An automobile often represents one of our most valuable investments—we put a significant amount of money into purchasing a car, and then we use it every day. When it comes time to make repairs, we want to trust the person caring for our investment.
That means it’s important to choose a reliable, experienced mechanic. These tips will make the process of choosing a mechanic or repair technician much easier.
- Ask for referrals. Friends, family, or co-workers may be able to recommend a local mechanic with an excellent track record. If you’re new to town or just want to do a little more research on a mechanic, ask the mechanic for references.
- Avoid the “shadetree mechanic.” Everyone knows someone who “fixes cars.” This person might work in the front yard, under a tree, rather than in a repair shop. Although it can be tempting to go this route, someone who fixes cars this way generally cannot offer any guarantees on work quality.
- Find someone who’s ASE Certified. The National Institute of Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certifies individual repair technicians. To earn ASE certification, a technician must pass a rigorous test every five years. This qualification indicates that a mechanic is extremely well versed in automotive repair.
- Check the repair center’s track record. If a particular shop or mechanic has been serving the neighborhood for a long time, that’s a great sign of reliable, long-term service.
- Make sure there’s a warranty. A reputable mechanic will always stand behind is work and the parts he uses. Ask a prospective mechanic about how any warranty program works, and whether you may be covered if your car breaks down in, say, Jackson, Mississippi instead of Jacksonville, Florida. NAPA Car Care Centers offer that coverage.
- Look for quality parts. Find out if the mechanic will use factory parts (e.g., Honda parts in a Honda car) or after-market parts (another brand made to be compatible with your car). Not all after-market parts are the same quality, so choose a mechanic who uses parts you trust.
