|
Finding out that you need an auto repair is not always good news. Having work done on your car can be expensive, and it's sometimes difficult to know if you're leaving your vehicle in the right hands. Here are seven questions to ask your mechanic so you can rest easy when you hand over your keys. 1. Are you affiliated with the Automotive Service Association (ASA)? The ASA is a not-for-profit organization that provides a Code of Ethics that all members are required to adhere to. The code includes important considerations like doing all work at a fair price and only using merchandise and parts that are distributed by highly reputable firms. Garages with this certification are more likely to provide great customer service at a great price. 2. What certifications do the technicians in your garage possess? Dealership auto repair shops promote continuous ongoing training, and many mechanics will have additional certifications on top of those required by their place of employment. Ask if any of the employees have an Automotive Service Excellence certificate. This certificate is earned by individual mechanics who go though a rigorous testing protocol, and it is tangible proof of their technical knowledge. More training equals better quality work, so it's always good to inquire as to the staff experience. 3. Does your auto repair shop have any specialties? Dealership mechanics tend to specialize in the types of vehicles they see daily. So if you have a certain make of vehicle, chances are that brand's local dealership will have some of the best experts in the business. Many garages also have particular specialties like brakes, transmissions, or bodywork, and they will be great options for quality repairs. Hiring more experienced mechanics can cut down on the man-hours needed to complete the job, which saves you money! 4. Is there a charge for an estimate? Most reputable garages will offer diagnostic services free of charge to help determine what sort of work your vehicle might need. Dealerships in particular are known for this service, and estimates can save you money when trying to determine why exactly your car won't start or what exactly that "check engine" light is trying to tell you. 5. Will I receive a call with pricing before any work is done, and will I get an itemized invoice once the job is completed? One way to be confident that you are doing business with an honest and reputable auto repair shop is to ask about their policies. It's never a fun situation to think you need a $30 oil change and to be slapped with a bill for several hundred dollars because you also received a tire rotation and alignment in the process. Be sure to ask if they will get permission before doing any additional work and ordering any parts, and get all costs in writing at the completion of the job. If there is anything on the invoice that you didn't agree to or that doesn't make sense, then you will have the information you need to dispute the charges. 6. Do I have access to a courtesy car while mine is being worked on? The hope is always that the repair will be quick and easy so you'll be back to driving in no time. Unfortunately, that's not always the case. If you need parts that the mechanic doesn't have in stock, or the repair is simply one that takes a lot of time, it's great to have access to a rental car in the meantime. Dealerships are great about providing this service, sometimes free of charge, so be sure to ask. 7. Do you offer payment options? An expensive repair can become a bit more manageable when there are payment options available. Many shops offer payment plans, and most accept major credit cards. Be sure to ask before any work is done on your vehicle so that you don't end up in an embarrassing situation once the bill is due. Choosing the right mechanic for your needs and your vehicle doesn't have to be a guessing game. By asking these questions and comparing your options, you can choose the auto repair shop that is right for you and develop a long-lasting relationship that will serve you and your vehicle well for years to come. When searching for auto repair, Greenfield, MA residents can learn more by visiting http://www.toyotaofgreenfield.com/service/index.htm.
Related Articles -
auto, repair, greenfield, ma,
| 
