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Questions to Ask Your Mechanic

May 14, 2019
Ask your automobile mechanic
Finding a mechanic can be as much of a nightmare as finding a new doctor or dentist. You never know what you’re going to get, you rely on either proximity to home or work, or on recommendations from friends and family, or even on customer reviews online. Even still, it’s scary dropping your vehicle off with someone you don’t know and hoping they do right by you and your car. Here are some questions you can ask a mechanic to alleviate some of your concern.

Can You Get Parts for My Car?
Even if you have a very common make and model of car, make sure that your mechanic has access to the right parts for it! You would be surprised how often garages send cars to other facilities to get work done, which can then cost you even more in labor and service costs. This is especially true if your car is of European make, like BMW, Volvo or Volkswagen.

Are You AAA-Approved?
AAA is the gold standard for auto service. They maintain a list of well over 7,500 auto shops across the country that pass their testing for quality repairs and customer service. The standards for AAA are very stringent and include staff, finance and insurance tests, certifications and customer satisfaction. You can search by ZIP code on their site to see if the shop is there, but even if you don’t see it, you can just ask the shop or call AAA for information.

Can I Have a Written Estimate?
A written estimate is a contract and shows that the shop stands behind their work. It also helps to ensure that you won’t encounter any unpleasant surprises when you go to pick up the car. With a written estimate, the shop will usually call you to let you know if they have to go over budget. In fact, you should also find out if they’re willing to make that call! Be sure that you will know exactly what you have to pay when the work is done and that you can approve any additional or extended work.

Do You Offer a Warranty?
Many — but not all — garages offer a warranty or guarantee on their parts and service. When finding a new mechanic, you’ll want one who backs up their work in this way. If the shop is AAA-approved, they will certainly offer at least a 12-month, 12,000 mile warranty. Some may go better.

Any Idea What Might Be Wrong?
If your car is having problems, describe the symptoms in detail to the mechanic and see if they can offer an educated theory on those conditions that might cause the symptoms. You’re not looking for an instant answer, of course. That will require testing and examination. But a good mechanic should be able to at least say, “It could be x or y.”

Are you currently searching for a mechanic in Cumming, GA ? If so, we’re here to offer first-class service. Take a look at our services, and give us a call for answers to any of your questions today!
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