AUTOMOTIVE
Consumer
Consumer
How to
A
HOW TO CHOOSE AN
AUTO REPAIR SHOP
ll automobiles at some point
require repairs or service.
Having an existing relationship
with an auto repair shop will save time and
hassle when your car needs an immediate
repair.
If you're not sure how to build a good
working relationship with a shop, try tak-
ing your car in for regular tune-ups and
maintenance; a well-cared-for car will run
longer and more smoothly. I also will have
lower operating and service costs.
Some things to keep in mind when search-
ing for an auto repair shop:
• Under 40 percent of new auto shop
customers are walk-ins. Most people are
referred by friends, relatives or co-work-
ers. If you haven't received any recom-
mendations, make sure you ask your pro-
spective auto shop for references.
• The Better Business Bureau can help
you determine whether the repair shop's
performance and reliability measure up
to the industry standards for expertise and
professionalism.
• If you travel often, look for an auto repair
shop that offers a national warranty. For
12 HOW TO GUIDE
instance, a warranty of 12,000 miles or 12
months is handy for issues that keep crop-
ping up, which is especially likely with
older cars.
• Check the shop's range of services and
whether the shop has the latest technolo-
gies to properly diagnose problems with
newer cars. For example, can your pro-
spective shop handle brake systems, elec-
trical components and warranty repairs?
Do they provide a loaner, rental car, or
shuttle service while your car is being
repaired?
• Look for a good customer satisfaction
policy, equipment that is in good condi-
tion, good lighting, and cleanliness and
organization. These factors all contribute
to a level of professionalism, gaining cus-
tomers' trust, and to optimal service.
• Look for brand names and proper cer-
tification. Does the auto repair shop use
brand-name parts? These parts are engi-
neered to meet the manufacturer's speci-
fications and will likely come with a
warranty.
Are the auto technicians certified by a spe-
cific car manufacturer, the National Institute
for Automotive Services or Automotive
Science Excellence? Is the shop approved
by the American Automobile Association?
If so, this indicates a customer approval
rating of 90 percent or higher and the
ability to adequately perform the services
advertised.
• Whether you are considering a big name
franchise or an independently owned shop,
compare the usual services and fees of
each shop to familiarize yourself with
average price ranges.
Don't choose a shop based purely on lower
prices; shoddy service or poor quality parts
can mean more repairs and higher costs in
the long run.
After you've found a shop you like, try
to establish a good working relationship
with the mechanic. Since your car needs
preventive maintenance anyway, take it to
your new mechanic for a trial run such as
an oil change or air conditioning check.
Some services may be offered free of
charge; these can provide you with a good
idea of the service you will get.