Auto repairs can be very expensive; labor is often the largest part of the repair bill. Add a large mark-up for replacement parts and you find yourself facing a large expense.
Your mechanic recommends a list of maintenance services to be done; you check the manual and find that it calls for these items later. Do you listen to the dealer and have it done now or go by the manual and do it later?
Your owner’s manual is a valuable resource. If you do not have one, get one. You can find them at major auto parts stores or online. Reading the manual will give you the information you need to have an intelligent conversation with your mechanic and to make a wise decision.
If your car has very low miles and is in need of repair, chances are there was a defect in manufacturing and a recall notice was sent out. You can find out if this is the case for you by visiting http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/cars/problems/recalls/
Check with the Better Business Bureau to learn if there have been many complaints filed against the mechanic you are doing business with. Also check to see if they are ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certified in the category of repair you need, such as engine, brakes, electrical, etc…
Your mechanic should be able to give you an estimate before repairs are done so you can either authorize the work or decline some or all of the repairs suggested. Take the time to make some calls to see how much other mechanics are charging for the same type of repairs.
Ask for a written warranty on all service performed and request that they give you the old parts to confirm that work was done. Some mechanics automatically leave old parts in your trunk. Don’t forget to check before you leave in case you don’t care to carry them around with you. If you trust your mechanic and prefer to have them dispose of the parts you can request this service when you pick up the car.
When you pick up your car take the time to look over the bill and ask questions. It’s OK to request that the mechanic point out what they did and explain further if necessary. A good mechanic should be willing to go for a test drive with you so you can be sure they addressed the noise, vibration, or symptom that brought you to them in the first place. Do not pay the bill and leave until you are satisfied with the repair work.
Mike Tompkins owns Collision on Wheels, a mobile auto body shop offering convenient auto body repairs to the general public. Most people are too busy for the inconvenience of taking their car to a traditional auto body shop for small fender benders. We Come to You – Convenient, professional, on-site repair and refinishing services for your car. All work is done in full view of the customer and completed in one day.
Same day, on-site service: dent repair, scratch repair, collision repair, auto paint repair, bumper repair, fenders and doors for consumers and business in the Greater Eastside and Seattle area, Seattle, Bellevue, Redmond, Kent, Renton, Woodinville, Lynnwood, Kirkland, Bothell and neighboring cities and communities.
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Tuesday, February 16, 2010
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