Follow These Tips to Find a Reliable Mechanic

The following was provided by the Bucks County Office of Consumer Protection:

Q. I recently graduated from college, have a good job, and was able to finally buy myself a new car. I want to make sure that I follow the maintenance schedule that was recommended by the vehicle manufacturer. The salesman at the dealership highly recommends that I use their service center for routine maintenance and repairs. Some of my friends and co-workers are recommending their mechanics, telling me that some dealership services are overpriced and even that some mechanics tend to take advantage of women, assuming that they are not as knowledgeable about cars.  What do I need to know to make sure I take proper care of my new car without getting ripped off?

B.G. Plumsteadville

A. While female motorists are making more automotive service and repair decisions, they need to take certain steps to ensure that their repair/vehicle maintenance experience is a positive one.

The following are some suggestions that we, at Bucks County Consumer Protection, offer our female drivers:

Do your homework before taking your vehicle for service. Begin shopping for a repair shop before you need one.  Better decisions are made when you are not rushed. Ask friends and associates for their recommendations. Old-fashioned word-of-mouth is still valuable information.

Look for a neat, well-organized facility, with vehicles equal in value to your own in the parking lot, and modern equipment in the service bays.

Look for evidence of qualified technicians, such as trade school diplomas, advanced training certificates, and ASE certification which is a measure of professionalism.

If/when repairs are needed, ask as many questions as you need. Request an explanation in simple terms and definitions. Don’t rush the service writer or technician to make an on-the-spot diagnosis. 

Ask to be called and informed of the problem, course of action, and costs before the work begins. Keep good records of any maintenance and repairs performed; keep all paper-work.

Reward good service with repeat business. It is mutually beneficial to you and the shop owner to establish a relationship. If the service is not all you had 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.