Tips for Finding a Reliable and Affordable Mechanic  – C. Imani Williams

Automobile owners need to have a good mechanic on speed-dial. One never knows just when a car emergency will arise, and being caught without a go-to mechanic who knows cars can add to stress.

So what’s the best way to make sure you are not getting ripped off?  The first thing is to do the homework and find a mechanic who will treat you and your vehicle with respect. For first-time car owners who purchase new, it is easy to live under the bliss that comes with new car ownership. You’re covered for standard repairs for at least a year. If possible, grab onto an extended warranty.  Maintenance checks are free during this period and since the vehicle is new, less is likely to go wrong. At this stage, the dealership works in favor of the consumer.

For used cars, things can get a bit trickier. A thoughtful seller has provided the buyer with accurate records and has shared things that may need to be addressed in the near future. If the owner is upfront, great, you will have a feel of things that may go wrong down the line and can prepare ahead. The thing is, that in efforts to sell the car you may not get the whole story. Either way, you want to secure a mechanic that can do a full inspection before making a purchase. 

            Car Repair Options:

• Dealerships

Dealerships can take the biggest chunk out of your wallet.   Unless your repair issue is covered under warranty this option can be the most costly.  With a dealership, you are guaranteed a warranty on repairs. This means, if the problem hasn’t been fixed properly you have the right by law to return it without additional charge.  You may be able to find a coupon for a few bucks off here or there, but if your needs are considerable, you will pay.

• Auto Repair Chains 

Auto chains abound. You can find them across the U.S.  Great for an oil change you can be in and out in under half an hour in most cases. For bigger jobs like transmissions, expect to pay premium rates. Here the ante goes up, your vehicle may be properly repaired, or not. If the chain specializes in brake work, that is what they do. You may not want them to do extensive work like fixing your transmission. A shop that specializes in transmissions is better suited to drop a new engine.

• Indy Shops

This is the shop on the corner that has been in the neighborhood for years. It is family owned and if you have heard good things about them, give them a shot. Keep in mind that businesses change owners all the time. The family name that your parents trusted to do quality work may still have the name of the original owner on the signage, but be under new management or ownership. The name hasn’t changed because the new owners are banking on the reputation of their predecessors to act as PR. Independently owned shops may offer a bit of a break once a relationship is developed, or if you’re a really good negotiator. Be clear about the warranty on any work that is to be done.

• Shade Tree Mechanics

Shade tree mechanics offer car repair services from home. They set up shop in their backyard after a working in a garage all day. Often retired mechanics are masters of the trade and will take on jobs. If you can find one, consider yourself lucky. You have a gem.  If possible, have your referral make a call on your behalf and make an introduction. It doesn’t hurt to take someone that knows something about cars along when meeting the potential new mechanic for the first time.

• Specialty and Foreign Cars

Mercedes, BMWs, and other specialty cars are top of the line. They can also be expensive to maintain. Parts may not be easy to find and you will pay the cost. With high-end vehicles, premium gasoline, and grade “A” treatment is the norm. If a used specialty car is purchased make sure that you understand any nuances that might keep it from running in top shape.

Best Resources for Securing a Reliable and Affordable Mechanic

• Word of Mouth/Friends

The number one resource for a reliable mechanic is word of mouth. Talk to your friends and colleagues. If they have a mechanic that they love, go for it. This person keeps regular hours, will work with customers on price, and allows payment arrangements. Most important they stand behind their work.

• Social Media

Social media sites like Face book and  Twitter can be valuable resources. Post your query, be specific about what needs to be repaired and actively seek referrals from those who can steer you in the direction of a reliable mechanic that will offer a fair price for the needed work.

• Travel Clubs

Travel clubs offer repair shop names by geographical area. They also include tips and calendars

for suggested scheduled maintenance. Examples include, reminders for oil changes and

seasonal upkeep. Coupons may be offered from select auto repair chains.

• On line Car Forums

Online car forums can be a mixed bag. Car enthusiasts, novices, and those needing real answers meet online to find and give advice. You can post your question and get several answers which vary, from helpful, to not so much. Take what you need and leave the

rest. The threads on these sites can become  quite animated with everyone believing they are

experts. If two or more people agree on a problem, this can be viewed as a good sign.

• Professional Auto Repair Talk Shows

Professional radio talk shows can help determine what is wrong with your car and offer

suggestions on fair trade rates. Helpful, if you can 1) get through, and 2) can explain your car

issue.  Some people end the call happy with the free verbal consult and can move forward with

confidence. Other times the advice is not so good, meaning, the repairs will be substantial. This

still helps the caller gain understanding of what they can expect when scouting mechanics and a better idea of what the repairs will run.     

• Check-In on Progress

A major stressor is having a day and time scheduled to retrieve your car, only to find out that it is

not ready.  Check-in with your mechanic before your pick up time for an update. Sometimes

part orders are delayed and it is not the fault of the mechanic. In this case, courtesy calls are

appreciated, but that may not happen. Be proactive check-in and inquire about the progress.

• Quotes

Any changes to the original quote requires your authorization. No additional work

should be performed without your approval.

• Warranty

A warranty should be granted for work performed. If you notice that your car is having the same problems it was serviced for, call, and return the vehicle to the point of service. Don’t wait until the warranty days are coming close. Most businesses will honor warranties without hassle, but there are shysters who know they didn’t correct the problem and will work harder at manipulating the contract than honoring it.

• Payment Arrangements

Payment arrangements can help reduce the impact on your emergency repairs on your budget by

giving customers more time to come up with the full payment for service. Auto repair chains

are more likely to offer arrangements through third-party services. With shade tree

mechanics, the option for arrangements may vary.  Sometimes it depends on the

developed relationship between the customer and the service provider. If “Gus” worked on

your parent’s cars he may be more willing to cut you a break, than someone

who is looking at your car for the first time. It can’t hurt to ask. Find out if they take credit cards and checks before signing off for work. Sometimes a post-dated check is allowable. You

won’t know if you don’t ask.

• Perks

A good mechanic that is reliable and affordable that offers customers perks will surely attract a wider base. Perks can include a complimentary car wash and light detail work, free oil changes, and wiper blade replacement. With good service, a perk is like topping on an ice-cream sundae with extra whip cream.

If you secure a great mechanic, return an in-kind favor by passing the name on. The business will be appreciated.