lifestyle auto car

by Marjorie & Rob Hopp

It's like finding a great dentist; no one likes doing it, but it's too expensive not to have one. Finding a reliable, trustworthy mechanic can be tough, especially when you don't know what to look for. Our AAA Approved shop owner Rob (who's also a master mechanic) put together a list of tips and traits to look for when looking for a great mechanic.

Consumers prefer independent repair shops.
A survey Consumer Reports conducted last year of owners of almost 350,000 vehicles, people who used independent mechanics were generally more satisfied than those who had their car serviced at a dealership.

Make sure the shop knows your car.
Many garages specialize in certain makes. Those that focus on your type are more likely to have the latest training and equipment to fix your vehicle.

Get advice from friends and family.
Ask your family and friends who their favorite mechanic is, and what they like about him or her. If they have a brand that you own it adds some weight to their opinion too. Search to see what people are saying about their mechanics on forums and blogs online.

Check for certification.
Your mechanic and shop should be certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence, or ASE. This certifies that the shop and all its employees are properly trained and their facility and service meets certain quality standards.

Give the shop a tryout.
Before your car needs a big repair, you might want to try out some local shops with smaller repairs or maintenance items, such as oil and filter changes.

Ask about warranties.
What kind of guarantees does the shop give on repair work? Warranties can vary greatly among shops, so ask about them ahead of time. Use a common repair, such as brake work, as your guide.

Make sure the shop is convenient.
Even the best shop might not be worth the effort if its hours conflict with your schedule or you have few transportation options after you drop off the car.

Thanks for stopping by, and safe driving!