

Do mechanics need a website?

At the very least, you’ll know if someone had a bad experience with a certain mechanic or shop. But not all mechanics are going to have significant presence online. In fact, the best ones might not need to have a website or a Facebook page because they already have a enough business from word-of-mouth referrals.

Who needs auto repair services?

People who rely on their car or truck to get back and forth to work every day should pay special attention to preventative maintenance.

Who inspects used cars?

Anyone purchasing a used car should have it inspected by a trusted mechanic before making the purchase.

How long does it take to become an ASE certified mechanic?

Individuals must have one year of on the job training and a two-year degree in automotive repair or two years of on the job training to sit for an ASE certification exam. Only about two-thirds of test-takers pass on their first attempt. Top ASE certified technicians are called, Master Technicians.

How long to let a car run on a battery?

Start the running car’s engine and let it charge your battery for a few minutes. Now, start your car and let it run for about 15 minutes.

What is the American Automobile Association?

Founded in 1902, American Automobile Association offers 24/7 emergency roadside assistance to customers nationwide. Customers can choose from three coverage plans offering benefits such as towing and emergency fuel delivery.

Where do national chains build their stores?

Shopping district: Several national chains tend to build/open locations in mall parking lots or near a walkable shopping district. Going to one of these shops many be convenient if you already need to do other shopping, if the shop is very busy and/or if your vehicle needs a time consuming service or repair.

Do vehicles break down during business hours?

Vehicles don’t always break down during regular business hours. When selecting an auto service repair shop, consider whether they are open at hours that are convenient for your schedule.

How to find a mechanic?

Here are a few tips to help you narrow down your mechanic search. Type "auto repair" into the search field and enter your ZIP code. You can filter the results based on distance, most reviewed and highest rated. The goal should be to find a place that strikes a balance between a good rating and a substantial number of reviews. For example, a place may have a glowing review, but if it's the only review, that customer's experience might not be the same as yours. Or worse, it could be a misleading review from an employee or business owner.

Is Yelp a misleading review?

For example, a place may have a glowing review, but if it's the only review, that customer's experience might not be the same as yours. Or worse, it could be a misleading review from an employee or business owner. Yelp has an algorithm that helps it spot misleading reviews, but sometimes they can slip by undetected.

Is Yelp good for Lexus?

We've had good experiences with Yelp recommendations as we looked for a mechanic to work on Edmunds' long-term 1996 Lexus ES 300, which is the subject of our Debt-Free Car Project. With our new long-term vehicles, we tend to use dealerships exclusively. But because containing costs is important for the Lexus project, we've used Yelp four times to locate independent mechanics. Of the four, we would go back to three of them. We've found Yelp to be the most useful site, thanks to its review volume and convenience.

What is the biggest expense in auto body shops?

The cost of labor is the biggest expense in most auto body shops. The cost for repairing a car damaged in an accident can vary widely among different body shops, depending on the size and location of the business.

Why is a shop not busy?

If a shop isn't busy, maybe that's because customers are avoiding it because of shoddy repairs. If the place is really dirty, cluttered or disorganized, this might reflect the kind of work you could expect the shop to do with your car.

How long is a paint job warranty?

A one-year warranty is a minimum, Mallette says. His shop offers a two-year warranty for body work and a three-year warranty for complete paint jobs. Some shops offer lifetime warranties as a selling point, but that isn't realistic, he says.

Do body shops charge more?

Large body shops with a lot of front-office workers probably have to charge higher rates to pay their staff. While service delivered by front-desk folks, managers and foremen gives some people a feeling of confidence in the business, it can result in estimates that are padded with non-essential work. When they're charging more labor hours at a higher rate, your bill can add up quickly.

Can aftermarket parts save money?

Depending on the damage to your vehicle, aftermarket parts can save a lot of money and can be just as good as the ones that come from the original manufacturer. If paint work is involved, ask how many coats of paint and clear coat the shop intends to use.

Is it better to use new or used body parts?

Are new, used or aftermarket body parts going to be used? New parts are obviously the best and used parts are fine, though they don't offer the savings people imagine. Depending on the damage to your vehicle, aftermarket parts can save a lot of money and can be just as good as the ones that come from the original manufacturer. If paint work is involved, ask how many coats of paint and clear coat the shop intends to use.

Should I take my car to a body shop for repairs?

Taking your car to several auto body shops for repair quotes is the best way to avoid overcharges, Mallette notes. "I'll tell people to go get some estimates and bring 'em back to me. I'll match estimates if I can."