Finding a
good mechanic is one of the most important tasks especially for first-time car
owners. It is someone who has the skill to keep your car in good running condition
coupled with an attitude of professionalism and courtesy. This type of skilled professional
is becoming rare these days but if you are diligent enough to conduct a search,
you can still find a few.
A good
mechanic can help to keep your car running longer and save you money on repairs.
Here are some practical tips you can use to find one:
Ask Around
The shortest
way to find information about any subject is to simply ask the right questions.
Similarly, if you want to know of some reliable mechanics in your area is to ask
friends, relatives and office mates about it. With 88%
of Americans driving vehicles, for sure someone will tell you where
they take their cars for repairs or maintenance checks.
Look for Manufacturer or ASE-Certified
Shops
Some car manufacturers
train and certify mechanics and shops they choose and authorize to repair their
vehicles. The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) also
does the same without being particular about brand names. But being certified like
Subaru Clinic can
certainly guarantee one thing: the mechanics in that shop really know their
stuff.
Get Information from the Better
Business Bureau
A quick
search on the website of the Better Business Bureau can bring out names and
reviews of some shops you have in mind.
Ask Your Prospective Mechanic Relevant
Questions
To make sure
that the initial information you get during the first few steps is true, you
should have it confirmed by your prospect mechanic. By asking the right
questions to each of them, you will be able to find answers which will be your
basis for an informed decision. These questions should revolve around:
- Experience in number of years
- Any offer of warranties
- ASE certification
- Automotive training
- Replacement parts
- Do they supply it?
- Do they provide new, used or OEM?
- Their specialty (type of vehicle or work)
- Schedule of fees (including inspection, estimation, etc.)
- Payment policies
These are
some of the most practical ways to find a skilled mechanic for your car. You
should be able to find one before your car encounters any major issue. One way
to know your prospect’s skills and potentials is to let him do some maintenance
tasks like oil change and tune-ups while your car is still running smoothly. You
should make sure that those minor jobs you gave can give you the feeling that
the mechanic is trustworthy in terms of skills and attitude. Remember, even if
you are the customer, it is always good to feel at ease and confident with your
service provider.
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