5 Points Automotive Services

How do you choose an automotive repair shop?

Here are some tips to consider before you start, when you're at the car repair shop, and after the car repair.   Read your owner's manual to become familiar with your vehicle and follow the manufacturer's suggested service schedule.   Keep in mind that your vehicles maintenance schedule does not compensate for the operators particular driving habits and localized environmental conditions. 

Start shopping for a repair facility before you need one; you can make better decisions when you are not rushed or in a panic.   Ask friends and associates for their recommendations.  Even in this high-tech era, old-fashioned word-of-mouth reputation is still valuable.  If possible, arrange for alternate transportation in advance so you will not feel forced to choose a facility solely on the basis of location or preselect a service facility that has rentals or loaners on site.

Once you have chosen a repair shop, start off with a minor job; if you are pleased, trust them with more complicated repairs later.   Look for a neat, well-organized facility, with vehicles in the parking lot equal in value to your own and modern equipment in the service bays.   Professionally run establishments will have a courteous, helpful staff ask questions.

The service manager should be willing to answer all of your questions.   All policies, labor rates, guarantees, methods of payment, etc. should be explained to your satisfaction.   Ask if the shop customarily handles your vehicle make and model.   Some facilities specialize.   Ask if the shop usually does your type of repair, especially if you need major work.

Look for signs of professionalism in the customer service area: civic and community service awards, membership in the Better Business Bureau, Local Chambers Of Commerce, AAA-Approved Auto Repair status, customer service awards.   Look for evidence of qualified technicians, such as trade school diplomas and certificates of advanced course work.  The backbone of any shop is the competence of the technicians.

Keep good records; keep all paperwork.  Confirm that the shop will have every service and repair on file.  An efficient shop will have records of all warranted parts used in all repairs.

Reward good service with repeat business and referrals.  It is mutually beneficial to you and the shop owner to establish a relationship.  If the service was not what you expected, don't rush to another shop.   Discuss the problem with the service manager or owner. Give the business a chance to resolve the problem.   Reputable shops value customer feedback and will make a sincere effort to keep your business.

Give us a call, or if it is after hours feel free to schedule online.  If you have a question and cannot find the answer our site, submit your question and we will respond promptly.