How to choose an Auto Repair Shop t some point in your car's life, whether Ait's brand new or a trusty used vehicle, you'll require maintenance or repairs. Some issues are urgent, while others are part of scheduled maintenance. Given the intricacies of modern vehicles, especially their complex electronic systems, a quality auto repair shop will become necessary, even if you possess basic auto repair skills or have a mechanically inclined friend. For owners of new cars, dealership service centers often handle periodic maintenance and repairs. These service centers specialize in the vehicles they sell and offer original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts, instilling peace of mind in many drivers. Additionally, warranties can provide free or discounted services. Many independent repair shops employ certified mechanics who are well-versed in working on a variety of foreign and domestic vehicles. The key is to locate a dependable shop with reasonable rates before you find yourself in an emergency. Establishing a relationship with an auto repair shop can be advantageous, as the mechanics become familiar with your vehicle and maintain records of previous visits. Whether it's a routine oil change or a complex electronic issue, you'll know where to turn when your vehicle requires attention. If you haven't had a regular mechanic in recent years, now is the time to find one. Consider these key points when searching for the right auto repair shop: Referrals Less than 40% of new customers at auto shops are walk-ins. This underscores the importance of word-of-mouth recommendations. Seek out a shop that garners rave reviews from family and friends, and you're likely in capable hands. Check the Better Business Bureau's ratings and reviews to gauge the repair shop's performance and reliability. Warranty and Services Inquire about the shop's warranty policy. Be clear about whether the repair work is guaranteed, especially after investing significant money in repairs. If you travel frequently, consider a shop that offers a national warranty. A warranty covering 12,000 miles or 12 months can be invaluable for recurring issues, particularly with older vehicles. Inquire about the shop's breadth of services. They should possess the latest technology to diagnose problems in newer cars. Can the prospective shop handle brake systems, electrical components and warranty repairs? Additionally, find out if they offer a loaner, rental car or shuttle service while your vehicle is being repaired. When visiting the shop, take note of the equipment's condition, the cleanliness of the premises, the quality of lighting and overall organization. These factors contribute to a sense of professionalism. Parts Ensure the shop uses brand-name parts that adhere to the manufacturer's specifications and typically come with warranties. Some shops may use remade or generic brands that your insurance policy might not cover. Verify that the auto technicians are certified by a specific car manufacturer, the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), or Automotive Service Excellence. Check whether the shop is approved by the American Automobile Association (AAA), indicating a customer approval rating of 90% or higher and the ability to adequately perform advertised services. Compare the services and fees of various shops in your area to determine average price ranges. However, don't base your decision solely on cost, as subpar repair work can lead to higher costs in the long run. Once you've identified a shop you trust, cultivate a strong working relationship and endeavor to use the shop for all your automotive needs. Being a loyal customer establishes rapport, leading to the highest level of service and peace of mind in the long run. 257703 How to choose an Auto Repair Shop t some point in your car's life , whether Ait's brand new or a trusty used vehicle , you'll require maintenance or repairs . Some issues are urgent , while others are part of scheduled maintenance . Given the intricacies of modern vehicles , especially their complex electronic systems , a quality auto repair shop will become necessary , even if you possess basic auto repair skills or have a mechanically inclined friend . For owners of new cars , dealership service centers often handle periodic maintenance and repairs . These service centers specialize in the vehicles they sell and offer original equipment manufacturer ( OEM ) parts , instilling peace of mind in many drivers . Additionally , warranties can provide free or discounted services . Many independent repair shops employ certified mechanics who are well - versed in working on a variety of foreign and domestic vehicles . The key is to locate a dependable shop with reasonable rates before you find yourself in an emergency . Establishing a relationship with an auto repair shop can be advantageous , as the mechanics become familiar with your vehicle and maintain records of previous visits . Whether it's a routine oil change or a complex electronic issue , you'll know where to turn when your vehicle requires attention . If you haven't had a regular mechanic in recent years , now is the time to find one . Consider these key points when searching for the right auto repair shop : Referrals Less than 40 % of new customers at auto shops are walk - ins . This underscores the importance of word - of - mouth recommendations . Seek out a shop that garners rave reviews from family and friends , and you're likely in capable hands . Check the Better Business Bureau's ratings and reviews to gauge the repair shop's performance and reliability . Warranty and Services Inquire about the shop's warranty policy . Be clear about whether the repair work is guaranteed , especially after investing significant money in repairs . If you travel frequently , consider a shop that offers a national warranty . A warranty covering 12,000 miles or 12 months can be invaluable for recurring issues , particularly with older vehicles . Inquire about the shop's breadth of services . They should possess the latest technology to diagnose problems in newer cars . Can the prospective shop handle brake systems , electrical components and warranty repairs ? Additionally , find out if they offer a loaner , rental car or shuttle service while your vehicle is being repaired . When visiting the shop , take note of the equipment's condition , the cleanliness of the premises , the quality of lighting and overall organization . These factors contribute to a sense of professionalism . Parts Ensure the shop uses brand - name parts that adhere to the manufacturer's specifications and typically come with warranties . Some shops may use remade or generic brands that your insurance policy might not cover . Verify that the auto technicians are certified by a specific car manufacturer , the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence ( ASE ) , or Automotive Service Excellence . Check whether the shop is approved by the American Automobile Association ( AAA ) , indicating a customer approval rating of 90 % or higher and the ability to adequately perform advertised services . Compare the services and fees of various shops in your area to determine average price ranges . However , don't base your decision solely on cost , as subpar repair work can lead to higher costs in the long run . Once you've identified a shop you trust , cultivate a strong working relationship and endeavor to use the shop for all your automotive needs . Being a loyal customer establishes rapport , leading to the highest level of service and peace of mind in the long run . 257703