Anyone who has owned a car for any amount of time knows the pain. Your car breaks down, and it’s out of warranty – if it was ever under warranty to begin with. You need to find a mechanic who can fix it without costing too much money or leaving you wondering if you’ve been cheated.
Finding a good mechanic is a bit like online dating. Their website (profile) can say one thing, and the reality – like whether your vehicle still runs – may be something else. Take a look at these tips and tricks to help you find the right mechanic for you.
…and if you want to use these tricks to find yourself a date, we won’t tell anyone.
- The right mechanic can take their typical “mechanic-speak” and make it understandable for you so you know exactly what the problem is and how it will be fixed. Be careful with the mechanic who can’t or won’t do this.
- Be on the lookout for a mechanic who’s affiliated with state and national organizations which all require a certain standard of behavior. The Automotive Service Association (ASA), AAA, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) are common. Your mechanic should also be ASE-certified.
- Figure out if they’re quoting you a realistic price by using online tools, like RepairPal, to find out the cost range for repairs like yours. If they’ve quoted something significantly higher, ask questions about why there’s such a difference in cost. It could be the parts, the labor, or that they’re trying to cheat you.
- Look for a mechanic who specializes in your car. You may have a luxury car or a very specific brand. It’s like taking your car to a specialist instead of a general practitioner.
- Don’t underestimate your own feelings. If you’re not comfortable around them or don’t get a good feeling when you’re talking about your car, you and this mechanic may not be a good fit. There’s nothing wrong with looking around to find a mechanic you’re more comfortable working with.
Finding a mechanic you trust and who takes care of your car will keep you in your car longer and prevent you from buying a new vehicle before you’re ready. If you’ve had a bad experience with a mechanic on your last repair, take some time before the next breakdown to find a new mechanic. Treat your oil change or tire rotation like a first date. They get a second date if they leave you with a good feeling and some cash in your wallet.
The right mechanic is necessary to keep your car running longer. The right Charlotte auto insurance policy will get you back on the road after an accident. After you find your mechanic, contact us so we can help you find the policy that works best for you.