Walking into an auto repair shop can be confusing. However, if your vehicle needs work, it is important to understand what needs to be done. In order to do this and ensure that your car is being properly taken care of, here are some questions you should ask your auto mechanic:
What would cause this to happen to my car? Knowing this information might help you to avoid a similar issue in the future.
Does you shop work on any kind of vehicle? Repair shops can differ on the types of vehicles they work with. Some shops focus on vehicles like Ford, Toyota, and Nissan to name a few. However, some vehicles such as Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Volvo require a bit more attention, and specialized knowledge.
How is the repair performed? This will help you have a better understanding of what exactly is being done. If the mechanic begins to use technical terms, don’t be afraid to ask for a more general description. This will also allow you to ask more informed follow-up questions.
How long will the auto repair take? It is always a good idea to know how long you will be sitting around, or if the repair will take longer, if the shop will provide you with a courtesy vehicle.
Have you worked on my make and model before? This will allow to see how informed your auto mechanic is with your vehicle.
Do you provide written estimates? The estimate should include the list of repairs, parts needed, and the labor charges.
Will you call me with any unexpected expenses or discoveries during repair? An estimate is just that. Your auto mechanic may discover other problems once the work begins, so it’s important to be notified so you won’t be shocked when it comes time to pay the bill!
Are the parts and services under warranty? Warranties will vary, so make sure you find out what exactly is covered and for how long.
Will you provide me with a detailed invoice once the repairs are completed? If you have a detailed invoice, should you decided to sell your car, you can explain to future buyers exactly what work has been done. Also, if a part stops working, you’ll have proof of the date of service and warranty.
What would you do if this was your vehicle? Your auto mechanic should be very knowledgeable regarding the topic and it is always nice to know what they would do if it was their vehicle to help ensure your vehicle is receiving the best care.
At Brawley Tire & Automotive, we are happy to answer all of your questions to help you feel comfortable that your vehicle is in good hands!
