Finding the Right Car Repair Shop
If you’re having issues with your car, you have to find a good auto repair shop to help you get back on the road. But of course, it’s not always easy to know which one in your area is the best for you.
Below are tips that can make things easier:
Seeking Referrals
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Among the best ways of finding a reputable car repair shop is to ask people around you for recommendations – friends, relatives, neighbors, coworkers, etc. Ask for these referrals before a problem begins so when it does, you’ll know whom to call.
Practical and Helpful Tips: Options
Checking for Certifications
Drop by the car repair shop you’re interested in and take a look at certifications displayed on their windows or walls. The Federal Trade Commission actually recommends this. Certifications make no assurances, but they do improve the odds that the technicians there have up-to-date knowledge and skills.
Checking with the Better Business Bureau
Before bringing your vehicle to a certain repair shop, check with the Better Business Bureau and find out about their reputation. There you would know if they’ve dealt with customer complaints in the past, and if so, how these were fixed.
Understanding Your Warranty
If your car is still covered by a warranty, you have to bring it to the dealer to have it repaired. Car warranties vary, and knowing who may and may not service your car can be confusing. That means there are cases where you will not be able to pick a shop if it’s not affiliated with your dealership. Remember that violating your warranty means you won’t be covered by the agreement anymore, so if you’re not sure, talk to your dealer.
Being Observant
There’s so much you can tell about a business just by looking at its office or working area. Begin by checking out a car repair shop’s parking lot. You should see cars that have similar value as yours, and the area should be clean. Definitely, the office and waiting room should be tidy, with copies of their fees and labor rates posted on the wall.
Choosing a Specialist
Regardless of your car’s make and model, do find a repair shop that is a specialist. As you might expect, specialist shops are most updated in training and equipment, something that is specifically important for major repairs.
Asking for References
Lastly, it is recommended by the no less than the National Institute for Automotive Service, that consumers ask references when trying out an auto repair shop. This will help you visualize how an experience with any particular shop may go if you choose it.
