No matter what you drive - sports car, family sedan, pick-up, or mini-van - when you go in for repairs or service, you want the job done right. While many mechanics are legitimate, there are always those unscrupulous few. In 2012, BBB received more than 14,000 complaints against auto repair servicers.
Don't just drop your vehicle off at the nearest establishment and hope for the best. BBB and ASE recommend the following tips before choosing an auto repair shop:
Get familiar with your car and your local auto servicers. Read your owner's manual to become familiar with your vehicle and follow the manufacturer's suggested service schedule. Start shopping for a repair facility before you need one; you can make better decisions when you are not rushed or in a panic.
Ask around. Always check out the mechanic and auto body shop’s BBB Business Review at bbb.org before doing business. Ask friends and associates for recommendations; even in this high-tech era, old-fashioned word of mouth reputation is valuable.
Scope it out. Once you choose a repair shop, start off with a minor job; and if you are pleased, trust them with more complicated repairs later. Look for a neat, well-organized facility, with modern equipment in the service bays and vehicles of equal value to your own in the parking lot. Professionally-run establishments will have a courteous, helpful staff. The service writer should be willing to answer all of your questions.
Before authorizing repairs, get a written estimate for parts and labor. Tell the shop to get your permission before making additional repairs. Ensure you receive notification by having the service manager write a request on the bottom of the repair order. Give phone numbers where you can be reached and, before you leave, be sure to understand all shop policies regarding labor rates, guarantees and acceptable methods of payment.
Get everything in writing. When you pick up your vehicle, get an explanation of all work completed and get all guarantees in writing. Ask that any major new parts that have been installed be pointed out to you. Your repair bill should be itemized so that if a problem occurs later, you can prove the item is covered by the guarantee. Ask if the shop customarily handles your vehicle make and model. Some facilities specialize.
If you think your car could be a Lemon, contact BBB AUTO LINE. If your car is experiencing an issue that you think could be a result of a failed motor vehicle warranty, check out BBB AUTO LINE, a dispute resolution program that can help you resolve your lemon law complaint without having to get a lawyer. Check out BBB AUTO LINE to see if your car is included and for the next steps in filing a complaint.
